Original Item: Only one Available. This is a genuine issue license plate topper from Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois, a now closed U.S. Air Force installation. Originally founded in 1917 during WWI, the field was first run by the U.S. Army Air Service. This would then become the U.S. Army Air Corps, and then the U.S. Army Air Forces. During WWII, the base was where the first all-black fighter squadron was activated, which would later become part of the Tuskegee Airmen. In 1947 the group was elevated to its own branch of the military, the U.S. Air Force. The Base remained in operation until 1993, when it was closed.

This topper was most likely made in the mid-late 20th century, and would have been attached above the license plate, most likely to note affiliation with the base. It most likely was not considered any type of definitive identification.

The topper measures approximately 12 1/2" x 4 1/4" and is of all aluminum construction. It features a painted U.S. Air Force "Hap" Arnold Insignia on the right side, and an airplane on the left. These flank the top line of text on the topper:

Offered in very good condition, with wear from use and age. There is still much of the original paint, with the rest flaked away. There is not any marring around the mounting slots, so it most likely was never mounted on a car. Ready to display!