The F86 is one of the iconic symbols of American aviation during the Korean War.  Future astronaut , Marine Major John Glenn, flew one during the conflict when Marine pilots were on detached service with the USAF.

And, they soldiered on for many years in the service of other countries.  I took this photo in the late 1960’s in Korea at Kimpo.  I was flying out on a very old Constellation flown by Flying Tiger Airlines in route to Taiwan when we were halted at the end of the runway waiting for traffic to clear.  This fellow suddenly appeared and obviously possessed a greater priority for take off.  I snapped this photo.  Notice that there are Sidewinder launch rails under the wings near the fuselage.  The aircraft appeared to be well used.

I have been disappointed by some Academy 1/72 scale kits, and I am always disappointed by their decals – except this kit which was a “Special Edition”.  The decals for this kit were printed by Cartograph and were excellent.  The are three markings:  The Huff, John Glenn’s Mig Mad Marine and one other.

I am not sure about the origin of this kit.  The scalemates.com chart was not clear, but I think it originated in the 1980’s.  It appears to be a molding of that vintage.

None the less, it is  nice kit that goes together quickly with no huge issues.  I built this kit as part of my interest in Korean War aviation.

This will be my last completed model for 2022.  The Arma Hobby P-39Q Airacobra is on the workbench now.  However, Christmas guests will be arriving soon, and I will be taking a break from the workbench.

A few months ago I pre-ordered the Kotare Supermarine Spitfire MkI hoping it would be here by now.  I have just received email informing me that production is being delayed due to supply chain issues (ask me if I was surprised), and it looks like a month or two more.  I immediately emailed Kotare and said I understood, let the order stand and I will wait for it to arrive when ready.  Imagine a Wingnut Wings kit of a WWII fighter, especially the aircraft that saved the West from a new dark age.  (I don’t think I am overstating that.)

There is much to look forward to in 2023.

Thanks for stopping by.