Raynor HCA 2013-07
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/18/2013
This black & white, period 8” x 10” photograph, has become one of the most iconic images of General George S. Patton, depicting him relieving himself as he leads his troops across the Rhine River in March, 1945. Patton described the incident in his own words as follows, “I drove to the Rhine River and went across on the pontoon bridge. I stopped in the middle to take a piss and then picked up some dirt on the far side in emulation of William the Conqueror.” Later that day he sent a communiqué to General Dwight D. Eisenhower, in command of Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force: “Dear SHAEF, I have just pissed into the Rhine River. For God’s sake, send some gasoline.”This historical moment epitomized Patton who by February was pursuing the Germans who were in full retreat. However Patton found that other allied commands were being given priority for gasoline and supplies. Despite Field Marshal Montgomery’s suggestion that Patton hold a defensive line at the Rhine; Patton’s personnel passed themselves off as units of the First Army, securing thousands of gallons of gasoline and crossing the Rhine 36 hours ahead of Montgomery and capturing nearly 20,000 German troops. Patton had a 36-year Army career during which he commanded major units of North Africa, Sicily, and the European Theater of Operations during WWII. A courageous and brilliant military leader known by the nickname "Old Blood and Guts," Patton was also known for his insubordination and troubled relationship with the press. However, despite his reckless public persona, he was admired and well-respected by those in the military for his brilliant tactical maneuvers and his inspiring patriotism. He is considered one of the greatest generals in American history.
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