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Found this coat in the sale today and made a little outfit. Thought i share.
Coat: [Val'More] - LoneCoat
Pants: AVEC TOI - Kai Pants
Shirt: .Malediction. Aeron Tank Top
Shoes: [Val'More] - Darkboots
Gloves: [Gild] koa glove_black studs
Hair: [HAIR-Undercut]Dura-U120
Earrings: Badwolf - Chastisement Earrings
Necklace: RAWR! Salvation Necklace
Collar: Random Matter - Xen Collar
Nails: = DAE = Natural nail
Horns: duckie . cyber horns // hover // black2
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
This P--51D is painted to represent one with an interesting history. It is credited with several kills, including the downing of one American aircraft. Here is the history:
In 1942, the United States needed pilots for its war planes lots of war planes; lots of pilots. Lt. Louis Curdes was one. When he was 22 years old, he graduated flight training school and was shipped off to the Mediterranean to fight Nazis in the air over Southern Europe.
He arrived at his 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron in April 1943 and was assigned a P-38 Lightning Ten days later he shot down three German Messerschmitt Bf-109 fighters. A few weeks later, he downed two more German Bf -109's. In less than a month of combat, Louis was an Ace.
During the next three months, Louis shot down an Italian Mc.202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before his luck ran out. A German fighter shot down his plane on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy. Captured by the Italians, he was sent to a POW camp near Rome. No doubt this is where he thought he would spend the remaining years of the war. It wasn't to be. A few days later, the Italians surrendered. Louis and a few other pilots escaped before the Nazis could take control of the camp.
One might think that such harrowing experiences would have taken the fight out of Louis, yet he volunteered for another combat tour. This time, Uncle Sam sent him to the Philippines where he flew P-51 Mustangs.
Soon after arriving in the Pacific Theater, Louis downed a Mitsubishi reconnaissance plane near Formosa. Now he was one of only three Americans to have kills against all three Axis Powers: Germany, Italy, and Japan.
Up until this point, young Lt. Curdes combat career had been stellar. His story was about to take a twist so bizarre that it seems like the fictional creation of a Hollywood screenwriter.
While attacking the Japanese-held island of Bataan, one of Louis wingmen was shot down. The pilot ditched in the ocean. Circling overhead, Louis could see that his wingman had survived, so he stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot.
It wasn't long before he noticed another, larger airplane, wheels down, preparing to land at the Japanese-held airfield on Bataan. He moved in to investigate. Much to his surprise the approaching plane was a Douglas C-47 transport with American markings.
He tried to make radio contact, but without success. He maneuvered his Mustang in front of the big transport several times trying to wave it off. The C-47 kept head to its landing target. Apparently the C-47 crew didn’t realize they were about to land on a Japanese held island, and soon would be captives.
Lt. Curdes read the daily newspaper accounts of the war, including the viciousness of the Japanese soldiers toward their captives. He knew that whoever was in that American C-47 would be, upon landing, either dead or wish they were. But what could he do?
Audaciously, he lined up his P-51 directly behind the transport, carefully sighted one of his .50 caliber machine guns and knocked out one of its two engines. Still the C-47 continued on toward the Bataan airfield. Curdes shifted his aim slightly and knocked out the remaining engine, leaving the baffled pilot no choice but to ditch in the ocean.
The big plane came down to it wings. in one piece about 50 yards from his bobbing wingman. At this point, nightfall and low fuel forced Louis to return to base. The next morning, Louis flew cover for a rescuing PBY that picked up the downed Mustang pilot and 12 passengers and crew, including two female nurses, from the C-47. All survived, and later, Lt. Curdes would end up marrying one of these nurses.
This P--51D is painted to represent one with an interesting history. It is credited with several kills, including the downing of one American aircraft. Here is the history:
In 1942, the United States needed pilots for its war planes lots of war planes; lots of pilots. Lt. Louis Curdes was one. When he was 22 years old, he graduated flight training school and was shipped off to the Mediterranean to fight Nazis in the air over Southern Europe.
He arrived at his 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron in April 1943 and was assigned a P-38 Lightning Ten days later he shot down three German Messerschmitt Bf-109 fighters. A few weeks later, he downed two more German Bf -109's. In less than a month of combat, Louis was an Ace.
During the next three months, Louis shot down an Italian Mc.202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before his luck ran out. A German fighter shot down his plane on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy. Captured by the Italians, he was sent to a POW camp near Rome. No doubt this is where he thought he would spend the remaining years of the war. It wasn't to be. A few days later, the Italians surrendered. Louis and a few other pilots escaped before the Nazis could take control of the camp.
One might think that such harrowing experiences would have taken the fight out of Louis, yet he volunteered for another combat tour. This time, Uncle Sam sent him to the Philippines where he flew P-51 Mustangs.
Soon after arriving in the Pacific Theater, Louis downed a Mitsubishi reconnaissance plane near Formosa. Now he was one of only three Americans to have kills against all three Axis Powers: Germany, Italy, and Japan.
Up until this point, young Lt. Curdes combat career had been stellar. His story was about to take a twist so bizarre that it seems like the fictional creation of a Hollywood screenwriter.
While attacking the Japanese-held island of Bataan, one of Louis wingmen was shot down. The pilot ditched in the ocean. Circling overhead, Louis could see that his wingman had survived, so he stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot.
It wasn't long before he noticed another, larger airplane, wheels down, preparing to land at the Japanese-held airfield on Bataan. He moved in to investigate. Much to his surprise the approaching plane was a Douglas C-47 transport with American markings.
He tried to make radio contact, but without success. He maneuvered his Mustang in front of the big transport several times trying to wave it off. The C-47 kept head to its landing target. Apparently the C-47 crew didn’t realize they were about to land on a Japanese held island, and soon would be captives.
Lt. Curdes read the daily newspaper accounts of the war, including the viciousness of the Japanese soldiers toward their captives. He knew that whoever was in that American C-47 would be, upon landing, either dead or wish they were. But what could he do?
Audaciously, he lined up his P-51 directly behind the transport, carefully sighted one of his .50 caliber machine guns and knocked out one of its two engines. Still the C-47 continued on toward the Bataan airfield. Curdes shifted his aim slightly and knocked out the remaining engine, leaving the baffled pilot no choice but to ditch in the ocean.
The big plane came down to it wings. in one piece about 50 yards from his bobbing wingman. At this point, nightfall and low fuel forced Louis to return to base. The next morning, Louis flew cover for a rescuing PBY that picked up the downed Mustang pilot and 12 passengers and crew, including two female nurses, from the C-47. All survived, and later, Lt. Curdes would end up marrying one of these nurses.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
October 30, 2011 - Random wings on the ground at the Freaky Deaky Halloween Party in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: Joe Gall
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
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Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
The iconic fighter of World War II, the P-51 Mustang, came about as a result of the desperate need of the British for fighters in 1939, as the war started. British industry was at capacity producing the Hurricane and Spitfire, and of the American fighters being produced or planned, the RAF only saw the P-40 Warhawk as being able to fight German Bf 109s. With Curtiss itself at maximum output building P-40s, the British approached North American, who had been trying to sell the RAF the B-25 Mitchell, with an offer to license-build P-40s. North American’s president, James Kindleberger, had a better idea: design and build an entirely new fighter based around the P-40’s Allison V-1710 engine. The RAF was willing to fund a prototype, as long as it also cost less than $40,000 and could be delivered by January 1941: the contract was signed in April 1940. North American flew the first NA-73 prototype in October, only 178 days later.
Given the short time North American had gone from a blank sheet of paper to a flyable aircraft, one might expect that the NA-73 fell short of the requirement. It actually improved upon it. The RAF had only desired four .30 caliber machine guns; the NA-73 had that plus four .50 caliber machine guns (two in the wings with the .30s and two in the cowl). Despite its thin, highly aerodynamic fuselage, it had a large fuel capacity that could make it an escort fighter as well as an interceptor. Moreover, it incorporated two radical design features: one was mounting the radiator below the fuselage; besides saving space, it also allowed the pilot to force hot air out of the radiator to give a boost in speed. Most radical was the use of a laminar-flow wing. Compressibility, where air going over a wing would reach supersonic speeds and cause the aircraft to accelerate out of control in a dive, was a minor problem in the P-40 and notorious on the P-38 Lightning. With a laminar-flow wing, airspeed over the wing never reached supersonic speeds, preventing compressibility without sacrificing manueverability. The RAF eagerly accepted the design as the Mustang Mk.I and it entered production in mid-1941.
When the RAF began operating the Mustang in combat, however, they found that the fighter, while able to manuever with even the Focke-Wulf 190 and having plenty of range, was sluggish and slow above 15,000 feet. This was due to the V-1710 engine, which had never been designed for high altitude performance. North American had experienced misgivings about the V-1710, but it had been part of the specification. Mustang Mk. Is still were useful in low-level roles, especially reconnaissance, and the USAAF took interest in it as a ground-attack aircraft, ordering 500 as the A-36A Apache.
In April 1942, a Rolls-Royce technician got a chance to fly a Mustang Mk.I, and was suitably impressed by its manueverability. He was interested in if a bigger engine could be used on the aircraft, and five Mustangs were turned over to Rolls-Royce to be equipped with a Merlin engine and a propeller adapted from the Spitfire IX. The test pilots were stunned by the increase in performance: above 15,000 feet, the Merlin-engined Mustang not only retained its agility and range, speed was increased to 433 mph and the ceiling to 40,000 feet. North American learned of the tests and embarked on a redesign, culminating in the P-51B: this had a strengthened fuselage and wider radiator for the more powerful Merlin; the armament was reduced to save weight to four (later six) .50 caliber machine guns in the wings. With drop tanks fitted under the wings, the P-51B was capable of flying anywhere in Europe. The Mustang had at last realized its full potential, and the USAAF, which had been taking catastrophic losses to bombers over Germany due to the lack of long-range fighters, now had one.
P-51Bs began reaching Europe in August 1943, and when they reached the 8th Air Force in numbers by late 1943, the situation in the air above Europe began to change. While P-51 pilots loved the responsiveness and speed of the Mustang, a few problems did crop up: the gunsight was difficult to use, the guns had a tendency to jam, the glycol cooling system for the engine was easy to hit and would doom the P-51 instantly, and the P-51B lacked vision to the rear. The type also showed a propensity to go into uncontrollable snap rolls at high angles of attack. In response, North American designed the P-51D, which solved most of the problems: it had a cut-down rear fuselage and incorporated a bubble canopy, giving the P-51D the best visibility of any fighter of the war; the adoption of the K-14 gunsight was much easier to use and more accurate; the machine guns were set upright and spaced along the dihedral of the wing rather than along the path of flight, making them more accurate as well and mostly curing the jamming problem (high-G turns could still jam the guns); the snap-roll problem was cured by adding a fin fillet to the tail. Nothing could be done about the glycol system, and more P-51s would be lost to ground fire hitting the glycol tank than any other reason. (This was the primary reason why the P-47 Thunderbolt, with its radial engine, took on the bulk of ground attack missions, leaving the P-51 the primary escort fighter).
P-51s would bear much of the responsibility of sweeping the Luftwaffe from the air. It could outperform the Bf 109 in all respects and be even with a Fw 190 below 15,000 feet—above 20,000 feet, the Mustang had the advantage. Nearly 5000 German aircraft would be shot down by P-51s, the highest total claimed by any Allied fighter during World War II. Nearly a thousand more Japanese aircraft could be added to that total, as P-51Ds began reaching the Pacific in 1944 as escorts for B-29 bombers. It is generally considered by aviation historians as the finest fighter of World War II and by some to be the most pure fighter ever built.
After the end of World War II, North American began production of “lightweight” P-51Hs, which used lighter construction materials, lengthened the fuselage for better performance, and raised the tail for better aerodynamics. The Merlin itself was modified with a new water-injected supercharger. While not as aesthetically attractive as the P-51D, the P-51H was among the fastest piston-engined aircraft ever built, with a top speed only 120 mph below the speed of sound. Redesignated F-51 by the newly independent USAF in 1948, the Mustang’s combat duties were not yet over: though not really suited for the role, the availability of aircraft meant that the F-51 would be used as ground-attack fighters throughout the Korean War. The P-51 had been exported to 55 nations during and after the war, and it would see service in the Arab-Israeli conflicts, various brushfire wars in Central and South America, and in the Philippines. The last F-51 in US service (ironically, US Army service) did not leave until 1968, while the Dominican Republic operated P-51s as frontline fighters until 1984. Of 16,766 P-51s produced, over 250 survive to the present day, with nearly 140 flyable examples, making the P-51 the best preserved World War II-era aircraft.
Though "Bad Angel" is marked as 44-63272, it is actually not that aircraft, but an amalgamation of several P-51 wrecks, along with newly built parts. It is displayed at the Pima Air and Space Museum. The real "Bad Angel" was flown by Captain Louis Curdes, who served with the 3rd Air Commando Group at Laoag, in the Philippines. Curdes had seen some action: not only did he have eight kills against the Germans, he had scored one victory against the Japanese. The American flag probably stands for a wrecked aircraft!
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
What the storyboard doesn't tell you is that Lt. Louis Curdes had taken one of the nurses out for dinner the night before he shot her down. I would what he did after she had been rescued?
Answer - He married her.
the following information was copied from the Air Comando webpage
Lt Col Louis Edward Curdes
Born: November 2, 1919 Fort Wayne, Indiana
POW: August 27, 1943 Benevento, Italy, P-38G mechanical trouble
Died: February 8, 1995 Fort Wayne, Indiana
Louis Curdes joined the Army Reserves on March 12, 1942. He was commissioned a 2nd Lt, and rated a pilot on December 3, 1942 at Luke Field, Arizona. He joined the 329th FG, but transferred to the 82nd FG, 95th FS, where he saw action over North Africa, Sardinia and Italy flying P-38Gs. On April 29, 1943 he shot down three German Me-109s and damaged a fourth near Cap Bon, Tunisia. Two more Me-109s fell to his guns near Villacidro, Sardinia on May 19. On June 24 he brought down an Italian Mc.202 over Golfo Aranci, Sardinia. Another Me-109 was damaged on July 30 at Pratice di Mare, Italy. His last two victories in the Mediterranean Theater were two Me-109s over Benevento, Italy. During that action he was forced down and taken prisoner. He escaped from the POW camp on September 8, 1943 and managed to survive behind German lines until crossing into Allied territory on May 24, 1944. He requested combat duty in the Pacific, and joined the 4th FS (Commando), 3rd FG (Commando) in August 1944. On February 7, 1945 he shot down a Dinah while flying a P-51D thirty miles SW of Formosa. This feat made him one of three aces to have shot down enemy aircraft of all three Axis Powers. On February 10, 1945 he shot-up an American C-47 which was attempting to land on a Japanese held airstrip in the Batan Islands, Philippines; a chain of small islands north of Luzon. The aircraft force landed and thirteen crew and passengers were rescued. One of the passengers was a nurse that he later married. An American flag was added to the German, Italian and Japanese flags painted on his P-51D. After the war he transferred to the Air Force. He was promoted to Maj on September 1, 1951, and retired from the Air Force as a LtCol in October 1963.
Talley Record: 9 confirmed, 2 damaged
Decorations: 2 DFCs, PH, 15 AMs
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.
Pima Air and Space Museum
The North American P-51 Mustang is widely considered to be the best American fighter of World War II. However, if it were not for the British Royal Air Force, the Mustang would never have been built. In January, 1940, the British approached several American aircraft companies with their requirements for a new fighter and required that a prototype be ready within 120 days.
North American Aviation responded with the Mustang. The early versions of the aircraft proved to be underpowered at high altitudes, but when it was redesigned to use the excellent Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang soon proved to be a superb fighter at all altitudes.
The P-51D features a cut down rear fuselage and a bubble canopy to improve rearward visibility, and six .50 caliber machine guns in the wings in place of the four guns present in most earlier versions.
The Mustang remained in military service in the United States Air Force until 1957, and the last combat Mustang was retired by the Dominican Air Force in 1984. Mustangs remain popular in civilian aviation with nearly 100 flying in private hands and fetching prices of over two million US dollars.
This P-51 has been constructed from a combination of original parts of various Mustangs and newly manufactured parts made by the Pima Air & Space Museum’s aircraft restoration staff and volunteers. Approximately 60% of the aircraft is original North American Aviation built parts. The paint scheme represents the aircraft flown by Louis E. Curdes with the 3rd Air Commando Group in the Philippines in 1945.
Technical Specifications
Wingspan: 37 ft
Length: 32 ft 3 in
Height: 12 ft 2 in
Weight: 16,000 lbs (loaded)
Maximum speed: 437 mph
Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft
Range: 950 miles (without drop tanks)
Engine: Packard V1650-7 Merlin, 1,490 hp
Crew: 1
Pilot Lt. Louis E. Curdes
Louis Curdes was born November 2, 1919 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He joined the Army in March 1942 and graduated from pilot training at Luke Field, Arizona on December 3rd, 1942. Curdes was assigned to the 82nd Fighter Group, 95th Fighter Squadron, flying P-38 Lightnings over the Mediterranean and southern Europe. He arrived at the unit on April 17, 1943 and shot down three Messerschmitt Bf109 fighters on April 29th. He destroyed two more Bf109s on May 19th to become an ace in only a little over a month of combat. Over the next three months he shot down an Italian Mc. 202 fighter and two more Messerschmitts before he was himself shot down by a German fighter on August 27, 1943 over Salerno, Italy.
Curdes was captured and interned in a POW camp near Rome. Only a few days later, Italy surrendered and he and several other American pilots escaped from the camp before the Germans could take over. He made his way out of German occupied Italy, arriving back in Allied controlled territory on May 27, 1944. After a brief leave Curdes volunteered for another combat tour. He was assigned to the 3rd Air Commando Group, 4th Fighter Squadron in the Philippines, flying the P-51 Mustang. Curdes arrived in the Pacific Theater on November 19, 1944. On February 7, 1945, he shot down a Mitsubishi Ki46 "Dinah" reconnaissance plane near Formosa, making him one of only three Americans to have kills against Germany, Italy, and Japan.
While attacking the Japanese held island of Batan, between the Philippines and Formosa, one of Curdes' wingmen was shot down. Curdes stayed in the area to guide a rescue plane and protect the downed pilot. While they were circling, Curdes noticed an aircraft approaching to land at the Japanese base. Upon investigating he saw that it was a Douglas C-47 and that it carried American markings. After several attempts to direct the Dakota away from the island Curdes decided that he had no choice but to take drastic measures. Carefully lining up behind the transport, he shot out first one and then the other engine. The C-47 ditched in the ocean only about 50 yards from the pilot Curdes had been protecting. As darkness descended, Curdes and his wingman were forced to return to base. The next morning, he returned and flew cover while a PBY picked up the downed Mustang pilot and the twelve passengers and crew from the wayward C-47, including two female nurses. For his actions, Curdes was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, making him, perhaps, the only pilot to receive a medal for shooting down a friendly aircraft.