The Republic Aviation P-47 Thunderbolt entered service in May 1942 with the introduction of the P-47B. It had a Razorback, a high dorsal spine behind the side-ways opening canopy that reduced visibility. As improvements were made a D variant was produced with 12,602 being manufactured. The British developed a sliding bubble canopy for their Typhoon and this was adopted by the USAAF starting with the P-47D-5. With its ability to survive enemy fire along with impressive armament and bomb load the P-47 excelled at ground attack roles.
In September 1942 Glenn Eagleston earned his wings and was assigned to the 20th FG but transferred to the 354th FG in England October 1943. In December 1943 the 354th Pioneers began flying P-51s over France. During WWII Eagleston accumulated 18.5 victories, all in P-51s. After D-Day the 354th FG moved operations to France. In October 1944 Glenn Eagleston took command of the 353rd FS now equipped with P-47Ds and flew their first mission on November 26, 1944. On February 16, 1945 the 353rd parked the P-47s and began flying the P-51 again.