V5201

Medals of Honor

Army & Air Force Highest and Prestigious Decoration

Collins Cover Announcement 

Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor Gregory "Pappy" Boyington

Prior to the United States entering the war, Boyington volunteered as a combat pilot for the legendary "Flying Tigers" who were fighting the Japanese in China. This American volunteer force was composed mainly-of Army Air Force pilots and was recniited-under presidential authority. It-is-because of his early heroics here that I chose to honor Boyington on the Air Force Cover. A P-40 Warhawk soars across this cover with the famed teeth and eye markings that struck fear into enemy pilots.

Pappy flew with this Air Force volunteer group from the end of 1941 until September of 1942 when he officially resumed as a U.S. Marine pilot.

Boyington was a highly decorated fighter ace during World War II. He shot down 26 enemy planes and in 1943 took command of the fighter squadron known as the "Black Sheep." In January of 1944 he was shot down over the Pacific Ocean and was captured by a Japanese submarine. In March, while a POW, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

As always, if necessary, I reserve the right to limit multiple purchases in fairness to all. This cachet is awesome, and an early sell-out is a distinct possibility. The Flying Tiger P-40 is hand painted in watercolors and is a truly fine World War II cachet. Medal of Honor — Collins #V5201. $14.00.