The first Royal Air Force outfit to be equipped with the Mustang was 26 Squadron, at Gatwick, which had previously operated the Curtiss Tomahawk and Westland Lysander. The outfit received its first Mustangs in either January or February of 1942, depending on whose account(s) you choose to believe. Let's just call it 'early 1942'... how's-about-that? Anyhoo, at this time 26 Squadron was tasked with tactical reconnaissance and 'daytime intruder' missions... low-level affairs for which the Allison-powered Mustang was ideal.
Here's a couple'a views of a 26 Squadron Mustang I, serial AM148. This ship was flown by Squadron Leader Goodale during the Dieppe Raid on August 19th, 1942 and was damaged by flak, running off the runway during landing back at Gatwick. She was repaired and went on to serve with 430 (RCAF) Squadron, finally being struck off charge in April of 1944.
Project 914 Archives (S.Donacik collection)
Project 914 Archives
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