[AVIATION]. [ALDRIN, Edwin “Buzz” E. (b. 1930)]. U.S. Air F...

[AVIATION]. [ALDRIN, Edwin “Buzz” E. (b. 1930)]. U.S. Air Force Distinguished Service Medal and First Oak Leaf Cluster Award Document and Citation, for service between 1 June 1951 and 29 February 1972. Oblong 8vo (both, 203 x 267 mm). Printed document signed by Air Force Chief of Staff John D. Ryan and Secretary Robert C. Seamans, Jr. Accompanying printed citation with gilt seal reads in full: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, awards the Distinguished Service Medal to Colonel Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr., United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious service in duties of great responsibility from 1 June 1951 to 29 February 1972. Colonel Aldrin demonstrated remarkable skill and bravery as a combat pilot in the Korean War. He later completed an arduous technical program and obtained the degree of Doctor of Science and Astronautics. Colonel Aldrin’s outstanding and dedicated efforts gave direction to the National Space Program and resulted in the development of vastly improved orbital rendezvous and lunar descent procedures. These efforts were instrumental in the accomplishment of the national objective of landing men on the moon and culminated in his being the second man to set foot on the lunar surface. His contributions to the space shuttle and space station programs have also played a significant role in formulating advanced mission planning for those important programs. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Aldrin culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.” Provenance: previously from Aldrin’s personal collection (see lot 40179, Heritage Auctions, 1 November 2013).