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The aircraft bears U.S. Air Force markings and tail number 66701. The photograph is mounted with a separate “LOCKHEED U-2” identification paper plaque beneath the image. At lower right is a handwritten presentation inscription/signature, which reads \"To: Joe Giraudo. In appreciation for your many contributions to this program. C.L. \"Kelly\" Johnson. I am not sure who it is inscribed to. There was a famous pilot named John Giraudo, aka, \"The Big Kahuna,\" also known as the only US Pilot to be shot down and captured in two different wars. I don\'t know if \"Joe\" was a nickname he used, or if this is another person altogether.
The photograph itself has a small printed reference or negative number at lower left that appears to read “C-190-1 9-20-65”, possibly indicating a September 20, 1965 date. If correct, this would place the photograph squarely within the Cold War operational era of the U-2. Photo measures 15.5 x 19.5 inches, 20 x 24 inches in frame.
The entire presentation is housed in its original-looking slim metal frame. It has a wonderful period aerospace/military-industrial appearance and would make an excellent addition to a collection devoted to Cold War aviation, Lockheed Skunk Works, reconnaissance aircraft, USAF history, or Kelly Johnson.
Subject: Lockheed U-2 / Military Aviation
Aircraft: Lockheed U-2
Branch: United States Air Force
Era: Cold War / 1960s
Date: Possibly September 20, 1965
Type: Presentation Photograph / Aviation Photograph
Features: Handwritten inscription, framed
Country/Region: United States
Search keywords: Lockheed U2, U-2 Dragon Lady, Kelly Johnson, Clarence Kelly Johnson, Skunk Works, USAF, spy plane, reconnaissance aircraft, Cold War aviation, Lockheed Aircraft, military aviation photograph, 1960s aerospace.
Fresh to the market from the Washington D.C.-area estate of a WWII bomber and longtime military aviator.
