Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat
Operation Torch, November 1942

While more often remembered for fighting the Japanese in WWII, The wildcat also was also used during Operation Torch, the invasion of North Africa in November, 1942. For three days, Navy Wildcats of VF-9 and VF-41 (CV-4 RANGER) engaged the Vichy French over the skies of Casablanca. Flying an assortment of French and ex-American aircraft, the French Armee de l'Air and Aeronavale mounted an aerial defense against the attacking aircraft launched by the U.S. Navy in support of the invasion. Aircraft from the Ranger and 4 escort carriers engaged the French until a ceasefire was declared. The Ranger was then withdrawn from battle as German submarine activity increased.

This was a nice Hasegawa kit to build. The parts fit is great with almost no filler used. My decals were a bit yellowed, so I substituted after market decals for the insignia. Some of the Hasegawa decals silvered on the tail. I used post shading, pencil lead and a wash to highlight and weather panels on the model.