SIGNED BY WWII TRIPLE ACE COLONEL CLARENCE "BUD" ANDERSON: FIRST EDITION OF AIRCRAFT OF THE ACES, BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED BY IAIN WYLLIE

(ANDERSON, Clarence) HOLMES, Tony, compiler. Aircraft of the Aces. Legends of World War 2. (Oxford): Osprey Aviation, (2000). Quarto, original blue paper boards, original dust jacket. $300.

First edition of this fascinating survey of the aircraft flown by World War II's most famous aces, lushly illustrated with 30 color illustrations after paintings by acclaimed aviation artist Iain Wyllie and numerous photographic illustrations, signed on the half title by the author of the foreword, Col. Clarence "Bud" Anderson, a triple ace in World War II.

This work looks at the major aircraft of World War II from the perspectives of the aces who flew them. Compiler Tony Holmes combines combat reports with pilot biographies and aircraft technical specs to create a compelling history of the aviation side of World War II. Also included are dozens of photographic illustrations as well as 30 beautiful color illustrations of airplanes after paintings by famed aviation artist Iain Wyllie. This copy is signed by Colonel Clarence E. "Bud" Anderson, the author of the foreword and a longtime Air Force officer who distinguished himself as a two-tour triple ace in World War II and remains the highest scoring living American fighter ace. He earned 16 kills and 116 sorties during the war. After World War II, Anderson became a test pilot and even served as a fighter squadron and wing commander in Vietnam. Anderson is a member of the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

Fine condition.