To Rick: If you're considering a model of the P-51D, you will enjoy these websites which both feature ARSON'S REWARD:
http://www.hyperscale.com/galleries/2002/p51dfd_1.htm
http://modelingmadness.com/scotts/de...ro/am48478.htm
I wonder what Bud would say....to know that his Mustang had been selected as a model??
To Tom Semenza: sorry, no info. on Serial # for the B model. One item though. Bud's previous a/c was the PEACEFUL PENGUIN, which he joked was named for a flightless bird.....due to the frequent maintenance problems with his first a/c. Most likely the PP was also a B model, since the first AR was a B model. The end of the PP came following the explosion and subsequent fire while the oxygen unit was being serviced.
You may enjoy this link to two websites:
http://www.cybermodeler.com/history/354fg/353fs.shtml
This website has much 353FS info, such as Don Beerbower's B model BONNIE B II with the Malcolm hood:
and a great shot of the sqdn. on 29 July 43 at Tonopah, NV for gunnery training before embarking from NJ on the Athlone Castle bound for England
http://www.cybermodeler.net/history/...es/353d_02.jpg
It should be remembered that the 353FS produced 21 aces (who accounted for 196 aerial victories) and, when you add the additional victories of those with less than 5, the 77 pilots of the Fighting Cobras scored 286.5 kills and contributed heavily to the 701 aerial kills tallied by the 354FG. Please note that the 56FG (1005 1/2) and 4FG (1002) had more total enemy a/c destroyed in the ETO when you add those destroyed on the ground. The 354FG total of 956 places them 3rd in total enemy a/c destroyed in the ETO and you can visit their website at:
http://www.354thpmfg.com/
Hope this provides some more info. for you about our great heroes!
Regards,
Tripp