Description
Top scoring RAF Ace Johnnie Johnson, Commanding Officer of 127 Wing, leads the Mk.IX Spitfires of 421 Squadron RCAF out on patrol from the airfield at Evère near Brussels, close to the German front line. As the Canadians climb steadily out, the golden light of dawn reveals a snow-clad landscape firmly held in the icy grip of winter, December 1944.
Perhaps the greatest pilot to ever fly the Spitfire was the RAF’s top fighter Ace and Wing Leader “Johnnie” Johnson. His resolute determination and steadfast leadership came into its own during D-Day and the subsequent advance through Normandy, and he would finish the war as the highest scoring Allied Ace in Europe with 38 victories.
Robert Taylor’s Masterwork has been specially commissioned in tribute to Johnnie Johnson and to commemorate the heroic role played by the pilots who flew the Spitfire on D-Day and the great Allied push from Normandy.
THE SIGNATURES
In special agreement with the Military Gallery, Johnnie Johnson fully endorsed the content of this painting by adding his signature to the edition during his lifetime, on condition that prints would be released at a later date.
THE LIMITED EDITION
Every print has been personally autographed by artist Robert Taylor and by FIVE prominent Pilots that flew the Spitfire during D-Day and Normandy, including the RAF’s top fighter Ace “JOHNNIE” JOHNSON.
Lieutenant STANISLAW NAWARSKI DFC KM
Flight Sergeant RON FARNBOROUGH
Flight Lieutenant RODNEY SCRASE DFC RAFVR
Flight Lieutenant JIMMY TAYLOR
Air Vice Marshal JOHNNIE JOHNSON CB CBE DSO** DFC*
THE CANADIAN EDITION
In addition to the signatures on the Limited Edition, each print in this EIGHT signature edition is also signed by three top Canadian Spitfire Aces who flew with Johnnie Johnson in the Canadian Wing:
Wing Commander “STOCKY” EDWARDS DFC* DFM
Wing Commander JAMES LINDSAY DFC
Lieutenant General DON LAUBMAN
Fuzzy –
One of my favorite skies from Robert Taylor. A stunning winter scene.