This was the last Mustang in operational service with a USAF tactical unit, 44-74936 - see my 1973 photo here. In view of that, it is odd that around 1982 it was repainted as seen now to represent a P-51D flown by the commander of the 325th Fighter Group in Italy in 1944

On display in the World War II Gallery at NMUSAF. This was the last Mustang assigned to a USAF tactical unit. It was obtained from the West Virginia ANG in 1957 when the Mustang was phased out. It is painted as 44-11234 "Shimmy IV" flown by Lt Col Chester L. Sluder, CO of the 325th FG, who led the first shuttle-bombing mission from Italy to USSR on 2 Jun 44. This MTO Group used the black & yellow checkertail designed by Lt Col Robert L. Baseler on its aircraft for easy identification by bomber crews.

Ex R.Neth AF E-31, R.Neth Navy 174 and PH-ANK. Imported into the UK in 1977.

Ex Netherlands AF E-31, Netherlands Navy 174 and PH-ANK. Registered in the UK in 04.77.

This P-51 was built at Inglewood, CA and TOC with the USAAF as 44-74936. Around Oct. 71 it was transferred to Wright Field and became part of the National Museum of the USAF. It is now on display as 44-15174 'Shimmy IV', flown by Col. C.L. Sluder, Commander of the 325th FG in Italy during 1944.

Departing from the Daffodil Rally