An Amazing Collection of WWII Memorabilia

On September 5 were were visitied by Desmond LaPlace and his wife Jean. Mr. LaPlace has been collecting letters, autographed photos, and other memorabilia from World War II military figures both great and obscure since he was a boy. He brought several fine examples.

Desmond's hobby began in 1944, when he was just 12 years old. He began writing letters to notable generals expressing his admiration for the job they were doing and asking for their photo or autograph. To his delight, most of them responded, sometimes with a personal letter of encouragement. Desmond's hobby grew until he had collected several hundred letters, photos, and artifacts.

He has announced his intention of someday donating his extensive and unique collection to the Pritzker Military Library in Chicago.