Corgi AA36618 Lockheed P-38J Lightning Virginia, Die Cast Model Plane New Guinea, 1944, Aviation, for ages A14+, Diecast Aircraft Adults & Collectors 14+, Aviation Archive

The Japanese referred to the 475th Fighter Group and their Lightnings as the Bloody Butchers of Rabaul, which serves as an effective indicator to the combat success of the American Group. This particular aircraft was delivered to the 433rd Fighter Squadron at Hollandia Airfield in early 1944, and according to its pilot Carroll R. Anderson, inherited its striking markings progressively over a period of several weeks. Although there was a plan for the final scheme, it had to be completed over time, and by making liberal use of the 433rd Fighter Squadrons medium blue I.D colour. The final touches were made whilst the Group Commander was away from the units home airfield for a few days, which presented the team assigned to her with the opportunity to express their full artistic talents. Apparently, Virginia Marie was the only Lightning in the 433rd Fighter Squadron to actually receive its full intended paint job.