Brian Sanders (British, B. 1937) "Winston Churchill, Prime Minister 1940-1945" Original Oil on Masonite painting. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 60c Winston Churchill Prime Minister 1940-1945 stamp issued June 16, 2000. "I felt as if I were walking with destiny, and that all my past life had been but a preparation for this hour and for this trial." In May 1940, Winston Churchill became Prime Minister, leading Britain in its "finest hour." The previous April, Germany had invaded Denmark and Norway. In early May, the Germans marched into Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. By the end of June, France had surrendered. Britain now stood alone. In preparation for invading Britain, Germany began bombing British airfields and ports. By September, the Luftwaffe was staging nightly air raids on London, with fierce resistance from the Royal Air Force in what would become known as the Battle of Britain. While the battle raged, Churchill defied air raid alarms and boldly ventured into the city, inspiring distraught citizens. His "V for Victory" salute became an inspiring symbol throughout Britain. Image Size: 9.5 x 13.75 in. Overall Size: 14.5 x 18.5 in. Unframed. (B16828)