Shifty asked me to skin a couple of Spitfires from the 307th FS.
The 307th was part of the USAAF's 31st FG. This group transferred to the UK in 1942 and began training with RAF-supplied Spitfire Mk Vs as their P-39s were not considered suitable for the European theatre. After becoming operational in August the group flew missions over the Channel and occupied France. In November they transferred to Algeria to help cover the Operation Torch landings in North Africa. In the spring of 43 Spitfire IXs began replacing their Vs and in July moved to Sicily to support the invasion there. In Sicily and later Italy the 31st FG flew Spitfires until they were replaced by P-51s in March 1944.
The Spitfire Mk V is the aircraft of 1st Lt. Carroll Pryblo, who was hit by friendly fire over the Operation Torch landings and ditched his crippled machine on the beach. Lt Pryblo scored three kills in the Spitfire with the 307th.
The Spitfire Mk IX is the aircraft of Major Virgil Fields and carries his initials within the squadron code. He assumed command of the 307th FS on 3rd October 1943 but was shot down and killed by a 109 when his squadron was bounced over Anzio on February 2nd 1944. Major Fields scored five kills in the Spitfire.
