Winter 2025 Militaria, Disney, & Collectibles
Lot 209:
Description
Frank Klibbe May 30, 1920-April 26, 2008. During World War II, Frank Klibbe became a U.S. Army Air Forces ACE, credited with shooting down 7 enemy aircraft in aerial combat. After the war he transferred to the new U.S. Air Force, and retired as a Colonel. Klibbe’s heroic military career began as an aviation cadet in the Army Air Corps on October 26, 1941 after earning his wings he was assigned at Halesworth RAB, Suffolk, England during WWII where he earned the honor of Ace after serving aerial victories in the European Theatre, 8th Air Force, 56th Fighter Group, 61st Squadron. Col. Klibbe flew with many other Aces such as Gabby Gabreski, Jerry Johnson, Dave Schilling, Hub Zemke to name a few. Following WWII Col. Klibbe was one of several flying the first Transatlantic Jet Crossing Fox Able One, which began a new era in military aviation and the beginning of rapid air deployment of fighters via the North Atlantic route to all of the European Continent. Col. Klibbe’s career also included another first in military aviation, he was instrumental in establishing in-flight refueling, allowing planes to continue their missions by refueling in flight versus returning to their base to refuel, which dramatically changed military aviation forever. Col. Klibbe retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1972 after 32 honorable years. Among his many awards were the Legion of Merit, The Distinguished Flying Cross with 2 clusters, and the Air Medal with 5 clusters. This signed photo is a copy of an actual period photo. The signature is original. The approximate size is 8 x 10 inches. 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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