P-47 Thunderbolt with the USAAF in the MTO, Asia and Pacific (SMI Library)

P-47 Thunderbot’s service outside western Europe, in three other major theaters of World War II – the Mediterranean, Asia and Pacific – although perhaps not as publicized, was no less colorful and varied, which makes it an excellent subject for a photo-story. During the long campaign in Italy, Thunderbolt was the best air interdiction aircraft the Allies had; pitted against German and Italian fighters, it proved more than a match. In the Pacific, Thunderbolt easily held its own against Japanese fighters over New Guinea, and later over Japan’s Home Islands. Armed with ‘fire bombs’, bazookas and other ordnance, it earned distinction as close air support aircraft during the invasion of Marianas. Also in China-Burma-India theater the P-47 excelled both as fighter and fighter-bomber, with the renowned Air Commandos, among other units.