Nordic Response 2024

In early 2024, NATO’s largest military exercise, Nordic Response, unfolded north of the Arctic Circle, bringing together 20,000 troops from 13 countries. Among them was the II Marine Expeditionary Force, entrusted with the role of exercise Land Component Command. As an Ammunition Officer within this unit, I eagerly anticipated the opportunity to participate in this challenging environment.

Balancing my responsibilities as an ammunition officer with my passion as a combat artist presented unique challenges. While my primary duty always took precedence, I seized every opportunity to refine my artistic skills and capture the stories unfolding around me.

To fully immerse myself in the exercise, I requested to deploy early and embed with the 1st Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment during their preparatory Cold Weather Training. Supported wholeheartedly by my command, I embarked on this journey alongside Richard Johnson, a fellow Combat Artist whose talent I deeply admire.

From the moment Richard arrived at the airport, we wasted no time. Sketching the Norwegian gate guards outside our camp, we found inspiration in each other’s company and shared passion for our craft.

Over the next 10 days, we braved temperatures plunging to -11°F, witnessing the Marines of 1/2 navigate the unforgiving Arctic terrain. Despite the physical challenges, their spirits remained high, fostering a sense of camaraderie forged in adversity.

As I attempted to capture the essence of their training through sketches, I encountered obstacles, from freezing pens to numbed fingers. Yet, amidst these struggles, I witnessed the unwavering dedication of the Marines to their mission and to each other.

During a reconnaissance patrol, I had the privilege of witnessing their professionalism firsthand. As we sketched from the sidelines, the Marines swiftly transitioned from casual conversation to tactical engagement, showcasing their adaptability and readiness.

Nordic Response was more than just a military exercise; it was a testament to the resilience and camaraderie of those who serve. Working alongside Richard and meeting these remarkable individuals reaffirmed my belief in the power of art to capture the human experience, even in the most challenging environments.

In the end, Nordic Response left an indelible mark on me, reminding me of the courage and dedication exhibited by those who stand ready to defend freedom, regardless of the circumstances.

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On assignment…

The Marine Corps Combat Art collection is curated by the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, Va. it contains more than 9,000 works contributed by nearly 400 Artists, pres-dating WWII.

New additions are accessioned frequently, and the Marine Corps uses it’s own Marines to help with artifact collection. A select few have the distinction of F[ree]MOS: 4606; Marine Corps Combat Artist. These Artists may embed - on assignment - with Marine Corps units to document what Americas’ Marines are doing.

Because the originals of these works are accessioned and curated by the National Museum of the Marine Corps, they -in some circumstances - may not be available for print reproduction by me via this site.

However, if you’ve seen something and would like to request a print - please don’t hesitate to reach out - I want you to have the art that helps tell your story!

To frame or not to frame?

There’s a subtle distinction between art and posters… both deserve to be framed and proudly displayed in your spaces.

Frame and mat it. It’s not as expensive as you might think, and it absolutely makes great artwork better!

I’d love to help make any recommendations, but have found the best help from frame shops at Hobby Lobby. They discount the cost of any off the shelf frame by 50% if you elect to have it matted with them.

By taking your artwork to a frame shop, you can significantly reduce costs in shipping. Again, I’m happy to shipped framed artwork, but I’m always looking to pass any savings to you!

Why choose Forty Mike Mike?

There are several phenomenal artists out there, creating some really exceptional pieces of artwork. Their own life experiences fuel their passion; mine stems from my service as a United States Marine in an effort to share some of our experiences and stories.

If you’d like to commission a specific piece from me, please shoot me a message or read the ‘Commissions’ page of this site. I also attempt to make affordable prints available to everyone at an economical price. When you purchase a print from FortyMikeMike, you are fueling a passion. In return, I provide you with a piece of artwork that I consider the highest possible quality. I use thick matte finished art paper, and inks that won’t fade over time - these are not photographs or cheap replicas. EVERY piece is signed by me and serialized. No print purchased from me will ever exceed 200 in the series - my belief is that to do otherwise, you’re buying a poster, not a fine art print.

Each piece is printed with the idea that you’ll elect to frame it and proudly display it as a conversation piece. I’m happy to pass on any information or suggestions in terms of framing options, but know that taking a print to a local Hobby Lobby will be the most cost effective solution for framing options. If you’d rather not deal with the hassle and would prefer I have the piece(s) framed for you, I’m glad to do so at cost + shipping.

Thanks so much for your support over the last year as I’ve started FortyMikeMikeArt - it truly means more than I know how to express!