anybody ever see one of these in kit form? My brother was on the Orion in the 60s, would like to build something for him.
Small audience. Those of us that served on them would rather not remember the long work days that assignment brought with it. Still, it would make for a busy diorama to have one with a gaggle of boats alongside. The Orion lasted until 1993 over at La Maddelena in Sardinia. She’s apparently still tied up at the James River, Virginia, Reserve Fleet anchorage. There is a website for tenders that may have some more information for you, but I’m not sure of the current address. I don’t know of any models, though. Dave Blackwell, MMC(SS), USN, Retired (my tender tour was on USS Hunley, AS-31, in Holy Loch, Scotland from 1985-1987)
Loose Cannon makes a 1/700 kit of the AR-5 Vulcan (available through Pacific Coast) which might be convertable to a WW2 vintage subtender.
I believe Loose Cannon has the USS Fulton (AS-11) in 1:700. Not exactly the ship or class you want, but, maybe, a starting point.
Mike K
Ahh USS Fulton AKA USS Neversail… Welded to State Pier in New London for 25 years…
She did have a grand WW2 history though.
And don’t forget the “Burning Bush” also known affectionately as “Coffee Ground Island”, in Key West. Another icon of the US Submarine Force.
I’ve still got a set of Fulton’s Ship’s Plans. Fairly recent, too, the last correction date is 71.
Mike K
BTW. Here’s the site for Sub Tenders : http://www.mississippi.net/~comcents/tendertale.com/
It’s a good place to find shipmates and info on them. Just cut, paste and go.
Mike K.