Nicknamed "Jug," the P-47 was one of the most famous Army Air Forces fighter planes of World War II. Although originally conceived as a lightweight interceptor, it developed as a heavyweight fighter and made its first flight on May 6, 1941. The first production model was delivered to the AAF in March 1942, and in April 1943 the Thunderbolt flew its first combat mission, a sweep over Western Europe. Used as both a high-altitude escort fighter and a low-level fighter-bomber, the P-47 quickly gained a reputation for ruggedness, and its sturdy construction and air-cooled radial engine enabled it to absorb severe battle damage and keep flying. During World War II, it served in almost every active war theater and in the forces of several Allied nations, and by the end of the war the U.S. had built more than 15,600 Thunderbolts. Production P-47B, P-47C, early P-47D, and P-47G series aircraft had metal-framed "Greenhouse" cockpit canopies, while late P-47D series aircraft and all P-47M and P-47N series production aircraft had clear "Bubble" canopies that improved rearward vision. In addition to serving with the AAF, some were flown in action by the British, Free French, Russians, and Brazilians. This P-47 "Thunderbolt" is painted in the colors of the P-47D flown by Lt. Col. Francis S. Gabreski while he commanded the 61st Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, 8th Air Force, and its markings show the D-Day invasion stripes and 28 confirmed air victories. Francis S. Gabreski flew many combat missions in the P-47 during World War II and recorded 33 1/2 aerial victories. He was shot down, captured, and was a POW in Germany. In Korea he shot down 6 1/2 MiGs and became the 8th jet ace in 1952. Colonel Gabreski logged more than 5,000 flying hours and held several command positions during his distinguished career.