The P-38 Lightening was the first fighter to provide protection for B-17's all the way to the target and back. The P-47 Thunderbolt had to turn back at the German border due to lack of fuel. The Luftwaffe knew this and waited to pounce with lethal consequences, bomber losses were very high.

A P-38 makes a head on attack against two Fw190's, splitting them as they attempt to get on the tail of a damaged B-24. Although not as agile in a dog fight as the Me109's or Fw190's flown withy skill and courage it proved a reliable escort until the P-51 Mustang arrived. 

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