The
Classic Warbird
The P-51 Mustang is arguably the
greatest fighter of all time. With its long range, superior speed,
lethal weaponry and outstanding maneuverability the Mustang proved
to be unequalled as an escort fighter. It was also an outstanding
interceptor and ground attacker as well as reconnaissance aircraft.
The fact that the Mustang remained in service with various air
forces around the world into the 1970s is a testament to its
abilities.
Ernie Wakehouse, CAA
club member for 32 years, flew 100 P-51
missions in Korea from September to December 1951. In May 1952
First Lieutenant Ernest P. Wakehouse, USAF was awarded the
Distinguished Flying Cross. On December 16, 1999 Ernie made a
presentation of his military flying career with the National Guard
and in the Korean Conflict to fellow members of CAA. About 30% of his flights ended with bullet holes in
the fuselage. "Never got a direct hit on the pilot or the
coolant", "whew", he said. He was
presented with a replica of his FF-999 P-51D Mustang which proudly
hangs in the entryway of the clubhouse.
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Specs:
Top speed 437 Miles per hour!
Service ceiling 41,900
Cruise speed 325 MPH at 10,000 feet
Gross weight 12,100 pounds
1490 Takeoff horsepower
Packard Merlin V-1650-9
Engine
Picture
Detailed specs
Email Ernie at ernwake@webtv.net
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Some P-51 links
Mustang O.P.S.
Mustangs
mustangs
Spruce Goose Museum P-51
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