April 27-30, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2021
Framed insignia and valor medal grouping that is identified to career soldier Colonel William H. Billings. In 1923, Billings enlisted in the Army with the rank of private and in less then 10 years, he received his commission as a second lieutenant in 1932. Billings would go on to serve during World War II where he would hold the ranks of major and lieutenant colonel. After the war, Billings is listed as a Colonel and the Regimental Commander of the 65th Infantry Regiment. He was awarded his Legion of Merit on September 10, 1959 "for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from August 1954 to 31 August 1959." The Legion of Merit was just one of his decorations. While he was in the Army, Billings was also decorated with the combat infantry badge, Purple Heart, and Bronze Star with 3 oakleaf clusters. Billings would stay in the army for five more years as he retired in 1964 after a 30 year career in the Army. He passed away in Colorado in 1980. The lot consists of: (A) Framed and mounted insignia from Billings' time in the Army. The frame measures approximately 20" x 14" and contains DIs of various units he was assigned to, rank insignia, and CIB. Most insignia appears to be newer and this is likely a commemorative set. (B) Slot brooch Purple Heart Medal engraved "WILLIAM / H. / BILLINGS" on the reverse in late WWII style engraving and numbered "226672". (C) Slot Brooch Bronze Star Medal engraved "WILLIAM / H. / BILLINGS" on the reverse in late WWII style engraving. (C) Slot brooch Legion of Merit engraved " "WILLIAM / H. / BILLINGS" on the reverse. CONDITION: Frame has a vertical crack in the glass that extends the length of the glass. All of the medal's pinback clasps are broken off and show evidence of glue on the reverse. It appears that all of these medals were once mounted and then removed. Despite the blemishes this set is in overall good condition and will display well. JLD
Item Dimensions: 20" x 14"