The F-4 Phantom began its Pacific combat career on August 5th,1964, flying its first sortie off the "Connie" during the Vietnam War. Baptized on the hot anvil of war, this huge aircraft went on to serve as a front-line aircraft with eleven other nations. All told, 5,195 aircraft were produced during the 1958-1981 period, making it the most numerous supersonic plane ever built. Such was its outstanding performance that its crews flew with unparalleled confidence, whilst its foes ran for cover. The F-4's main advantage was its tremendous thrust, allowing its combat crews to engage or disengage at will.
John Shaw, among the most-collected aviation artists in the world, has captured the essence of this beautiful, and at the same time menacing, aircraft. With the USS Constellation in the background, two F-4 Phantoms head off to hunt MiGs during their most active period in late 1967.
The lead aircraft portrayed in John's emotive painting represents VF-143's "Pukin' Dogs" squadron. It's R.I.O. "JayBee" Souder was credited with achieving the war's longest aerial intercept. On his 325th mission, Souder was shot down and captured as a POW, after which he received high honors for his life-saving heroism. Alongside is an F-4 of Souder's sister squadron, VF-142's "Ghostriders", piloted by MiG Killer Guy Freeborn.
PLEASE NOTE: These Prints are ONLY available from Wings, and will be part of a very limited edition. This WILL BE one of the best and most collected Naval F-4 images ever produced.
Signatures: 15-19 Signatures of F-4 Pilots and Crew.
Number of Prints: 550 prints. These are print numbers 1-550.
Price: $245 (with the most signatures going to those who order first)
There are 726 Main Edition prints, numbered to commemorate the total number of American military POWs in the Vietnam War and 151 Artist Proofs, commemorating the number of total U.S. Navy POWs. All prints signed / numbered by the artist and a combination of the co-signers listed below. Prints with the most signatures will be distributed on a ‘first come-first served’ basis.
All prints signed/numbered by the artist and a combination of the co-signers listed below. Prints with the most signatures will be distributed on a ‘first come-first served’ basis.
Printed on beautiful, acid-free 120 lb. stock, size: 37”x 26.25” (overall), 32”x 19.75” (image area). All Prints to include Certificate of Authenticity.
The following distinguished veterans participated in signing Into the Storm. Among this highly-decorated roll call are POWs, MiG Killers, Admirals, and men of all flight rank who served their country with distinction flying the legendary F-4 Phantom.