I’m working on a model of a TBM-3 Avenger that is going to show the markings of an aircraft aboard the USS Langley (CVL-27) during WW2. I’m having a heckuva time finding out what the squadron markings are. To be honest, I’m having a hard time find squadron insignia on LOTS of aircraft during this time period…not just the TBM from Langley. Does there exist one (or 2 or 3) reference(s) I can search through to find this stuff?
There was a National Geographic issue from long ago that had a series of pages showing the insignias from all the branches of the WWII service squadrons…if anyone knows the exact issue containing these, I would like to go looking for it myself.
What I do now though is type into a Google image search the name of the squadron (ie-- 332nd FG insignia or 99th FS in the case of those Tuskegee groups) and I will usually get at least one image of their insignia.
I believe you are asking for the Langley g markings. I have to check my references at home. Couldn’t find the answer in an internet search, but it is probably there.
The Langley markings a a large white rectangle covering most of the fin. Inside the rectangle is a diamond with its long axis top to bottom. This is repeated on top right wing and bottom left. It runs from leading edge to just ahead of the aileron.
The Langley also used a white stripe across the top of fin and rudder.
Here is a link to Langley TBM’s. Go all the way down to the bottom, and click on the outlines of the TBM’s and you will get a picture of what I think is a restored a/c. The markings may not be the right size, but they are the right shape.
Thanks Wayne –
I’ve since found the white rectangle/blue diamond image on a few websites. It could be that the white stripe on top of the rudder was for the Hellcats…?? Can anyone confirm this?