Captured Nazi Walther P38 BRIDGE TOO FAR

An important and one-of-a-kind piece of WWII history. This Walther P-38 was taken from a Nazi officer during Operation Market Garden -- a tragic joint Allied military operation that inspired the book (and later, the movie) "A Bridge Too Far." One of the characters from the operation was MAJ Julian Aaron Cook, portrayed by Robert Redford in the 1977 movie. Cook famously led his men across the Waal River, reciting Hail Marys because they were visible to the German guns. He was later awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and promoted to Colonel. The consignor, involved with veterans affairs since the early 1970s, facilitated Cook's (and his family's) attendance at the movie's premiere. As a token of thanks, Cook gave him the Walther. A framed note from Cook to the consignor concludes: "As a memento of that event, please accept this P-38 pistol which I took from a German officer during the course of that operation." Also included is a copy of A Bridge Too Far, signed by Cook, inscribed to the consignor. And, finally, a photograph of Cook holding the pistol -- as the consignor holds the holster -- as he presents the pistol to the consignor. The Walther P-38 itself is not in ideal condition. As with so many P38s that came back after WWII, this one was chromed. And mechanically, it could use a little love. It's fully functional, but it should be stripped and cleaned deeply. But a more historically significant P-38 is not going to be easy to find. See photos for more details on condition. Please check the shipping details in our terms and conditions for specifics on gun shipping. Blackwell Auctions holds a Federal Firearms License (FFL). All firearms: pistol, revolver, shotgun & rifle transactions will be conducted in accordance with local, state and Federal laws, without exception.
Condition Report: This lot can be shipped in-house.