Description:

(PUMPKIN MISSIONS) THOMAS CLASSEN
Classen was a B-17 pilot who flew 49 missions in the Solomons with the 11th Bomb Group. He then became commander of the 393rd B-29 Squadron which was absorbed into Paul Tibbet's 509 Composite Group. Classen flew two of the "Pumpkin Missions" in B-29s over Japan which were dry runs for the atomic bombing runs of August 1945. The "Pumpkins" were the same shape and weight of the Nagasaki bomb and resembled pumpkins, hence the nickname. Classen was originally supposed to command the Nagasaki mission, but instead was made second in command of the 509th, giving the mission to Charles Sweeney. Classen never forgave Tibbets or Sweeney. A pair of signed pieces including a S.P. 8" x 10" b/w bust portrait of Classen in uniform together with a printed poem, 1p. 4to., "High Flight" by John Gillespie, Magee, Jr. signed below in pencil. Two pieces, very fine condition.

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July 21, 2011 11:30 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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