This book covers South and Southwest pacific P-38s, broken down by squadron and has 23 chapters. In addition to basic P-38 Markings and unusual Lightnings, the following squadrons are covered: 8th PRS, 17th FS,39th FS, 6th NFS,8th PRS, 12th FS, 17thPRS, 25th PRS, 9th FS,26thPRS, 35thFS, 36th FS, 44th FS, 80th FS, 339th FS, 418th NFS, 419th NFS, 421st NFS, 431st FS, 432nd FS, 433rd FS and the Fifth Fighter Command HQ.

There is an overview of the issues getting the P-38 into combat use. Each squadron chapter covers markings, losses, kills, personnel, and many other subjects. With kills, these are noted then a comparison with known Japanese losses and squadron claims is made.

MMP was founded in 1996 by Roger Wallsgrove, to publish "Mushroom Model Magazine". This quarterly modelling magazine was developed from "Mushroom Monthly”, a club newsletter which ran from 1985 to 1995, achieving a world-wide reputation for quality articles, fearless and honest reviews, and a great sense of humor. From 1997 the magazine was produced in collaboration with Robert Peczkowski and Artur Juszczak (Stratus), which meant a big leap in print quality and design. MMP expanded into book publication in 1999, and since then they have built up a list of books on aircraft and aviation, naval, military vehicles, and military history. MMP Books are distributed in North America by Casemate Publications.