Mel Crawford: Serviceman Reading Mail

Artist: Mel Crawford
1925 -
Nationality: Canadian
Artwork Year: 1980
Image Size: 11.75 by 14.25 inches
Overall Size: 12 by 14.5 inches
Medium: Oil on Hot Press Illustration Board


The alert is over. The long night of frantic activity has left him tired and frustrated. The heat and tensions of mock battle have nearly beaten him. But his mood changes as mail call is announced. Suddenly, there are loud whistles, cheers and laughter all around. For him, a welcome letter from Dad brings a smile and warmth he hasn't felt in a long time. Dad's letters are always extra special, though sometimes they seem to come from someone he's never met before. They contain his father's words of love and wisdom, and share his experiences, yet they reveal the man in a new light. Eloquent and strong, with a touch of tenderness, the letters from this father to his son carry special meaning and, above all, love; love that helps to ease the distance between them. The words are sometimes memorized and always saved, and all through this painful time, they are treasured reminders of home. They offer hope and assurance that this difficult tour of duty and the long separation from family and friends will soon come to an end. And, finally, it does end. As father and son are united again, the father extends his hand. And as their eyes meet, there's a knowingness there that they have shared deeply personal thoughts. He thinks for a moment of the letters, still packed in his suitcase, that told of the intimate thoughts and feelings that brought him through this time.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover for the U.S. 15¢ P.S. Write Soon (green) stamp issued February 25, 1980.

Artwork Copyright © 1980 Unicover Corporation. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Images of the Artwork may be watermarked and/or digitally watermarked. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the copyright.
Our Stock Number (SKU): XB06030 US$ Price: $1,500.00

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