Brian Sanders (British, B. 1937) "Battle of Midway - U.S. Aircraft" Oil on Canvas. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This artwork was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Covers for the Marshall Islands Battle of Midway 50¢ SBD Dauntless Dive Bombers and 50¢ Japanese Carrier Akagi stamps issued June 4, 1992. On June 3, 1942, American aircraft spotted the Japanese attack force approximately 600 miles west of Midway. THe battle began the next day, when 26 torpedo planes and dive bombers from Midway arose to form the initial line of defense. All but nine were lost, and the first wave of enemy aircraft wreaked havoc on island installations. But a contingent of aircraft from the carrier U.S.S. Enterprise bore down upon the Japanese force, demolishing three carriers and one heavy cruiser with explosive efficiency. Image Size: 13.75 x 16.75 in. Overall Size: 24.75 x 16.75 in. Unframed. (B13840 / B13841)