DS as president, one page, 11 x 9.5, August 4, 1945. Truman presents the “Legion of Merit, Degree of Officer, to Wing Commander John G. Weaver, Royal Air Force for extraordinary fidelity and exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service.” Signed at the bottom by Truman and countersigned by Secretary of War Henry Stimson. Impressively suede matted and framed, with a color portrait of Truman on canvas and a descriptive plaque, to an overall size of 42 x 30. In fine condition, with a uniform shade of mild toning and a bit of trivial foxing. Accompanied by a photocopy of the letter presented with the certificate which states that Weaver: “Serving as chief of the Photo Reconnaissance Section, Allied Expeditionary Air Force, coordinated the Photo Reconnaissance of the United States Ninth and Second Tactical Air Forces…prior to and during the invasion of the Continent. He developed the technique of photo reconnaissance in a tactical role and its practical application for the use of rapidly moving air and ground forces. His wide experience and ability were contributing factors to the success attained in the employment of signal communications vital to the proper employment and use of photo reconnaissance.”
As the United States prepared to unleash its most powerful weapon on Hiroshima on August 6, President Truman paused to bestow this honor upon one of the nation’s allies. With the war in Europe over, Truman presented Wing Commander Weaver with one of America’s highest honors—the Legion of Merit. Throughout the war, intelligence gathered from photo reconnaissance missions by leaders like the British commander was essential to successful attacks, as well as pre-raid briefings and post-raid assessments. Among the most successful use of photo reconnaissance missions was in preparation for the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. A wonderful war-dated commendation pertaining to one of the nation’s greatest decorations. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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