This folder contains a second repaint for the A2A WoP3 P-51D Mustang, in the colors of #44-11755 J2-K "my Pride 'n Joy", which was flown by Lt. Richard Gomez Candelaria of the 435th Fighter Squadron/479th FG. With six aerial victories to his credit, Candelaria was the only pilot in his squadron to make "ace". Most of his victories were achieved on a single mission on April 7, 1945, when he found himself the lone escort protecting a formation of USAAF B-24 Liberators. Candelaria defended the bombers from at least 15 German fighters, single-handedly destroying four before help arrived. He was also credited with a probable victory on an Me 262 during this engagement. Six days later, Candelaria was shot down by ground fire, and spent the rest of the war as a POW. After the war, Candelaria served in the Air National Guard, reaching the rank of Colonel prior to his retirement. His april 7 mission was shown in an episode of "dogfights".
Repaint by Jan Kees Blom, based on the A2A paint kit.
Repaint by Jan Kees Blom, based on the A2A paint kit.
