Details:

Official commemorative program issued for the christening of the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), held on May 27, 1967, at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Newport News, Virginia. The ribbon-bound program features a portrait of President John F. Kennedy on the cover and was produced for attendees of the historic ceremony that formally introduced the Navy’s newest supercarrier bearing the late president’s name.

The USS John F. Kennedy was commissioned as a living memorial to the nation’s 35th President and became one of the most recognizable vessels in the United States Navy. Sponsored by Jacqueline Kennedy, the christening ceremony represented one of the most significant public tributes to President Kennedy following his assassination in 1963. The vessel would go on to serve the United States for nearly four decades, participating in numerous Cold War and modern military operations before being decommissioned in 2007.

This example originates from the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, one of President Kennedy’s closest lifelong friends. Smith and Kennedy were roommates at Harvard University and maintained a close relationship throughout Kennedy’s political career. Following Kennedy’s election to the presidency, Smith was appointed by Massachusetts Governor Foster Furcolo to fill Kennedy’s vacant United States Senate seat. As a trusted member of the Kennedy inner circle, Smith was frequently included in important family, political, and commemorative events.

Good condition overall with expected age toning, scattered foxing, minor edge wear, and light handling wear. Original red, white, and blue binding cord remains intact.

Provenance: From the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, Harvard roommate and lifelong friend of President John F. Kennedy, former United States Senator from Massachusetts. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Benjamin A. Smith III documenting direct family ownership.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11691 1416397-1