Description
Some firearms sit in a display case and tell you nothing. This one practically tells you its life story.
Issued to Brigadier General Robert E. Preston on August 23, 1987—just three days after the Air Force formally acquired it—this pistol is far more than a military sidearm. It’s a tangible piece of history, one that followed a decorated officer through the final years of his distinguished career. Preston, born in 1932, got his start with the Ohio Air National Guard’s 55th Fighter Wing back in 1949. By July 1, 1983, he had risen to Assistant Adjutant General. And when he retired on July 13, 1990, he purchased the very pistol that had served by his side. It remained with him until his death in January 1995.
The provenance? Rock-solid. Verified records from Robins Air Force Base in Georgia confirm the pistol’s history. And the details—well, they speak for themselves.
Let’s talk features. This piece comes with a matte finish and matching drawing numbers stamped on the barrel, slide (marked “PM”), frame, and hammer. Its fixed sights—a squared-off front post and a notched rear—are each capped with a white dot for quick target acquisition. The walnut grips are beautifully checkered and richly grained, with an Air Force medallion on the right side and, on the left, a polished stainless oval engraved with “ROBERT E. PRESTON.” It’s the kind of personal touch that gives you pause.
Included are three original 15-round factory magazines, complete with alloy followers and push-button bases. You’ll also find an assortment of compelling extras: archival documents tracing the pistol’s backstory, correspondence with renowned collector Edward Meadows, a hang tag, a factory recall notice regarding slide issues (thankfully not affecting this piece), and various keepsakes from Preston’s service. The original factory box still carries the manuals, with Preston’s name handwritten inside.
Condition? Near excellent. It appears unfired and has clearly been carefully preserved over the decades. This isn’t just a well-kept firearm—it’s a reflection of the man who owned it.
Part of the Edward Scott Meadows Collection, this pistol blends rock-solid documentation with emotional weight and historical gravity. For collectors who appreciate not just rarity but real legacy, this is one of those once-in-a-while opportunities that don’t stick around.
