STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

"America's First Jet Ace" by Artist Craig Tinder

Now available in two exclusive formats: a 30"x20" Hardwood Framed Canvas Edition - Limited to Only 20 and an 18"x12" Canvas (Framed or Unframed) - Limited to Only 30. Each art piece includes an AUTHENTIC RELIC, Certificate of Authenticity, and is hand-signed by the Artist. Quantities are extremely limited—Once They're Sold Out, They're Gone!

This Fine Art Print by Artist Craig Tinder commemorates Triple Ace James "Jabby" Jabara during the Korean War where he earned the distinction of America's First Jet Ace.

The Story Behind the Print:

James "Jabby" Jabara’s remarkable career in the U.S. Air Force is defined by his groundbreaking achievements and exceptional skill as a fighter pilot. Born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Jabara quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest colonel in the Air Force. His journey began during World War II, where he flew over 100 combat missions, showcasing his natural aptitude for aerial combat. However, it was in the skies over Korea where Jabara would truly make history.

During the Korean War, Jabara flew a total of 163 combat missions, engaging in high-speed dogfights with Soviet-built MiG-15s. On multiple occasions, he downed two enemy aircraft in a single day, a feat he accomplished no less than three times during the conflict. His remarkable performance in jet combat culminated on May 20, 1951, when Jabara became the first ace in jet-to-jet combat, a distinction that set him apart as a pioneer in the era of modern aerial warfare. His mastery of the F-86 Sabre jet and his fearless tactics made him a legend in the Air Force.

Jabara continued his streak of success throughout the Korean War, eventually scoring 15 confirmed kills by July 15, 1953. This achievement earned him the coveted title of "Triple Ace," a rare honor reserved for pilots with at least 15 aerial victories. His final mission in Korea marked the end of an illustrious chapter in his career, but his legacy as one of the greatest American fighter pilots of all time was already firmly established.

Visit the Journal to read the full story!

Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors

This item is handmade by artist, Craig Tinder. Available to ship worldwide!

ABOUT THE RELIC

This authentic F-86A Sabre fighter relic is from an aluminum access panel from the underside of the wing for access to the drop tank system. The panel included the markings "DROP TANK FUEL & PRESSURE DRAINS" from part number 172 14711 61.

F-86A Sabre aluminum access panel

F-86A Sabre fuel tank part number 172 14711 61

MATERIAL & DISPLAY

PREMIUM ALUMINUM

Our newest presentation format delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail on a smooth gloss surface. The result has a luminous quality and clarity that is difficult to fully capture in photographs. Framed aluminum editions are finished in a solid black frame for a clean, contemporary presentation.

TRADITIONAL CANVAS

The original Aces In Action presentation features gallery-wrapped canvas, with framed editions presented in our traditional black floater frame. Canvas offers a classic, textured fine-art presentation and remains available on select Relic Artwork editions while inventory lasts.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; available framed or unframed
  • 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed
  • 36" × 12" (91.4 × 30.5 cm) — Panoramic Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed on select artwork

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready to hang. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.

THE RELIC ARTWORK EXPERIENCE

Authentic History

Each edition incorporates an authentic historical relic, presented on a custom laser-engraved Artifact Dock with details connecting the artifact to its history.

Handmade by Craig Tinder

Every Relic Artwork edition is assembled in Craig's studio, where it is signed, numbered, crafted, inspected, and prepared for its collector.

Made for Collectors

From the Certificate of Authenticity to the finished presentation, each detail is designed to create a collectible that preserves a tangible connection to history.