Republic P-47 Thunderbolt Color Photographs – 56th Fighter Group Part IV

P-47D-25 serial 42-26628 was assigned to Frederick J. Christensen Jr. of the 62nd FS. He was credited with 21.5 victories, including six Ju 52s on 21JUL44.

A gaggle of 56th Fighter Group Thunderbolts preparing to take off from Boxted. Nearest to the camera is 42-26466 “Anamosa II” of Captain Russell B. Westfall. (IWM)

“Josephine My Flying Machine” serial 44-21199 was the mount of Lt. Leo F. Butiste of the 62nd Fighter Squadron.

A detail of the “Josephine” artwork on the nose. Note the leading edge of the wing was kept in natural metal. (IWM)

Lt. Butiste and his mechanic pose in front of Josephine, showing details of the nose and paint chipping. (IWM)

Another view of P-47M serial 44-21199 with Lt. Butiste in the cockpit. His three aerial victories are marked on the fuselage. (IWM)

The starboard side of the nose with the “Josephine My Flying Machine” inscription, pin-up artwork was on the port side. (IWM)

A view of Josephine with her engine being serviced. (IWM)

P-47M serial 44-21237 was another Thunderbolt of the 62nd Fighter Squadron which carried a camouflage similar to Josephine. She was piloted by Lt. Walter J. Sharbo. (IWM)

A second shot of the same aircraft. She carried the “Marion” pin-up artwork on the port side of the cowl and “North Dakoda Kid” on the starboard side. Sharbo was credited with 5.5 victories, including an Me 262. He crash landed twice but survived the war. (IWM)

Part V here: https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/2024/06/26/republic-p-47-thunderbolt-color-photographs-56th-fighter-group-part-v/