On offer is a typed letter recording formal communication between the Cuban military establishment and organized independence veterans. It is dated May 21, 1940, issued on the letterhead of the Secretaría de Defensa Nacional Ejército Constitucional, Republic of Cuba. It is addressed to Alférez Jesús Cruz y Torres, President of the Delegación de Veteranos de la Independencia in Guanabacoa. The letter acknowledges receipt of an invitation to a commemorative act held on May 20 marking the founding of the Cuban Republic (1902), and expresses regret at being unable to attend. It is signed in ink by Francisco Tabernilla Dolz in his capacity as Teniente Coronel and Jefe del Regimiento No. 7 “Máximo Gómez.” The capaitalized sign-off reads: “POR LA LIBERTAD DE CUBA” This sign-off links the contemporary armed forces to the legacy of the independence struggle. As a dated example of Tabernilla’s early career, the letter preserves his role within the Republican military structure prior to his later prominence in mid-20th-century Cuban political and military affairs. Condition: Single sheet on official letterhead with typed text and manuscript signature. Moderate to heavy toning, substantial edge wear, and small losses, particularly at upper and right margins. Fully legible and complete.
