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From the studio of world renowned artist John Shaw, atribute to the American Mustang Pilots of WWII
GUNFIGHTERS OF THE EIGHTH
by John D. Shaw
THE COLLECTORS EDITIONWhile escorting a formation of B-17s back from their target in Germany, 2nd Lt Clinton Burdick and P-51D Mustangs of the 356th Fighter Group intercept an attacking Schwarm of Fw190s south of Dümmer, 14 January 1945. During the savage dogfight the Luftwaffe Fighters are completely overwhelmed, and Burdick claims two Fw190’s in quick succession, putting him on the verge of Ace status.
With the festivities of Christmas now past, the New Year of 1945 dawned to one of the coldest winters for many years. The relentless pounding of German industry by US and RAF bombers continued unabated and Allied Infantry, Airborne and Armored Divisions advanced towards Berlin from the Netherlands and Belgium. Hitler’s once indomitable armies were in retreat.
But still Germany was not defeated. On the ground its forces fought with relentless aggression during the Battle of the Bulge, and in the air the expert Pilots of the once fabled Luftwaffe responded with renewed intensity, in a desperate attempt to turn the tide as the Allies grew ever closer to the Reich. The Pilots of the USAAF faced a daunting challenge against these battle-hardened “Luftwaffe Experten”, and some of the most brutal encounters took place during these last few months of the war in Europe.
This powerful painting by John Shaw recalls a furious encounter on 14 January 1945. While escorting a formation of B-17s over Germany, P-51D Mustangs of the 356th Fighter Group dive into a Schwarm of marauding Fw190s, completely overwhelming the Luftwaffe Fighters. In the thick of the action is 2nd Lt Clinton Burdick, who claims the first of two Fw190s during the encounter as his .50 caliber machine guns destroy the German Fighter’s hydraulics.
One of only five aerial Aces in the 356th, it was perhaps natural that Burdick would join the Air Force on his 18th birthday as his father was also a Fighter Ace during the First World War. They made history as the only known pair of American father-son flying Aces.
The prints were signed by these iconic Pilots during their lifetimes many years ago, and this exclusive edition has been released in the 80th Anniversary year of this historic period, as a lasting tribute to the brave Pilots who fought in Europe during the intense final stages of the War.
THE SIGNATURES
Joining artist John Shaw this Collectors Edition print is signed by Seven P-51 Mustang Aces who fought throughout the War in Europe, giving collectors the opportunity to acquire a stunning release, personally endorsed by the men who fought these epic battles:
Captain CLINTON BURDICK – 356th Fighter Group / 5 ½ victories
Lieutenant Colonel ROBERT KARR – 52nd Fighter Group / 6 victories
Lieutenant Colonel CLYDE EAST – 10th Photo Recon Group / 14 victories
Captain JIM BROOKS – 31st Fighter Group / 13 victories
Colonel STEVE PISANOS – 4th Fighter Group / 10 victories
Major BILL ALLEN – 55th Fighter Group / 5 victories
Lieutenant Colonel BOB GOEBEL – 31st Fighter Group / 11 victories
This powerful limited edition is oneof only 160 copies that were produced worldwide and is a great opportunity to acquire a historic collectors item while it's still available.
ALSO AVAILABLE FRAMED & SHIPPED:Please ask for details about ourframing service
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BUY WITH CONFIDENCE:We have been in business for over 30 years and our items are guaranteed to bein perfect condition, unless specified otherwise.
Please note: The signatures onour pieces are not reproductions; they are original autographs, hand-signed bythe veterans involved.
