Fighter pilot (1920–1945) known as the highest-scoring air ace of the United States, having shot down at least 40 Japanese aircraft during World War II; he was killed in a crash while working as a Lockheed test pilot. Scarce hand-addressed mailing envelope, 7 x 4, addressed in Bong’s hand to “Mrs. Carl Bong, Poplar, Wisconsin, U.S.A.,” signed in the return address area, “Capt. Richard I. Bong, 5th Fighter Command, A.P.O. 713 Unit, San Francisco, Cal,” and signed again in the lower left, “Censored by R. I. Bong.” Postmarked US Army Postal Service, March 9, 1944. Reverse bears a statement of provenance from Bong’s sister, Joyce Bong Erickson, stating, “As a sister of Richard Bong’s I verify that this is his writing on front of envelope.” In very good condition, with light toning and soiling, and heavy creases to the left side affecting Bong’s signatures. Between its multiple signatures and excellent familial provenance, this is a fantastic example of a highly sought-after World War II autograph. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$100.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
