Summer 2024 Militaria & Collectibles Auction
Lot 308:
Description
Arthur C. Fielder was born August 1, 1923, in Forrest Park, IL. Among his early accomplishments he became a Violin Concert Master. He was probably on his way to be a musician when WWII interrupted and placed him on the path of a military career. Art qualified for flight school with the United States Army Air Corps, and after completing training, he graduated as 2nd Lieutenant. Art was deployed to the European Theater, assigned to the Fifteenth Air Force, 325 Fighter Group The Checkertail Clan, and 317 Fighter Squadron. Stationed in Lesina, Italy, he transitioned to P-51s, naming his assigned Mustang Helen. Over the course of two years and 60 plus missions, Art accumulated eight confirmed Victories, and one probable, earning him the prestigious fighter Ace designation. After the war, Art graduated from the University of Illinois with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He was reactivated in the Air Force for the Korean War. Art was assigned to Vance Air Force base as a flight instructor, now choosing to continue his career as a military pilot. Subsequent assignments included Germany, Montgomery AL, Command and Staff in Kansas, Space System divisions in Garden Grove, CA, Japan and Boston. While in Japan, Art flew C-130 missions in Vietnam with the Flying Jennies. Art retired in 1976 as a full Colonel in the USAF. Arts many Decorations include: The Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Congressional Gold Medal awarded in 2015. This signed photo is a copy of an actual period photo. The signature is original. Good overall condition.
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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