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Posted on Oct 8, 2007 in Front Page Features, Stuff We Like

Mustangs and Legends

By Paul Glasser

As each plane pulled up from its attack run, a series of explosive charges were detonated creating a chain of fireballs. The Lancaster made the final attack, triggering a massive number of simultaneous explosions that covered the entire length of the runway! As the Lancaster pulled away, the entire sky was covered by a thick black cloud of smoke.

In addition to hours of exhilarating displays by civilian and military pilots, spectators could also tour a static display that included dozens of authentic warbirds and several living history demonstrations.

P-51s were the most common planes on display, and included a number of famous examples, such as Scat VII, piloted by celebrated ace Robin Olds. 

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The exploits of Olds, who died in June, were recently featured on the History Channel program “Dogfights.” Olds became an ace on the P-38 lightning but also had 12 kills in the P-51. He retired as a Brigadier General in 1973 and also flew F-4s in Vietnam.

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Several unique P-51s were also on display, including an early P-51a and the Precious Metal. The Precious Metal is a sleek racer that features two sets of contra-rotating propellers. The plane clocked in a 407 mph at the 2003 air race in Reno, Nev., and won a bronze medal.

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