Description

On the evening of 17th August 1943, a total of 596 aircraft of RAF Bomber Command, spearheaded by the Pathfinder Force, set out on what called for, and what became, the most precise bombing raid of the war. Success was vital. The target was a secluded research establishment near the remote Baltic town of Peenemunde. There, a group of top German scientists were developing the V-2 rocket projectile, with which Hitler hoped to devastate London and other major English cities. When Allied Intelligence discovered the plan, the RAF was allotted the task of destroying the installation at Peenemunde, whatever the cost. Brilliantly navigated in darkness right over the target, the master bombers aircraft, seen in the forefront of this painting, made nine dangerous passes over the target, directing operations. During the next 55 minutes Hitlers secret weapon establishment was almost totally destroyed by the bomber crews that followed his directions. The raid was completed with great gallantry but at heavy cost, and is today remembered as one of the greatest achievements of the RAF. The painting shows Lancasters of No. 83 Squadron Pathfinder Force as they climb out over the east coast of England en-route for Peenemunde on the warm summer evening of 17th August, 1943...SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION : This rare edition was originally signed when released by the artist Robert Taylor and the following, highly distinguished and decorated, RAF Bomber Command pilots; Flight Lieutenant Bill Reid VC , Wing Commander Rod Learoyd VC , Warrant Officer Norman Jackson VC , Group Captain Hamish Mahaddie DSO, DFC and Squadron Leader Norman Scrivener DSO, DFC... Since it's release in 1991 a further Eleven RAF Bomber Command Veterans, have also personally signed this edition, including ; F.O Tom Williamsom DFM , Flt Lt Frank LLoyd DFC , Flt Lt Ted Stocker DSO , DFC , Larry Curtis DFC , W.O Roy Last DFC , Flt Lt Ron Jeffries , MRAF Sir Michael Beetham , Flt Lt Roy Pengilley DFC , Flt Lt George Hall DFC , Flt Lt Bill Heane DFC and Flt Lt Eric Gray-Ward...This is simply an unbelievable piece of Multi signed art , a remarque so large and beautifully detailed it covers the whole width of the bottom of the print...Comes with a signed COA from Robert Taylors Studio...priced @ £2795.00.