Fighter Escort: The P-51 Mustang

Just how much of a game changer was the North American P-51 Mustang fighter plane in the battle for air supremacy in the skies over Europe?We find out in this episode, with a visit to Bottisham Airfield Museum – home to the 361st Fighter Group in Cambridgeshire.We look at the development of the Mustang – and how an American airframe matched with a Rolls Royce Merlin engine helped change the face of the air war.We tell the story of 361st FG commanding officer Colonel Jack Christian, great-grandson of American Civil War General Stonewall Jackson.And we discover what life was like for fighter pilot Edward Marevka, who was shot down, captured and taken prisoner of war – with his family back home wondering about his fate.With very special thanks to podcast guest Jason Webb, chairman and trustee of Bottisham Airfield Museum, which is well worth a visit.Please like and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Visit the Mighty Eighth Podcast website: mighty8thpodcast.comTo contact Johann and Mike, email [email protected] the Mighty Eighth Podcast on X - @mighty8thpodFollow the Mighty Eighth Podcast on Facebook - @mighty8thpodFollow the Mighty Eighth Podcast on Instagram - @mighty8thpodFollow Johann on X - @johanntaskerFollow Mike on X - @mikehistorian Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.