Sole Survivor by William J. Reynolds

This pristine print depicts Ensign George Gay on 4 June 1942 releasing his torpedo 800 yards from the Japanese carrier Kaga. The attack began with 15 US Navy TBD Devastators, but soon, he and his aircraft was alone, subsequently being downed by Japanese fighters. He careened into the sea about a quarter of a mile from the carrier, but was able to get out of his aircraft just before it sank.

Hiding under a black cushion which had floated up, Gay, while severely wounded, spent 30 hours in the water before being picked up by a US Navy PBY. He was the sole survivor of 30 brave men of Torpedo Squadron Eight, and was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism.

Signature:

Ensign George GAY