STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

"Stacked Deck" 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 honors the "Huey" helicopter service during the Vietnam conflict.

The Story Behind the Print:

In October 1968, UH-1C helicopter no. 14183 from the 229th Aviation Battalion (Assault Helicopter) embarked on an assault operation from the Ba To Special Forces Camp in Vietnam. The UH-1C gunship, an upgraded and highly versatile variant of the UH-1, was specifically designed for close air support and armed assault missions. Known for its powerful array of weaponry, this model could be equipped with machine guns, grenade launchers, and high-explosive rockets, making it one of the most feared and effective aerial platforms in the conflict. The UH-1C's armament and versatility allowed it to provide essential cover for ground troops, support air assaults, and engage enemy targets with precision.

Although officially designated the "Iroquois," the helicopter’s original designation of HU-1 led to its enduring nickname, "Huey." The UH-1’s iconic design, with its distinctive rotor whine, became one of the most recognizable symbols of the Vietnam War. The helicopter’s role evolved from transport and medevac to combat assault, earning it a legendary reputation on the battlefield. Even after its official redesignation to UH-1, the nickname "Huey" stuck, becoming synonymous with the entire helicopter family.

The UH-1C variant, particularly suited for combat due to its reinforced frame and increased engine power, was an essential part of the U.S. Army’s air mobility strategy. It played a critical role in assault operations, like those from Ba To Camp, where its speed and firepower were instrumental in suppressing enemy forces and providing tactical air support for ground operations. The Huey’s legacy lives on, as it not only transformed the role of helicopters in warfare but also came to symbolize the intense air-ground coordination that characterized the Vietnam 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!

ABOUT THE RELIC

Originating from the UH-1C-BF "HUEY" 65-9497, this piece of fuselage bears witness to the aircraft's service in Vietnam. Post-service, the aircraft found its resting place at Fort Stewart Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, until its ultimate disposal as scrap, a frequent end for many military vehicles.Panel from UH-1C 65-9497 - Pieces are included with each "Stacked Deck" canvas

Backside of panel

Artist, Craig Tinder with "Stacked Deck" limited edition canvas

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.