This impressive Aviation Archive 1:72 scale model of the P-47D Thunderbolt is presented in a high-back configuration, and features a rotating propeller, optional undercarriage, and a display stand. The livery represents an aircraft flown by a legendary future American ace.

This die-cast model has a limited edition run of 1100 items.

History

Although remembered as the top-scoring Mustang ace in the European Theatre of Operations (ETO), George E. Preddy Jr. actually made his ETO combat debut flying the P-47 Thunderbolt. Whilst he did score his first three victories flying this massive fighter, things werent always without incident.

After downing his third Luftwaffe fighter, Preddy and his wingman, Lt. William Whisner, were heading back to Bodney when Preddys Thunderbolt was hit by flak crossing the French coast. Whisner later reported seeing smoke billowing from the cockpit of Preddys fighter, and his leader taking to his parachute.

Despite being low on fuel, Whisner remained circling above his leader until controllers confirmed a position fix, and that a rescue aircraft was on the way. When the Walrus did arrive, the sea was so rough that it ripped a float off the aircraft during landing. Although it was able to rescue Preddy, it had to be towed back to shore by an RAF rescue launch.

All of George Preddys fighters in the ETO were named Cripes A MIGHTY, a term he heard people using for luck whilst playing the dice game craps. It appealed to him so much that he painted it on the fuselage of his Thunderbolt and all his future Mustangs.

The 352nd began converting from P-47s to P-51B Mustangs in March 1944, and the rest is the stuff of USAAF ace pilot history.

What's in the Box? 

• Die-Cast Model with Display Stand

Specifications:

• Finish: Painted
• Wingspan (mm): 172
• Detailed Crew Figures: Yes
• Rotatable Propeller(s)/Rotor(s): Yes
• Optional Undercarriage Down: Yes

Item Dimensions - Without Packaging:

• Length (cm) = 15.7
• Height (cm) = 4.5
• Width (cm) = 17.2
• Scale = 1/72