Details:

Doolittle Raiders collection of six autographed commemorative first day covers featuring a total of nine signatures from American airmen who participated in the historic April 18, 1942, bombing raid on Japan during World War II.

The covers commemorate early aviation history, including the Wright Brothers' first flight, the development of American airmail service, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Each has been personally autographed by one or more participants in the Doolittle Raid, with several signers adding their crew assignments, aircraft positions, and references to the April 18, 1942, mission.

The nine signers include William D. Birch, Frank C. Kappeler, Jacob DeShazer, Horace Crouch, J. R. Stork, R. E. Cole, Hank Potter, Davy Jones, and Tom Griffin.

Fine condition with some light age-related toning and handling wear.

The Doolittle Raiders were a group of 80 United States Army Air Forces airmen who participated in the first American air raid against the Japanese home islands during World War II. Led by Lieutenant Colonel James H. "Jimmy" Doolittle, the mission launched 16 modified B-25 Mitchell bombers from the aircraft carrier USS Hornet on April 18, 1942, just over four months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The bombers struck targets in Tokyo and other Japanese cities before attempting to reach landing sites in China. Although the raid inflicted relatively limited physical damage, it delivered an important psychological boost to American morale and demonstrated that Japan was vulnerable to American airpower. The mission became one of the most celebrated aviation operations of World War II, with its surviving participants later maintaining a longstanding tradition of reunions and commemorations.

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

Premium:
A 25% Buyers Premium Will Be Added to All Winning Bids

Reference sku: 11703 1419705-1