Alex Vraciu Signed 8x10 Photo WWII VF-16 Ace 19 Victories (PSA)

Presented is a hand-signed 8x10 photograph by Commander Alexander Vraciu (1918–2015), one of the U.S. Navy’s top fighter aces of World War II. The autograph has been authenticated by PSA/DNA and comes with their Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring both verification and long-term preservation.

Alexander Vraciu distinguished himself as a Navy F6F Hellcat pilot in the U.S. Navy’s Fighting Squadron 16 (VF-16) aboard the aircraft carrier USS Lexington (CV-16). Over the course of his combat career, Vraciu achieved 19 confirmed aerial victories and destroyed an additional 21 enemy aircraft on the ground, earning him a place among America’s leading naval aces.

His most famous accomplishment came on June 19, 1944, during the Battle of the Philippine Sea—better known as the “Great Marianas Turkey Shoot.” In a single mission, Vraciu shot down six Japanese dive-bombers in just eight minutes, one of the most extraordinary single-flight performances in U.S. naval aviation history.

A recipient of the Navy Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross, and Air Medal, Vraciu’s skill, composure, and aggressive flying style epitomized the courage and professionalism of the Navy’s carrier-based aviators. After the war, he continued to serve in both active and reserve roles, remaining a revered figure in naval aviation circles for decades.

This authenticated 8x10 signed photograph offers collectors a rare opportunity to own the autograph of one of the Navy’s most accomplished and decorated fighter pilots, a man whose name is forever linked to the triumphs of American air power in the Pacific.

Signer: Commander Alexander Vraciu (1918–2015), WWII U.S. Navy Fighter Ace

Aircraft: F6F Hellcat, VF-16, USS Lexington (CV-16)

Medium: Hand-signed in ink on 8x10 photograph

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 COA for authenticity purposes.

Authentication: PSA 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.