Charles J Lundgren (New York, Connecticut, 1911 - 1988) "U.S.S. Alabama" Signed lower right. Original Oil on Masonite painting. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting appeared on the Fleetwood Commemorative Cover for the U.S.S. Alabama. The U.S.S. Alabama distinguished herself in service with both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets during World War II. She was commissioned on 16 August 1942 with Captain G.B. Wilson in command, and saw her first service with the Atlantic Fleet. U.S.S. Alabama operated with the British Home Fleet at Scarpa Flow protecting convoys to Britain and Russia in the North Atlantic. She was reassigned to the Pacific Fleet in August 1943, and reported to the 3rd Fleet at Efate, New Hebrides in September of that year. As a member of the fast carrier Task Forces, U.S.S. Alabama's first Pacific combat duties included providing fire-support and anti-aircraft screening during the successful Gilbert Island Invasions on 19 November 1943. She was also involved in action following the occupation of Kwajalein and Majuro (29 January-9 February 1944), the Marianas raids (21-22 February 1944), the invasion of Saipan and the Battle of the Philippine Sea (11-24 June 1944), the Battle for Leyte Gulf (25-26 October 1944) and the 3rd Fleet raids on the Japanese home islands (10 July-25 August 1945) in which her big guns blasted Japanese factories and defenses. U.S.S. Alabama received nine battle stars for her service in World War II. Image Size: 13.5 x 15.75 in. Overall Size: 20.5 x 21.75 in. Unframed. (B10556)