Comes with a hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity and a full historical research write-up.

*Ships via USPS Priority Mail in a medium box with full insurance, tracking, and signature confirmation required upon delivery!

Display Size: 6.25 x 8.25 inches (Medium/Large Display Size)

From: World War II - European Theater

Historical Piece of WWII History Included: Original World War II Ninth Air Force B-26 Marauder Pilot Jacket Worn by 1st Lt. Arthur Pakula (0819703) During His 1944-1945 Combat Missions with the 456th Bomb Squadron - 323rd Bomb Group

Dated: 1944-1945

Exclusive WWII Relic Display: Limited Edition of 50

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🇺🇸A PROUD U.S.A. COMPANY - OUR PROCESS🇺🇸

Each of our “Piece of History” displays is meticulously hand-made, one-of-a-kind, and created to honor and preserve the legacy of World War II. Our in-house graphic design team carefully pairs every relic with a high-resolution archival photograph directly tied to the historical context of the relic itself. Every display includes a custom title and an historical description, providing meaningful insight into the artifact’s significance. Printed on premium matte photographic paper, each display is housed in a high-quality 6×8 frame proudly made in the U.S.A. To ensure both preservation and presentation, the artifact is placed on plush archival padding inside a UV-resistant clear acrylic case. Before being sealed, each piece is authenticated by our archivists and secured with a tamper-proof authentication hologram. This dual-layered display is designed to be instantly ready for your home, office, or collection…whether on a desk, wall, or shelf. Own your piece of WWII history today!

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#1. Historical Significance:

During World War II, First Lieutenant Arthur Pakula (O819703) stood among the braze pilots of the 323rd Bomb Group, one of the most battle tested B-26 Marauder units in the European Theater of Operations. As the pilot of “Crew 13”, Pakula carried not only the responsibility of his aircraft, but the lives of the men who trusted him through some of the most dangerous medium bomber missions of the war. The 323rd Bomb Group operated in a relentless tempo from 1943 through 1945, striking German rail yards, bridges, airfields, troop concentrations, and fortified positions across occupied Europe in direct support of Allied ground forces. Their missions were low altitude, high exposure, and unforgiving. Every flight meant navigating intense flak, enemy fighters, and unpredictable weather while maintaining precise bombing accuracy.

Pakula’s leadership within Crew 13 became one of his defining traits. Calm under pressure. Disciplined in execution. Fully committed to the success of each mission. He piloted multiple B-26 Marauders during his combat service, including aircraft such as 41-34969, The Gremlin II, Hell’s Belle, Ole 33 Gal, and Buzzin Huzzy. Each aircraft carried its own scars, its own history, and its own crew memories, yet Pakula’s consistency behind the controls remained the constant. These aircraft were not just machines. They were lifelines that carried crews into hostile skies and, when fortune allowed, brought them home again.

The 323rd Bomb Group played a critical role in the lead up to and aftermath of D-Day, continuing its operations through the brutal campaigns of France, Belgium, and Germany. Their B-26 Marauders attacked German supply lines, armored movements, and defensive positions that directly shaped the success of Allied advances. Pilots like Pakula flew in tight formations at low altitude, where flak bursts tore through the sky and left no margin for hesitation. The Marauder demanded skill, precision, and confidence. Under Pakula’s control, it became a weapon of determination rather than fear.

From 1944 into 1945, as Allied forces pushed deeper into Europe, the missions only intensified. The 323rd Bomb Group remained at the front edge of tactical air power, delivering critical strikes that disrupted German reinforcements and weakened entrenched defenses. Pakula’s record reflects a pilot who adapted to changing battle conditions while maintaining the discipline required to survive repeated combat operations. His repeated flights aboard multiple aircraft demonstrate not only operational necessity, but the trust placed in him by his commanders and fellow crew members.

Arthur Pakula’s service with the 323rd Bomb Group represents the quiet heroism of the medium bomber crews who rarely received the same attention as heavy bomber units, yet carried an equal burden of risk. Crew 13, under his leadership, became part of a larger story of courage, endurance, and sacrifice.

• Air force: Ninth Air Force

• Type: Bombardment

• Unit Hierarchy: Squadron

• Nicknames: White Tails

• Moto: We Conquer Without Fear

• Insignia: Four Leaf Clover overlaid by three Dice -4,5 and6

• Aircraft used: B-26 Marauder

#2. Why This Display is Special:

Our "Piece of History" displays are a tangible connection to one of the most pivotal moments in WWII history. Carefully curated and designed, each display transforms an authentic fragment of WWII history into a breathtaking and meaningful tribute to the past. Whether you're a passionate history enthusiast, a proud descendant of a WWII veteran, or simply someone who values the sacrifices made for freedom, this limited edition display offers a unique way to honor the legacy of the Greatest Generation. Each display invites conversation, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the courage and resilience of the U.S. soldiers who fought in the European Theater. It stands not only as a stunning display but as a reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring spirit that helped shape the modern world. Let this display spark curiosity, inspire remembrance, and preserve the memory of those who fought for liberty for generations to come.

🇺🇸We are deeply honored to preserve these powerful pieces of history…not only for the world-renowned museums we curate for, but also for private collectors like yours! For this special display, 50% of all sales from this “Piece of History” display will be donated to the non-profit Honor Flight Network. Honor Flight is committed to transporting as many U.S. military veterans as possible to Washington, D.C., where they can visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice—all at no cost to them. Thank you for joining us in preserving history and honoring the heroes who helped shape it. 🇺🇸

This display would make an extraordinary addition to any WWII or military history collection. For further details or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out.