Jacques Raphael Roques (World War I French Fighter Ace): Visiting Card, Signed, Circa 1966

Paris (31 BIS, Rue Campagne-Première ), circa 1966. Signed visiting card of Jacques Raphael Roques, a Swiss citizen who became a fighter ace for the French in World War I, then an officer in the French Resistance in World War II. Ink on 4 1/16" x 3 1/8" light card stock. Near Fine, virtually Fine, with one letter slightly smeared (see scan). The card was sent to a 1960s-era American collector of World War I autographs and manuscripts. Signed, but with little text; Roques apologizes for lacking a photograph to send as well, then briefly lists his participation in both wars. Anything pertaining to Roques is quite scarce - not just his signature. He achieved five aerial victories as an Adjutant for Spa48; his awards included the Medaille Militaire, the Croix de Guerre, and the Belgian Croix de Guerre. Later, his rank with the French Resistance in World War II was Captain Pilote with GC 1/1. A rarity. See scan. LMILIT