What a great story! Thank you for taking the time to share it with us here. That's how I remember the T-50... As on Sky King, often landing on dirt airstrips or worse, and doing just fine with that.

Amazing how these experiences stick with us, and make impressions that last a lifetime. I had a few myself... Insignificant to most people, but very important and pivotal for me.
Thanks again.

PS> I can't post a specific link, but I remember that when I was searching Google for T-50 info, I read several stories from guys who flew the T-50 in WWII. All interesting, for one reason or another.