Louis A. Johnson
n.p., April 26, 1939
1939 Aircraft Carrier Blueprints, Presented to Asst. Secretary of War Louis Johnson
Drawing

Proposed blueprints for a "15,000 DW (Deadweight Tonnage) Hannevig-Paulson" combined tanker and aircraft carrier, measuring 24" x 35.5" unfolded, n.p., dated April 26, 1939. Docketed on upper right corner of verso in an unknown hand: "These are plans for an aircraft carrier that were mailed to Louis Johnson April 26, 1939. He was then Assistant Secretary of War." The drawing shows several views of the proposed vessel, including its upper and lower levels, the latter depicted as holding a total of 24 aircrafts. An additional table at bottom left shows the vessel's carrying capacity for various goods, such as oil and coal. Moderate folds throughout, with surface creasing and light staining present on verso; small tear at bottom left corner with general wear to rest. Else, very good- an interesting example predating U.S. entry into World War II.

As Assistant Secretary of War, Louis A. Johnson (1891-1966) advocated for universal military education and training, rearmament, and the expansion of military aviation, notably feuding with the isolationist Secretary of War Harry Hines Woodring (1887-1967) over military aid to Britain. In mid-1940, after Woodring had resigned and the fall of France had revealed the precarious state of the nation's defenses, President Franklin D. Roosevelt bypassed Johnson as his successor, instead choosing Henry Lewis Stimson.

By the time the United States entered World War II, the aircraft carrier had helped to dramatically change naval warfare as the use of air power became more significant. The advent of the aircraft as a focal weapon was largely driven by its superior range, flexibility, and effectiveness. Carrier-launched aircrafts specifically had greater range and precision than naval guns, making them highly effective.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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approx. 9.25" x 12.5" (folded)