Description

The hastily constructed airstrip of HMS Rajaliya was carved out of dense jungle at Puttalam and the metal Somerfield tracking enabled Corsairs to use the runway. During the monsoon season the Corsair’s tricky landing characteristics often sent them slithering off into the water-logged ground. It was then that the Navy called in its secret weapon to haul the Corsairs back to firmer ground – The Puttalam Elephants!

Operating happily in conditions where towing tractors became quickly bogged down, the Puttalam Elephants provided an invaluable service, and became much loved by the pilots and ground crews.

Signatures

Adding great historical authenticity to Robert Taylor’s celebrated new commemorative edition, every print has been signed by RN Fleet Air Arm fighter pilots who flew Corsairs in the Far East. Each print is signed by the artist, and hand numbered.

THE LIMITED EDITION
Lieutenant ERIC BEECHINOR RN
Sub Lieutenant (A) GORDON DUNNELL RNVR
Sub Lieutenant TONY MAYLETT RN

THE FLEET AIR ARM FOLIO
has been signed by a further Five of the Royal Navy's most distinguished fighter pilots.

Captain ERIC 'WINKLE' BROWN CBE, DSC, FRAeS, RN
Sub-Lieutenant VICTOR KAIRIS RN
Lieutenant CYRIL PRICE RN
Lieutenant PETER TWISS OBE, DSC*, RN
Lieutenant Commander BRUCE VIBERT RN