Even far from home, American servicemen marked the Fourth of July with humor and affection. This 1944 V-Mail sheet, illustrated by artist Phil Lisle, shows two sailors setting off firecrackers beneath a palm tree -- a lighthearted nod to Independence Day traditions transplanted to the Pacific. Sent by Ship's Cook Third Class John P. Lynch to Beatrice Cory of San Francisco, it reflects the personal bonds servicemen maintained with loved ones through illustrated correspondence, all reviewed by naval censors before mailing. Project: 218674