Tom Blackburn Signed 8x10 Photograph (AIV) WWII Navy Jolly Rogers Ace - 13 Victories

"**Hand-Signed 8x10 Photograph by WWII U.S. Navy Ace Tom Blackburn – AI-Verified Certificate of Authenticity**

Presented is an exceptional **8x10 photograph hand signed by United States Navy Fighter Ace Commander Tom Blackburn**, one of the most accomplished naval aviators of World War II. This signature has been **authenticated by AI-Verified Authentication Services** and includes a **matching Certificate of Authenticity**, ensuring the utmost confidence in its provenance.

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### **About Commander Tom Blackburn**

**Commander Tom Blackburn** (1913–1994) was a celebrated **U.S. Navy fighter ace** and commanding officer of **Fighting Squadron 17 (VF-17)**, famously known as the **""Jolly Rogers.""** Flying the **F4U Corsair**, Blackburn led his squadron with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

Under his aggressive and skillful leadership, VF-17 achieved **154 aerial victories**, becoming one of the most successful naval fighter squadrons of the war. Blackburn himself was credited with **13 confirmed aerial victories**, earning him the status of **""ace""** and multiple combat decorations, including the **Navy Cross**, **Distinguished Flying Cross**, and **Air Medal**.

Renowned for his innovative tactics, firm discipline, and unwavering combat instincts, Blackburn authored the memoir *The Jolly Rogers*, recounting the intense aerial combat and camaraderie that defined the elite squadron. His legacy continues to inspire naval aviators and historians alike.

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### **Item Details**

- **Item**: Hand-Signed 8x10 Photograph

- **Signer**: Commander Tom Blackburn – WWII U.S. Navy Fighter Ace

- **Aircraft Association**: F4U Corsair, VF-17 ""Jolly Rogers""

- **Authentication**: **AI-Verified Authentication Services**

- **Includes**: AI-Verified **Certificate of Authenticity**

- **Condition**: Excellent; signature clean and bold in contrasting ink

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This signed photograph is a remarkable tribute to one of the **most revered U.S. Navy fighter aces of World War II**, offering collectors a piece of genuine history from the Pacific air war. An ideal addition to any collection of **military, aviation, or WWII memorabilia**."

A portion of the sale of this auction will be donated to the General James. H Doolittle Scholarship Fund. The General James H. Doolittle Scholarship Fund was founded to assist college students by awarding one scholarship annually in the maximum amount of $5,000 to a deserving student who is pursuing a baccalaureate or advanced degree in aeronautical engineering or an aerospace science. Students are selected based on their scholastic achievement, school and community participation, demonstrated leadership potential and financial need. More information can be found at the Doolittle Scholarship Funds’ website.

The lot / autograph(s) includes an official Authentication Integrity Verified (AIV) hologram and matching COA for authenticity purposes.

Authentication: AIV COA

Due to the uniqueness of each item, please refer to the photos provided in this auction. We offer high resolution images of each item rather than a written description of condition.

This item is being shipped from the Pristine Auction warehouse.