I can't resist!
"Tower, I'm having engine trouble in my Mustang, I'm going to run through my crash landing checklist!
(1) Partially open canopy- CHECK
(2) Enter a 10 to 15 degree bank, definitely don't level off- CHECK
(3) Partially retract landing gear- CHECK
(4) Keep the struggling engine running to make the prop is spinning when it hits and leave the fuel flow on- CHECK"
s^%# happens FAST. I don't think we can say how many of the things we're seeing in these limited pictures are results of improper action by the pilot, and how many are symptomatic of the failure. Not to mention, these three pictures alone don't give us a full idea of what was happening.
1) You want the canopy open enough to get out in case of fire, as the canopy may be damaged by the impact enough that it seizes in position. Fully open is NOT a priority at this low altitude, time-critical juncture. It's open enough to get out if it bursts into flames. Good enough.
2) Maybe straight and level lead to a house. In that case, I'll take my chances dragging a wing first rather than a direct impact with an obstacle.
3) I don't know my P-51 systems terribly well. Could they have been in the process of retracting when the engine failed and took hyds with it? There are circumstances where no gear is better than particular unsafe gear conditions. Perhaps they were extending and failed to fully extend?
4) I would cite number 2. Getting the airplane on the ground safely is more important than protecting the engine.
I'm not saying no mistakes were made, I'm just saying your being awfully critical based on such limited information.
