Description
First edition of Spear and Scepter by Ernest W. Lefever, inscribed to Admiral John S. McCain, Jr.
Octavo, [xiv], 251pp. Brown cloth, title in gilt on spine, gilt illustration on front cover. A first edition, with complete number line on copyright page. Solid text block, small bumps to top edge, appears unread. In the publisher’s dust jacket, $6.50 retail price on front flap, wear to spine and top edge, bright illustrations. Inscribed on the title page: “For Admiral McCain – With deep appreciation for your help and hospitality. 12 Nov. 1970 Ernest W. Lefever.”
Admiral John S. McCain, Jr. (1911-1981) served in the United States Navy for 45 years. He was the son of Admiral John S. McCain, Sr., a four-star admiral who commanded South Pacific aircraft operations in World War II, and the father of Senator John McCain. During the Vietnam War, Admiral McCain was Commander-in-Chief of all U.S. forces in the Vietnam theater and an ardent supporter of the Vietnamization policy of President Nixon. McCain retired in 1972 and died of a heart attack in 1981. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
