Press Release - Enemy Coast Ahead & Night of Heroes ñ The Dambusters

PRESS RELEASE

Enemy Coast Ahead ñ The Dambusters

by Philip E. West

Lancasters of 617 Squadron, led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson begin their low level cross channel dash towards the enemy coast on the way to the heart of the Ruhr.

The aircraft were arranged in three waves. The first wave comprised three groups of three aircraft at 10-minute intervals and headed towards the Mohne, Sorpe and Eder dams. The second wave of five Lancasters headed direct to the Sorpe whilst the third wave of five, would act as backup. Eight Lancasters failed to return from the raids, a high cost indeed, but the courage and determination displayed by the crews were in the best tradition of the RAF.

Night of Heroes ñ The Dambusters

by Philip E. West

17th May 1943. Lancaster‘s from 617 Squadron deliver a surprise attack on the Ruhr dams with specially designed, unique bouncing bombs invented by Barns Wallis. Wing Commander Guy Gibson is shown drawing defensive fire away from

Flt Lt Maltby’s aircraft as it passes over the Mohne, just as his mine explodes

and breaches the dam.

Both Primary Editions are signed and numbered by the artist.

*The Artist Proofs and Remarques are also signed by former Dambusters: Flying Officer Raymond E. Grayston (Flight Engineer of AJ-N, Les Knights Lancaster.) and Squadron Leader George L. Johnson DFM (Bomb Aimer on AJ-T, American Joe McCarthyís Lancaster.