The included factory letter confirms the serial number, caliber, configuration, finish, grips, and January 31, 2003 date of shipment to Beale Rod and Gun Club Building 250, Beale Air Force Base, California as one of 11 guns. The right side of the slide is engraved "AFGHANISTAN" and "ENDURING FREEDOM" is on the left the lettering is in a Park Avenue style font, and both sides are engraved with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The letter states the lettering was executed by Colt factory Master Engraver Steve Kamyk. The special features listed are: Eliason adjustable rear sight, serrated front strap, upswept grip safety, and Chip McCormick full beveled magazine well. The included documents state these 11 pistols were produced for the U2 spy plane pilots of the 9th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron stationed at Beale Air Force Base, and this is reflected in the unique serial number "9ERS16U2" which notes the squadron, plane number, and type of plane.

Excellent overall. 99% original blue finish remains with some light handling marks, a trace of spotting in the left serrations, and sharp checkering on the grips. Mechanically excellent.