January 2025 Auction Ends Thursday, January 30th, 5pm Pacific
Photo signed by fourteen World War II members of the U.S. Marine Corps' VMF-214, aka the ''Black Sheep'', so named because they had few reliable planes, no mechanics and its members weren't attached to any other squadrons. Despite this inauspicious beginning, the Black Sheep distinguished themselves in combat flying F4U Corsairs, racking up 9 fighter aces with 97 air-to-air kills, and destroying or damaging over 200 enemy planes. The Black Sheep would go on to receive the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism against the enemy.
Signatures include that of Gregory ''Pappy'' Boyington, an ace and MOH recipient who led the squadron. Boyington signs in black felt-tip along his body in the foreground, with the others signing in silver, blue or black felt-tip and fountain pen. Signatures include: ace John Bolt, ace R.W. McClurg, Henry ''Boo'' Bourgeois, Harry Johnson, Bill Heier, Bruce Matheson, Glenn Bowers, Tom Emrich, Ed Harper, James J. Hill, Herb Holden, Don Conroy and Ken L. Reusser; Reusser is the most decorated Marine aviator who is the only man to have been shot down in three wars: World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. Glossy photo measures 10.5'' x 8.25''. Near fine condition.
Photo Signed by 14 of the Famous WWII ''Black Sheep'' Including Its Leader, Medal of Honor Recipient & Fighter Ace Pappy Boyington
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