Wood Cutaway Model of 'Ike' Kepford's F4U-1D Corsair

Wood Cutaway Model of Chance Vought F4U-1D Corsair, No. 29, Flown by Lt. J.G. Ira 'Ike' Kepford, US Navy VF-17, "Jolly Rogers" 1944

Overall Size: 20½" x 8½"

Made in the U.S.A., each cutaway is an accurate, three dimensional, architectural model. The pieces are multi-layer, micro-cut, wood cutaway constructions, reflecting the utmost in detail and attention to accuracy.

Original blueprints and period photographs along with hand measurements, if possible, are used for the creation of each design. Approximately two months is then devoted to drawing the original multi-layer template for each item.

Original construction blueprints, photographs, deck plans, books and even advertising brochures are used to guarantee the accuracy of each cutaway. Approximately two months is then devoted to drawing the original multi-layer template for each item. Once the design work is complete, a computer-controlled laser is then used to cut and mark specially selected layers of basswood. After a layer has been cut, it is cleaned and carefully mounted to a baltic blue matte board. A total of six layers of basswood are hand assembled for each cutaway. When the cutaway is complete, it is then sealed behind glass in a cherry finish hardwood frame.

The highest level of quality in both work and materials is maintained to ensure museum quality cutaways. This integrity in both design and modeling skill has brought endorsements by many of the nation's museums, historical societies and memorial associations.

Chance-Vought wrapped a unique gull-winged airframe around what was then the largest engine available, the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp. The F4U was the first fighter plane to exceed 400 mph in level flight and was in production longer that any other American propeller driven fighter.

The VF-17 or "Jolly Rogers" were a squadron of F4-U Corsairs that flew missions in the pacific during World War II. Ira "Ike" Kepford (#29) was the top ace of the Jolly Rogers with 16 victories, Including one Japanese kamikaze pilot that he shot down just yards before it crashed into the U.S.S. Bunker Hill. For this action Kepford would recieve the Navy Cross Medal, an honor second only to the Congresional Medal of Honor.