FDR's Little White Book

The January 2008 issue of Guideposts magazine had an article concerning a Bible that was given out in 1941 to all service personnel in the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

The inscription on the flyleaf read:

January 25, 1941

To the Armed Forces:

As Commander-in-Chief I take pleasure in commending the reading of the Bible to all who serve in the armed forces of the United States. Throughout the centuries men of many faiths and diverse origins have found in the Sacred Book words of wisdom, counsel and inspiration. It is a fountain of strength and now, as always, an aid in attending the highest aspirations of the human soul.

Very sincerely yours,
(signed)
Franklin D. Roosevelt

You will note that this Bible was given out before we were at war with Japan and Germany. This white book was apparently the entire Bible.

I have a brown one that is just the New Testament, Proverbs, and Psalms given to me by my Uncle Carlan for my 10th birthday in 1944. He received it while serving in the Army. It has the same inscription.

Ann made a card in September 2003 using the picture of the inscription page on the cover. Inside she put the following message to President George W. Bush, then Commander-in-Chief.

President George W. Bush,

The picture on the front is of a New Testament that was given to me in 1944 for my 10th birthday. It was given to me by my uncle, Carlan Moore. This was my first 'Bible". Uncle Carlan was in the Army Air Force during World War II. This New Testament was given to all in uniform at the time. I am including the inscription from my uncle which says "When you grow, this will be as good as ever". I have grown to appreciate and live by these words my entire life. Carlan just passed away at the age of 89.

President Roosevelt gave a message to all service personnel that is included on this card. It was heartwarming to me to note that he, as Commander-in-Chief, believed in God and was bold enough to say so.

You also have shown your faith to the world which I admire from our President and Commander-in-Chief. Mr. President, you are doing a fantastic job and I am very proud of you, our service personnel, and our country. My prayer is that you will be allowed to continue for a second term.

Dick Moore

I received the following letter in reply --

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

September 29, 2003

Mr. Dick Moore

21345 Carabela

Mission Viejo, CA 92692-4995

Dear Mr. Moore:

Thank you for your kind words of support.

As President of the United States during this time of great consequence, I am honored to lead our country. I am also pleased with the progress we are making in America as we continue to reform domestic programs, secure our homeland, and work to extend peace and freedom around the world.

I appreciate your support as we continue to work on many issues that are important to Americans. Laura joins me in sending our best wishes.

Sincerely,

(signed)

George W. Bush

UPDATE: Yes, he did get a second term. And no, I am not pleased with everything that he has done as president. But, the alternative would have been much worse for America as I see it.

I have been on the White House Christmas Card List every since he was president. I am honored to have them and will keep them for historical purposes as well as this letter.