By James Church
Midwest Aero Restorations, Ltd. , of Danville, Illinois is making great progress on yet another stunning P-51 Mustang restoration. The aircraft currently nearing completion following the attention of Midwest’s team of dedicated and talented craftsmen is North American Aviation (NAA) P-51D-20-NA Mustang, USAAF #44-72107. This particular Mustang is a World War II combat veteran, having flown with the 20th Fighter Group (FG), 77th Fighter Squadron (FS) of the 8th Air Force in the closing days of the war. With the 20th, it is known to have at one point carried the names BJ – Belle of the West, and Jeanne.
Following the cessation of hostilities, the Mustang was given to the Swedish Air Force, serving as s/n 26071. It then went, along with a number of others, to the Domincan Republic, where it served in the Fuerza Aerea de Republica Dominica, as FAD 1929. Once completed the Mustang will wear the 20th FG’s late-period wartime markings with the black and white squadron identifier “piano keys” extending the length of the cowling, along with the code letters “LC-N,” as it would have appeared while in service. At this point, there will be no nose art or name applied to the aircraft, per the owner’s wishes.
The Mustang has recently been fitted with its newly overhauled Packard V-1650 Merlin engine. It had been overhauled by Jose Flores’ Vintage V-12s, of Tehachapi, California. A fully overhauled Hamilton Standard cuffed prop is awaiting installation. Currently, systems are being wired and plumbed, and it is hoped engine runs will commence before long. While it is fitted with a jumpseat behind the pilot, a Roush-provided kit comprising a faux armored headrest, rear fuselage fuel tank, and radio fit will give it a wartime appearance when a passenger is not being carried. The aircraft will sport a “from the factory” finish, with no polishing being done to the aluminum fuselage skins, filled, sanded, and profiled wing surfaces, as per the factory specifications will complete the look, giving the aircraft a very authentic appearance.
Registered N551WR to “Mustang Hangar LLC,” of Gainesville, Florida, it is expected this latest Mustang restoration will fly sometime this September or October. Other exciting projects are either currently underway, or en route to Midwest Aero, ensuring more award-winning, stunning aircraft will emerge from their workshop over the next several years.
Midwest Aero Restorations, founded by Mike Vadeboncoeur in Danville, Illinois, embodies his vision and passion for warbird restoration. It all began with the ambitious project of restoring Butch Schroeder’s F-6D Mustang Lil’ Margaret, which won the Grand Champion award at the 1993 Oshkosh Air Show. This achievement set the standard for Midwest Aero Restorations’ future endeavors, showcasing their capabilities and fueling their drive for excellence.
Today, Midwest Aero is renowned for its expertise in restoring the legendary Mustang, bringing these iconic warbirds back to their former glory. Each project reflects their commitment to excellence and authenticity. Their award-winning P-51 restorations, including Cripes A Mighty, Daddy’s Girl, and Red Dog, are testaments to their meticulous care and historical accuracy. They continue this legacy with more recent projects like the Bf-109G and P-51 Dallas Doll. Visit the company’s “Our Work” page to see detailed galleries of their restorations. For more information, visit www.midwestaero.com/
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
Walter would have been thrilled to see his old mount taking to the air again.