FINAL PREPARATIONS - Framed Collectors Piece

On the afternoon of 16 May 1943, after less than two months of specialist training, members of the recently-formed 617 Squadron were finally briefed on their targets for that night’s raid. In his highly original style, Keith graphically depicts a moment during that afternoon as armourers prepare to attach a massive 9,000lb Upkeep ‘bouncing bomb’ to one of the squadron’s specially modified Lancaster bombers.

This courageous assault gained instant media attention and has gone down in aviation folklore as one of the most audacious raids ever carried out. Keith’s memorable piece serves as a tribute to all those who took part in the raid, from the hard-working groundcrew, to the fearless aircrew.