Boyington was not only a drunk but a mean drunk, liar and on top of that a jerk.
Ok Now I will tell my story
Son Trey and I watched the TV series and I had his book that Trey had also read. Trey couldn't get enough of his HERO until 1977 Oshkosh Fly-In, Trey was 9YO at that time. Boyington was set up to sell his books at Osh. to make extra drinking money. Trey had found a VERY nice Large painting of Boyington's Corsair "Lulabelle" in an Island scene with other F4Us in the pattern. Trey just had to have in and our plan was to get Boyington to sign it. Well we beat feet to Boyington's tent to get him to sign and a picture with Trey. When asked if he would sign the painting "NOPE I only sign my books". Well Pappy I already have one of your early books and don't need another.
Still no signature. "OK Pappy I'll buy a book" Still NOPE. "How about I buy 2 of your books" "Well OK" So now I have a happy Kid, but he was also disappointed in his hero and the way he acted.
Yes we both still have his books and the painting hangs on the wall of his house along with the pictures of him with one of the F4Us used in the series and the 1977 picture of him with Boyington.
Tex Hill of AVG fame and a real hero writes in "Flying Tiger" of Boyington's crap while with the AVG. I have spoke with Mr. Hill many times at Fly-Ins and he was a true Gentleman. I highly recommend his book.
CAF P-40 to honor Tex Hill and was once owned and restored by Mike Dillon of Dillon Precision.
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Lulabelle with the press. Notice no tail hook. Marine land based F4Us didn't need them or folding wings.
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