This incredibly sought-after piece masterfully depicts Lt. j.g. George Bush flying as part of a formation of TBM Avengers from Torpedo Squadron 51 (VT-51) flying a low-holding pattern in preparation for landing aboard the USS San Jacinto in August 1944.

On June 9 1943, three days before his 19th birthday, George H.W. Bush was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Naval Reserve to make him one of the youngest aviators in US Naval history. The man who would later become the 41st President of the United States logged more than 1,220 flying hours, made 126 deck landings, flew 58 combat missions and was awarded three Air Medals.

One of those missions was almost his last, on September 2 1944, during an attack on Japanese radio installations at Chichi-Jima in the Bonin Islands, his aircraft was hit by intense ground fire. In spite of the flames and dense smoke filling the cockpit, Bush pressed home the attack before guiding his stricken aircraft out over the sea and baling out. Although both his fellow crew members sadly perished, Bush survived in a dinghy and was rescued by the USS Finback, a submarine. For his heroism during the raid he was awarded the Navy's Distinguished Flying Cross.

This limited edition print was personally signed by George H. W. Bush and surviving members of his air group including: Leo Nadeau, Nat Adams, R.A. Alexander, Jack Guy, William Hile, I.R. Hole, Sam Jackson and Joseph Martelle.

Note: Piece measures 40.5 inches x 31.5 inches. Lot available for pick up after The Gathering 2021. Shipping at winning bidder's expense.