Description: 5x3 Notecard signed in blue ballpoint ink by Lee Archer. Comes with an unsigned photograph. In very good condition. (1919-2010) Lee Andrew Archer, Jr. was an African-American fighter pilot in the 332nd Fighter Group, commonly known as the Tuskegee Airmen, during World War II. He was one of the first African-American military aviators in the United States Army Air Corps, the United States Army Air Forces, and later the United States Air Force, eventually earning the rank of lieutenant colonel. During World War II, Archer flew 169 combat missions, including bomber escort, reconnaissance and ground attack. Archer claimed, and was credited with four enemy fighter aircraft shot down, though disputes regarding this record arose after his death. Archer was one of only four Tuskegee Airmen to have earned three aerial victories in a single day of combat: Joseph Elsberry, Clarence Lester, and Harry T. Stewart Jr. Archer is considered by some as the first and—as of 2010—only black U.S. pilot to earn an "ace" designation, for shooting down at least five enemy aircraft. However, during the war, Archer claimed, and was acknowledged to have shot down only four planes. Years later, Archer stated he and another pilot both claimed victory for shooting down a fifth aircraft, that he was credited for only one half the kill, and that half kill was later taken away. However, official records show no claim by Archer on the date in question. Archer's supposed ace status was mentioned in news articles through the time of his death, when it was stated as fact in several obituaries. The original records of his duty were clear. The discrepancy between these records and the later reporting has caused some controversy. Archer also destroyed six aircraft on the ground during a strafing mission in August 1944, as well as several locomotives, motor transports and barges. Comes with a full Letter of Authenticity from Todd Mueller Authentics if the item sells for $10 and over.
Price: 100 USD
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
End Time: 2024-09-05T20:52:40.000Z
Shipping Cost: 10 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 14 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Industry: Military
Signed by: Lee Archer
Signed: Yes
Autograph Authentication: Yes
Original/Reproduction: Original
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
