Description
This historically significant and rare pistol, obtained by the Air Force on August 20, 1987, was issued to Brigadier General Robert E. Preston three days later, on August 23, 1987. BG Preston, born in 1932, enlisted in the Ohio Air National Guard’s 55th Fighter Wing in 1949 and became Assistant Adjutant General on July 1, 1983. Upon his retirement on July 13, 1990, Preston purchased this pistol, which remained with him until his passing in January 1995. Detailed information about the gun was verified through Robins Air Force Base, Georgia records.
This pistol features a matte finish and matching drawing numbers on the barrel, slide (marked “PM”), frame, and hammer. Its fixed sights consist of a squared front post and a notched rear sight, both accented by a white dot. The beautifully grained walnut grips are checkered, with an Air Force medallion on the right grip and a polished stainless oval engraved with “ROBERT E. PRESTON” on the left grip.
The pistol comes with three factory 15-round magazines with alloy followers and push-button bases. Unattached accessories include documents detailing the pistol’s history, correspondence with noted collector Edward Meadows, a hang tag, a recall notice due to slide failures and additional memorabilia from Preston’s service. The original box includes factory manuals bearing the handwritten name “Preston.”
The pistol, in near excellent condition and seemingly never fired, is a testament to its quality and care. This exceptional piece of the Edward Scott Meadows Collection offers remarkable provenance and a deep connection to military history, providing a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts.
