This P-51 Mustang was delivered to the USAAF – 8th AF- ATC in Metfield Suffolk. After the war is changed owners several times. It’s current owner Sal Rubino Jr. obtained the aircraft in 2000. It was restored and repainted in honor of the original P-51 “Grim Reaper” from 9th Air Force during WWII.

Post Restoration it was flown a few times by Capt Lowell K. Brueland, 355th FS, 354th FG, 9th AF, who flew the original P-51 “Grim Reaper” during WWII. It has also made several appearances in the National Championship Air Races over the years.

“Grim Reaper” is currently flown and shown at air shows mainly along the west coast and it is always a crowd favorite.

Pilot Bio

Sal Rubino started out early in the farming business flying representatives to various ranches all over Northern California. Aircraft that includes Beechcraft King Air’s, Commander’s, Cessna 421’s, and a variety of Citations were for the most part, the bulk of his corporate flying.

As a young pilot he learned in mostly aerobatic aircraft. Getting his Private Pilot License in a Super Decathlon. Later down the road going to Zhukovsky, Russia to attend Test Pilot School. Learning in famous Soviet aircraft like the MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-25, and MiG-29. Flying in all regimes up to Mach 2.65 and 100,000 feet. Using this experience he provided contract work in the L-39 and MiG-21 for the United States Navy Test Pilot School, Navy Fighter Weapons School – Top Gun, and British Empire Test Pilot School. Some of the WWII flying includes the Reno Air Races in Nevada where Sal earned a First Place trophy in the Unlimited Silver Class with the P-51 Mustang named Grim Reaper.

With experience in many different WWII aircraft, Militay Jets, and corporate aircraft, Sal is always happy to be in the air no matter what it is. It’s still a dream to fly.