H4906

U.S. Merchant Marine

Liberty Ship - SS Patrick Henry 

Subscriber Only Edition

Collins Cover Announcement 

Merchant Marine Ships 

The Liberty Ship SS Patrick Henry

Subscriber-only Limited Edition

To help move supplies, war material, and troops to forces fighting for freedom around the world, the United States under the—leadership of President Franldin Roosevelt decided to build a fleet of "emergency" ships. To gain widespread public support, September 27, 1941 was designated "Fleet Day." The first 14 vessels of the new fleet were to be launched that day, and the first one was the SS Patrick Henry in Baltimore.

During his speech given at the launching ceremonies, FDR referred to Patrick Henry's "Give me liberty, or give me death!" pronouncement as he was about to be hung by the British on March 23, 1775. Roosevelt said that this new class of ship would bring liberty to Europe which, in turn, soon saw the new and growing fleet of emergency vessels referred to as "Liberty Ships." During World War II, the Patrick Henry made 12 successful voyages, contributing greatly to the war effort.

This very limited-edition Collins First Day Cover is being made just for my subscribers, and it is the final cachet for my U.S. Merchant Marine series. I am honored to announce this cover featuring the very first Liberty Ship and namesake for a great American patriot. The SS Patrick Henry — Collins #H4906 at $14.00.