VF-102 Diamondbacks 1970 USS Independence F-4J Model, 1/42 (18") Scale, Mahogany, Navy

VF-102 Diamondbacks USS Independence F-4J ModelFly with the VF-102 Diamondbacks off the USS Independence (1970) in this handcrafted wooden F-4J model. Each piece is carved from wood and handpainted to provide a piece you’ll love.Length – 18 inchesMade from MahoganyUS Veteran Owned BusinessThe product is not intended to be used by children 12 years and younger.The second VF-102 was established in 1955, was eventually redesignated as VFA-102, and is the subject of the remainder of this article.1950sVF-102 F2H-4 Banshee in 1956 Fighter Squadron 102 (VF-102), was established as VA-36 on 1 July 1955, and was immediately redesignated VF-102 on the same day (at the time, squadron designations were associated with their assigned airwing). The squadron was based at NAS Jacksonville flying the F2H Banshee. The squadron’s inaugural cruise took place aboard USS Randolph in July 1956. After returning from deployment, the squadron transitioned to the F4D Skyray. In addition to four 20 mm internal cannons, the Skyray carried the new AIM-9 Sidewinder missile.1960sVF-102 F4D-1s in 1960 The final cruise with the Skyray on Forrestal was January thru August 1961 after the squadron had moved to NAS Oceana, Virginia. It subsequently transitioned to the F-4 Phantom beginning a 20-year association with the Phantom.In 1964 and 1966 VF-102 won the COMNAVAIRLANT Battle “E” efficiency awards. Highlights during this period included participation in Operation Sea Orbit on board USS Enterprise, and combat operations off Vietnam in 1968.1970sAn F-4 Phantom from VF-102 intercepting an Egyptian Air Force Tupolev TU-16 Badger over the Mediterranean Sea on 12 January 1971.VF-102 F-4J Phantom II circa 1977 In 1975 and 1978, VF-102 conducted cross-deck operations aboard HMS Ark Royal. In 1971, 1973, 1974, 1975: the squadron conducted four deployments to the M

• Handcrafted Kiln Dried Mahogany Model
• US Military Aviator Owned Small Business
• Highly detailed with minimal decals
• Matched against historic photos
• Heirloom Pieces