Rockets, cluster munitions, gun pods, and flaresĮngine: Wright R-3350-26WD Duplex-Cyclone of 2,700 hpĬlick here to return to the Southeast Asia War Gallery.The A-1 Skyraider originated as a carrier-based torpedo and dive bomber. These initial A-1Es were assigned to the 1st Air Commando Squadron, call sign Hobo.Īrmament: Four 20 mm cannons and up to 10,000-lbs of assorted bombs, Transferred from the US Navy and modified to fulfill a counterinsurgency role, the first US Air Force Skyraiders were two-seat A-1Es which arrived at Bien Hoa AB, South Vietnam, in May 1964. When the Department of Defense standardized aircraft designations in 1962, the original designation “AD” became A-1. The plane turned out to be exceptionally versatile and rugged, carrying a record-setting load of 14,491 lbs of ordnance and fuel. The airplane on exhibit, severely damaged in further combat in South Vietnam and later repaired, came to the Museum in 1968 for display.ĭesigned as a US Navy carrier-based aircraft, the AD (Attack, Douglas) Skyraider first flew in 1945. This is believed to be the only surviving fixed-wing Medal of Honor aircraft. He rescued a fellow pilot shot down over South Vietnam by landing in enemy territory under heavy fire and flying him to safety. The A-1E on display (serial number 52-132649) is the aircraft flown by Major Bernard Fisher on March 10, 1966, a mission for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
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