This lot features an extraordinary and historically significant collectible: a signed, hardbound edition of "Way of a Fighter" by General Claire Lee Chennault, featuring a bookplate signed by 13 distinguished and now-deceased World War II veterans of the legendary American Volunteer Group (AVG), better known as the Flying Tigers. This rare and invaluable item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from JSA, ensuring the authenticity of these signatures.
Formed under the command of General Claire Lee Chennault in 1941, the Flying Tigers were a group of American volunteer pilots who fought alongside Chinese forces against the Japanese in the early days of World War II. Known for their iconic shark-nosed P-40 Warhawks, the Flying Tigers became legendary for their exceptional aerial combat skills, achieving an impressive kill ratio against the Japanese Air Force before officially integrating into the U.S. Army Air Forces in 1942.
This exceptional bookplate features the signatures of 13 members of the AVG, each of whom played a pivotal role in the success of the Flying Tigers. Their courage and contributions to the war effort are commemorated in this extraordinary collection:
- Joe Rosbert – Fighter pilot with the 1st Pursuit Squadron, who later became a prisoner of war in China after being shot down.
- Dick Rossi – A highly decorated pilot with the 1st Pursuit Squadron, credited with multiple victories over Japanese aircraft.
- Tex Hill – One of the most famous Flying Tigers aces, later serving as commander of the 23rd Fighter Group in the U.S. Army Air Forces.
- Charlie Bond – A squadron leader and skilled aviator, who later chronicled his experiences in "A Flying Tiger’s Diary".
- Paul Greene – An AVG pilot who fought in early aerial battles and played a key role in the Flying Tigers’ defense strategies.
- Charlie Mott – A dedicated airman whose contributions helped shape the early successes of the AVG.
- Robert Keeton – A pilot known for his precision and effectiveness in combat.
- Rodie Rodewald – A key member of the AVG, recognized for his bravery and flying expertise.
- Robert Raine – Another skilled aviator who engaged in combat operations over China.
- R.T. Smith – An ace fighter pilot with five confirmed victories, who documented his experiences through photography and writing.
- Robert Layher – A committed Flying Tiger who played an essential role in the unit’s success.
- Chuck Older – A double ace with 10 confirmed aerial victories, who later became a California Supreme Court judge.
- Ken Jernstedt – An AVG ace with numerous aerial victories, who later served in the U.S. Marine Corps and in public office.