The text of the plaque at the museum reads:
REPUBLIC THUNDERBOLT
When it was introduced in January 1943, the Thunderbolt was the largest and heaviest single-engine fighter ever built.
It was designed by Republic Aviation Corporation and made its first flight in May 1941. Its military designation was P-47.
The first fighters were received by the United States Army Air Force in November of 1942, and it was introduced to combat
in April of 1943.
During 1944 the Thunderbolt or "Jug" as it was affectionately known, became operational in all active War Theaters except
Alaska and served with the Free French and Russian forces as well as the United States Army Air Force. It was primarily employed
on long-range ground attack missions, bombind and strafing communications, air fields, bridges and troop concentrations.
The P-47 Thunderbolt displayed in the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum is not representative of any particular U.S.A.A.F.
squadron, but is typical of the paint schemes used in the European Theater. It will undergo further restoration after the
Hellcat renovation is completed.
Official figures credit the Thunderbolt with a victory to loss ratio of 4.6 to 1. The Thunderbolt was particularly known
for its ruggedness. Perhaps the most outstanding tribute to the aircraft's ability to absorb punishment, as well as hand it
out, is the fact that all ten of the leading Thunderbolt aces survived the war.
Manfacturer: Republic Aviation
Branch of Service: Army
Type: P-47D-40
First Flight: May 1941
Entered Service:
January 1943
Markings: 56th Fighter Group
Victory to Loss Ratio: 4.6 to 1
Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-2800 2300
HP
Wing Span: 40' 9"
Length: 36' 1"
Weight: Empty 10,700 lbs; Max 17,500 lbs
Speed: 428 mph
Ceiling: 40,000'
Armament:
8/50 cal machine guns
