Moonlit Nemesis - PBY-5A Catalina Canvas | INCLUDES: Control Surface Fabric Piece

"Moonlit Nemesis" by Artist Craig Tinder

This Fine Art Print by Artist Craig Tinder pays tribute to the pilots and crews who flew the perilous bombing and sea rescue missions with the PBY Catalina.

The Story Behind the Print:

28 August 1942 - PBY Catalina, BuNo. 7295, from Patrol Squadron 92 (VP-92) embarked on a critical escort mission from Guantanamo Bay. Tasked with protecting an Allied convoy as it navigated the treacherous waters of the Windward Passage between Cuba and Haiti, the Catalina’s role was to guard against the lurking threat of German U-boats. Close to midnight, under the dim light of a hazy moon, the Catalina crew spotted German U-boat U-94, preparing to fire a torpedo at the convoy.

With the element of surprise on its side, the PBY Catalina acted swiftly. The U-94 crew detected the approaching aircraft and initiated a crash dive to evade the impending attack. However, the Catalina released four depth charges just in time, critically damaging the U-boat’s diving planes and leaving it vulnerable. The Canadian corvette, HMCS Oakville, quickly joined the fray, ramming the submarine to prevent its escape. After a brief and intense battle, the Oakville’s crew boarded the U-boat and completed the task of sinking U-94.

The engagement resulted in the loss of 19 German sailors, though many were captured by the Allied forces. The sinking of U-94 marked the end of a notorious submarine’s career. The U-boat had completed nine war patrols during its service, sinking 26 Allied ships and contributing to the deadly toll of the Battle of the Atlantic. This daring nighttime mission showcased the effectiveness of Allied cooperation between air and naval forces in combating the U-boat menace that threatened vital convoy operations throughout the war.

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!