The Keeper of the Keys
Author: Lee Lauderback

With slide rules and engineering genius the P-51 Mustang was designed and built in just a little over 120 days. Conceived as a weapon of war to defend democracy this remarkable aircraft went on to arguably become the premier fighter of World War II. In 2007 the Mustang will be 65 years old and if the remaining airframes could talk what terrific stories they could tell!

During the war years, one can only imagine the different pilots, the different places, and the different missions each of these Mustangs experienced. Although few of the actual aircraft returned after World War II, their legend was to continue with new Mustangs coming off the assembly line. These Mustangs would see combat in Korea, primarily on air-to-ground missions but occasionally going up against next generation aircraft such as the Mig-15. After Korea the P-51 would continue its military service with the Air National Guard units across the United States. In 1985, after almost 45 years of military service, the Mustang would finally retire as a combat aircraft, last operated by the Dominican Air Force. Yet this was just the ending of a chapter in the history of this remarkable aircraft. The story was to continue.

The Mustang being surplused during the late 50's offered the civilian pilots a chance to fly this high performance fighter, and so they did. For just a fraction of the original $56,000 cost these aircraft took to the skies in civilian hands. They were used for sport aircraft, air racing, air shows, and many other unique applications. They were just surplus military junk to so many people, out for a spin and left to the elements to age away.

Today the accomplishments and qualities of the "Greatest Generation" are now beginning to be remembered and revered. The warbird, and particularly the Mustang, symbolize the qualities that we hope to find in ourselves and our leaders. A new breed of owner has taken on a more professional approach to the maintenance and operation of this fantastic fighter. Businessmen for the first time saw the true value of these aircraft and made the substantial investments in time and money to return them to better than new condition. The aircraft transformed into national treasures, their rightful place in history.

The civilian paint jobs were being replaced with original combat paint schemes, most paying tribute to the warriors who flew them in combat. Names such as "Angels Playmate", "Old Crow", "Glamorous Glen III", "Hell-er-Bust", "American Beauty", and "Slender, Tender & Tall" would once again grace the skies. At times, aging Mustang pilots both the famous and the nameless would have the chance to once again wear their favorite aircraft, but for the first time far from war. A chance to enjoy the freedom they fought so long and hard for.

From combat days to air shows, flown by the likes of R.A. Bob Hoover, the Mustang has constantly been in the public eye. In 1999, for the first time in history, rows of extraordinary Mustangs were viewed by four generations during the "Gathering of Mustangs and Legends" at our home base in Kissimmee, Florida. Combat veterans to children marveled at the 65 time capsules. The event was an unprecedented collection of Mustangs and the Gladiators who took them into combat.

This "Once in a lifetime Aviation Happening" is about to happen again. This time in 2007 in Columbus, Ohio attracting more Mustangs, more legends and more memories for those who attend. The Gathering of Mustangs and Legends-The Final Round-Up will be the largest gathering of Mustangs and the brave pilots who flew them since these flying Knights graced the skies of Europe defending our freedoms 65 years ago.

I am truly blessed to fly the Mustang almost every day for almost 2 decades, teaching from the Mustang's classroom, the cockpit of a TF-51, "Crazy Horse". I have had the opportunity and privilege to give back some of which the Mustang has given me; to share the Mustang with so many others that would never have had the chance to experience the performance and handling qualities of this thoroughbred. But I remind myself often that I am but just the "keeper of the keys". These treasures must move on to the next generation, not because they are awesome to fly but because they represent what so many fallen Patriots gave their lives to defend. They represent the ultimate freedom.

I look forward to sharing the Mustang, the Men and Women who flew them and their memories with you in Columbus, Ohio September 27-30, 2007 for the Final Round-Up.

Mustangs Forever,

Lee Lauderback
Stallion 51 Flight Ops