THE STORIES BEHIND THE ARTWORK

Explore the aircraft, ships, vehicles, people and events behind Craig Tinder's historical artwork.

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Aces In Action Journal

Dottie G: The First B-17G to Reach Switzerland

Dottie G: The First B-17G to Reach Switzerland

25 February 1944 - the crew of Dottie G , a B-17G-10-DL Flying Fortress from the 92nd Bomb Group, 325th Squadron, faced a critical choice: push forward with a crippled aircraft across enemy territory—or divert toward uncertain internment in neutral Switzerland. Their decision would make history.…

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Silent Strike: Behind the B-2's Midnight Hammer Mission

Silent Strike: Behind the B-2's Midnight Hammer Mission

In the early hours of June 22 , 2025, over 125 U.S. military aircraft took part in a coordinated operation codenamed Midnight Hammer . The mission focused on three high-priority nuclear facilities in Iran—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. At the center of the strike were seven B-2 Spirit stealth bombers…

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Super Skater: The SR-71 Blackbird Breakaway

Super Skater: The SR-71 Blackbird Breakaway

Super Skater - Blackbird Breakaway By Craig Tinder | Aces In Action 17 June 1970 - Maj Buddy Brown and Maj Mort Jarvis were flying a test mission in SR-71A “Super Skater, ” tail number 61-7970 . Their goal was to evaluate newly updated electronic jammers across the Eglin Test Range over the Gulf of…

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Memphis Awaits the Belle: The Moment That United a Country

Memphis Awaits the Belle: The Moment That United a Country

Memphis Awaits the Belle: The Moment That United a Country By Craig Tinder | Aces In Action 19 June 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…

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Ira Kepford and Fighting 17: The Jolly Rogers in Combat

Ira Kepford and Fighting 17: The Jolly Rogers in Combat

A Hero’s Triumph: Ira “Ike” Kepford’s Legendary Mission on February 19, 1944 February 19, 1944, etched itself into the annals of aviation history with a mission that showcased the bravery, skill, and determination of Ira “Ike” Kepford, the highest scoring ace of Fighting Squadron 17 (VF-17). On…

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Through Danger Let Us Ride: The 2nd Bomb Group on 19 August 1943

Through Danger Let Us Ride: The 2nd Bomb Group on 19 August 1943

This fine art print by artist Craig Tinder captures the harrowing 19 August 1943 mission of the 2nd Bomb Group, where "Through Danger Let Us Ride" overcame incredible odds to complete a critical bombing run. This limited-edition canvas series features an authentic fragment from a B-17F flown by…

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The Return to Pearl Harbor: B-17Es After the Attack

The Return to Pearl Harbor: B-17Es After the Attack

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…

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Flying Tigers: The American Volunteer Group in China

Flying Tigers: The American Volunteer Group in China

Throughout aviation history, a singular name shines as a symbol of unwavering courage and determination: the Flying Tigers. These valiant aviators forged their legacy in an era of profound turmoil when the fires of World War II consumed the world. In this intricate exploration, we journey through…

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Spitfire MJ730 and Squadron Leader George F. Silvester

Spitfire MJ730 and Squadron Leader George F. Silvester

Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, the remarkable story of Squadron Leader George F. Silvester and his steadfast Spitfire MJ730 unfolds. Renowned for his valor and exceptional command, this account not only chronicles the excitement of aerial combat but also provides a poignant glimpse…

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