Its modifications make it far tougher to fly than other warbirds, which, after all, were built for 19-year-olds to handle.

FORBES: Lord Of The Warbirds

He has 17 warbirds--World War II fighters such as the Rare Bear, a Grumman F8F Bearcat that has set records as the world's fastest piston-driven plane, hitting 528 mph.

FORBES: A Wildcatter In Love With Warbirds

Back in 2008 he turned down months of interview requests before agreeing to sit down with Forbes for this story ("The Crossing") on his oil and gas business, and this one ("A Wildcatter in Love With Warbirds") on his passion for collecting vintage World War II fighter planes.

FORBES: BP Inks Gas Deal With Texas Wildcatter Rod Lewis