Militaria, Police, Watch & Disney Auction
Lot 236:
Description
John Simon Loisel (May 21, 1920 – January 20, 2010) was an American Ace credited with having shot down 11 Japanese aircraft during WWII. Loisel joined the US Army Air Forces in 1941. By age 25, Loisel had spent more time in combat than any other American pilot in World War II, with over three years in the Pacific with over 300 missions. This was longer than any other US pilot. Serving in the Pacific he quickly distinguished himself by first becoming an Ace after achieving five kills in just a two-month period, and then becoming a double ace. Loisel flew 82 combat missions over New Guinea in the P-39 Airacobra before being selected as initial cadre for a new unit, the 475th Fighter Group, equipped with the P-38 Lightning. He quickly advanced to flight lead, and in October 1943 became an “ace” when he downed two Japanese fighters in a single engagement over Oro Bay, just 2 months after his first victory. Three months later, Loisel took command of the 432nd Fighter Squadron, a unit assigned to strike targets in New Guinea and the Halmaharas and cover General MacArthur’s return to the Philippines. Advising his squadron pilots to “Head for the main body of the enemy, disregard stragglers…(and) plow into the largest bunch you see, ” he gained a reputation for aggressiveness which was soon reinforced by two more victories over enemy fighters. While escorting B-25 Mitchells attacking a Japanese convoy in Indochina, he scored his final victory, another Japanese fighter. He later earned promotion to lieutenant colonel and commanded the 475th Fighter Group. Loisel flew more than 875 hours in combat–all by the age of 25. Popular and respected, he became the 475th’s fourth leading ace while flying in the company of top-scoring aces Charles MacDonald, Dick Bong, and Thomas McGuire. After an assignment in Korea, he returned to the States in May 1946, to command the 63rd Fighter Squadron at Selfridge AFB, Michigan, and guide the unit’s transition to the jet-powered P-80 Shooting Star. Following a tour at HQ Air Defense Command, Loisel returned to combat as the Korean Conflict neared armistice. Commanding the 474th Fighter Bomber Group, he flew the F-84G Thunderjet on 22 combat missions. He later excelled as Commander, 83rd Fighter Group, and Deputy Commander, 4th Tactical Fighter Wing. He retired from the Air Force in 1970 with over 5,500 flying hours, 323 combat missions, and 11 confirmed aerial victories. 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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