Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX -  USAAF, Tolly Hello, Gustav Lundquist, RAF Boscombe Down, England, 1944 /

Forces of Valor 1:72 812005A

After graduating as an experimental test pilot in 1942, he served at Wright Field, Ohio, as an experimental test pilot, then chief test pilot until 1944. During this period, he tested the prototypes of many of the aircraft used in World War II combat operations. In 1944, he made an emergency landing in Greenland on his way back to the UK from the USA. The Spitfire was testing long-range tanks at Wright Field. While waiting for spare parts, a mechanic, Sgt Petta, asked if he could paint the aircraft's nose. When Colonel Lundquist returned, the result was as follows. Back at Boscombe Down, the paint was removed and hung above the bar in the officers' mess. In June and July 1944, he flew with the 353rd Fighter Group in England. His Mustang, P-51, was shot down over enemy territory in July 1944, and he was a prisoner of war in Germany until May 1945.

"Forces of Valor" 1/72 Models features:

• Detailed cockpit
• Historically accurate printed markings
• Realistic panel lines and antennas
• Opening rear loading ramp
• Spinning main and tail rotor blades
• Display stand