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

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 bombardier Lt. Thomas F. Morris, tying both the artwork and relic to his remarkable service.

The Story Behind the Print:

Photo of "Through Danger Let Us Ride" with artist

As the formation turned for home, the 20th Bomb Squadron, flying as "Tail-End Charlie", bore the brunt of a ferocious attack by Luftwaffe fighters from JG 51 and JG 53. TADLUR came under heavy fire but shot down two enemy aircraft and likely destroying a third. The battle was costly, with five B-17s lost on the mission—the third-highest single mission loss of the year—including two from the 20th Bomb Squadron.

Amid the chaos, TADLUR managed to withstand the onslaught and return to base, its mission successfully completed despite the damage sustained.  

About the RELIC:

This relic originates from the engine exhaust manifold from B-17F-50-BO Serial #42-5427, from the 20th Bomb Squadron, 2nd Bomb Group. On 19 December 1943, 42-5427 was caught in a prolonged and intense 37-minute battle with Luftwaffe fighters, including Bf 109s, Me 110s, Me 210s, Me 410s, and Fw 190s. The bomber, engaged by seven enemy aircraft, sustained severe damage, with its right-wing engulfed in flames.

Engine Exhaust Manifold from B-17F Serial #42-5427

Despite the crew’s efforts to maintain altitude with the formation, 42-5427 ultimately went down in the rugged Tyrolean Mountains east of Innsbruck. Eight of the ten crew members managed to parachute to safety but were captured upon landing and spent the remainder of the war in POW camps.

Up close detail of B-17F Engine Exhaust Manifold Fragment

Lt. Thomas F. Morris, the bombardier also featured in Mission 57’s "Through Danger Let Us Ride," was assigned to 42-5427 during an earlier mission on 14 October 1943.

This manifold fragment was originally recovered from the Austrian crash site and later entrusted to the grandson of Lt. Thomas F. Morris. It was shared with the artist to honor the crewmembers of the 20th Bomb Squadron in rememberance of their honor during WWII. This relic stands as a respectful tribute, preserving the memory of their service and sacrifice for future generations.

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Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors