The P-38 was a fast long-range heavy fighter used for interception, close air support and bomber escort duties in the European, North African and Pacific theatres during World War Two (there were also reconnaissance versions). The Lightning proved to be very successful in all roles and was in production for the entire period of the US involvement in World War Two. Over 10,000 P-38’s were manufactured with the first entering service in 1941 in the USAAF and the last being retired from the then renamed USAF in 1950.
Dubbed the “Der Gabelschwanz Teufel“ (“Forked Tail Devil“) by German pilots the P-38 was credited with sharing the first air to air kill of a German aircraft by US Forces on August 14th, 1942 and went on to be a major contributor in establishing Allied air superiority over Europe. In the Pacific theatre the P-38 was credited with more air to air kills of Japanese aircraft than any other type and was the aircraft used by the United States Army Air Forces top aces Richard Bong (40 victories) and Thomas McGuire (38 victories). A very successful fighter indeed!