Comes with a hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity and a full historical research write-up.

*Ships via USPS Priority Mail in a medium box with full insurance, tracking, and signature confirmation required upon delivery.

Display Size: 6.25 x 8.25 inches (Medium/Large Display Size)

From: World War II - European Theater

Historical Piece of WWII History Included: Original WWII 15th Air Force 454th Bomb Group / 739th Bomb Squadron “Mission Flown” B-24 Liberator “Buttercup” (42-52256) Aircraft Wreckage Fragment

Dated: 1944

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🇺🇸A PROUD U.S.A. COMPANY - OUR PROCESS🇺🇸

Each of our “Piece of History” displays is meticulously hand-made, one-of-a-kind, and created to honor and preserve the legacy of World War II. Our in-house graphic design team carefully pairs every relic with a high-resolution archival photograph and an authentic battlefield map—both directly tied to the historical context of the relic itself. Every display includes a custom title and an in-depth historical description, providing meaningful insight into the artifact’s significance. Printed on premium matte photographic paper, each display is housed in a high-quality 6×8 frame proudly made in the U.S.A. To ensure both preservation and presentation, the artifact is placed on plush archival padding inside a UV-resistant clear acrylic case. Before being sealed, each piece is authenticated by our archivists and secured with a tamper-proof authentication hologram. This dual-layered display is designed to be instantly ready for your home, office, or collection…whether on a desk, wall, or shelf. Own your piece of WWII history today!

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#1. Historical Significance:

Consolidated B-24H Liberator “Buttercup,” serial number 42-52256, was a heavy bomber assigned to the 739th Bomb Squadron of the 454th Bomb Group, operating out of the San Giovanni airfield in southern Italy as part of the U.S. Fifteenth Air Force. On April 12, 1944, “Buttercup” was one of many aircraft launched on a dangerous long-range mission to strike the heavily defended Luftwaffe airfield at Bad Vöslau, Austria—an important German installation south of Vienna. As the formation approached the target, they were met by one of the most intense air battles recorded by the Group. Between 12:05 and 12:45 hours, an estimated 70 to 80 German fighters—ranging from Messerschmitt Me 109s, Me 110s, and Me 210s to Focke-Wulf Fw 190s and Junkers Ju 88s—mounted an aggressive, coordinated assault. Twin-engine enemy aircraft attacked from directly ahead, flying in groups of four to six in line-abreast formation and unleashing a storm of rockets and cannon fire into the bomber stream. At the same time, single-engine fighters attacked from the rear and sides, diving in from high and low angles, often flying parallel to the formation before breaking in for their deadly runs. These tactics overwhelmed many bombers, including “Buttercup,” which was reportedly struck head-on by a Bf 109 G-6 that fired a rocket directly into the nose of the aircraft. The impact caused an immediate fire that quickly spread, rendering the aircraft uncontrollable. Witnesses observed the B-24 spin out of formation and descend toward the ground in flames before crashing near Stetzing, outside Eisenstadt, Austria. Of the ten-man crew aboard that day, five airmen were killed in action: 2nd Lt. William M. West (navigator), 2nd Lt. William J. Harden (bombardier), Staff Sgt. John D. Reed Jr. (flight engineer/waist gunner), Staff Sgt. Raymond E. Lunsford (ball turret gunner), and Staff Sgt. Charles H. Aldridge Jr. (nose gunner). The remaining five—2nd Lt. John J. O’Connor (pilot), 2nd Lt. James A. Kelley (copilot), Staff Sgt. Edmund Trzcinski (radio operator), Staff Sgt. John J. Mackin (top turret gunner), and Staff Sgt. Paul A. Rackmyer Jr. (tail gunner)—managed to escape the aircraft by parachute. They were quickly captured by German forces and held as prisoners of war until the end of the conflict. The story of “Buttercup” remains a powerful testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the B-24 crews of the Fifteenth Air Force, who flew deep into enemy territory under constant threat from flak and fighters to cripple Axis air power and infrastructure.

#2. Why This Display is Special:

Our "Piece of History" displays are a tangible connection to one of the most pivotal moments in WWII history. Carefully curated and designed, each display transforms an authentic fragment of WWII history into a breathtaking and meaningful tribute to the past. Whether you're a passionate history enthusiast, a proud descendant of a WWII veteran, or simply someone who values the sacrifices made for freedom, this limited edition display offers a unique way to honor the legacy of the Greatest Generation. Each display invites conversation, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the courage and resilience of the U.S. pilots and crew who flew in the European Theater. It stands not only as a stunning display but as a reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring spirit that helped shape the modern world. Let this display spark curiosity, inspire remembrance, and preserve the memory of those who fought for liberty for generations to come.

🇺🇸We are deeply honored to preserve these powerful pieces of history…not only for the world-renowned museums we curate for, but also for private collectors like yours! For this special display, 50% of all sales from this “Piece of History” display will be donated to the non-profit Honor Flight Network. Honor Flight is committed to transporting as many U.S. military veterans as possible to Washington, D.C., where they can visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice—all at no cost to them. Thank you for joining us in preserving history and honoring the heroes who helped shape it. 🇺🇸

This display would make an extraordinary addition to any WWII or military history collection. For further details or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out.