STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

"The Scrappers - VBF-80" 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 depicts Goodyear FG-1D Corsair No. 92095 in anticipation of "Operation Downfall" - the proposed Allied invasion of Japan that never materialized.

The Story Behind the Print:

This artwork captures FG-1D Corsair, No. 92095, soaring high above the USS Boxer, an Essex-class aircraft carrier, during training exercises in preparation for "Operation Downfall"—the planned Allied invasion of Japan that never took place due to Japan’s surrender. As part of the United States Navy's fleet, this specific Corsair model was integral to the training of pilots in the final stages of World War II, as Allied forces anticipated the possibility of large-scale amphibious assaults on Japan.

Dubbed "Whistling Death" by its enemies due to the high-pitched sound it produced during dives, the FG-1D Corsair was the Fighter-Bomber variant of the renowned F4U Corsair. Designed for carrier-based operations, the FG-1D's role extended far beyond World War II. Its robust construction and impressive speed made it the Navy and Marine Corps' primary close air support aircraft during the Korean War, where it proved to be just as effective in ground attack missions. As depicted in the artwork, the Corsair’s distinctive "gull wing" design is on full display, a feature that contributed to its iconic silhouette and its ability to excel in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat scenarios.

The artwork commemorates the training and readiness of Allied forces during a tense period of uncertainty, where Operation Downfall loomed on the horizon, although it ultimately never came to fruition.

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 aluminum wing spar fragment, once a vital part of the starboard wing of Goodyear-built FG-1D Corsair No. 92095, was removed during restoration in 2022. The wing spar—located at the famous "gull" wing curve—was provided to Aces In Action to complete a commissioned art piece that honors the aircraft’s distinguished historical journey.

Artist, Craig Tinder, holding the fragment of a Corsair's aluminum wing skin that is included in "The Scrappers" limited edition prints

The Scrappers VBF-80 - FG-1D Corsair Aviation Art-Art Print-Aces In Action: The Workshop of Artist Craig TinderRelic included with each Scrapper's Corsair canvas art print

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.