This fine art print, commissioned by the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, VA, features relic material from their airworthy PBY-5A Catalina, a historic aircraft that served a vital role during World War II. The specific aircraft, BuNo. 48294, originally flew with Patrol Squadron 92 (VP-92) in 1943, patrolling the vast waters of the Atlantic Theater. Based in locations such as Morocco and the Caribbean, this aircraft was primarily tasked with the critical mission of hunting German U-boats, which posed a serious threat to Allied shipping.PBY-5A Catalina control surface fabric - notice the 3 color shades (L-R): Sea Blue, Intermediate Blue, Insignia White

After its military service in the war, the PBY-5A Catalina continued its career with the U.S. Coast Guard, showcasing the versatility of this amphibious aircraft. Its duties took it from the icy coasts of Alaska to the far-reaching waters of South Africa, further demonstrating its global operational reach. The PBY-5A became synonymous with maritime patrol, search and rescue, and anti-submarine warfare, cementing its legacy as one of the most versatile and enduring aircraft of the 20th century.PBY-5A Catalina 48294 at the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, VA

In 2023, during routine maintenance, all of the control surface fabric was replaced. This fabric relic, now part of this unique print, serves as a physical link to the countless missions and adventures this PBY-5A Catalina has undertaken. From protecting convoys in the perilous waters of the Atlantic to serving humanitarian and search operations in the years that followed, this aircraft stands as a testament to its important contribution during WWII.

This print was commissioned by the Military Aviation Museum - Virginia Beach, VA with relic material supplied from their airworthy PBY-5A Catalina. Originally serving with VP-92 in 1943, PBY-5A BuNo. 48294 was based in the Atlantic Theater serving in Morocco & the Caribbean searching for German U-boats. She later served with the U.S. Coast Guard and later served from Alaska to South Africa. This fabric relic was removed in 2023 during maintenance.

Paper prints are also available - click here. 

Appreciate the Art - Learn their Story - Feel the History

This art piece is Trademarked Department of the Navy. Officially licensed by the U.S. Department of the Navy

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

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.

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

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.