JOHN LOISEL
The WWII and Korean Air Force ace sends letter to fan, explaining he cannot remember a good combat story, signs name in blue ink
Typed letter signed: "John Loisel" in blue ink. 1 page, 5¾x7¾. Addressed to Mr. William Stanhope of Albuquerque, New Mexico. September 20, 1990. Richardson, Texas. In full: "I am sorry but I am unable to answer your request for my recollection of a particular combat situation. It has been too many years. I had many exciting experiences during WWII, in Korea and since then, but the things I recall don't make a very good story in the telling. Thank you for enclosing a stamped and addressed envelope. Sincerely". John S. Liosel (1920-2010) was an American air race, credited with having shot down eleven Japanese aircraft during World War II. Joining the U.S. Army Air Forces in 1941, by 1945 Loisel had spent more time in combat than any other American pilot during the war, with over three years in the Pacific. He quickly distinguished himself by first becoming an ace after achieving five kills in just a two-month period, then becoming a double ace. After the war, Loisel became a career Air Force officer, commanding Fighter Groups in WWII and Korea, along with several other peacetime commands, before retiring as a colonel. He spent his retirement teaching high school physics in Texas. He had been awarded the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Crosses and the Air Medal. Lightly toned. Normal mailing folds. Corners rounded. Pencil notes on verso in unknown hand. Otherwise, fine condition.