This is a repaint only for the WWII Fighters P-51D. This Mustang's service record is unknown, but was sold surplus in 1963. After passing through several owners Harry Tope purchased the aircraft in 1986, and flew it as "Death Rattler". Tragically the aircraft crashed in 1990, taking the life of Harry Tope. In 1997 the wreckage of the aircraft was acquired by Gerald Beck, who's Tri-State Aviation began restoring the aircraft to flying condition. In 2002 the aircraft, while in the middle of the rebuild, was purchased by Paul Ehlen of Bloomington, Minnesota, and in 2005 the aircraft flew for the first time. Now registered N51PE, it was decided that the aircraft was to be painted to honor Minnesota native and 354th Fighter Group ace Ken Dahlberg. The scheme chosen was that of "Little Horse", a Mustang that Dahlberg flew on occasion with the 354th. "Little Horse" can be seen quite frequently throughout the summer, at air shows throughout the Midwest, or just out for a nice flight over the Minnesota countryside.
Repaint & original upload by Bomber_12th (2007-10-25 16:22:36)
Repaint & original upload by Bomber_12th (2007-10-25 16:22:36)
