WIX Archives
Re: What's the story on P-51D N5444V?
Posted by Joe Scheil on Tue Nov 20, 2001 02:14:37 AM
In reply top What's the story on P-51D N5444V? posted by Patrick Carnerie on Mon Nov 19, 2001 12:39:03 PM
Patrick,
My last sighting was on August 12, 2001 at San Jose Airport when I copiloted up there. In a G2! Old 44V is still parked on the southeast tiedowns and is perhaps the last living remnant of the time when old warbirds just moldered away. Her white paint has been destroyed by the sun and a red primer is what shows thru on her wings and upper fuselage. The aircraft is complete, but sitting in the bay area can't be good. Its just amazing to see, a 51' abandoned on a tiedown, but there she is...
As for her future, fear not. Once she is sold, there will be an extensive restoration, and she will emerge born again (probably as a TF!). The paint she is in was really pretty. See one of the old issues of Aeronews Photo to see what it looked like new...The aircraft is currently held hostage by a jealous ex wife. The husband loved 44V more than her and she hates the airplane enough not to sell. 44Victor will have the last laugh I'm afraid...
Joe