FLYING FREE

Oil on Canvas 36" x 24"

This painting was a corporate commission for the offices of the Antrel Group based in the Netherlands.  

The painting depicts a Spitfire Mk Vb as flown by Bram 'Bob' van der Stok in 1942. The aircraft, BL595, belonged to 41 Squadron RAF.   Van der Stok was the most decorated Dutch pilot of World War II and was one of only three to make it to freedom following the 'Great Escape'. After making his ‘home run’ he re-joined 91 Squadron, which had been his first posting in RAF service, and took part in D-Day and anti-diver (V1) operations. He later moved to No. 322 Dutch squadron serving in the RAF and based in Holland.