Question about P-38

[Sirocka]

Ok, so I'm working on a drawing of a P-38 (Just for fun). The picture I'm using is a computer-generated image I found online. The nose art says "Yankee Doodle" and has a picture of what looks like the cat from Tom Jerry. The tail number is 62543. My question is: is this an actual P-38 that served in WWII? If so, does anyone know who flew it, what theater it served in, and if it has any particular distinctions? Again, this drawing is just for fun so I don't have to put in any background details such as other fighters, clouds, scenery, etc. But I would like it to be as authentic as possible.

 

[syscom3]

The "MC" indicates its from the 20FG, 79th FS. So that part is correct.

The tail code though, is not listed on the 20th FG website.

 

[Crimea_River]

The O on the tail is the a/c code. There was a famous Lightning MC-O Happy Jack's Go Buggy flown by Jack Ilfrey. I believe 79 FS Lightnings had a black square on the outer tail surface.

 

[syscom3]

I meant the aircraft serno on the tail.

 

[Sirocka]

So it looks like this might not be an actual P-38 from the war?

 

[mhuxt]

Joe Baugjer's website indicates it's not a valid serial number;

USAF Serial Number Search Results

Only P-38 ending in 2543 is 43-2543

TAIL: 43-2359 ... 43-2558
Lockheed P-38G-15-LO Lightning

2543 (14th FG) lost Jan 27, 1944. MACR 2038