This CORGI Aviation Archive 1:72 scale North American P-51D Mustang is a must-have for collectors of Second World War fighter aircraft, capturing the famous 'Moonbeam McSWINE' flown by ace pilot William T. 'Bill' Whisner Jr during his most heroic combat missions of 1944-45. 

Featuring authentic markings and premium diecast construction, this exceptional model commemorates one of the few American pilots to achieve ace status in both the Second World War and the Korean War. 

Ready to display straight from the box with no assembly required, this detailed replica brings aviation history to life in your collection.

Key Features

• Ready to display with no assembly required
• Premium 1:72 scale diecast construction
• Authentic 'Moonbeam McSWINE' markings from 1945
• Rotating propeller
• Includes display stand

History

William T. 'Bill' Whisner rose to prominence as the trusted wingman of legendary US ace George Preddy, before carving out his own remarkable legacy as one of America's most respected fighter pilots. His most spectacular achievement came on 21st November 1944 during a mission over the synthetic oil refineries at Merseburg, where he destroyed five FW190 fighters in just twenty frantic minutes of combat, with two more probably destroyed. This extraordinary feat earned him the Distinguished Service Cross.

Whisner's second DSC came on New Year's Day 1945 during the Luftwaffe's audacious 'Operation Bodenplatte' raid, when 65 enemy fighters attacked airfield Y-29 Asch in Belgium. Taking off in his faithful Mustang 'Moonbeam McSWINE', he immediately engaged approaching enemy aircraft. Before his undercarriage had fully retracted, he was already firing at a Focke Wulf Fw190, sending it crashing to the ground.  

Moments later, enemy cannon shells struck his fighter, but despite the damage, Whisner refused to disengage. He stayed with his battered Mustang to claim a second Focke Wulf and two Messerschmitt Bf109s destroyed, bringing his total victory score to 15.5 aircraft. These would be Whisner's final victories of the Second World War, but his combat career was far from over. 

He went on to become one of only seven US airmen to achieve ace status during the Korean War, this time flying the North American F-86A/E Sabre jet, cementing his place among the most accomplished fighter pilots in American military history.