First Operational Flight of Lockheed P-38J "Lightning" - First of its Kind on Waymarking.com

The Lightning was designed in 1937 as a high-altitude interceptor. The first one built flew on February 11, 1939. It flew from California to New York in seven hours. Because of its unorthodox design, it required several years to perfect it for combat. Late in 1942, it went into large scale operations during the North African campaign. It was there the Luftwaffe named it "Der Gabelschwanz" - "The Fork-Tailed Devil". Equipped with droppable fuel tanks, the P-38 was used extensively as a long-range escort fighter. The P-38 saw action in practically every major combat area of the world. A very versatile aircraft, the P-38 was also used for dive bombing, level bombing, ground strafing, and photo reconnaissance missions. By the end of 1945, 9,923 P-38's of all types had been built.

As a suggestion for your visit log, please make every effort to supply a brief-to-detailed note about your experience at the Waymark. If possible also include an image that was taken when you visited the Waymark. Images can be of yourself, a personal Waymarking signature item or just one of general interest that would be of value to others. Sharing your experience helps promote Waymarking and provides a dynamic history of your adventures.