P-40K – An old Soldier Rescued

The Aleutian Tigers wore the Bengal Tiger scheme, partially because their commander was Maj. John Chennault, son of legendary Flying Tiger leader Claire Chennault. This rare, fully restored P-40K was the AirVenture Golden Wrench Grand Champion and is now on display at the Fagen Fighters WW II Museum in Granite Falls, Minnesota.

September 29, 1943: pilot J/Lt. I.I. Mikailov anxiously scanned the Russian tundra below for familiar landmarks. He had just survived a battle with four JGS Bf 109s, but as the fuel gauge edged toward empty, it was obvious he was still going to lose his aircraft. Resigned to his fate, he bellied his P-40 into the soft turf, and the war was over for Curtiss Warhawk 42-10256. Mikailov was unscathed, but 10256 would sit for...

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All the stories featured in Flight Journal are as unique and varied as the airplanes and warriors who flew them. From popular warbirds like the P-51 Mustang and Me 109 to the Lockheed SR-71 and futuristic hypersonic fighters, we cover the whole spectrum of aviation. We’ve heard from countless readers over the years about how much they enjoy the compelling stories and beautiful photography.