The Guardian by Nicolas Trudgian

The print shows German fighter pilot Franz Stigler of JG 27, in his Bf 109, sparing Charlie Brown’s crippled B-17 “Ye Olde Pub” of the 527th Bomb Squadron, 379th Bomb Group (8th Air Force), over Germany near Bremen on December 20, 1943, and escorting it out of Germany.

December 20, 1943 The German fighter pilot was taking a great risk. He had seen the faces of the wounded crewmen and decided to spare the damaged B-17 and more to escort the plane out of Germany. If a civilian or soldier on the ground reported him, the fighter pilot would face a firing squad. In the eyes of his country during war, he was a traitor. But to the defenseless American crew, he was their guardian.

Now, they had hopes of reaching England again, thanks to the mysterious German ace who held his fire. One day, the crew would know his name  Franz Stigler. In 1990, they’d invite Franz to their bomb group reunion where they’d introduce their families to the man who gave them the greatest of gifts -the chance to live.

Limited edition of 490, signed by the artist, Nicolas Trudgian, and by Franz Stigler, Roland Martin, Gernot Heinrichsdorff, Clayton Nattier and Fred Wiese. Includes certificate of authenticity.

print size: 32" x 22.5"