Bidspirit auction | Jewish Brigade – Soldier’s Letter
Jewish Brigade – Soldier’s Letter from the Palestine Regiment, Italian Front 1944 | “Active Service” Military Mail Envelope to Tel Aviv - Autograph letter in German by Pte. H. Lichtwitz, “B” Company, 3rd (Jewish) Battalion, The Palestine Regiment (C.M.F.), dated 21 December 1944, sent via British military mail to Tel Aviv. Accompanied by the original “Active Service – Privilege Envelope”, an official stampless soldiers’ mail cover bearing the standard declaration. The envelope shows a Field Post Office cancellation and censor markings. Addressed to: Mrs. Ilse Esther Hoffe, 20 Spinoza St., Tel Aviv, Palestine (secretary to Max Brod already at that time). Content (main points): Describes service on the Italian front under harsh field conditions: cold, mud, and winter weather Mentions time spent in Southern Italy, Naples, and Rome Notes severe food shortages and widespread destruction due to the war Compares the situation to Palestine, described as a far better place to live Includes references to cultural experiences (opera performances) and visits in Rome Dimensions (approx.): Letter: approx. 27 × 21 cm (folded sheets) Envelope: approx. 18 × 11 cm Condition: Good. Fold lines, age toning and light wear consistent with period use. Envelope with clear postal markings.