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Lucky13
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Republic P-47D-25-RE Thunderbolt 42-26413 (MSN 1990) War Bond aircraft; "Oregon's Britannia"; 63rd FS (UN-Z), 56th FG, 8th AF, RAF Boxted, Essex, UK Station 150; "Happy Warrior"; In May 1944 the aircraft was one of a few which were subjected to a severe weight reduction program to operate special top cover to counter high-altitude Bf 109s.
The armor plating, some hydraulic components, four of the guns and other equipment saved approximately one ton. The undersides were painted sky blue. High octane fuel was carried internally and in two external drop tanks. Used for an occasional 'Purple Flight' at 38,000 feet.
Had an accident on the 26th of September 1944 when landing at Boxted; Crashed on the 30th of December 1944 after the engine failed on approach to land at Boxted. The engine had been rebuilt and the aircraft taken for a local test flight.
The landing gear was extended for the landing when the engine failed, the aircraft crashed in a field at Wick Farm, turned over and caught fire. The pilot was killed.