The Return to Pearl - B-17E Flying Fortress Canvas | INCLUDES: Skin Fragment

"Return to Pearl" by Artist Craig Tinder

This fine art print by artist Craig Tinder depicts a flight of three B-17E Flying Fortresses rounding the landing pattern to deliver much needed supplies and equipment - one of the first landings after the attack on Pearl Harbor. This limited edition canvas series includes an actual fragment of B-17E 41-2443. 

The Story Behind the Print

18 December 1941 - B-17E 41-2443 was part of a formation of B-17 Flying Fortresses rounding Ka'ena Point, Oahu, on approach to land at Hickam Field, delivering much-needed reinforcements to the recently devastated Pearl Harbor. This mission marked one of the first steps in a significant U.S. military buildup in the Pacific, aiming to restore and fortify American defenses after the Japanese attack just days earlier. Assigned to the 11th Bombardment Group, 42nd Squadron, B-17E 41-2443 had no known nickname or nose art, but it became notable for its role in anti-submarine operations, a critical priority given the threat of Japanese forces in the area.

In the months that followed, this aircraft continued to serve the Pacific Theater, flying patrols to intercept and deter Japanese submarines. On the night of 5 April 1942, B-17E 41-2443, piloted by 1st Lt. Ward Cox, Jr., departed from Hickam Field on a night patrol to locate a Japanese submarine believed to be refueling flying boats responsible for a recent bombing raid on Mt. Tantalus. Tragically, the aircraft never completed its mission; returning from patrol with bombs still on board, it crashed into the cliffs of Mount Keahiakahoe near Nu'uanu Pali on Oahu.

Built in close succession to B-17E 41-2443 was another significant aircraft, "Swamp Ghost," serial number 41-2446, constructed just three aircraft later. Like 41-2443, Swamp Ghost was part of the early B-17E production series, destined for the Pacific Theater to support the Allied response to escalating threats. Swamp Ghost’s story became legendary after it crash-landed in an isolated swamp in Papua New Guinea in 1942, where it remained undisturbed for decades, symbolizing the endurance of these early Flying Fortresses. Today, Swamp Ghost is celebrated as one of the most famous B-17 relics and is preserved as she was found and is now on display at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in Hawaii for visitors to view.

This painting captures the historic approach of B-17E 41-2443 and its squadron mates as they rounded Ka'ena Point, a symbol of resilience and determination at a time when American forces rallied to secure the Pacific Theater. The aircraft and its crew became part of the enduring legacy of those early efforts to safeguard Hawaii and prevent further attacks on American soil.

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!