Aces In Action Journal

Memphis Awaits the Belle: The Moment That United a Country

On June 19, 1943, the Memphis Belle lifted off from Washington, D.C.—not headed into combat this time, but toward something entirely different: home. After completing 25 dangerous bombing missions over Europe with her crew intact, the Belle had earned her place in history. Now, she was beginning a new mission: a War Bond Tour across the U.S., aimed at boosting morale and raising funds.

The Legendary King Tiger Tank, The Story Behind "Panzer Ace"

November 1944 - Kurt Knispel, commanding a King Tiger Tank (Black 334) of the 503rd Heavy Panzer Battalion, entered Budapest, Hungary, as part of Germany’s desperate effort to hold the city against the encircling Red Army. Armed with the powerful 88mm cannon, the King Tiger was crucial in countering Soviet forces aiming to seize control of the Danube River. Knispel, credited with nearly 200 tank kills, was renowned for his tactical brilliance and long-range precision. Despite his unmatched achievements, his independent nature and rejection of political ideology kept him from receiving Germany’s highest military honor. Though the battle ended in retreat, Knispel’s skill and courage left a lasting mark in armored warfare.

Ira Kepford and the Story of the Jolly Rogers - "Fighting 17"

On February 19, 1944, Ira "Ike" Kepford of VF-17 downed a Japanese Rufe fighter near Cape Siar, marking the start of a harrowing solo battle against 20 enemy Zekes that tested his skill and resolve. Despite overwhelming odds, Kepford returned victorious, adding three kills to his tally and cementing his place as one of the Pacific's most daring aces.

TADLUR and the Story behind "Through Danger Let Us Ride"

19 August 1943 - B-17F 41-29595 TADLUR (Through Danger Let Us Ride), piloted by Lt. A.L. Nelson with Bombardier Lt. Thomas F. Morris, flew with the 20th Bomb Squadron, 2nd Bomb Group, on Mission 57 to Foggia, Italy. The crew carried out a precise and highly effective bombing run on the transformer station and marshalling yards, a critical target for disrupting enemy logistics. On the return flight, the 20th Bomb Squadron, endured a ferocious attack from Luftwaffe fighters, with TADLUR shooting down two aircraft and likely destroying a third. Despite sustaining damage and heavy losses within the formation, TADLUR successfully navigated the onslaught and returned safely to base.

The Return to Pearl Harbor

This fine art print by artist Craig Tinder depicts a flight of three B-17E Flying Fortresses rounding the landing pattern to deliver much needed supplies and equipment - one of the first landings after the attack on Pearl Harbor. This limited edition canvas series includes an actual fragment of B-17E 41-2443.

From Veteran to Buckeye One to Beach City Baby

This fine art print by artist Craig Tinder depicts C-53-DO Skytrooper 41-20095 soaring past the Great Pyramids of Egypt during her service in North Africa. This Limited Edition canvas series includes an original relic from the aircraft supplied by Vintage Wings, Inc.

The Sinking of a Super Battleship, the story behind "The Attack on Yamato"

This fine art print by artist Craig Tinder captures the pivotal moment during the attack on Yamato, in which SB2C Helldivers of VB-83, from the USS Essex, participated in the sinking of one of the world's largest Super Battleships. What makes this piece truly special is the inclusion of the iconic red outboard divebrake from Helldiver BuNo. 83393. This art piece was created in partnership with Fagen Fighters of Granite Falls, Minnesota, who supplied the Helldiver divebrake from aircraft 83393. Not only has this aircraft been restored back to flying condition, but she is also painted in the livery of VB-83.

Blue Angels Aircraft Evolution: A Historical Showcase

The history of the Blue Angels is a remarkable journey through the evolution of naval aviation. From the rugged F6F Hellcat to the cutting-edge F/A-18 Hornet, each aircraft that has served the Blue Angels tells a unique story of progress and excellence. This detailed look at the different aircraft models used by the Blue Angels over the years showcases their incredible journey through time.

Propeller of History, the story behind "The CO's Query"

This fine art print by artist Craig Tinder captures the iconic Spitfire Mk IXe MJ730 in action during WWII. What makes this piece truly special is the inclusion of an authentic fragment from the Spitfire's original wooden propeller, carefully mounted directly onto the canvas. This art piece was created in partnership with the Military Aviation Museum, Virginia Beach, VA where Spitfire MJ730 is restored in flying condition.

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