11/30/2013. Remarks by Bob Bourlier: "The 43-24956 is flown by Lieutenant Ray Crowell leading a flight of eight P-51 Mustangs and eight P-40 Warhawks over the hump from Chabua, India to Kunming, China on July 29, 1944. Of interest is the fact that the right drop tank has been modified with a door. It was not used for fuel but was carrying a load of British Gin over the hump to the 118th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, 23rd Fighter Group, 14th Air Force.

Ray Crowell was the 118th TRS "B" flight leader in China and, upon returning to the USA he was based at March AFB. While there he transitioned into the P-80. In July 1946 he was one of the initial cadre of the first FP-80 jet reconnaissance squadron, the 12th TRS, along with Robin Olds and Clyde East who was the top scoring reconnaissance ace in Europe with thirteen victories. In 2007 Clyde East stated that Ray Crowell was the most talented pilot that he had ever flown with.

In the December 6, 1946 issue of Life magazine there is a photo spread featuring a P-80 and a P-51 showing the maneuverability of the P-80; Ray Crowell was the P-80 pilot."