Poignant WW2 letter from Jack Dempsey to the father of Second Lieutenant Peter Philip Renzo who was killed in action March 14, 1945. Renzo served in the 781st Bomber Squadron as a bombardier aboard a B-24 Liberator when his plane was shot down over Hungary. Dempsey writes, "Dear Phil, Just a line to express to you and yours my feeling upon hearing that Pete is missing in action. The suspense must be terrible." He continues for one and half pages and ends, "Here's hoping you get good news before long, Jack Dempsey." Also signed by Dempsey in the return address. William Harrison "Jack" Dempsey (June 24, 1895 – May 31, 1983), nicknamed "Kid Blackie", and "The Manassa Mauler", was an American professional boxer who competed from 1914 to 1927, and reigned as the world heavyweight champion from 1919 to 1926. A cultural icon of the 1920s, Dempsey's aggressive fighting style and exceptional punching power made him one of the most popular boxers in history. Many of his fights set financial and attendance records, including the first million-dollar gate, and pioneered the live broadcast of sporting events in general, and boxing matches in particular.