HELLER, Joseph (1923-1999). Photograph signed (''Lt. Heller'') and inscribed on verso, [West Palm Beach / East Hampton, c.1990.]

HELLER, Joseph (1923-1999). Photograph signed ("Lt. Heller") and inscribed on verso, [West Palm Beach / East Hampton, c.1990.]

194 x 243mm. Matted and framed.

Joseph Heller's own photograph of himself and his fellow WWII airmen at the Italian front, inscribed by Heller on the verso identifying all five men: "S. Sgt. Schroeder R.D. Gunner 67 Missions / Lt. Moon (K.I.A.) / Lt. Duncan Pilot / Lt. Heller (Author of Catch 22) Bombadier / Sgt. Hughey E.M.T." An extremely evocative photograph capturing the men and situation which inspired Catch-22, one of the greatest satires of the 20th century. Second from left is Earl C. Moon who, as Heller noted, was killed in action. Moon was the copilot on Heller's journey overseas, and he died on August 14, 1944 in the same mission to Pointe des Issambres during which Heller himself was injured while serving as bombardier. This photograph formerly hung in Heller's personal study. See Dougherty, Just One Catch: A Biography of Joseph Heller, p. 88. Provenance: Joseph Heller – by descent to the consignor.