The Red Bull P-38 Lightning 44-53254 was rolled out of Ezell Aviation on Dec. 21, 2007 for a photo op. The restoration of this aircraft appears to be nearing completion and the warbird community looks forward to the day when this beautiful aircraft takes to the skies again. This Lightning was previously owned by Marvin L Gardner but was heavily damaged in a landing accident. The ownership of the lightning subsequently moved on to Red Bull, who have been having it completely restored to airworthy condition by Ezell Aviation.
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and out on the ramp,
Not an airplane was stirring, not even a Champ.
The aircraft were fastened to tiedowns with care,
In hopes that come morning, they all would be there.
The fuel trucks were nestled, all snug in their spots,
With gusts from two-forty at 39 knots.
I slumped at the fuel desk, now finally caught up,
And settled down comfortably, resting my butt.
When the radio lit up with noise and with chatter,
I turned up the scanner to see what was the matter.
A voice clearly heard over static and snow,
Called for clearance to land at the airport below.
He barked his transmission so lively and quick,
I’d have sworn that the call sign he used was “St. Nick”.
I ran to the panel to turn up the lights,
The better to welcome this magical flight.