ARTIFACT:
This is a rare 1944 “The Marauders: A Book of the 22nd Bomb Group” by Captain J. W. Brosius Jr. The book has an ex-libris label named to “Midway Marauder” T/Sgt. Frank L. Melo Jr., a veteran of the famed battle of Midway. Melo is pictured at the far left of the top row in the first group photo pictured above, and at far left in the second group photo, taken right after Midway as the crew displays Susie-Q’s skin (photo credits: johngreavesart.ca). Melo flew aboard the tailing B-26 “Susie-Q” of the 18th Reconnaissance Squadron, 22nd Bombardment Group during the operation on June 4, 1942. Susie-Q bravely flew down the center of the Japanese aircraft carrier Akagi’s deck after dropping her torpedo in a last-ditch effort to escape being gunned down. The aircraft reportedly sustained 500 bullet holes for her pains. The book is a photographic history of the unit’s service in the Pacific, and has three In Memoriam pages. There are also lists of medal recipients. There are so many great drawings, black and white photographs of both candid and action-filled moments, and even some color reprints of paintings and squadron logos.
VINTAGE:
Circa 1944.
SIZE:
120 pages with photographs; approximately 9-7/8" in height and 7-1/4” in width and 1/2” in thickness.
CONSTRUCTION/MATERIALS:
Glossy paper, cloth-covered cover.
ATTACHMENT:
Glued binding.
MARKINGS:
A Souvenier of Historic Days Spent in the Southwest Pacific by FRANK L. MELO JR. T/Sgt 408th Bombardment Squadron (inside cover); Set up, printed and bound in Australia by Halstead Press Pty Ltd, 9-19 Nickson Street, Sydney 1944.
ITEM NOTES:
This is from a United States Army Air Forces collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. RABEV92 LGIEX3/13
CONDITION:
7 (Very Fine): The book is in very good condition with no stains or writing. Some scattered spots inside front pages only, some separation of the top of the pages from binding, especially on page shown (see last two photos). Some light wear to cover.
GUARANTEE:
As with all my items, this piece is guaranteed original.
