A stunning and historical tribute, by artist Philip West, to probably the most famous RAF Squadron in history, 617 "Dambusters". Mostly famous for the Dams raid in May 1943, other notable missions flying their Avro Lancaster bombers included precision raids on the mighty German battleship Tirpitz, U-boat pens, railways, V-weapons sites, canals and bridges. Through their skill and bravery, 617 Squadron crews received countless awards & honours. Their flight crews also included three recipients of the Victoria Cross; Wing Commander Guy Gibson, Group Captain Leonard Cheshire and Flight Lieutenant Bill Reid. 50 Artist Proof Editions. All are signed and numbered by the artist along with the following RAF "617 Squadron" aircrew veterans and an iconic Wartime celebrity: Dame Vera Lynn Group Captain James Brian Tait DSO***, DFC* (Pilot – 617 Sqn) Squadron Leader Tony Iveson DFC, AE, CRAeS (Battle of Britain & 617 Sqn Pilot) Warrant Officer Colin Cole (Wireless Operator 617 Sqn) Squadron Leader Edward A Wass (Air Gunner – 617 Sqn) Flight Lieutenant Freddie Watts DFC (Pilot – 617 Sqn) Flight Lieutenant Arthur Poore DFC (Pilot – 617 Sqn) Flying Officer Basil Fish (Navigator – 617 Sqn) Flight Lieutenant Murray R. Valentine (Wireless Operator) Squadron Leader Lawrence “Benny” Goodman (Pilot – 617 Sqn) Overall size: 15¾ ” x 28” /400mm x 711mm