"WE WHO LIVED THE EVENTS OF HISTORY HAVE AN OBLIGATION TO PRESERVE AND REPORT UPON THE FACTS": FIRST EDITION OF THIS GRIPPING STORY FROM THE COMMANDER OF THE LAST ATOMIC MISSION, INSCRIBED BY THE AUTHOR

SWEENEY, Charles W. with ANTONUCCI, James A. and ANTONUCCI, Marion K. War's End: An Eyewitness Account of America's Last Atomic Mission. New York: Avon Books, (1997). Octavo, original red and black paper-covered boards, original dust jacket. $200.

First edition, inscribed by the author: "I am honored to sign this book to Sr. Master Sergeant Robert B— / Former Sgt.-Major of the 509th. All the best, Bob / Charles Sweeney / 9 August 1997."

A first-person account from the pilot in command of the mission that dropped the Fat Man atomic bomb on Nagasaki on 9 August 1945, inscribed on the 52nd anniversary of that date. "Charles Sweeney is the best kind of warrior, motivated by real patriotism. For setting straight a difficult record, his book is invaluable. For commemorating a generation of heroes, his book is unforgettable." (Dan Rather). Bookplate on inscription page of a distinguished veteran of the US Army Air Force and member of the 509th Bombardment Wing, Sweeney's own unit. With a laid-in reproduction photo of the 2nd Atomic Bomber Crew, signed by 2nd Lt. Fred Olivi.

Book and dust jacket very nearly fine, with minor pushing to spine extremities.