Here’s a question for the Phantom Phanatics. During Independence’s 1965 cruise did VF-84’s F-4Bs carry a mix of the old markings (gray vertical stabilizer with the pirate flag) and the new markings (all black vertical stab with the white jolly roger head and bones).
Thanks,
Tom
It’s VERY unusual for Navy squadrons to mix markings on a cruise. Occasionally it does happen when experimental schemes are being tested such as the jungle camo of Vietnam, the Heater/Ferris schemes of the 70s, or the introduction of TPS schemes in the early 80s. But usually, a squadron will carry uniform markings for a cruise. Of course this does not apply to CAG birds.
That’s what I suspected. I couldn’t think of a case where it occurred, nor have I found photographic evidence of it in this case. I’m building an Academy/ Eduard F-4B and want to do a VF-84 A/C on Independence in 1965. In the absence of info otherwise, it will be the later markings.
Thanks,
Tom
Doing an image search I came across two VF-84 F-4Bs with combat mission markings. Both had the full black tails. (Too bad, because I actually like the “flag” style better, but that is just me.) Anyways, my understanding is that that VF-84 only did one Vietnam tour, so that kind of supports the all black tail.
Unfortunately, our resident Navy squadron markings subject on here expert died within the past year or so, so we can’t get a better answer from him.
That’s what I’ve come up with also. The aircraft with mission markers and the Tonkin Gulf Yatch Club emblem are the later markings. I was hoping to do one with the early pirate flag, the Tonkin Gulf emblem, and mission marks and put on a base with a Yankee Air Pirates patch.
Thanks,
Tom
If you come across a photo of that, please do share it here. The project sounds great! I always loved the humor of the Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club marking.
I’ve always liked the early markings with the flag too, and I love the humor and the in your face attitude of the yatch club and yankee air pirates badges.
Thanks Again,
Tom