Due to his extensive experience with the 4FG, Don Blakeslee was brought over to lead the 354FG on their 1st mission on 1 Dec 43. This was the 1st mission using the P-51 Mustang in the ETO. I don't know which a/c (and if it was equipped with the Malcolm hood) that Don Blakeslee flew on that mission, but you might consider calling him and asking him yourself. You can find him down in Kissimee, FL and he is most cordial and very happy to answer ?s on the telephone.
As for the Malcolm hood you can find excellent examples of it in photos of P-51s of 353FS CO Donald Beerbower's BONNIE B II (FT-E) or 356FS & 354FG CO (and Medal of Honor recipient) James Howard's DING HAO (AJ-A). Try the 354FG website at:
www.354thpmfg.com
Cheers,
Tripp Alyn