B&W 8x10 inch photo signed by early NASA test pilot Bob Cardenas. Brigadier General Robert L. “Bob” Cardenas flew with the 44th Bomb Group (known as the flying 8-balls) during WWII when anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighters hit his B24. The crew bailed out. Cardenas landed on the shore of Lake Constance (on the German side) and swam to the Swiss shore of the lakeside. After contacting the local resistance, Cardenas made his way into France prior to D-day and the French Resistance arranged for Cardenas to get back to England.

On return to the US, Cardenas was assigned to numerous test pilot positions. On February 9th, 1949, Cardenas flew the YB-49 non-stop from Muroc to Andrews AFB in 4 hours 5 minutes setting a new transcontinental record.  The Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Presidential Citation have honoured Cardenas. Foreign decorations include the Spanish Grand Legion of Aeronautical Merit. A Superb piece.