The 192d Fighter Wing’s F-22 Raptor flagship was detailed with a blue nose in preparation for the annual 1st FW/192d Maintenance Professional of the Year Award Banquet. The F-22’s nose was prepared to emulate the P-51 Mustang blue nose used during World War II by the 328th Fighter Squadron. Stationed at RAF Bodney, England during WW II, the “Blue Nosed Bastards of Bodney” were led by 328th Major George E. “Ratsy” Preddy, Jr. Major Preddy recorded over 26 aerial victories with his Mustang “Cripes A’Mighty,” and became the Top Mustang Ace during WW II. A barber pole was added to the right side identifying Crew Chief Art “Snoot” Snyder’s second job. Besides being crew chief for Major Preddy, SSgt Snyder had also been a barber for the 328th.
United States Air Force
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