Falcon Models FA721011 Grumman F9F-5 Panther, D109, Lt. J.J. MacBrien, RCN, DFC

[ACpilot]

Falcon Models FA7221011
Grumman F9F-5 Panther, Bu No. 126034, D109
Flown by Canadian Naval Exchange Pilot Lt. Joseph J. MacBrien, RCN, DFC
VF781 (later VF121), USS Oriskany CV-34, 1952-53
1/72 Scale


March 2014 Release

Dan







Lt. Joseph J. MacBrien RCN, an exchange pilot from the Royal Canadian Navy, serving with the U.S. Navy fighter squadron VF-781, lands his Grumman F9F-5 Panther (BuNo 126034) aboard the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CVA-34) off coast of Korea on 15 November 1952. VF-781 was assigned to Carrier Air Group 101 for a deployment to Korea from 15 September 1952 to 18 May 1953.


Although the achievements of the 22 Royal Canadian Air Force exchange officers flying USAF F-86 Sabres in the Korean conflict are relatively well documented, not well known is the fact a Canadian Naval Pilot also participated in the conflict. Lt Cdr J.J. MacBrien, RCN, was an exchange pilot flying a Panther aircraft from the American carrier, USS Oriskany. He was subsequently awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Leading a flight on an interdiction mission against supply and storage targets near Pukchong on 01 February 1953, he was cited for "extraordinary achievement" in accomplishing the mission. "Despite marginal flying weather, heavy anti-aircraft fire, he displayed courageous leadership and outstanding pilot skill...in the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service".


Lt. Joseph J. MacBrien, RCN, DFC

[DiecastAirplane]

Thanks for the great info.

[ACpilot]

I have let Chris at Falcon know that Lt. Joseph MacBrien's name should be painted under the windscreen on the starboard side.

Also the red painted tip on the fin needs to be a bit thicker.

Dan

[ACpilot]

I found this photo taken by MacBrien himself during his tour on the U.S.S. Oriskany in 1952/53. The photo is of sister aircraft #108 of the same squadron. One can see that the red pattern on the nose needs to be modified to clear the outboard guns and also shows that the tip of the nose is not painted red. I have forwarded the corrections to Falcon and will see what they say. Dan

[ACpilot]

Heard back from Falcon and all corrections have been incorporated in the latest drawing. 1) Joseph MacBrien's name as been added under the windscreen on the starboard side. 2) The red paint on the tip of the rudder has been extended. 3) The red paint pattern on the nose has been adjusted and the tip of the nose is no longer red. Dan

[ACpilot]

Final Product Photos from Falcon.

Heard from Joseph MacBrien's daughter who let him know about this release. He is 89 years old and still drives (fast!). He noticed that the Pilot's name was on the wrong side on the drawing (should be on the port side where the pilot entered the aircraft). His name is now on the correct side.

Dan