On the night of 16 / 17 May 1943, in one of the most daring low-level missions of the war, the men of newly-formed 617 Squadron, under the command of Guy Gibson, attacked the great dams of the Ruhr. The story of their audacious raid gained the squadron immediate fame and thereafter they would be known simply as the ‘Dambusters’. But for the hundreds of airmen who followed in their footsteps, the destruction of the great dams was merely the beginning for this new squadron of low-flying, precision-bombing experts. Over the next two years their courageous exploits would earn the respect of the world This highly detailed and carefully researched painting by James Dietz, one of America’s foremost military and aviation artists, fittingly depicts this famous unit to represent all those who served with Bomber Command during World War II. The crews have just returned safely to RAF Scampton after a long, hazardous raid over enemy territory. Tired, weary and thankful to have made it back in one piece, they can at last stretch their legs and enjoy some welcome refreshments before heading off to de-brief and a much-needed rest. Adding great authenticity and in tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, the collection of signatures on this memorable piece not only includes veterans who served with 617 Squadron, but also pilots and aircrew who took part in the bitter conflicts in the skies over Europe, creating a unique and highly desirable collector’s piece. THE LIMITED EDITION Joining artist James Dietz in signing every print is a highly regarded veteran who served on Lancasters with the legendary 617 Squadron during WWII: Wg Cdr JOHN BELL MBE DFC – Bomb-Aimer with 619 & 617 Sqns THE 617 SQUADRON EDITION This historic FIVE signature edition is additionally autographed by a further four aircrew who served with 617 Squadron during WWII: Sqn Ldr GEORGE ‘JOHNNY’ JOHNSON MBE DFM – Bomb-Aimer with 97 & 617 Sqns. Took part in the Dambusters raid, scoring a direct hit on Sorpe Dam. Sqn Ldr LAWRENCE ‘BENNY’ GOODMAN – Pilot with 617 Sqn Flt Lt SYDNEY GRIMES – Wireless Operator with 106 & 617 Sqns Flt Sgt CHARLES AVEY – Mid-Upper Gunner with 617 Sqn THE BOMBER COMMAND EDITION In tribute to all those who served with RAF Bomber Command, each print in this TEN signature edition is additionally signed by a further five highly-regarded WWII veterans who served on Lancasters: Flt Lt RUSSELL ‘RUSTY’ WAUGHMAN DFC AFC Ld’H – Pilot with 101 (Special Duties) Sqn W.O. HAROLD KIRBY Ld’H – Flight Engineer with 467 & 97 (Pathfinder) Sqns Flt Sgt RON GARD – Rear Gunner with 463 Sqn W.O. TED KEY Ld’H – Flight Engineer with 514 Sqn W.O. RUPERT NOYE DFC – Rear Gunner with 166, 12 & 156 (Pathfinder) Sqns With COA Limited Edition Number 80/100 Approx. overall size: 86cms x 54cms Condition: Never been framed and stored in a acid free browser pocket. Highlands &
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