The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 1322:
Description
A fantastic grouping centered around Colonel Ken Walsh, USMC (Ret.), a World War II “Ace in a Day” and Medal of Honor recipient. The lot includes a signed letter from John Bannister to Col. Walsh, dated February 8, 1994, thanking him for signing and forwarding prints, noting the 50th Anniversary of his action, and mentioning a recent earthquake. A handwritten note from Col. Walsh to John Bannister on National Museum of Naval Aviation stationery, dated May 28, 1994, is also included, discussing a framed F4U-1A print and suggesting contact with the “Friends of the Aces” organization. A close-up image shows the inscription by Kenneth A. Walsh, CMH, on a print of his Medal of Honor, noting the date of action (15 & 30 August 1943) and the date of the award from President F. D. Roosevelt (February 8, 1944). The main items are two black and white aircraft prints, one a Japanese Zero (or similar) and the other a US Marine F4U Corsair, both signed and numbered 69/1000 by the artist and signed by Kenneth A. Walsh. The Corsair print is specifically labeled “F4U Corsair ‘Ace in a Day’ / Ken Walsh 5 kills / August 30, 1943.” The lot also includes an envelope and a photo of Col. Walsh. This collection is a significant piece of aviation history, tying together a legendary Marine Ace, his notable actions, and correspondence with a collector. The items appear to be in very good overall condition, with the paper items showing expected minor creasing or handling wear consistent with their age and mailing, but the signatures and prints themselves are clean and well-preserved. Part of the John Bannister Collection. H 11″, W 17″. See photos.
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