This listing is for the following Masajiro Kawato WWII Japanese Ace Pilot 9 autographed item that has been mated with an unsigned in-uniform 5x7 inch photograph the black mat measures 8x10 inches. 

This Masajiro Kawato autographed cut has been authenticated by the most prestigious and respected authentication company in the hobby JSA #AR98771. Autographed items that have been authenticated by JSA adds an additional value to all signed items that bare the JSA authentication process.

BIO: Masajiro Kawato WWII Japanese Ace Pilot 9 Victories while piloting a Japanese Zero. In Kawato's autobiography "Flight into Conquest" he recounts downing legendary U.S. Ace Pilot Gregory "Pappy" Boyington on January 3 rd , 1944. Initially Pappy Boyington was declared missing in action. Pappy had been picked up by a Japanese submarine and became a POW for the next 20 months.Kawato volunteered for the Japanese Navy Flight Cadet school at the age of 16 in 1942 trained flying Mitsiubishi Type 93 planes. He was first sent to Truk in 1943 followed by service in Rabaul an island on New Britain. Kawato flew with the Air Group 253 and Air Group 204.The following is the account from Kawato autobiography of downing Pappy Boyington: "I kept my cool and waited until I had the right distance. After 15 or 16 rounds of 20 mm gunfire, some hitting the cabin near the cockpit, it started to smoke a little, but no flames. He rolled over to the right and went into a dive, but I was able to stay with him.... As he was going over Rabaul where our base was located, I was thinking how far this Corsair (F4U) would be able to escape me."

THIS IS AN AUTHENTIC HAND AUTOGRAPHED CUT that was been mated with an unsigned in uniform 5x7 inch photograph perfect for framing. The black matt measures 8x10 inches. This is one of the last remaining autographs that I have available of him. I am close to being permanently sold out do not miss out on your chance to add this remarkable collectible to your collection. PLEASE NOTE this photograph was printed posted war.

I ONLY SELL AUTHENTIC HAND AUTOGRAPHED MEMORABILIA. I do not sell reprints or facsimile autographs. When you bid on my items you get the real deal authentic hand autographed items. You will receive the same item that is pictured in the scan. If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me. I combine S&H when multiple items are purchased. I ship items internationally the price for international S&H varies by country. I currently have other rare autographed military and historical signed items available. Please take a look at my other auctions of rare military and historical autographed items.