Hubert Zemke, Gabby Gabreski, Gerald Johnson Multi Signed Bookplate (PSA) WWII Zemke's Wolfpack

Presented is an exceptional hand-signed bookplate from Gabby: A Fighter Pilot’s Life, personally autographed by three of the most celebrated American fighter aces of World War II: Colonel Francis “Gabby” Gabreski, Brigadier General Gerald W. Johnson, and Colonel Hubert “Hub” Zemke. The signatures have been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA, ensuring both verification and long-term preservation.

This bookplate represents the collective legacy of three aviation legends from the famed 56th Fighter Group, “Zemke’s Wolfpack,” one of the most successful fighter groups in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II.

Colonel Francis S. “Gabby” Gabreski (1919–2002) was the top American ace in the European Theater, achieving 28 confirmed aerial victories flying the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt. Serving with the 56th Fighter Group, Gabreski became renowned for his aggressive combat style and unmatched skill in aerial engagements. After his WWII service, he continued his career in the Korean War, scoring 6½ additional victories in the F-86 Sabre—cementing his place among the few U.S. pilots to achieve ace status in two wars.

Brigadier General Gerald W. Johnson (1919–2002) was another highly decorated ace of the 56th Fighter Group. He achieved 16 confirmed victories in aerial combat, distinguishing himself as one of the top American fighter pilots in Europe. Johnson rose to command the 56th Fighter Group and played a key leadership role in its extraordinary combat record.

Colonel Hubert “Hub” Zemke (1914–1994) was the commander of the 56th Fighter Group and one of the most respected fighter leaders of the war. Known for his tactical brilliance and leadership, Zemke built “Zemke’s Wolfpack” into the highest-scoring fighter group in the European Theater with more than 665 aerial victories. He was credited with 17.75 aerial victories himself and earned the Distinguished Service Cross for his valor.

Together, these three signatures represent not only remarkable individual achievement but also the legacy of an elite fighting unit that helped secure air superiority over Europe.

This PSA/DNA encapsulated bookplate is a rare and historically significant artifact, signed by three icons of American air power—an extraordinary centerpiece for any serious WWII aviation or ace autograph collection.

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.

Signers: Col. Francis S. “Gabby” Gabreski, Brig. Gen. Gerald W. Johnson, Col. Hubert “Hub” Zemke

Unit: 56th Fighter Group, “Zemke’s Wolfpack”

Aircraft: Republic P-47 Thunderbolt

Conflict: World War II

Medium: Hand-signed bookplate from Gabby: A Fighter Pilot’s Life

The autograph(s) has been authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA for authenticity purposes.

Authentication: PSA Encapsulated

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.