Tommy's Dad

John C. "Pappy" Herbst, 23rd FG, and his P-51B "Tommy's Dad." (Thanks jbarbaud for the info update!) From the collection of Hal Geer.

Maj. John C. Herbst, CO of the 74th FS/23rd FG, with his P-51 Mustang. "Pappy" Herbst was trained by the British RAF and briefly served in Germany before joining the 74th Squadron in East Asian theater. Pappy was a natural leader, skilled pilot, and men trusted his judgement. During his seven months command, the 74th "Guerrilla" Squadron under "Pappy" John...