"Old Bold Pilots"

In the skies of Europe from 1941 to 1945, pilots and aircrew from the United States Army Air Force and the German Luftwaffe met in aerial combat. The USAAF flew long-range missions from England, North Africa, and Italy into the heart of Germany to attack the German war machine, and were met with heavy resistance from the Luftwaffe. The B-17 Flying Fortress (specifications) and B-24 Liberator flew these long bombing missions, while the B-25 Mitchell and B-26 Marauder flew mid-range bombing missions.

An important element to the success of any bombing mission was fighter escort, better known as “The Little Friends”. The P-47 Thunderbolt (specifications), P-38 Lightning (specifications), and P-51 Mustang (specifications) escorted and defended the bombers. The Luftwaffe countered with the Bf109 (specifications), and later, the fast and revolutionary Me262 jet fighter. This led to fierce dogfights, and after the bombers were on their way home, the fighters looked for targets of opportunity.

Years later, a group of P-47 veteran pilots began meeting for breakfast once a week in Southern California to share stories and ”The Old Bold Pilots” was formed. The group has grown to include pilots and crew from WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and modern jet fighter pilots. The Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corp, and civilian pilots are all represented, and many times Flying Tigers, Royal Air Force pilots, Canadian pilots, aviation artists and enthusiasts attend as well as special guests from everywhere - including Russia and Germany. It is amazing to watch pilots who were once enemies, become good friends who care about each other, “tease” each other, and share their stories and love of aviation. Nine “Old Bold Pilots”, who represent a group of wonderful men and women, signed these special, limited edition, giclee prints.

Original Paintings 8.5" x 11" - Acrylic on masonite