Initial orders for the Mustang are said to have been the result of Hap Arnold's personal intervention. The initial Allison V-1710 powered P-51/A-36's proved excellent low -altitude fighters, tactical recon aircraft, and fighter bombers. When mated to the Packard- built Merlin V-1650, the P-51 was an outstanding success. Mustangs were also assembled in Australia and remanufactured for export under military assistance programs continued into the 1960's. Attempts were even made to market a turboprop version.

The Museum's "Mighty Moose" was delivered to the Army in June 1945 and served initially with the 31st Fighter Squadron, Continental Air Force. In 1951 it was transferred to the 131st Fighter Bomber Wing, Strategic Air Command. From November 1 9D3 to October 1956 it was operated by the 165th Fighter Bomber Squadron, Kentucky Air National Guard. Before coming to Planes of Fame, it was operated by a number of civilian owners. Over 350 Mustang airframes are believed to exist today. About 125 are thought to be airworthy.