F4F-4 Wildcat "Operation Leader" Lt (jg). Dean S Laird, USS Ranger, Oct, 1943

Product Dimensions: Pending manufacturer confirmation.

Model History and Information: On 4 October 1943 aircraft from the carrier USS Ranger, operating with the British Home Fleet, attacked German shipping near Bodo, Norway, in Operation Leader, the only US Navy carrier strike in northern European waters during the war. Ranger's fighter squadron VF-4 flew the Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat, armed with six .50 caliber guns and fitted with folding wings. Lieutenant (junior grade) Dean Laird shot down a Ju 88 and an He 115 that afternoon, among the first German aircraft downed by US Navy aircraft, and he later became the only US Navy ace credited with victories in both the Pacific and European theaters. This model represents his F4F-4 Wildcat during the operation.

Model Features & Details:

• 1:48 scale diecast aircraft display model
• Aircraft represented: F4F-4 Wildcat

Packaging: Full-color printed paper box with a flap over cover. The model is packed and secured by clear blisters for easy viewing with an insert card at the back.