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Zoernig, Dan
First Comet, The
A truly significant moment in combat aviation history, this print captures the story of the very first, and one of the few, officially credited aerial victories over the Me 163 Komet, the world's first rocket powered interceptor. This print is currently the only depiction of this rare and historic event, and is also available as a signed edition by Col. Jeffrey. Only 25 issues are being offered, making this a premium addition to any collection.
July 29, 1944. Captain Arthur Jeffrey, flying Boomerang, a P-38J Lightning of the 434th Fighter Squadron, is credited with the first encounter and aerial victory over the Messerschmitt Me-163, the world's first rocket powered interceptor. Picking up the German at about 11,000 feet as it began a pass at a crippled B-17, Jeffrey turned into the fighter forcing it to turn away. Boomerang pursued the Komet up to 16,000 feet when it executed a hard left turn, losing precious airspeed. Jeffrey closed on the rocket and opened fire at 300 yards, registering multiple strikes. The Komet then dove hard for the cloud deck below, disappearing into it at about 3,000 feet at over 550 mph. The Me-163's flight envelope indicates that a pullout would have been impossible given the 90 degree dive angle, speed and low altitude.
Edition size: 250 signed and numbered by the artist only
Print size: 19" w x 13" h
