Customer Reviews

Combat Profile: Mustang : The P-51 Merlin Mustang in World War 2 (Combat Profiles)

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Noted English historian Roger Freeman presents an overview of flying the P-51 in combat in COMBAT PROFILE: MUSTANG, a 1989 release from Ian Allan. Any Mustang or 8th AF fan will want to have a look-see.

Freeman's book is not so much a collection of 'yank-and-bank' stories as an analysis of the aircraft, mission profiles and tactics utilized. Though there are some combat narratives, the book mainly consists of detailed descriptions of, for example, a typical 8th AF mission escorting bombers, a combat evaluation of the Mustang's strengths and weaknesses, a comparison with contemporary Allied and Axis fighters, etc. The most interesting chapter - 'Individual Opinion' - has reminiscences by several USAAF and RAF P-51 pilots. COMBAT PROFILE: MUSTANG features dozens of photographs, diagrams and maps along with a color profile of 'Big Beautiful Doll.'

Though somewhat dry in spots, Freeman's book is an interesting summary of wartime flying. It supplies the reader with background information as to why the Mustang did so well and then straps them into the cockpit for a mission over Germany. Another fine book from the dean of 8th AF historians. Recommended.