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C-130 Approaching Maxwell Tower

Original watercolor by Timothy D. Thomas
20 × 30 inches on watercolor board

Created for the 3rd Annual 2026 Art of Service exhibition.

This original watercolor captures the enduring legacy of the C-130 Hercules at Maxwell Air Force Base, home for many years to the legendary 908th Airlift Squadron.

Set beneath a brilliant blue Alabama sky, the painting portrays a C-130 Hercules returning home as it descends toward the runway at Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama.

In the foreground, the 42nd Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller stands watch from the control tower, carefully guiding aircraft safely through the base’s airspace.

Through this work, I sought to honor both the aircraft and the proud aviation heritage of Maxwell Air Force Base — a history spanning from the early days of the Wright Brothers’ flying school to the distinguished service of the 908th Airlift Squadron.

The painting reflects not only the power and grace of the C-130 Hercules aircraft, but also the deep connection between Maxwell AFB, its airmen, and the generations of military aviation that have shaped its storied past.

Professionally frame by Jeff Kimball, owner of Matted Memories and More, LLC.