Lest We Forget: Masterpieces of Patriotic Jewelry and Military Decorations - Hardcover

My grandfather was so proud of his military service that even after his presidency he preferred to be called General Eisenhower. -- Anne Eisenhower Judith Price...has produced a unique and fascinating book that catalogues and beautifully illustrates the finest of these works. One cannot read it without pondering the tragic losses and the heroism of the human beings for which many of these works are memorials, and the best of these works reflect in their art the greatness of the valor and sacrifice of their recipients. -- John Lehman, former Secretary of the Navy I genuinely believe that the men and women in uniform for today's American armed forces are the best in history. -- Pete Dawkins, Ret'd. Brigadier General, USA Heisman Trophy Winner [This] book that illustrates with iconic objects the history of the military is an impressive tribute to the service and valor shown in the past by millions of Americans. As one who had the honor of serving in the military, I can look back upon it as an invaluable learning experience, one that introduced to me to fellow citizens I would otherwise have not met, and my respect for these people I shall retain forever. Lest We Forget celebrates the high esteem that citizens rightly realize after agreeing to serve in the interest of others. -- Gay Talese, author of A Writer's Life Whether you are a student of military history or jewelry design, you'll find the time spent with this book worthwhile. * Antique Trader Magazine * The book tells the story of our military history since the revolution and features 150 iconic objects from the world's leading military museums and private collections. To date, no such book has ever been published. * Collector's News * Lest We Forget is an ideal coffee table pick, highly recommended. * Midwest Book Review * Lest We Forget reminds the reader of the gratitude we owe our gallant men and women who have served in the military. -- Steven Wayne Yvaska, The Seasoned Collector

Lest We Forget serves as a tribute to our men and women in service both past and present. It derives its title from the poem "Recessional" by Rudyard Kipling, often used as a tribute in war memorials, while its contents chronicle our military history since the Revolution through 150 iconic artifacts. It showcases such diverse items as the Washington Peace Medals to the Indians, the earliest Medals of Honor, Civil War Corps badges, British military decorations, and historic French treasures. Drawn from leading world museums and private collections, these objects movingly recall the role of decorations and jewelry in commemorating war and peace.