Aces In Action Journal

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.

World War II's Transformative Influence on Civil Aviation

World War 2, a pivotal event that reshaped nations and cultures, left an unforgettable mark on the airline industry. This global conflict ignited a surge of technological innovations in aviation, profoundly transforming its role in both civilian and military spheres. Below, we’ll explore the sweeping changes driven by the war, examining how they elevated the airline industry from its developing stages to becoming a crucial element of global transportation.

Aerial Domination: American WWII Fighter Aircraft Analysis

The narrative of World War 2 is profoundly intertwined with the courage and strategic brilliance of fighter pilots alongside the formidable aircraft they commanded. As Axis and Allied forces contended over varied landscapes, the skies became decisive arenas of conflict. In these elevated zones of battle, both the capabilities of aircraft technology and the adeptness of pilots were intensely tested in the throes of war. The United States contributed significantly to aerial warfare, producing a series of iconic fighters that played crucial roles in the European and Pacific Theaters. This analysis delves into these renowned American aircraft to determine which achieved the most enemy kills, illuminating the technological progress of the era and the fierce aerial combats that marked this period.

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