Description

A unique piece depicting one of the most remarkable missions during the naval air war in the Pacific. MISSION BEYOND DARKNESS by Robert Taylor Following the attack against Admiral Ozawa’s Japanese carrier fleet on June 20, 1944 - during the Battle of the Philippine Sea -it became clear that due to the lengthy mission most of the aircraft returning to their carriers were running dangerously low on fuel, and to worsen matters, night had fallen. Knowing his aviators would have difficulty finding their carriers, Admiral Mitscher defied all rules of naval engagement: In total darkness, with the ever-present danger of enemy submarines and night flying aircraft, he ordered every ship in his Task Force 58 to switch on lights and shine searchlights directly up into the night to guide the returning carrier-borne aircraft. Despite being given clearance to land on any available flight deck, 80 of the returning aircraft were lost, the majority ditching into the sea. Approximately three-quarters of the crews were rescued. In this unique painting Pilot Ralph Yaussi and his Gunner James Curry, out of fuel and unable to get a landing slot aboard the USS Lexington, have been forced to ditch and scramble from their SB2B Curtiss Helldiver, as a Fletcher class destroyer maneuvers to make the pickup. THE SIGNATURES The print is individually numbered and personally signed by the artist and four aircrew who were personally involved in the ‘Mission Beyond Darkness’, creating a historically important edition. Captain DONALD GORDON USN – 6 victories Air Gunner JAMES CURRY USNR - Gunner to Ralph Yaussi, ditched on the mission Lieutenant RALPH YAUSSI USNR - Helldiver Pilot who ditched on the mission Commander ALEX VRACIU USN – 19 victories This stunning print is the perfect centerpiece for any aviation art collection. ALSO AVAILABLE FRAMED & SHIPPED - Please ask for details We will always do our best to combine shipping on multiple purchases whenever possible – please ask. BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: We have been in business for over 25 years and our items are guaranteed to be in perfect condition, unless specified otherwise. SHIPPING: Larger prints are rolled in acid free tissue and shipped in large, heavy duty shipping tubes with smaller prints 'flat packed' in custom made packaging. Matted & framed pieces are packed in our custom made boxes. Our shipping is insured and guaranteed. YOUR PIECE OF MIND: As a reputable company, if any issues do arise we don't expect our customers to deal with it. So if there are any problems such as with condition, delivery or damages then we will take care of it with a replacement, store credit or your money back. Please note: The signatures on our pieces are not reproductions; they are original autographs, hand-signed by the veterans involved.