STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

"High Tailed Lady" 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 illustrates the 24 December 1944 mission of the B-17G Flying Fortress "High Tailed Lady" of the 487th Bombardment Group on her way to the target of the Luftwaffe airfield in Babenhausen, Germany. 

The Story Behind the Print:

On 24 December 1944, during the final days of the Battle of the Bulge, B-17G Flying Fortresses of the 487th Bombardment Group took to the skies as part of Mission No. 760, targeting strategic sites in Babenhausen, Germany. This mission was vital in disrupting German supply lines and diminishing their capacity to continue the fierce counteroffensive. Leading the 8th Air Force, the Flying Fortresses were met with heavy resistance from the Luftwaffe, specifically Focke-Wulf Fw 190 A-8s of IV.(Sturm)/JG 3, a renowned German fighter squadron known for their aggressive aerial tactics against Allied bombers.

Near Liège, Belgium, the Luftwaffe launched a coordinated attack on the B-17 formations, leading to one of the most intense aerial engagements of the mission. The IV.(Sturm)/JG 3 pilots, trained in specialized bomber interception, aimed to inflict as much damage as possible, claiming 10 B-17 Flying Fortresses that day. Despite this aggressive assault, many B-17s fought bravely to complete their mission, including High Tailed Lady (serial 43-38028), which managed to evade destruction and continue flying.

High Tailed Lady, with its durable construction and the determination of its crew, survived the perilous attack and went on to complete its bombing run successfully. This aircraft, like many others, played a crucial role in maintaining the offensive pressure on Germany during this critical period. Though the Luftwaffe made significant claims, the resilience of the 8th Air Force allowed them to continue their relentless campaign in the final stages of World War II. High Tailed Lady's survival stands as a testament to the strength of the B-17G and the bravery of the aircrews who flew these dangerous missions.

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 B-17G Flying Fortress wing skin originated from B-17G-95-DL 44-83872 (BuNo. 77235), known as "Texas Raiders" during a significant wing spar restoration in 2001. This particular artifact originated from the outer wing segment of the port wing. The artist was a Loadmaster and restorer of this aircraft and personally acquired this material during these restoration efforts. B-17G-95-DL 44-83872 aluminum panels removed during restoration process

B-17 Flying Fortress fragment mounted for "High Tailed Lady" artwork

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.