ALEUTIAN P-38 | AVIATION ARCHIVE

Artist James Havens presents his work in the No. 1 Alaskan Aviation History Series, created circa March 25th, 2006, in Anchorage, Alaska. This striking piece, an oil on canvas measuring 3ft X 5ft, is part of the permanent collection at The Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum. 

The Aleutian P-38 features the iconic P-38 Lightning, specifically nose number 95, from the renowned 54th Fighter Group of the 11th Air Force. In the background, the historical Shemya Base from the 1940s is depicted, highlighting the significance of this location during the Aleutian Island Campaign of World War II. 

Tragically, during this campaign, P-38 Lightning tail number 13400, piloted by 2nd Lt. Robert L. Nesmith, crashed in January 1945 on Attu Island in Alaska's Aleutian Islands. Remarkably, Lt. Nesmith survived the crash and was later rescued from the shores of Attu. He went on to have a distinguished career as a fighter pilot until his retirement in 1960. 

In June 1999, the P-38 was recovered from Attu Island and subsequently restored by a dedicated team of volunteers over two years. Today, the aircraft is on display at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, near Heritage Park. The print includes the Insignia of the 54th Fighter Group, a map of the Aleutian Island Theater, and the insignia of the 11th Air Force, making it a notable example of World War II art.