What would likely be a cover photo and feature story in The Bulletin today was but a small photo of less than a quarter page and a brief caption in the issue of August 1954. The caption outlined a brief visit of Helen Keller with BVA pioneer and World War II blinded veteran David Schnair, who, for the better part of four decades, served in BVA leadership roles and managed the BVA New York City volunteer office. The photo, seen here at left, included the following caption:

“BVA Board member David Schnair (left) presents an orchid corsage to Helen Keller (center) while Polly Thompson, her companion, explains the proceedings to her. The occasion was a ceremony in New York City’s Guild Theater when Miss Keller gave 200 copies of her book, My Religion, to Veterans Administration hospitals.”

Although no additional information is provided about the photo, nor does any appear to be available, Helen Keller is depicted with veterans, several with sight loss, in a host of other photos now in the public domain. As an Ambassador for the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) from 1924 until 1968, she was undoubtedly a champion of veterans and their sacrifices. She was almost certainly aware and approving of the lifesaving financial and moral support BVA received from AFB during those early formative years of 1945-55.

The photo in BVA’s possession today is rather grainy and unclear, due perhaps to numerous reproductions. For that reason, it has never again appeared in any issue of The Bulletin. It appears here due to its smaller size, which makes the lessened quality less noticeable.