Brand new 1/72 scale diecast model of Consolidated PBY-5 Catalina Patrol Aircraft "Miss Pick Up, 5th ERS, 8th AF, Halesworth" (1945) United States Army Air Forces "The Aviation Archive" Series die cast model by Corgi. Brand new box. Detailed exterior. Has landing gear. True-to-scale detail. Has opening canopy. Detailed crew figures. Includes display stand. Officially licensed product. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Dimensions approximately Length- 10.75, Wingspan- 17.25 inches. Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy, realistic feel. It is a highly detailed and accurate model, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of military history. Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels, and surface details for an authentic representation of the real-life airplane. HISTORY ASPECTS: The Consolidated OA-10A Catalina, a variant of the PBY Catalina, was a critical asset for the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) during World War II. Designed primarily for air-sea rescue operations, the OA-10A provided a lifeline to downed airmen and stranded personnel in both the European and Pacific theaters. One such aircraft, famously known as Miss Pick Up, was assigned to the 8th USAAF and operated out of Halesworth, England. This aircraft played a crucial role in retrieving pilots who had been forced to ditch in the frigid waters of the English Channel and the North Sea, where survival depended on rapid rescue. Throughout the war, OA-10A Catalinas like Miss Pick Up operated under hazardous conditions, often flying long-range patrols over hostile waters to locate and recover Allied aircrews. The aircraft's amphibious capabilities allowed it to land on water, making it ideal for its rescue mission. Despite the ever-present threat of enemy fighters and rough sea conditions, these missions were vital in maintaining pilot morale and ensuring the continued effectiveness of Allied air operations. The 8th USAAF's heavy bomber crews, frequently flying high-risk missions over Nazi-occupied Europe, relied on the Catalina crews to bring them home safely if disaster struck. The legacy of Miss Pick Up and other OA-10A Catalinas remains a testament to the dedication of the air-sea rescue teams that saved countless lives during the war. After World War II, the Catalina continued to serve in various military and civilian roles, including maritime patrol, transport, and firefighting. Today, Miss Pick Up is preserved as a flying memorial, honoring the courageous crews who risked their lives to rescue others in the face of war. This 1:72 scale model captures the essence of this legendary rescue aircraft. With highly detailed panel lines, realistic weathering effects, and authentic USAAF markings, this replica brings history to life. Perfect for collectors and aviation enthusiasts alike, this model pays tribute to the brave rescue crews and the aircraft that played a vital role in saving lives during World War II.