"One Minute in Hell" Limited edition print — Hand signed by ten veterans from the squadron

One of four WWII aviation in the Pacific prints signed by men who were involved in those campaigns.

"One Minute in Hell" — On November 2, 1943, the Fifth Air Force executed a major low-altitude attack on the Japanese naval base at Rabaul, New Britain, utilizing B-25 strafer-bombers. Among the first to strike were 1/Lt. James A. Hungerpiller in his plane, SLEEPY TIME GAL, and 1/Lt. J. E. Orr, both flying at mast-height as they targeted enemy ships. Despite facing intense anti-aircraft fire, Lt. Hungerpiller successfully bombed two destroyers, while Lt. Orr engaged a merchant vessel. As Lt. Hungerpiller's aircraft suffered heavy damage from anti-aircraft artillery, he lost altitude and directed his plane toward two anchored heavy cruisers.

The painting vividly captures SLEEPY TIME GAL, trailing fire and smoke, as it crosses the bow of the cruiser Haguro. Lt. Orr is depicted in the foreground, attacking the merchant ship. Due to severe damage from an explosion, Lt. Hungerpiller's plane ultimately lost control and crashed into the sea.

About the print

Published in 1995 in conjunction with the 38th Bomb Group Association, this set of four limited edition prints by artist Steve Ferguson, and meticulously researched by Lawrence J. Hickey, portrays some of the most dramatic moments of the 38th Bomb Group's service during World War II in the Southwest Pacific.

Each design was done in a limited edition of 450 prints and 50 artist proofs. Each is hand signed by ten veterans who were in the squadron represented, representing different roles within the crews, as well as ground officers and enlisted men. The squadron and Fifth Air Force insignias adorn the lower margin of each print.

Image size: 17” x 22”

About the paper weight and printing process: Printed on top-quality heavy art stock.

The series

• "The Ultimate Sacrifice" — Dagua Airdrome raid on August 18, 1943
• "One Minute in Hell" — The daring Rabaul attack on November 2, 1943
• "Ordeal at Ormoc Bay" — The intense battle over Ormoc Bay, Leyte, on November 10, 1944
• "Alcohol Busters of Formosa" — The destructive raids on Japanese fuel alcohol facilities in Formosa, such as the Tairin raid on May 29, 1945