The Storch (Stork) was designed in 1935 and was widely used during WW II by German military forces for reconnaissance, liaison, ambulance, and other duties and by high ranking officers as personal transports. Among its features was its maneuverability, extremely low stalling speed of 32 mph, and its short field takeoff and landing characteristics. Between 1937-45, the German Air Force accepted almost 2,900 Storchs. Other countries using the Fi 156 included Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, and Italy. The most famous Storch mission was the hazardous rescue of deposed Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1943 from a tiny rock-strewn plateau at a remote lodge high in the Apennine Mountains. Not recommended for children under the age of 3. Small parts may be choking hazard. Color schemes may vary.