Trumpeter 1/48 scale RA-5C Vigilante

The Squadron - Photo Reconnaissance Squadron RVAH-13 established in 1961. The squadron insignia was inspired by alcohol. The same spread bat wing found on the side of the planes can also be found on the bottles of Bacardi rum. The call sign for all aircraft in this squadron was 'Flint River' followed by the aircraft designation found on the nose. Out of all Vigilante recon squadrons in Vietnam, this unit lost the most aircraft in combat including the one that is modeled in the display, BuNo 151627/NH 602. On March 9, 1966 Flint River 602 was piloted by Cdr Charles Putnam. On the return trip home while evading SAM launches the aircraft was hit by small arms fire. Due to he lack of armament the plane was unable to survive the damage. Charlie Putnam was lost, however RAN Frank Prendergast, in dramatic fashion escaped North Vietnamese capture.
My father, Al Wattay was a pilot of RVAH-13 from 1966 into 1967 aboard teh U.S.S. Kittyhawk. This project is dedicated to him and his Band of Brothers of RVAH-13. As the placcard reads 'They risked everything for the freedom of others...The most noble of all causes.'

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• Vietnam
• model airplane
• Trumpeter
• Vigilante

[Gustavflyer]

This airplane was built by my good friend Ross, he did an outstanding job on this bird.

[reuvbre]

looks really good =P

[208stroker1]

Outstanding job...5*****