Two P-51 Mustangs flying at the 2024 Lake Cumberland Air Show in Kentucky under a clear sky.
A Pair of WWII Legends Take Flight
Tom McCord’s P-51D “High-G” and RT Dickson’s P-51 “Swamp Fox” brought the sights and sounds of WWII-era aviation roaring back to life at the 2024 Lake Cumberland Air Show. Watching these two vintage warbirds in formation offered a rare glimpse into the past, highlighting the remarkable engineering of the North American P-51 Mustang—long heralded as one of the best fighter escorts of the Second World War.
The P-51 Mustang: A Storied History
Few aircraft are as iconic as the North American P-51 Mustang. Originally developed for the Royal Air Force and later adopted by the United States Army Air Forces, the Mustang became renowned for its speed, endurance, and high-altitude performance. Armed with six .50 caliber Browning machine guns and powered by the Packard-built Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Mustang served as a vital long-range escort fighter. Its ability to protect Allied bombers over Nazi-occupied Europe was so influential that it’s often said the P-51’s presence “changed the game” in the air war.
Two P-51 Mustangs flying at the 2024 Lake Cumberland Air Show in Kentucky under a clear sky.
High-G & Swamp Fox: Honoring the Past
Tom McCord’s “High-G,” hailing from the Tom Wood Collection in Indianapolis, and RT Dickson’s “Swamp Fox,” a 1944 P-51D, offered a stirring tribute to the generation that flew these aircraft in combat. Attendees of the 2024 Lake Cumberland Air Show were treated to formation passes, low-level flybys, and the unmistakable roar of the Merlin engine. This duo brought precision, heritage, and deep respect for aviation history into the heart of Kentucky’s skies.
The 2024 Lake Cumberland Air Show Experience
The 2024 show marked the third year of the Lake Cumberland Air Show, held on September 21, following a brief hiatus in 2023 due to airport renovations. This year’s event celebrated the restored facilities and continued the tradition of showcasing a diverse lineup—from modern aerobatic teams to classic warbirds. Visitors could enjoy upgraded parking, shuttle services, VIP amenities, and interactive experiences like helicopter rides, all supported by community sponsorship and partnerships.
Keeping History Alive
Beyond the spectacular aerial performances, what makes events like the Lake Cumberland Air Show so significant is their educational and historical value. Connecting younger generations with WWII-era aircraft fosters appreciation for the sacrifices and innovations that shaped our modern world. McCord’s and Dickson’s P-51 Mustangs serve as flying museums, vivid reminders of the skill and bravery of Allied pilots, mechanics, and engineers who fought for freedom over eight decades ago.
P-51 Mustang performing at the 2024 Lake Cumberland Air Show, Kentucky, against a backdrop of trees and cloudy sky.
Show Location
The Lake Cumberland Air Show is held at the Lake Cumberland Regional Airport in Somerset, Kentucky. Learn more at https://www.lakecumberlandairshow.com/
Announcer
This year’s show was announced by Luke Carrico. Discover more about his work at https://www.lukecarrico.com/
