We Salute You by Philip West

As night falls Lancaster bombers head out over Lincoln Cathedral on yet another highly dangerous mission over enemy territory. Lancaster aircraft first entered service in 1941, normally with a crew of seven whose average age was 22. With a top speed of 287mph and ability to carry a massive bomb load of 22,000lbs, Lancasters proved a formidable as well as reliable aircraft, one held in the highest regard by its young, though highly motivated crews.

Despite increasingly capable aircraft like the Lancaster, a great deal was asked of Bomber Command crews and their aircraft, resulting in substantial losses. Of the 7373 Lancasters built 3677 were lost. From the over 125,000 involved in Bomber Command during the war 55,573 were killed, 8,000 wounded and 10,000 became prisoners of war. To all these brave men we owe a great debt of gratitude for their bravery.

The main aircraft passing over Lincoln Cathedral is the now famous “Phantom of the Ruhr”, which went on to complete an amazing 120 ops. Ron Clark was the pilot on 25 of the 33 ops. he completed, logging 165 hours in the aircraft, 147 on night operations. Mr. L Easby was his Wireless Operator.

The Primary Edition prints are signed by the pilot Ron Clark. The Artist Proofs and Remarques are also signed by ‘Lish’ Easby, PLUS TWO further Lancaster pilots.

Signatures:

Primary Edition

FWO Ron CLARK DFC - Pilot

Artist's Proofs & Remarques - add:

WO Ron CLARK DFC - Pilot

Sgt ‘Lish‘ EASBY - Wireless Operator

Two additional Lancaster pilots