Details:

Prepared for the May 27, 1967 commissioning ceremony of the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy (CVA-67), this original working planning binder contains the logistical schedules, travel arrangements, guest lists, seating plans, and ceremonial details assembled for Mrs. John F. Kennedy (Jacqueline Kennedy) and her party as sponsor of the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier named in honor of President John F. Kennedy.

Organized with tabbed sections, the binder includes the overall schedule of events, Jacqueline Kennedy’s travel itinerary, commissioning ceremony schedule, platform seating plan, principal guest acceptances, introductory remarks, and additional logistical information. Particularly noteworthy are detailed schedules documenting Mrs. Kennedy’s movements throughout the day, including departures from Hammersmith Farm, helicopter and aircraft transportation, arrival aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CVA-67), the commissioning ceremony, Blue Angels demonstration, reception, and return travel.

Also present are extensive guest lists identifying members of the Kennedy family, close friends, military officials, dignitaries, and invited guests. Among those listed are Mrs. John F. Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, John F. Kennedy Jr., Prince and Princess Radziwill, numerous members of the extended Kennedy family, and Honorable & Mrs. Benjamin Smith, reflecting the close friendship between Senator Benjamin A. Smith II and the Kennedy family. The binder also includes Washington-area and Boston-area guest lists featuring many of the Kennedy family’s closest political, military, and personal associates.

This binder represents an internal planning document created for the coordination of one of the most significant Kennedy family public ceremonies following President Kennedy’s assassination. It provides a remarkable behind-the-scenes look at the extensive logistical preparations required for Jacqueline Kennedy’s participation in the commissioning of the Navy’s flagship bearing her husband’s name.

Very good condition overall. Complete in its original blue presentation binder with expected age toning and handling wear.

The USS John F. Kennedy (CVA-67) was commissioned on May 27, 1967, at Newport News, Virginia, with Jacqueline Kennedy serving as the ship’s sponsor. The conventionally powered aircraft carrier was the last of its kind built for the United States Navy and remained in active service for nearly four decades before its decommissioning in 2007. Named in honor of the nation’s 35th president, the commissioning ceremony became one of the most important public tributes to John F. Kennedy’s legacy, bringing together members of the Kennedy family, senior military leaders, government officials, and close friends to dedicate the vessel that would carry his name around the world.

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 1416403-1