Phantom Pharewell - USAF F-4 Phantom Last Flight

In an attempt at documenting the last USAF F-4 Phantoms in flying service, I flew to Holloman AFB, NM. They'll be used as ground targets from now on as the QF-16 takes over. In this video you will see the start up, taxi out, and phly by of the F-4s, followed by water cannon salute and then shut down of the USAF McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II.

[@michaelparry1383]

55 year old memories come back with force. I worked with these F-4 Phantoms at this great Holloman AFB back in 1964-1966. The 366th Tactical Fighter Wing received their first F-4 aircraft in 1964-1965. Early in 1966 the complete wing was sent to Vietnam. this is a great bird and it was a pleasure working on the Weapons control system radar. Many early mornings were spent on that same flightline, with those same sounds, and that same great view of the moutains in the background. This old man still gets excited when I see these great aircraft.

[@uncbadguy]

I was with the 6585th Test Group at Holloman 1977-1980. I saw a BUNCH of QF86's blow up on White Sands Missile Range from AMRAMS to AIM-9's. They were bringing in the QF-4's because they ran out of those beautiful F-86's, as I was leaving for ROCKVILLE Iceland. And Holloman squadrons had switched to F-15's

[@coldisle]

My GOD…the Phantom is just completely timeless and magnificent. I am awestruck any time I see one and think of guys like Robin Olds who knew exactly what to do with them. Another reason to beam with pride for the majestic, simply unbelievable air machines that have been created in The USA 🇺🇸. Keep these beautiful birds alive. They deserve no less.

[@majortom6351]

From a retired german F-4 Pilot: „Pharewell my brave lady....“ Those where the days, my friend! Salute to every F-4 Crew who lost their Lives serving their Country. May god bless you!

[@chrislittle3194]

Major Tom I was a teenager when a German f4 recon crashed on training mission on Holston Mountain in East Tennessee, USA. Parts of the aircraft can still be found today. Nice monument placed at crash site.

[@almorris171]

Dean Martin's son died flying a F4. He apparently became disoriented in cloud cover and flew it into a mountain.

[@brucewayne3602]

Heroes All !!!

[@deanmiles3505]

I was lucky enough to see one take off at Cherry point where I was stationed. It lost both engines and started a stall. The pilot went for a restart instead of ejecting. Black smoke and a lot of power got him back into the air from only a few hundred feet. It was just incredible. I had a back seat ride in an A-4 two seat with a former F-4 pilot, Major "Mad dog" Maddox. It was a simulated dogfight. Such memories... Thank you for your service sir. Semper Fidelis

[@brucewayne3602]

absolute truth ... eternal Blessings All !!!

[@prestonm.5286]

Man, this put a smile on my face. My dad was a Marine jet pilot and flew during the Vietnam war. I never really had much interest in jets until he died a few years ago. I really wish I could go back and ask him about it. I still have a photo of him and his buddies sitting on the wing somewhere on an aircraft carrier out in the ocean. RIP!

[@silenciummortum2193]

God bless him for his service and you for being an amazing son.

[@douglasshreve9851]

These particular aircraft, flying out of faces south Vietnam and Thailand, saved my bacon many times. I was in Southeast Asia and 1969 1971, (two back to back to back combat tours) and often times I would have to call and air support and it was a welcome sight to see the pair of them literally screaming down the valley on the deck I am dropping their stores, whatever it is that he still had anything from 500 pound dummy bombs two canisters of napalm. I have personally know a dozen or so for drivers and their dSO's. We are all getting old and December 16, 2016 was a very sad day for me. I was able to make it out to Holloman for the ceremony I actually had tears in my eyes, it brought back all of the feelings, sights, sounds and smells from Da Nang, NaTrang, Bien Hoa, and many others. I will sorely miss this wonderful, incredible aircraft. Farewell my friend.

[@chainarinthanapaspoonsin2000]

Do you know American soldier in Vietnam war name Don E.Day ? He might me very old now or maybe die.

[@picardmadeoff1068]

Mr Shreve- All of you men who served in SE Asia were a breed apart! I grew up around many a great F-105 and F-4 pilot as my father was a 105 pilot. He said he had the easiest job (relative) during the war, mostly flying SAM suppression (yea, real easy!) missions, he slept in a bed every night and had good food. His perspective was truly impressive!

[@ralphchrist2655]

Best planes ever built flew the RF-4D in 1969 in Southeast asia, loved the plane.

[@rupertwallace9774]

Do you know harry fenstad?

[@yolamontalvan9502]

Douglas Shreve - I know what you mean. Those pilots are the real heroes. Captured or not captured, they deserve our utmost respect.

[@av8rshane491]

As a kid growing up the F4 was my favorite airplane, went to many airshows when the Thunderbirds and the Blue Angels were flying the F4. What a brute of an airplane!

[@generfeld]

The F4 looked beautiful in the BA paint scheme with no bombs/missiles. Those lines, beauty while still looking mean & with brute strength

[@luciotavares1978]

The Phantoms for me always looked like a "flying Magnum-44"! It's a very, very beautiful bird! Great plane!

[@DavidGKlose-zj5gw]

I am very proud that I served in the USAF from 66-70 and was a crew chief on this amazing aircraft!!

[@phillipvick6352]

Same here Aug 66 to Aug 21 ,,,70 ,got discharged at McDill Tampa, was crew chief F4-C ,one yr in Ubon thailand 1968,497th

[@waynee5603]

My dad was in the USAF from 74 to 94, we grew up on McGuire AFB in NJ....F-4Es were attached to the ANG base there in the 80s. These amazing airplanes flew over our school every day. It never got old. :)

[@kirkmooneyham]

My first duty station was McGuire. Got there early 1990, the Guard still had the -4Es. I worked midshift, and had to stay up until their morning launches were done because the sound of those F-4s coming over the barracks, well, you weren't getting to sleep during that.

[@khashiashtari2183]

Many will disagree with me.... but Phantom “is” the most beautiful fighter bomber in the world year to date. It has presence and is mighty. I ❤️ F4 Phantom

[@reymondjames1726]

Totally agree. The most beautiful ever!

[@f-4ephantomll271]

Agreed :)

[@joo7454]

@Mrlightning 101 oh u mean F14 Hornet da!

[@des-oe1vl]

I love this thing too, is was such a great fighter bomber only comparable to the p 38 lightning. I still have a decent model of the f-4 on my shelf.

[@springwoodslasher79]

@Derp 101 moron

[@jamesdrew1168]

This makes me nostalgic for my youth in the USAF fixing those beasts. I had no idea then how much I'd miss it.

[@bilboardman3430]

You ever go to SHAW ? AFB/NC.

[@jamesdrew1168]

@@bilboardman3430 No, six years at Nellis plus a couple of TDYs. Didn't get to see the world but Vegas was a good time.

[@bilboardman3430]

Shaw was SC...you do Red Flag out in the sand ?

[@jamesdrew1168]

@@bilboardman3430 Have things changed? Red Flag and William Tell were both done on the range at Nellis back in the 80s.

[@davehenry7262]

My father was based at Torrejon AFB just outside Madrid, Spain 1971-1974. I remember the squadron of F-4's lined up on the tarmac at the massive base. They would always take off in pairs of two. Didn't matter where I was on the base, if I heard them take flight, I looked up. Beautiful plane and good memories. Thank you for posting this.

[@floridapatriotsfan9242]

I worked on these F-4Es from 1983 to 1988, Weapons Control System (WCS) technician. The APQ-120 RADAR system was sophisticated for its time but had a horrible Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF). But this was a fun aircraft to work on back in the days when you had to know your electronics to fix and maintain them. There was no such thing as automated Built In Test (BIT) or Fault Isolation Technical Orders. All you had was your brains and the schematic diagrams to troubleshoot, diagnose and repair the RADAR and missile launch systems!! My AFCS was 32172Q back then! I spent most of my F-4E maintenance time at Seymour Johnson AFB and Osan AB South Korea. Wishing a Phond Pharewell to these Phantoms!!

[@jhmup]

Florida Patriot - i was WCS on the F4D &E 1969-72 and I remember BITS test on the Sync module, the AIM dot was supposed to circle the center cross not erratically, not elliptically but circle. A few years back I could have told you what potentiometer to turn to adjust it. The antenna would circle bore-sight too. I was in tech school in Denver - Lowry, OJT at EDwards - Mojave, CA then Udorn, Thailand. While I was at Edwards I was part of the original TISEO team trained in PALOS VERDE - Northrop and St Louis McDonnell Douglas. The Flight from Vegas followed me to Thailand. I noticed these birds all had a place for TISEO on their left wing leading edge.

[@salvatorecosenza2531]

I grew up right under the Davis Monthan AFB flight path in the early 60s, and watched almost every F4 assigned to the 4453 CCTW wing take off and land, at the disapproval of all my school teachers. I spent a lot of time in front the principals office, because of my inability to NOT run to the windows as the F4s went over. Still my favorite aircraft. I spent some high school years working part time on the base when the 355th arrived with the A7Ds. Nothing else with maybe the exception of the F105, shakes you to the core with excitement like an F4! I was classified 1H, so I never got to fly for Uncle Sam, but did fly privately till they grounded my 1956 Cessna 310B with a fractured main spare.

[@patricianespeca6804]

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[@timbarnes3581]

Thank you for sharing that story friend. As a kid I grew up marveling at the F-105 Thunderchiefs flying over my house routinely, and then spent about 7 years working on F-4s in the USMC. So I can totally relate to your fascination as a kid marveling at these aerial wonders. Even today I cannot resist looking up when a plane flies over me and OMG very very occasionally I have had a Huey fly over in my later years and send goosebumps all over me.

[@ralphchrist2911]

I flew an RF-4D in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969, The best plane ever built, bar none

[@fedupinl.a.7810]

Shout out to all the of the guys of 8Th in Kunsan back in the 70's. I used to think 'I'm getting paid to watch air shows every day'. I loved it. Our guys in the F4, and the ROKs in our old F86s. Thanks for the memories.

[@Turboy65]

No other aircraft ever had such an "I'm going to kill you and do it with style" look as the Phantom. I fully support the idea of the government spending a little bit of money to keep a few Phantoms flying for demonstration purposes. This legend of American aviation should not be completely retired.

[@gunner4q]

service record of 36 years, 15 altitude and speed records, inventoried in air forces of 11 countries, over 5,195 units produced.... along with the SR-71 Blackbird you will see the F-4 Phantom Jet in Heaven!!

[@kaw1240]

I think the tomcat fits that better than the phantom another gone aircraft

[@richardlowenstein8234]

Well, I have to disagree, the F-105 Thunderbolt was just as menacing.

[@jimw5227]

@@richardlowenstein8234 Both Air force and Navy flew the F-4's in multiple configurations. Never worked on the F-4's. Being in the Navy I mostly worked on A-4 Skyhawks , A-7 Corsair, F/A-18 Hornets all great aircraft. I guess if I had to choose a favorite, It would have to be the A-4 Skyhawk (Scooter) with F/A-18 Hornet a close second. All gone now except for the Hornet.

[@robr9905]

@@jimw5227 Could not agree more. A-4 was a great machine to fly, fit like a glove.

[@cmcer1995]

I always liked the F-4Gs at Spangdahlem when I was stationed there 1974 to 1976. I guess the F-4Ds were first moved there in 1971 as the 52nd TFW and eventually reassigned in 1994. The camo paint job and their engine were very distinctive. Sad to see them actually get retired.

[@kpl455]

One of the coolest airplanes of the cold war era. We had them in Germany too. Such a legendary machine.

[@Paul-rc1pk]

Came across this vid and immediately brought back memories of my time at Holloman in the early seventies. I worked on the D model as a 462 with 49MMS. Always remembered what an impact it made on the rest of my life!

[@Melanculobwana]

I was at Holloman AFB in 1972 , never was sent to Germany for exercises, but stayed put and flew a few to bomb remote controlled tanks out in the combat desert and afterwards, to Camp Bullis, for combat training, then back home to family, get my affairs in order in case of my death, and then straight to Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, S Vietnam for 1 year, and afterwards, to Randolph AFB for the rest of my tour.

[@71superbee39]

Back in the 70's two unmistakable sounds were the deep thumps of a UH-1 Huey and the unreal rumble of a pair of Phantoms...

[@AJFar-tm7dn]

Love the Super Bee. My best friend owned a 1969 Super Bee 383 cu. inch motor.

[@adjustings673]

As a teenager, I was very lucky to see one of these fly, as I am quite young and will never have the opportunity again. It was June of 2015 on the Greek island of Paxos. My family was at a small, rickety bar right on the beach where you could rent paddle boards. I was on one, in the little lagoon they have there, and you suddenly hear a sort of scream. I look up, and about 400 feet above the deck, 2 HAF F-4 phantoms fly over at about 450-550 kts in a slight left bank. I will never forget that experience.

[@amorkissoum8845]

X

[@nicktsi6253]

I came from Greece. We have phantom in service until 2027, maybe and more. If want live again this experience you could come again in Greece!!!!

[@knockharder3554]

My father flew the F-4G wild weasel . Mostly out of George AFB in southern California. Love the memories of the phantoms and weasels as a child

[@johnshields6852]

I'm proud to say my uncle Jack flew the phantom in Vietnam in the late 1960's, he was a decorated pilot, showing me photos of himself standing next to his jet in his flight suit just before a sortie was amazing, a quiet guy, super intelligent. Thank you to all who serve and who have served, I literally owe you my freedoms as a USA citizen. 🇺🇸🙏

[@OarsmanPower]

Always loved this plane. One of the first airplane models I built as a kid. Saw one recently at an air show and I hope they keep some flying. Beautiful aircraft.

[@tatyfonseca6731]

I help build this great fighter jet in St. Louis MO , and have more time in the cockpit than any F4 Driver . It's really sad to see it go . I also help on the K& M line for the UK . My thanks to all you pilots who flew this fighter and brought her home safe . Thank you for your service . .

[@belaymlast]

You’re welcome and thank you for getting ‘em ready to go! Bill Meeker 335 TFS, 4th TFW, Seymour Johnson AFB 1973-1976.

[@kirkf4crewdawg604]

@@belaymlast Shakey Jake

[@LowdesertJim]

My father was a project engineer on the RF4-C Acceptance Program and went TDY to St. Louis for months at a time. (My grandparents lived nearby so we went too.) And I was at Hollloman when Maj. Richard Corbett flew the first one in.

[@captgiddyup88]

@ If you can read he never says anything about the seat. The Team is bigger than any one player. GiddyUp USMC

[@Bandikoi]

I was at McDonnell from 1963 until 1969. Worked on all models from B to M. Went all over to help mod the RFs that went out with the lead radar. Beautiful aircraft.

[@MagnumMike44]

Incredible and spectacular! I saw the USAF Thunderbirds with the F4 Phantom II in an air show at what was then Williams AFB in Mesa, Arizona, in October of 1971 when I was 14 at the time. It was 3 or 4 years later when the Thunderbirds switched to the Northrop T-38 Talon, then to the F-16 Fighting Falcon, which they've been using since the early1980s.

[@mikeschuyler679]

Always loved that flying rock just rumbled on take off and flying in the air!! Just plain brute power!!

[@robertklump9993]

I was born and raised in Alamogordo. I have very fond memories of the F4 flying all over the Tularosa Basin as a youth, especially in the summertime with the black exhaust bellowing out of them as they departed the area, usually to the north. In those days, as kids we would just be enjoying our summertime in the beautiful desert environment and by the time I was 8 or 9 , ( 1967-1968), I like all kids wanted to be a fighter pilot, especially with the F4 ripping up the skies. Little did I understand when I would ask my mom who was winning the war that I would see on TV, she would just become silent. Years later upon reflection, it was because I had an older brother who was soon to be draft eligible and for some reason, I didn't know that I had 2 cousins that were in Vietnam, one that had already been shot and wounded, Vince Brown. I do recall a family that lived in Alamogordo because their father was an F4 pilot, a Major as I recall, who was shot down and uncertain if KIA or POW. It seems to me that one of his kids was my age, although I didn't know him because he went to a different elementary school. But, the thought of not know where you dad was, had a great impact on me. I finally became a private pilot in the late 1990s. The flight school was run by a Vietnam Vet, an F4 pilot and Edwards AFB test pilot, John Carlson. My primary was also an F4 pilot, Roger Wentworth. Both are gone now, but they were awesome men who served our country in very tough times so a skinny little kid could enjoy the beautiful summertime in Alamogordo. My real points are to say Thank you for posting this video and much more importantly to say THANK-YOU to all of those who served in Vietnam.

[@djblackruss]

Robert Klump is this at Holloman AFB. I was stationed at WSMR back 95 96 97 we would play basketball on Holloman and I would see these land all the time. So badass. Love the PHANTOM

[@willeemina]

SAVE THESE BEASTS FROM DESTRUCTION! MY GREAT, GREAT, GREAT GRAND CHILDREN NEED TO SEE AND HEAR THEM 'LIVE' SOMEDAY! SEMPER FI AMERICA!

[@earlwyss520]

Destroy the F-16s instead.

[@stephanearthaud8308]

There are still in service, in Greece. Just watch the video "200 th year of independance Greece"... I found that video typiing "Hell march greece".

[@lunabobles4526]

@@earlwyss520 the f16s are good there's gonna be a time were we will be praising the f16 when it retires

[@earlwyss520]

@@lunabobles4526 You're probably right, but I'm still in love with that F-ugly beast we call the F-4E.

[@lunabobles4526]

@@earlwyss520 I agree with you the f4 is beautiful I'd rather have the f35 destroyed would also rather an McDonnell Douglas av8 or it's British counterpart than an f35

[@johncabral8587]

From the USS Coral Sea to the USS Ranger to NAS Miramar 4 years of my life I will never forget good old VF-21. The smell of JP4 and the thunder of AB what an awesome aircraft....

[@snakeman48]

I can remember the days I live in Ft. Wayne, Indiana in '88-90 and watch these F4's overhead in and out of the Air Wing stationed there. God the power of the J79's was awesome. Miss them today. Now living back in Michigan. Today F18's fly around here for Notre Dame game flyovers.

[@davedennis6042]

I can't help but think, "Who in their right mind could throw away such a beautiful airplane?" I know, I know, better aircraft are now in flight. But man, what a beauty the F-4 is forever.

[@user-in1vp7ww6i]

Dave Dennis this is the best believe me and I know

[@aabb-zz9uw]

Still better than mig 29

[@giancarlomoscetti215]

beautiful aircraft, awesome to hear them fly by. I used to go watch these take off from McConnell AFB in Wichita with my dad and brother...back then you could park your car at the end of the runway and just camp out and watch the aircraft take off. People used to take picnic lunches and sit there for the experience. It always amazed me that something with that small of wing could do what it did!

[@jerrysims554]

I was with the 366th TFW at DaNang all of 1970. We had 3 squadrons of F-4's. I was always proud watching them take off and work out dropping bombs and napalm near the base just beyond Freedom Hill. It breaks my heart to see such a wonderful aircraft come to an end as ground targets .

[@stevencalhoun8208]

Seeing these aircraft come screaming in from behind the mountains and over the football stadium at the Air Force Academy was always a treat to the eye and ears. Then seeing the pilots standing them on their tails as they shot seemingly straight up, always brought a shiver and made my hair stand on end. The seats would shake and you could feel the heat from the engines as they roared away into the sky, setting the stage for the football game perfectly!

[@b.p.879]

My dad was a Vietnam combat vet who called airstrikes as an RTO. The Phantom was his favorite jet, and so it was also my favorite and we were lucky enough to live near a squadron of Wild Weasles that we got to see takeoff all the time. The F4 will always be my favorite fighter jet!

[@joannmarino4497]

All this time, I thought Phantoms were retired as fighter jets and used as drone targets; Seeing, this, I'm glad they were still flying and being used by the USAF! I love the phantom, probably the most bad-ass, loud, and fire-packing fighter plane that has ever been used by the U.S Air Force!! Farewell Phantom!

[@lars-ivarcarlsen9722]

Only disadvantage as I know is that had no machine gun when it came to dog fight. But other than that it was a hell of a fighter.

[@stephenroberts4895]

@@lars-ivarcarlsen9722 The F4E model had an internal cannon.

[@Walter_E_Kurtz]

When I was 8 years old I got my first model plane to assemble, It was an F-4 Phantom painted in it's South East Asian service camouflage and was absolutely beautiful. I've been in love with the Phantom ever since. It's the most elegant looking fighter ever built. It's striking to see, almost like seeing an animal in the wild that surprises you. Farewell to the F-4.

[@trumanstumo1718]

OMG. i love this, i am 81 now and was a plane captain at Pax. River naval air test center in 1960 - 1963 and was able to fly in the back seat of the F 4 we were testing. Because i did mach 2, i was given a gold mach two pin from Mcdonald Douglas. What a Rush. Thank you for bringing back all thoes memories!!

[@concreteguy07]

I was station at this base in 1985 and I would sit out on the arm /de-arm pads next to the runways and watch and listen to these fine birds stretch their wings and roar down the runways from my flight line Tymco sweeper, it was a wonder to behold. Thank you and a fond fair well to the F-4 Phantom jet , you served your nation quiet well and will never be forgotten at least in this U.S. Air Force veteran memories....

[@bobg1685]

The F4 is a beautiful aircraft. Has a meanness about her, but does everything with grace.

[@firepower7017]

Bob G XD grace more like eat fucking fuel and get fucked up by farmers in jets

[@steveblackbird5174]

Thanks Captain VC... think you'll find what you're looking for in another vid.. Was mean't to be a farewell vid.. but some people just wanna make a point.. yeah Russian aircraft are better in MANY ways.. but this The Phantom bro...She served a long and varied career... And ate shitloads of fuel.. (and Fuck yeah for that alone!!!!!!) and held a lot of records for a loooong time too! not a lot of modern aircraft these days can say they've had 50 years service.... Fighters/bombers...yeah B52 excluded cos'... damn!! Epic aircraft!!! anyhoooo carry on.... ;)

[@haijin7484]

Fire Power701 Yet there’s 2 million Vietcong’s died in Vietnam War than 50,000 U.S troops that died. It might get shut down by a farmer or eat a fuck ton of fuel but it never fails dropping Napalm on your shitty country.

[@damkayaker]

I saw this type plane up close on a class trip to McGuire AFB in the late 70's. I remember the smell of the fuel and looking at the exhausts and tail-hook and the bent down tail wings. It was an awesome experience to see it.

[@RaniVeluNachar-kx4lu]

The plane was part of my childhood, having my Dad who flew them going back to 1969 out of Udorn Thailand to finally ending in Luke, in Phoenix, AZ 1973. He wrote about those years and earlier, in a book titled It's Better to be Lucky. Lt. Col. C. Truver USAF, and you can order it on Amazon.com. For me these guys were a worlds apart. But it has be so. They do extraordinary things everyday. Very few can call themselves fighter pilots in the USAF! RIP Dad. Todd

[@nerblebun]

@ Stop Talking: My ex girlfriends father (Col.Scott) was a fighter pilot in WW2, Korea, Vietnam, and a test pilot at Edwards AFB. The F-4 Phantom was the fighter he flew in Vietnam, and the last fighter he flew before retiring as Wing Commander, 4th Fighter Wing, 335th Tactical Operation Squadron at Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina. Col.Scott turned down promotion to General....twice. In his own words, "I wasn't born to fly a desk".

[@patrickreilly5202]

AMAZON does not have it but Barnes and Noble still does in paperback, 8.95

[@fyrdawg533]

I was stationed at Holloman AFB, Sep 73 to Jul 75 with the 49th TAC Ftr Wg. Our Squadrons were the 7th, 8th, 9th and 417th TAC Ftr Squadrons. All ships were F-4's. At that time, Holloman was the only dual based wing in the USAF, Tactical Air Command and NATO. The Yom Kippur War in Oct 73 put us on Alert but we never deployed. This vid is nostalgic for me to watch. The base is about 8 miles west of Alamogordo and the mountain range in the background is the Sacramento Mountains and looking east. It's neat to see for the last time what I had the privilege to see hundreds of time in person. The Phantom was a loud, smoky bird and its black exhaust could be seen more easily than the aircraft at distance. During my time at HO, we lost one ship (if memory serves), a flight of Phantoms went up north to the Red Rio bombing range on a Friday and one ship did not return. (Again, if memory serves, an unauthorized Missing Man Formation was flown over the base the next day.) The investigation concluded the pilot was inverted and and pulled the stick back rather than pushing forward. While the Phantom was not initially designed to be a fighter, after it was given the 20mm cannon, it served that purpose effectively. It was an exceptional aircraft and it was quite impressive when the Thunderbirds flew it. Seeing that big ship inverted at low level made quite the impression on this young airman. Oh to be young again!

[@lmccluer]

Kent Allison MCConnel AFB in Wichita, KS had F4’s and 101’s.along with the KC135’s.

[@fyrdawg533]

@@lmccluer Hi Louis! I was stationed at McConnell from Nov 77 to Nov 79 in Air Traffic Control with the 2155 Comm Sq. KANG had F-105's when I arrived then transitioned to F-4's. Because of the Titan II mission, the base had a handful of UH-1's too. In ATC, we were able to tag along on an "orientation flight" on base aircraft. Although I was able to catch a ride with the 135's and UH-1, I really would have loved to go up in a two-seat Thud or Phantom. Oh to be young again! Cheers!

[@lmccluer]

Kent Allison what’s neat was I was working with a security company when we got the contract when all the Titan silos were decommissioned. As each missile was removed, with started taking out fuel, then they started taking out what they wanted, then what was left was set out, and they let the public come out and buy things they wanted. Things like the refrigerators, furniture, some of the consoles after equipment was removed from them. Then once everything was removed, they took out the stairs with explosives, then blew the silo doors. They brought out cement and rocks, then dirt to fill it all in per agreement sign Russia. I was able to take a couple tours after the missiles were removed before they blasted it. I was told the very large generators were left in the silo walls because it would be to hard to get them out plus the time involved. During overnight and weekends they didn’t work, so that’s when we worked. One big problem was a couple of biker gangs threatened to break in and steal the explosives, which at Winfield I think it was, they did try to come through the gate, but the guard called in to 911, and luckily a couple of deputies were close and caught them before they broke the lock. It was real fun during t-storms as the trailer with the explosives was only 50 yards away from the office trailer we sat in, and the fuel tank was only about 25 yards away. We also had a couple of incidents. We had one guy that was afraid of storms, and when a bad one started rolling in, he decided to go down the entry stairs into the first part after the first steel doors, which were about 4’ thick. The problem was he didn’t know it, but the stairs had been blasted on Friday night and it was Sunday after midnight when the storm came through. He of course fell to the bottom which was about 10-12 ft if I remember, and had no way to let anyone know. Cell phones wasn’t a deal yet, and shattered an ankle or the lower leg or both. He wasn’t found until workers arrived Monday morning and saw his car still there. Upon looking for him, found him there. He was lucky he didn’t break the femur or get an open fracture, because he may have bleed to death or died from shock or both. Then we had another guy that decided he wanted to climb down the silo to see what was at the bottom and what it look like. On the way back up, he sliced his leg on something, but was able to get out, and bandage himself up and call Sgt to get someone there to relief him so he could go get stitches. He was lucky he didn’t get contaminated from fuel or anything else. Made some big money there, but wouldn’t do it again. I wouldn’t have minded getting one of the silos though. Never understood why some were sold and not all of them.

[@fyrdawg533]

@@lmccluer Hello again Louis. Were you there when the seal blew out of the missile and the nitrogen tetroxide flooded the silo at Rock, KS near the jct of K-15 and US-77 in the summer of 1978 and killed some of the Security and Maintenance personnel? That was a pretty BIG deal. I left McConnell in Nov 1979 for a remote tour in Alaska but I'll never forget that. Cheers!

[@lmccluer]

Kent Allison I did not respond to it, I was a volunteer fire fighter at El Dorado when it happened. I don’t remember jf they got called or not.

[@iscubado2]

The first time I ever saw an F-4 fantom was when i saw the Thunderbirds in the 60's as a kid. Joined the Air Force in the 70's. To this day, the F4 Fantom is still my favorite bird. All engine, all power and a whole lotta noise while rattling the windows. Musical notes with wings.🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@knightd12]

I babysat these beauties for 5 years as a Security policeman in the Air Force, stationed first in Korea and then in Germany [1966-71]. I loved to watch them fly and even sitting around the flight line or in a hanger , they were a thing of grace, power and beauty. I am lucky I got to go to work around these planes everyday. They will always hold special place in my heart.

[@dwmzmm]

In the mid to late 1960's my dad (USAF Chief Master Sergeant) last assignment before retiring was Eglin AFB (also happens to be where I was born in 1956), we lived in Niceville, FL near Eglin and the skies over our neighborhood was where most of the military aircraft landing at Eglin started their approach right over our area. It was here where I was first introduced to the F4 Phantoms. Literally hundreds must have flown low overhead daily to prepare for landing (not to mention many of the other types of USAF aircraft flown at the time). The Phantoms left an unforgettable impression on me that's never left.

[@rickgibson4641]

I joined the Air force back when the F-16 was in the early stage of phasing out the F-4. Many of the senor maintenance techs were former F-4 techs that were crossed over so I was always hearing their stories and comparisons. I always perceived a love/hate relationship between the techs and the F-4. They weren't designed with maintenance in mind and they could be a bitch to work on. they didn't have a very good and organized tech data system to keep up with all the wiring changes and modifications throughout it's life and chasing down an wiring problem could be night mare when you couldn't depend on the diagrams to be accurate. The many things that were different about maintaining the F-16 were largely due to lessons learned from the F-4. Despite all that , you couldn't help but love that jet and take pride in being one who worked on it. I can't say I fully understood that, but it's what I observed from my viewpoint.

[@khman1983]

I think the F 4 and the F 14 were probably the two greatest fighters in their generation. I still think the F 15 is one of the most amazing fighter jets.

[@ronmorella6541]

I was at RAF Bentwaters in 1964 when we received our first F-4 Phantoms and was really excited to be a Phantom Fixer in hanger 5. In 1967 moved to MacDill AFB, Tampa to become crew chief of a great aircraft. Loved that aircraft.

[@GaryBaird.Photography]

When I was a young airman at Yokota AB in Japan in 1966, I could set on the steps of my barracks and watch these take off on the runway. Down the runway and then straight-up with after-burners fully lighted and engines roaring with a decided display of American power. Entertaining for friends and a message for our enemies not too far away.

[@sprinkle_some_crack_on_em8279]

I never thought the f4 was that cool until I saw it fly at an air show. Then I gained a love for this amazing fighter. It has a massive presence that’s undeniable.

[@TheDarkstar340]

Im just glad I was born early enough to hear what two J79's in full afterburner sound like.

[@dawiller326]

Palmer Nesbit Amen - was a kid in Germany 77-80 near Mainz/Wiesbaden and heard these beauties fly over all week long and break the sound barrier. My granddad flew with Chuck Yeager in Korea (F-86) and test piloted the F-100 and F-105 and early years of the F-4 before passing away of esophageal cancer. Built many Revell models of this plane. The most formidable plane in our history.

[@michaelgill5341]

Aint nothing better a true anchor that could fly. J79 awsome. Ive seen them come home with so many holes lol. We spent alot of time kballing. But they flew with grace and piwer

[@r2gelfand]

I was stationed at McGuire AFB and there was a squadron of F4's there (I believe reserve Wild Weasels.) Man it was awesome to hear them take off, afterburners glowing!

[@jdtanberg]

Heard those afterburners plenty enough. Love the memories.

[@volador2828]

I worked on the j-79, the thing was a monster!

[@jerryhart4073]

It is so AWESOME how the PILOTS made sure everyone could see. I miss the F-4. I never liked converting to the F-16 in Homestead AFB.

[@exnbcnco]

My Late Father spent a good portion of his USAF career of 22 years working on the F-4 as an Aircraft Electrician. He retired in 1975 after being transferred to Pope AFB from Torrejon AFB, Madrid, Spain. As a kid I remember this great plane, great memories.

[@280StJohnsPl]

I was an F-4C crew chief with the 92nd TFS and 81st OMS at RAF Bentwaters , England from 1970-72 Love the smell of burning JP-4 and the warm jet wash

[@Wh1terider]

Jesus these bring back childhood memories. Those old Rhino's will always have a soft spot in my heart. The glory days of McDonnell Douglas.

[@slowtony2]

These planes were a labor of love for my dad. From the Ds to the IIs he was Mr. Mac's plant manager in Saint Louis. Never late on a government contract. A huge factory full of American workers who put their hearts into what they built. His last baby was the F-15. Still, probably more pilots flew the bricks like these that he and his guys made sure were built to last.

[@keptinkaos6384]

for people who want to bag this plane, it was designed in the fifties 1954 to be exact entered service with the USN in 1960 this video was made in what 2016 a life from who to go of what 62years and 56 in service it as built by people and designed with math and a slide rule and the computing power that might have been the equal of a calculator there was nothing but a pair of human computers flying this beast its youngest and earliest pilots are possibly hitting there eighties they and it have earned a little respect I think.

[@michaelfromaustin]

Who would bag a Phantom? Amazing aircraft.

[@Elthenar]

Was it designed by people who knew what a run on sentence was?

[@cactus00001]

The Phantoms actually had quite a bit of computing power in the avionics, optical gunsight system, weapons controls systems and scan conversion sections, particularly the later models. *

[@malcolmxcrement6945]

I'd have to say, out of all the planes, the F4 has to be the most loved out of everyone I know! It seems to be universal all the world around. I fell in love with it back in the 60's during the Vietnam War when I was just a kid. Never wavered on that!

[@williamescolantejr5871]

@@Elthenar proubly not.But was designed by people who supported the idea to keep you safe an free so you could learn that.

[@steveblackbird5174]

Skyes9...Thank you sooo dearly for capturing this day.......Still watching these magnificent Aircraft, in this vid 2.5 years after, and this, is by far...my favourite ever... I will always love the F-4 Phantom II.. built two flying scale models... 3 other EPS versions and they all fly the same... throttle on.. like a Majestic weapon, VERY fast... the big 1/12th scale...twin EDF 70mm fans... 240kph straight and level flight.....(!!YIKES!!!!) solid flier through benign almost... till... you... had.. a..... loss of thrust = yep.... she's a complete brick... Absolutely Love the F-4... Phabulous Phantoms Phorever!!! Would give a fortune to ride in one.... for real......

[@santababy1952]

My now ex and passed husband of 1973 went to Craig AFB in Alabama to learn how to fly these. We always had a model of it in our home. It's sad and gives me old memories of our humble beginnings. I'll never forget how excited he was whenever he got to fly it. What a blessing and it is sad to see it go to the graveyard!

[@chrisderrickson4066]

Just me, but the F-4 is my hands down FAVORITE U. S. Military Fighter Jet built bar none ! ! ! Just look at that design...REIGN HELL FROM ABOVE ! ! !

[@RedRider1600]

The F-14 is my favorite, after the F-22. But the F-4 is a beautiful aircraft with a lot of history. I would love to see them update the aircraft with some new engines and avionics and sensors. But even with that, I don't think it would have the maneuverability of everything that came after. Although, it might outfly the F-35. It is certainly faster at least.

[@grandpa1687]

Danny, get back on your meds. Good luck!

[@anthonyemanuel1114]

And with that sharks mouth on it- oh yeah it was a sleek mean & nasty looking bird.

[@dcgarza4]

it brought a tear to my eye to see that they were allowed to go supersonic for the last time. awesome!

[@ryancnayr]

One of if not THE most beautiful fighter ever conceived, designed for pure aerodynamic prowess. I’m British but by god can you guys across the pond make some truly wonderful machines 🙌🏻

[@Kajuniter]

I see this vid is aging, but, such pride wells up in me to see it. I have an artist rendering of an F-4 hanging in my sitting room. It was created in the 60's before leaving Vietnam. The pilot gifted it to me many years later. Salute to pilot Miller for your service! Next to it is an artist rendering of the A-10 done before the first Iraqi excursion. The pilot was the son of Miller. Thanks Jeffery, I will always cherish both.

[@jaynegus4526]

I don't know who came up with this description of the F-4 but it seems accurate. It goes " The F-4 Phantom - Americas proof to the world that with enough thrust even a brick can fly ".

[@robertmantell5466]

I prefer Robert Wilcox's "Basically it's a Corvette with wings"

[@shantelmcreavy527]

Jayne Gus hi hope you are fine,, About a brick than can fly was taken from a movie , Red flag the ultimate game, surprising to note red flag movie is about f4 drivers in combat school long before Top gun and more realistic, Great movie stay well my friend d

[@remysanchez3083]

Shantel Mcreavy 6th

[@larryrider8885]

"The engineers put all the square corners on the F-4 to hide the design flaws" -- F-4C pilot

[@robertmantell5466]

I mean, enough bad stuff is said about it in the hands of an ignorant US pilot early on in the Vietnam war, and late war for the USAF, but the USN got smart and invited the Israelis to come teach them how to fly it, and we all know how well they did vs. MiG-17 and -21 right? the plane did alright as a fighter if you knew how to employ it, and it was a bomb truck!

[@Rhinopower37]

Absolutely fantastic video! Brought a tear to my eye and lump to my throat...

[@givemepizzaorgivemedeath3983]

the 1950s were an incredible time in regard to the development of military jets. the leaps forward were staggering. must of been a hell of a time to be alive for anyone designing these awesome aircraft.

[@timcole3719]

Sound piece of aviation history right there, Literally the sound of freedom.

[@gerardscholl9010]

I was a crew chief on F-4Cs and F-4Ds at Kadena AB, Okinawa during 1974 & 1975. It was a forgiving aircraft that will be missed by the flight crews and maintenance troops alike.

[@extremecoastalhiker]

I was an EMC troop in the 418th AGS (RF-4C) from 81 through 82

[@xSupra]

thank you for your service

[@duanepalmore38]

Comm/Nav 418th, April 88 - late 89. E's and G's 562AMU George AFB, 90-92.

[@davidca96]

Gerard Scholl Thank you for serving us and our country.

[@user-jo2md9rl2j]

вельмi магутная i прыгожая птушка.я у захапленнi !

[@paulschmolke188]

Worked on them where they were built in the late 60’s early 70’s. Next came the F-15 but I’ll always love the F-4. Arguably the best warplane we ever had…at least the most satisfying to watch and hear. 👍🏽

[@ronaldunger1321]

Started my AF service Aug1963 in the J79 engine shop for the RF-4. What a pretty aircraft. Retired Oct 2004

[@chaplainand1]

Greetings Skyes9 Thanks for posting this video. I worked on F-4Es while stationed at Elmandorf AFB, AK 1974-78. I was in the avionics section, radio shop. The ARC-54 was the UHF radio, located on the left side WSO seat's floor, under one of the circuit breaker panels. The radio was rated at 50 watts for most frequencies. The ejection seat techs had to remove the rear seat each time we had to R&R the radio. They did not like to see a red X for radio in the AC forms. The aircraft was a beast for sure. During a volcanic eruption near the coast one year, two AC returning from Eilson AFB near Fairbanks, purposely flew through the dust and smoke plume emanating from the volcano. All four engines were sanded so bad they had to be replaced. Every leading edge and every place where different surfaces joined, as on the pylons, was badly worn. The windscreens were sandblasted as well. Not a good day for four officers. While stationed at Wright-Patterson, I was assigned to an air training and test wing. We went TDY to Edwards for weeks at a time for the fly-off evaluations for the cruise missile development program. I was part the 11 person technical crew with the Advanced Range Instrumented Aircraft. Our mission was to obtain, record, and transmit telemetry data during the mission. Armed F-4's flew escort with the missile after launch in case it went awry. I configured an ARC-54 on board our AC for use as a re-transmitter for the F-4s back to mission control via our HF full-duplex setup. Those were very long, quite boring, missions for the most part - flying upwards of 10 hours or more each mission - yet it was very interesting and challenging. I'll be 72 in a few days. I was 26 when I worked on the F-4s. Says something for US ingenuity and build quality. Blessings to you all.

[@jamesa.7604]

When I was a kid growing up in the Seventies, that was The Plane you dreamed of flying when you grew up!

[@topsecret1837]

The F-4 phantom is one of those fighters which still can be upgraded to modern standards and has room even for a pre-compression cooler, via water tanks which can allow it to fly as fast as a Mig-25. Such an exceptionally well designed aircraft.

[@yorkan213swd6]

Who is flying these modern phantoms ?

[@gregduncan701]

I was a Crew Chief for 8 years on Weasels and Recce. They were a real maintenance hog. Was told the designers set 2 seats in front of 2 engines and built an airplane around them! Anything from a battery change to engine swap was a pain in the butt and even generated cuss words that were never heard before. The most beautiful ugly airplane ever built! Memories to treasure for a lifetime.

[@jimdenning5301]

My dad was the last Navy CO of the Phantom. He absolutely adored this plane

[@Scatdiddy]

A dear friend of our family Gregg Wilson, a Top Gun pilot at Miramar, received his training in the F4. To all the aviators, as well as the men and woman who are (or have) serving our country in all the branches of service, we salute you!

[@jonelalexiscaroc7495]

For me, this is the most beautiful fighter plane I've ever seen.

[@Leonhart306]

My 3 favorite US military are the: #1 F-14 Tomcat #2 F-4 Phantom #3 A-10 Warthog They have such a unique and aggressive design.

[@backinthedayhippie609]

I was/am an F-4C crew-chief. I proudly served alongside this old air warrior and will cherish my memories on the flight-line next to my beloved F-4 forever. The power of those GE-J79 engines starting up always gave me goosebumps, and I took great pride knowing that this badass of a plane defended America with honor. That jet noise is the Sound of Freedom.

[@truckerj40]

I was a Crew Chief on F-4 E at Moody Ga from 1984 - 1989

[@floridapatriotsfan9242]

WCS Mechanic, 1983-1988 at Seymour Johnson AFB, Osan AB, Clark AFB

[@kimosill413]

Armament systems specialist at Moody at the same time. Transitioned to F-16s during my tenure. Always have a soft spot for the Phantom.

[@ronbrister3671]

F4 crew chief Vietnam 1970-1971. She was an awesome bird !!!

[@MrLunasee]

Was an Aircraft Electrician on C/D/E models at Spangdahlem AB, Germany ~'76 - '78. Beautiful aircraft, It hurts to see them relegated to ground targets. Damn, I'm old. LOL

[@Pilot545]

I'm beginning to feel the same way about my beloved Viper :( Progress hurts sometimes.

[@user-hb8be5wb4q]

MrLunasee you guys aren't old we just crew better. Now, I was a gun plumber on F100 at England AFB,la, Clark ab, p.i., takhli ab, Thailand, and all of this was in December. 1963- May,1965. Now dats old, and damned busy, b4 bag drag, TDY happy, running deer whiskey(never), San Miguel Beer. Hot damn I got some memory back!

[@olinhipps1661]

danang air base, 1965

[@Cuffsmaster]

I was a Navy Aviation Electricians mate on the F-4B and later the F-4J during the Vietnam war.. Yes they were an interceptor but did a good job as fighter during that time period. Not the best but good. Remember this was basically a late 1950's design.

[@galantrouge9048]

This Rockett, I was stationed at Spang in Summer of 78' with my wife Debby who was also an electrician (we met & married at Chanute) during tech school. My good buddy was Sgt. Lazano who had been there for awhile. When did you rotate back to the states? I miss the Bitburger beer, brats & brochen.

[@chaplainand1]

As an enlisted man, I worked F-4E aircraft radio maintenance at Elmendorf AFB, AK 1974-1978. One crashed in the tundra while there, went in tail-first. Not remembering the cause. Two flew through the ash of a local volcano on their way back from Fairbanks. All the leading edges were totally sanded, the front windscreens were opaque and both engines in both AC had to be replaced. Those crews caught serious hell for that stunt. The ARC-54 UHF radio was located on the floor, under the control panel, left side, next to the WASO (back) seat so every time we did an R&R of the radio, the rear seat had to be pulled. Those guys hated the radio pukes. Watched one do a 360 on the ice before the drag chute deployed. Noisy AC. Cool to watch. They were the primary fighter AC in the USAF inventory at the time. At Elmendorf in those years we had several models of the C-130 including the famous A model rigged with skis. I flew to Sondrestrom Air Base Greenland on one of those via Yellow Knife Canada as my first TDY for a month. We had two T-38s and two Canberra B-58s. They still had glass tube-type UHF radios - ARC-27. There were a few other AC types there as well. Elmendorf served many different missions at the time. Blessings to all those who served.

[@elviejoraro3952]

The first one I ever saw was at Navy Day back in 195*. My uncle was a retired Navy brasshat and we were on Treasure Island for the festivities. After the closing ceremony, the F4 was announced as headed back to McDonnell in St. Louis. He took off very smartly and people began drifting away from the Air Station. After a few minutes, a low, moan-like sound became more and more insistent, until from out of no where in the eastern sky, unannounced, came the F4. He was rather low, and, at full power. The moan reached a crescendo roar when the plane reached mid-field and the pilot put the plane into a 90 degree, nose up attitude and lit the afterburners. Years later, far away, a 500 pound bomb in close proximity was NOT as loud. Over the years I was treated to 100 or more departure encounters with F4s at Lambert Field in St. Louis. I'd be heading east on a Sunday night flight on TWA sipping on my first Scotch of the evening up in First Class. Our L-1011 would lumber out to 12R on taxiway C, and frequently a pair of F4s would be in position ahead of us. They would pull on to the runway, line up for take off and everything came to a stop. Then would come sound of the engines being run up and then, with an incredible "bang", the afterburners would be lit, sheets of flame would appear, and in a instant, they were gone. Very memorable!!!!!

[@NamVet70Mike]

Watching and hearing those J 79's brought back found memories on my days on board Kitty Hawk (CVA-63). We had VF-114 The fighting Aardvarks and VF-213 Black Lions. To watch them at night ops was some kind of display. They were a MiG's nightmare and when on CAP they kept the Bear's at bay. Gotta love 'em from St. Louis MO.

[@jamesroe2861]

I remember these babies taking off day & night at the Tan Son Nhut air base 1965-66.

[@brianjob3018]

Operation Rolling Thunder, G.I. Out of my utter contempt for that despicable Johnson, I want to rename it 'Operation (fill the) Hanoi Hilton,' or maybe 'Operation Tombstone' is better, as a reminder of the lives thrown away by that SOB.

[@billirvin9057]

I spent 1971 in Thailand watching these planes take off and (mostly) return. I get very nostalgic watching these birds fly again.

[@rcc2917]

The last bird I trained on in 1970 when they replaced the "Hun" at Torrejon AB, Spain...what a great aircraft!! I worked on F-106's, F-100's and the great F4E.

[@billyjohnson8500]

I worked on the very first F-4 in May 1958. I retired in 1989 after 35 years. was a very good bird. Sorry to see them go.

[@exnbcnco]

Did you ever make it to Torrejon AFB?

[@dawnmetsala3631]

Not complicated..easy to keep in the air...F35..not so.

[@Zpichaque]

Q yo sepa c retiraron después d la tormenta del desierto en el 91

[@johnharris7353]

Billy Johnson did you know my dad McDonnell Douglas test pilot Tom Harris he got there in St Louis around 1960 I was a little boy!

[@daleselves7776]

Panels 110/111 L&R. Can't tell you how many I removed and reinstalled. 100k screws flying in close formation

[@kharisjones6136]

One of the best looking birds ever! Love the F-4 Phantom!

[@curtelliott1410]

My dad worked at McDonnel Douglas where these planes were made. I remember when I was a teenager going to open house and touching one of them on the flight deck outside the assembly plant. I wish I could have one of those planes to put in my backyard just to look at it knowing my dad made parts for it.

[@rayritchotte7608]

I was a crew chief at davis Monthan AFB 4453 CCTW. We had thirty AT33A and 50 F4c's and D's and only one runway. You talk abut busy airspace. We flew from 6 in the morning until 10 pm Monday's thru Friday's with FCF's on Saturdays. I loved every minute of it.

[@allgood6760]

Legend.. TIMELESS plane never to be forgotten 👍✈️

[@josephmurphy3685]

Flying Chryslers they were, and that is compliment from this F4C/D WCS troop. They were raw power and attitude in a beautiful package.

[@terrydouglas5008]

I was an F4C/D/E WCS specialist. 68-88. Terry Waller.

[@Synfulz]

My first position in the USAF was a F4 C/D WCS mechanic.

[@stebo59]

I refueled the F4s from ‘78 to ‘82 at HOMESTEAD AFB,Fl with the 31st POL Squadron. Was and still is the most beautiful fighter in the world. “Phantom Phever “ forever

[@falconf16i51]

As a fighter pilot in the Israeli Air Force, I still remember the Phantom 2000 flights, more than 15 years ago an unforgettable experience. The camera on the left-wing of the plane.

[@SKYPILOT170AHC]

McDonnell F-4 Phantom II...."Worlds largest distributor of Mig parts "

[@Marklb1]

The F86 would like to have a word with you

[@jtwilliams8895]

I always thought that both the F86 and the F4 were inferior to the Migs in dogfighting scenarios. F4 was too big, not maneuverable enough and lacked a cannon?

[@Marklb1]

@@jtwilliams8895 The F4 Was always inferior in a dogfight with the Mig-17/15. Early F4's lacked a cannon yes, but the Navy version the F4F had a cannon on board. The F86 was amazing at fighting Mig-15s and was the better plane in terms of top end performance.

[@rickmeadows686]

Your point?

[@somerandomguyfromthebeyond1821]

the F-15 will like to have a word with you

[@gamiensrule]

This is great to see!!! Were these the last 4 "in service"? I grew up learning about the Phantom because my Dad flew them in the Marines. It was the first model I ever had, and I had posters as a child. In my opinion, they haven't made a plane like them since, just so much style and aggressiveness. Truly a beautiful and deadly machine. In her day she was the king of both Air to Air and Air to Ground combat. My dad told me SOOO many great stories of flying. From toilet papering a navy base (yes you heard that right - with their jets break flaps) to playing "UFO" out over the Florida keys with their afterburners, to actually dropping their fuel tank to pursue a pair of planes out of Cuba that would fly up every week to test our responses (they got in a LOT of trouble for that and he had to keep it secret for something like 20 years under threat of penalty), I always loved his stories. One of only 2 times that I ever saw my dad cry was when we were standing in the driveway at my grandma's house and he told me what it felt like to go from a virtual standstill to the speed of sound in mere seconds. That is a moment I will never forget. I had no idea that this event happened - did I read correctly that it was December of 2016? Crazy that this happened just 3 months after my dad passed away.