Clark Gable’s complete World War II US Army Air Corps Uniform - 8th Air Corps 1943 Hollywood legend Clark Gable, perhaps best known for his iconic role as Rhett Butler in “Gone with the Wind,” the 1939 classic film, was in fact a front-line warrior in World War II, flying as a gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress for five combat missions over Europe in 1943. He was awarded the Air Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions which included being a crew member of a badly damaged aircraft with Gable narrowly escaping death; a German fighter round passing through his boot, just missing his head. Gable had completed Officer Candidate School with his commission being presented to him by General Henry ‘Hap’ Arnold in October 1942. He rose to the rank of Major before he received his discharge (signed by a young Captain named Ronald Reagan – later President). This historic uniform is complete with Gable’s officer’s coat with his then-rank of Captain’s bars at the epaulets, his aviator insignia at the lapels and air crew member wings above the appropriate three ribbons designating the Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross above the left breast pocket. The 8th Air Corps patch is at the left sleeve and the belt is also included with its brass buckle – everything in excellent condition. Gable’s trousers, shirt, tie and officer’s cap are included as well making this an excellent display uniform. The name ‘C. Gable’ is stenciled inside the coat pocket. Copy prints of Gable with his aircrew, an image of him aiming the B-17 machine gun and a print of a signed photograph of him in this uniform accompany his WW II uniform as well. It was leaked that Clark Gable was so admired by Adolph Hitler that he placed a reward on Gable’s head, that if captured Clark Gable was to be brought to Hitler alive. MGM studios pressured the US Army to return Gable to the United States, especially after they heard the news of his near-death experience as a gunner onboard his B-17. This is an excellent uniform grouping of one of Hollywood’s favorite stars that volunteered and fought for his country. An American Icon. $16,500
Gary Hendershott • 501.224.7555 • P.O. Box 22520 - Little Rock, AR 72221 • Email: g.hendershott@comcast.net
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