Charles J Lundgren (New York, Connecticut, 1911 - 1988) "U.S.S. Arkansas" Signed lower right. Oil on Masonite.Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwoodmemorative Cover for the U.S.S. Arkansas.The last of America's "old style" battles, the U.S.S. Arkansas received hermission on 17 September 1912 with Captain R.C. Smith inmand. She took part in the Presidential Naval Review in the Hudson River 14 October 1912, and then carried President Taft to Panama for an inspection of the unfinished canal's progress. The U.S.S. Arkansas joined the Atlantic Fleet 2 June 1913, cruising the Caribbean. On 22 April 1914, she assisted in the occupation of Vera Cruz, and remained in Mexican waters until 30 September. For the next three years, the U.S.S. Arkansas cruised in the Atlantic and Caribbean. She spent the first year of American participation in World War I on patrol along the eastern seaboard. Ordered to Europe, she arrived at Rosyth, Scotland, 28 July 1918 and served with the 6th Battle Squadron of the British Grand Fleet. The U.S.S. Arkansas' proudest moment came as she witnessed the surrender of the German High Seas Fleet on 20 November 1918. In December, she escorted the U.S.S. George Washington, which carried President Wilson to France. She then served effectively in World War II. In the Atlantic she was first assigned to the Neutrality Patrol, then to convoy escort duty, gave fire support at the Normandy landings and then headed for the Pacific.Image Size: 13.5 x 15.75 in.Overall Size: 20.5 x 21.75 in.Unframed.(B11210)