A stunning and historical tribute, by artist Philip West, to the courageous and brave aircrews who flew secretive perilous missions for the S.O.E. (Special Operations Executive). Often flying in total darkness with no weapons and lights, these brave crews flew missions in and out of France dropping Spies and picking up downed airmen. Depicted in this picture are Westland Lysanders of RAF 161 Special Duties Squadron turning onto their final course to a clandestine landing field somewhere in central occupied France during a full moon period in 1943. Based at Tempsford, Bedfordshire and often operating from Tangmere to shorten the flight, the pilots flew a dead reckoning course to their first turning point, usually on the Loire River, using rudimentary navigating equipment. The moonlit town of Blois is easily distinguishable by its chateau, churches and bridge with the Forest of Chambord beyond. The agents in the rear cockpit prepare themselves by torchlight for the forthcoming landing. 250 Limited Editions. All are signed and numbered by the artist along with the following highly distinguished RAF "Special Duties" pilots who flew these dangerous missions with 161 Squadron; Air Chief Marshal Sir Lewis Hodges, KCB, CBE, DSO, DFC Flight Lieutenant Murray Anderson, DFC*, US Air Medal Flight Lieutenant Peter Arkell, OBE, USAF Medal Of Distinction Flight Lieutenant R G (Bob) Large, DFC, Legion d’honneur Overall size: 71cm x 50cm