Details:

John Kuharek autographed First Day of Issue Canadian cover commemorating World War II (1939–1945), issued November 10, 1989. The cover features Canadian wartime imagery and postage honoring the establishment of the Allied convoy system, postmarked Ottawa, Ontario, on the official day of issue. Kuharek has added a handwritten inscription identifying his service as a CFE “Box Car” crew member, dated August 9, 1945.

Fine condition.

John Kuharek was an American master sergeant and flight engineer in the United States Army Air Forces known for his participation in both atomic bombing missions during World War II.

He served in the 393rd Bombardment Squadron of the 509th Composite Group and acted as flight engineer aboard the B-29 Great Artiste during the August 6, 1945, mission over Hiroshima, where the aircraft served as an observation and instrumentation platform for the Enola Gay's drop of the first atomic bomb. Three days later, on August 9, 1945, he performed the same role aboard Bockscar for the bombing of Nagasaki, when the aircraft delivered the second atomic bomb, "Fat Man." These missions marked the only operational uses of nuclear weapons in warfare and contributed to Japan's surrender shortly thereafter.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11644 1414597-1