WILLIAM J. DONOVAN (1883-1959) 'Wild Bill', American brigadier general chosen by Roosevelt to head the O.S.S. (precursor to the C.I.A.). Donovan planted over 16,000 people behind enemy lines and developed elaborate plans to subvert Axis military operations. Presentation book given to Donovan: 'I Was There With the Yanks in France' by Pvt. C. Leroy Baldridge (New York: Knickerbocker Press), 1919. First edition, a collection of poems and sketches from the French front during World War I, inscribed in pencil on the front flyleaf: 'To Bill who was there From G. W. Xmas 1919'. Book is in poor condition with the front cover and spine cover separating, top of the spine worn and torn, loss and tears to the first 15-20 pages, torn and soiled dust jacket, etc. Donovan commanded the vaunted U.S. 165th Regiment, originally the famous 69th New York Infantry 'Fighting Irish'. The regiment would distinguish itself at the Second Battle of the Marne, the Ourcq River during the Aisne-Marne Offensive, and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Donovan himself would be awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in mid-October, 1918. This book, along with maps and documents, were contained within two of Donovan's footlockers purchased by our consignor and offered elsewhere in this sale.