c.1943 If Our Lines Should Form C.C. Beall WWII Marines Navy Department

Date: c.1943
Artist: Beall, Cecil Calvert “C.C.”
Size (in): 40" x 30"
Size (cm): 101.5 x 76
Condition: A-
Linen backed: No

This poster was created during WWII for the Navy Department Industrial Incentive Division by the artist Cecil “C.C.” Beall. A Marine with clenched teeth and bloody bandage on his head grips his Colt sidearm and peers ahead at and unseen enemy with steely determination. Brothers in arms flank each side as something in the jungle behind them burns. The poster carries text that reads:

And If Our Lines Should Form, The Break
Because Of Thing Your Failed To Make
The Extra Tank, Or Ship, Or Plane
For Which We Waited All In Vain
And The Supplies Which Never Came
Will You Then Come And Take The Blame
For We, Not You, Will Pay The Cost
Of Battles You, Not We, Have Lost
a U.S. Marine

The lower margin has document codes “OC-5-35M” and “SC-5-35M” and indicates “Einson-Freeman Co. Inc. L.I. City N.Y.” This vintage original poster doesn’t appear to have ever been used and shows only modest toning from age, light handling wear and a small spot with separation where the fold lines come together. Overall condition is excellent. This poster ships folded.