Fall 2025 Military & Collectibles Auction
Lot 113A:
Description
Post–World War II U.S. Air Force uniform belonging to Major General Ernest M. Moore, a decorated combat leader and one of the youngest generals of World War II.Ernest M. Moore graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1931 and earned his Army Air Corps wings in 1932. During World War II, he served in a variety of key leadership positions, eventually becoming Assistant Chief of Staff for the Hawaiian Air Force. Later, as Commanding General of the VII Fighter Command, he was responsible for providing long-range fighter escort and air defense for the bomber forces striking Japan. It was reported that Moore personally piloted the first fighter aircraft to land on Iwo Jima while the island was still being secured.After the war, Moore continued to serve in senior command positions in the newly established U.S. Air Force, contributing to early Cold War air operations and leadership development. Over his distinguished career, he received numerous awards, including multiple Distinguished Service Medals (Army and Air Force), Legions of Merit, and Distinguished Flying Crosses.This uniform is early U.S. Air Force style adopted shortly after its formation in 1947 and dates to the early 1950s, following the onset of the Korean War. The ribbons on the uniform are sewn directly to the coat, not embroidered. Several of Major General Moore’s later decorations from the Korean War period are not present, further supporting this early 1950s dating.Ribbons: The center ribbon on the bottom row is the Philippine Medal of Merit, instituted in 1947 and awarded to only a small number of foreign military leaders. While documentation of Moore’s specific award has not been located, several high-ranking WWII-era officers did receive this rare honor.Pilot’s Wings: The Command Pilot’s Wing is of World War II vintage, with the star and wreath soldered onto the wing—a style phased out shortly after the war. It bears the Meyer Company impressed shield mark, discontinued around 1943. The pin opens only to 80 degrees, consistent with wartime manufacture.General’s Stars: The two silver stars are plain, unmarked, clutch-back insignia.This set includes Major General Moore’s matching pants and his General Officer visor cap, which features three bullion clouds (denoting a general officer) and retains his name card inside. Neither the jacket nor the pants have any names or manufacturer labels present.
Condition: See description for notes on condition. Please note that all items are sold as is without returns, so please ask questions in advance of bidding.
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