There are two general roles to follow in every case, regardless of the traffic pattern. Never forgot them:
1. Keep the pattern in close enough to the field and at sufficient altitude so you can bring your airplane in safely even with the power off, if necessary.
2. In preparing to peel off, don’t come barreling in at excessive speed. The greater the speed, the longer it takes you to slow down. After you are cleared for peeloff by the tower, slow down to 200-225 IAS before actually peeling off.
Source: Pilot Training Manual for the P-51 Mustang, AAF Manual 51-127-5, Headquarters Army Air Forces, Washington, D.C., August 1945.
