Ground crew at work on the P-51D of Major Donald Strait, Officer Commanding 361st Fighter Squadron, 356th Fighter Group at Martlesham Heath during the difficult winter of 1944-45.

Donald Strait arrived in England with the 361st FS in August 1943. His first three victories were achieved whilst flying a P47D Thunderbolt. In November 1944 the unit converted to P-51D Mustangs and he was subsequently confirmed with a further 10 and a half victories. At the completion of his tour in March 1945 Donald Strait had flown 122 combat missions.