WarBikes

Since we’re just a few episodes away from the Gunfighter completion, I thought I’d toss some Gunfighter info up here for you.

Prepping For Flight

Did you know:

• The P-51 Mustang Fighter became the first single-engine airplanes to attack the Germans in their own homeland when they carried out strafing raids on Dortmund
• On escort missions with bombers, the bullet spitting fighters not only protected their “big brothers”, but added their own firepower in strafing attacks on the enemy.
• Versatility has been the most useful of all Mustang attributes, enabling the Army Air Forces to use this single design on fighting, dive bombing, escort and reconnaissance work.

- Notes from “SuperFighter- The Mustang” by the Editors of Air News, 1945

Legend has it that the Mustang nickname was chosen for the sleek and powerful fighter because it reminded them of the small and quick war horses that Native Americans were fond of for battle. It maneuvers well, carries a large capacity, has amazing range and top speeds – there’s very little this war plane could not do.

The P-51 Mustang known as Gunfighter is getting ready for the 2010 Air Show performance schedule, you can find dates and locations via the Commemorative Air Force Great Plains Wing.

She’s been a member of the CAF fleet since 1977 when she was acquired with the help of USAF General (Ret) Regis Urschler. Gunfighter came off the Inglewood, CA line in March of 1945 – and might I say she looks damn fine for 65 years old!