STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

 "USS Langley CVL-27" 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 the early morning launch of U.S. fighters from the USS Langley CVL-27 in preparation for one of the largest and most decisive naval battles of WWII - the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

The Story Behind the Print:

25 October 1944 - The USS Langley (CVL-27), an Independence-class light aircraft carrier, played a pivotal role in one of the most decisive naval engagements of World War II: the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Tasked with launching aircraft to intercept the Japanese fleet, the Langley sent F6F Hellcats from Fighter Squadron VF-44 and TBM Avengers from Torpedo Squadron VT-44 into battle. This operation was part of Task Force 38, commanded by Vice Admiral Marc A. Mitscher, which was focused on halting the Japanese Mobile Force as it attempted to defend the Philippines and counter the Allied landings at Leyte.

The Langley's aircraft were instrumental in the destruction of two key Japanese aircraft carriers, Zuikaku and ZuihōZuikaku held special significance, as it was the last surviving carrier that had participated in the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The sinking of Zuikaku marked the symbolic end of Japan’s carrier-based strike force, which had been a central element of Japanese naval power throughout the Pacific War. Alongside other U.S. carriers in Task Force 38, the Langley's contribution to the battle severely diminished Japan’s naval air power, with four Japanese carriers being sunk during the battle, along with numerous other ships.

The destruction of these carriers was not just a tactical victory but a strategic one. By crippling Japan’s ability to field effective air cover and launch counterattacks, the Battle of Leyte Gulf opened the path for the U.S. and Allied forces to complete their invasion of the Philippines. This marked a major turning point in the Pacific War, leading to Japan's steady retreat from its occupied territories and solidifying Allied dominance in the region.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf is often remembered as the largest naval battle in history, involving hundreds of ships and aircraft on both sides. For the USS Langley, this engagement underscored its vital role in carrier operations, and the air strikes launched from its deck contributed directly to the decisive blow that hastened the downfall of Japan's naval forces.

Visit the Journal to read the full story!

Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors

This art piece is an officially licensed product of the U.S. Department of the Navy and is handmade by artist, Craig Tinder.

Available to ship worldwide!

ABOUT THE RELIC

This Fine Art Print by Artist Craig Tinder captures the early morning launch of U.S. fighters from the USS Langley (CVL-27) as they prepared for the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest and most decisive naval battles of World War II. The Langley was an escort carrier that flew Grumman F6F Hellcats and TBM Avengers, playing a pivotal role in providing air cover and supporting the Allied forces during the critical engagements.USS Langley wood fragment with Certification

This Limited Edition Canvas Print is made even more special by including an actual fragment of teak deck from the USS Langley CVL-27. Considered one of the last remaining original relics from the ship, this fragment adds a tangible piece of history to the artwork, linking it directly to the vessel’s significant role in the Pacific Theater.Artist, Craig Tinder, with "USS Langley CVL-27" limited edition prints

Fragment of USS Langley CVL-27 included with each 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.