Medals, Pins, and Awards

Materials include three different maps representing the three phases of Kern's final mission in World War II. One second map, second phase, there are markings of where Kern crashed his plane. These maps show the progression of discovery of military installations as well as the mission objectives.

Miscellaneous items that Kern had throughout his time in the military include a 1945 certificate of membership from The American National Red Cross; correspondence from Ann Blyth which consists of an autographed picture addressed to Elmer with newspaper clipping of some of her catalogue shoots; notice of change of address, war department official business Feb 4, 1945; deposit receipt from Elmer Jr postmarked April 9, 1945; The Alpha Tau Bugle March-April 1945; auto license for his Studebaker; and an invitation to "The Officers of Class 44.15 of the 2560th B.U A.A.F.L.T.D. at the Eagles Hall' dance August 7, 1944.

Also included are the awards and medals that Kern was awarded during his time in the military which include American Campaign Medal, US Army Air Force Liaison Pilot Wings,Europe-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, U.S. Army Letters Branch insignia, Army Field Artillery Branch insignia amongst other pins as well as a Purple Heart cerficate and a honorary certificate signed by President Roosevelt. His pilot flight record is also included.