Thomas Classen Signed 5x7 Photograph (PSA) WWII 509th Composite Group Commander

"**Hand-Signed 5x7 Photograph by Deputy Commander of the 509th Composite Group Thomas Classen – Tinian Island – PSA/DNA Authenticated**

Offered is an exceptional **5x7 photograph hand signed by Colonel Thomas Classen**, who served as the **Deputy Commander of the 509th Composite Group** during World War II. This rare and historically significant piece is **authenticated by PSA/DNA Authentication Services** and includes their official **Letter of Authenticity**, certifying the authenticity of the signature.

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### **Colonel Thomas Classen – Deputy Commander, 509th Composite Group**

Colonel **Thomas Classen** played a pivotal leadership role as the **Deputy Commander** of the **509th Composite Group**, the specially formed U.S. Army Air Forces unit responsible for executing the atomic bomb missions that ended World War II. Stationed at **Tinian Island** in the Northern Mariana Islands, Classen oversaw the operations, logistics, and readiness of the personnel and aircraft involved in one of the most secretive and critical missions in U.S. military history.

As second-in-command under Colonel Paul W. Tibbets, Classen ensured mission execution and operational discipline within the 509th. His role was crucial in maintaining the efficiency and coordination of the group during its high-stakes operations, including the **Hiroshima (August 6, 1945)** and **Nagasaki (August 9, 1945)** atomic bombings. His leadership helped guide the group through its unprecedented and history-altering mission.

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### **The 509th Composite Group – The Unit That Ended WWII**

Formed in **December 1944** under the Manhattan Project, the **509th Composite Group** was tasked with the delivery of atomic weapons against Japan. Composed of hand-picked flight crews, scientists, and ground personnel, the unit trained intensively at **Wendover Army Air Field** before deploying to **Tinian Island**, from where the two atomic missions were launched.

Flying specially modified **Silverplate B-29 Superfortresses**, including the *Enola Gay*, *Bockscar*, and *The Great Artiste*, the group conducted the only wartime use of nuclear weapons, ultimately forcing Japan’s surrender and bringing World War II to a close. The 509th Composite Group's precise execution and historic legacy remain a landmark in both military and global history.

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### **Item Details**

- **Photograph Size**: 5x7 inches

- **Signature**: Hand signed by Colonel Thomas Classen

- **Title**: Deputy Commander, 509th Composite Group

- **Location**: Tinian Island, Mariana Islands

- **Authentication**: **PSA/DNA Authentication Services**

- **Includes**: PSA/DNA **Letter of Authenticity**

- **Condition**: Excellent

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This signed photograph offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of World War II and atomic mission history, personally autographed by one of the key commanding officers of the famed **509th Composite Group**. A superb addition to any collection of **military aviation**, **atomic mission**, 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 autograph(s) includes an official PSA/DNA hologram and matching LOA for authenticity purposes.

Authentication: PSA LOA

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.