December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 111:
Description
This is an exceptional, documented career grouping dedicated to Commander Sanford M. Kirkland, USN, a long-serving Naval Aviator whose service spanned pre-WWII through the Korean War era, including a combat injury sustained during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. The grouping is extensive and includes four original Aviators Flight Log Books, with entries detailing his progression from flight school in 1937 to later duty at NAS Anacostia, Washington D.C., and training checkouts in various aircraft. The lot also includes his original khaki U.S. Navy summer flight suit, a framed portrait of him in flying gear, and his Honorable Discharge document. Commander Kirkland s high military honors are represented by a complete set of his full-sized and miniature medals, featuring the Purple Heart, and several campaign medals including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two battle stars. His discharge document specifically notes he was Wounded at Battle of Leyte Gulf, October 1944 by shrapnel wounds, confirming his injury in one of the largest naval engagements in history. Although his logbooks do not show combat flying entries during that period, suggesting he was likely wounded while serving in a non-flying combat capacity aboard a ship or on the ground during the action, his service ribbons also indicate he may have been awarded the Bronze Star according to some records, further highlighting his distinguished non-aerial combat contributions. The grouping is rich in insignia and identifying artifacts, including his gold US Naval Aviator Wings, rank shoulder boards for a Commander, a patch for Utility Squadron One US Navy, and his khaki name tag S. M. KIRKLAND CDR USN, providing an unparalleled and deeply personal look into the long, decorated, and multi-faceted career of a true U.S. Naval hero.
Share this lot:
