P51A Mustang equipped with four 20mm cannons. This is the version of
the Mustang that Waldo and Roseanna fly throughout the book, until
the last few chapters when they move on to the newer P-51D. The
Mustangs built with this armament were part of a block to be
delivered to the RAF, but the Air Corps decided to keep a few and
make it up with the next production block. A number of the airplanes
went through various experimental fittings…and in case you are
wondering, this P-51-NA is painted in a decidedly unique and
experimental camouflage scheme…unlike anything depicted in
Roseanna’s Reply. This appears to be one of the early Mustangs that
hung around the states throughout the war and got tinkered with a
lot. Careful examination of the photo will reveal the glass blister
right behind the canopy. This was one of the aircraft modified for
photo recon and the blister houses a huge, downward looking camera.
I’ve had this photo since the early 1970’s and must admit to a lack
of knowledge as to its credit. I suspect it is either an official
Air Force or official factory photo. My guess is Air Force. I’m sure
some well informed reader will be able to add more detail, but I
would further venture to guess this photo was taken at Wright Field,
even though just about everything in the background is a North
American Aviation product including one of only two XB-28 medium
bombers visible under the Mustang’s port wing. The early Mustang
models did not have a bubble canopy like the later D models so
visibility to the rear was poor. This was a distinct disadvantage
when someone was on your tail.