The Lockheed P-38J Lightning was an American fighter aircraft used by the US Air Force during World War II. Developed to United States Army Air Corps specifications, the P-38J had distinctive twin booms and a single, central nacelle bearing the pilot and armament. The P-38J was a formidable fighter, interceptor and attack aircraft and was also used extensively as a long-range escort fighter. The Lightning’s greatest assets were her twin engines, long range, heavy payload, high speed, fast climb and concentrated firepower.
The P-38J 23 Skidoo is one of the few Lightings in flying condition. It was restored in July, 1988 with markings of WWII Capt. Perry Dahl’s Lightning while he was fighting in the Pacific front. 23 Skidoo is a saying from the 1920s, which refers to “getting out while the getting’s good”. It is currently based out of the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino, California.