North American P-51C Mustang

Manufactured by North American Aviation in Dallas, Texas, this aircraft was delivered to the U.S. Army Air Corps on April 7, 1944. "C" models were built in Dallas. 886 "C" model Mustangs were built before the production line was converted to producing the new "D" model Mustangs in July, 1944.

Tuskegee Airmen

Birth of the Red Tail Project

Minnesota was ultimate destination in the effort to return her to flight. After extensive research, it was discovered tha the C model Mustang was the signature aircraft of the African-American aviators of WWII known as the Tuskegee Airmen. The story of these American patriots, who painted the tails of their aircraft red, had been left out of most history books. Thus, the "Red Tail Project" concept was born. The decision was made to paint this rare aircraft in the distinctive colors of the Tuskegee Airmen~ the 332nd Fighter Group ~ and, in so doing, honor these long neglected heroes who, during World War II, accomplished a "double victory"; one over nazism and the other over racism. The importance and justification of this decision was ratified by the Minnesota Legislature with a substantial monetary grant towards its ultimate completion.

The Final Restoration Efforts

It was decided to perform a complete rebuild of the wings. The new wings emerged as masterpieces of craftsmanship as good, if not better, than the original NAA factory efforts. Close inspection of the fuselage, however, revealed that Hurricane Beulah's salt water bath had done more damage than originally believed and a complete reconstruction of the very core of the aircraft was the only realistic solution. For this, the Wing turned to Jerry Beck at Tri State Aviation in Wapeton, North Dakota. Jerry not only virtually remanufactured the fuselage, but was also responsible for the final assembly and completion of the aircraft. During that process, the aircraft was completely dismantled and every rivet removed. It was then reassembled with new sheet metal and structural components replacing any that were corroded or damaged. Now it is the honor of the Minnesota Wing to tell the shamefully ignored story of the Tuskegee Airmen. This story can be used as tangible evidence that seemingly insurmountable odds can be overcome with boundless determination, enthusiasm and perseverance. As such, the ultimate goal of the Red Tail Project is to inspire the youth of America to overcome the perceived barriers to success that confront us all and fix their eyes on the star of their choosing.