For sale the 21st Ultimate Soldier 32XW P-51/D Mustang
'Ridge Runner III' 1:32 aircraft model.
Details of the original aircraft:
P-51/D Mustang 'Ridge Runner III'
Pilot: Maj. Pierce Winningham 'Mac' McKennon
8th Air Force USAAF, 335th Fighter Squadron, 4th Fighter Group 'Eagle Squadron', 1944.
McKennon entered the U.S. Army Air Corps in early 1941 hoping to become a pilot but was refused because of his insufficient aptitudes. He then enrolled in the Royal Canadian Air Force where he successfully underwent pilot training and became a sergeant pilot by the end of 1941. He was sent to England and became a member of the famous Eagle Squadron, training with the Royal Air Force throughout 1942. In November 1942, he was transferred back to the United States Army Air Force with the rank of second lieutenant.
He was assigned to the 335th Fighter Squadron of the 4th Fighter Group based at Debden near London. McKennon quickly proved his worth as a fighter pilot, shooting down four enemy aircraft while flying the P-47 Thunderbolt. His group then transitioned to the P-51 Mustang, in which in 1944, he downed a fifth enemy plane and earned his designation as an ace. McKennon subsequently served as flight commander and destroyed several other enemy aircraft.
After a promotion to captain, McKennon became took command of the 335th Fighter Squadron. He was shot down by flak on August 28, 1944, near Niederbronn, France, and bailed out safely. With the help of the French resistance, he evaded capture and safely returned to his unit on September 24, 1944. This time a major, he was shot down again while attacking ground targets near Berlin on March 8, 1945. His wingman, Lt. George Green, landed in a nearby field to pick him up. The two pilots disposed of their parachutes to make room, and McKennon flew back to Debden sitting on Green's lap. During the strafing/escort mission on April 16, 1945, his aircraft was once again hit by enemy AA fire and wounded.
When the war ended, McKennon was credited with 12 aerial victories and 9.83 ground victories. This odd fraction is explained by the fact that McKennon shared one victory with another pilot (1/2 victory = .50) and another one with two other pilots
This P-51D Mustang 'Ridge Runner III', USAAF 335th Fighter Squadron, 4th Fighter Group 'Eagle Squadron', 1944.
Maj. Pierce Winningham
'Mac' McKennon was credited with 12 aerial victories
Very, very rare!
Box does have some minor wear.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.
Smoke and pet free home.
The package will be registered and will be tracked.
Please also look at my other listings.
If you are a non-EU buyer, please contact us for shipping costs!
Thanks