According to a personal essay the actor wrote for Guideposts magazine, the Oscar winner carried a letter from his father throughout his service in World War II, returning to it before some of the most dangerous moments of his military career. Twenty-nine years after Stewart’s death, the deeply personal account remains one of the most revealing glimpses into the man behind the screen legend.
The Letter James Stewart Never Left Behind During World War II
Stewart often described his father, Alexander Stewart, as the greatest influence in his life. In his Guideposts essay, he recalled growing up in the family’s hardware store in Indiana, Pennsylvania, where his father’s unwavering principles, quiet faith, and imaginative spirit shaped his childhood. Whether encouraging his son’s dreams or teaching life lessons without raising his voice, Alexander left a lasting impression that extended well beyond those early years.
That bond was put to the test when Stewart enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War II. As the actor prepared to leave for Europe with his bomber squadron, father and son struggled to find the right words during their farewell. Only after his father had walked away did Stewart discover that a small envelope had been slipped into his pocket. Inside was a handwritten letter, a copy of the 91st Psalm, and a devotional booklet titled “The Secret Place.”
Reading the text alone that night, Stewart encountered words he had never heard directly from his father before. “I love you more than I can tell you. Dad.” He later wrote that he wept after finishing the message. From that moment on, the booklet and the letter remained with him throughout the war, and before every bombing mission over Europe, he returned to its pages for comfort and reassurance.
Stewart would go on to become one of the most decorated actors to serve during World War II, rising through the ranks and flying combat missions over occupied Europe. Although he rarely spoke publicly about his wartime experiences, the story he shared in Guideposts revealed the deeply personal source of strength he carried with him. In his own words, the faith his father placed in him stayed by his side through every mission, and, as he simply concluded, “I was borne up.” Here, the complete letter:
“My dear Jim. Soon after you read this letter, you will be on your way to the worst sort of danger. I have had this in mind for a long time and I am very concerned… But Jim, I am banking on the enclosed copy of the 91st Psalm. The thing that takes the place of fear and worry is the promise in these words. I am staking my faith in these words. I feel sure that God will lead you through this mad experience… I can say no more. I only continue to pray. God bless you and keep you. I love you more than I can tell you. Dad.”
