Thanks guys!
speedgraflex wrote: ↑Sat Aug 01, 2026 2:54 pm
Great progress! I went back through to see more detail about the actual aircraft and I’m excited to see the early insignia type in use! Thanks also for taking the time to include the battle damaged photos. Often this fine level of research into the life of the aircraft is totally missing from projects and I’m so happy to see you’ve included details about both the pilot and the aircraft, as well.
This incident happened in June 1943, before the bars and red outline were added to the national insignia, so that is the reason for the style carried. I actually did a bit more reading on the aircraft itself and apparently it was repaired, issued to another Fighter Group, and would fly combat until being lost in summer 1944. I’m surprised that any C’s were still flying combat at that time, with D’s rolling off the assembly lines in great quantities by then. And as far as the pilot goes, well, I first read his autobiography, “Thunderbolt” when I was in grade school, and got hooked on this tale at that time. Some things stick with you over the years.
I need to do touch ups to both the OD amd Neutral Gray, so it will be after then that I can get some more progress photos up. Sundays are days I usually don’t spend any time at my bench, so it will be Monday evening at the soonest…
"Surely I have made my meaning plain? I intend to avenge myself upon you, Admiral. I have deprived your ship of power, and when I swing 'round, I intend to deprive you of your life."
FLSM
