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Bess Truman's First Speech as First Lady Christening Two Airplanes

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Recording Date(s)
May 30, 1945
Accession Number
SR85-3
Description

Bess Truman's first speech as First Lady at the christening of two hospital airplanes at National Airport in a Memorial Day ceremony. The planes are "U.S. Capitol" for the Army and "Congressional" for the Navy. The planes were funded through the sales of war bonds through the Congressional Club. Gunnar Back is the CBS announcer. The first speaker is Ted Gamble, Director of the War Finance Division of the U.S. Treasury Department. President of the Congressional Club Selma Florence Burton of Ohio gives remarks and introduces Mrs. Truman as the sponsor of these two planes. Bess Truman's remarks begin around 7:40, then she tries several times to break a bottle of champagne on the nose of the plane. Includes music by the Army Air Forces band.

Restrictions
Unrestricted
Original Format(s)