Letter from War Department regarding death of Charles Rudd
(Document ID #614
C. Avis Catalog entry #790)
WAR DEPARTMENT
AIR SERVICE
Washington
Office of the Director
November 17, 1919.
My dear Mrs. Rudd:
It is with the greatest regret that I inform you
that your son, Lieutenant Charles Maples Rudd, met his death
in an airplane accident at Stockton, California, on November
12, 1919.
Your son's sacrifice was made in building up the
Air Service of the United States Army, and while it was made
here, it is not less helpful to our cause than if it had
been the result of a combat overseas. The toll paid in de-
veloping an Air Army is part of the price of victory not more
avoidable nor less effective than that paid over the lines of
battle.
Lieutenant Rudd sought the front line of danger and
was one of those whose privilege it was to be selected for it.
His name is inscribed on the Roll of Honor of the Air Service
and he has become one of the nation's heroes.
I join with his brother officers in extending to you
our deepest sympathy.
Very sincerely,
O. Westover,
Colonel, A.S. P.,
Executive.
For and in the absence of
Mrs. James C. Rudd Chas. T. Mencher,
916 South 1st St., Major General, U.S.A.,
Temple, Texas. Director of Air Service.