With over 15,000 built by North American Aviation and less than 200 flyable or restorable, the P-51 remains one of the most recognized airplanes in the world. Many credit the airplane for being the reason the Allies won the air war over Europe with the ability to escort bombers all the way to Berlin and back. After seeing Mustangs escorting B-17's, one Luftwaffe commander said“ When I saw Mustangs over Berlin. I knew the war was lost.”

California Warbirds has maintained and operated N5460V since the late 1960's. Over the years, StrawBoss has worn different schemes but is currently painted as the mount flown by 328 Fighter Squadron/352nd FG, Col. James D Mayden. Mayden had 2 air victories, 4 ground kills and commanded the 352nd FG from July 1944 to September 1945. The right side "Little Sandra" is painted as the crew chief side, while the left wears "StrawBoss 2".

To view more photos of StrawBoss2 over the years visit our photo gallery. For more info on the original StrawBoss and Mayden, click here.

 

Model: P-51D-20NA
Serial #: 44-72192
Date Built: January 5th, 1945
Registration: N5460V
Wing Span: 37' 0
Length: 32' 2"
Height: 13' 8"
Max Speed: 505 mph
Gross Weight: 10,500 lbs
Power Plant: RollsRoyce V-1650