I am researching TBM Avengers that were assigned to US Navy Squadron VT-89 which were either on the carrier Antietam CV-36 at the end of WWII or stationed in Saipan. I am working on a project as a gift for my uncle, who flew a TBM in that torpedo squadron. He is up in years now, and could use a little 'spirit lifter' given his current health.
My aunt provided me with some amazing photos to help me in my research, however they do not incude a picture of the tail section. I can tell the the ID code on his aircraft was 86. As we all know, any unit associated graphics for TBMs appeared on the tail. I know that getting this right on the model will be critical.
Information on this unit is scarce because the Antietam is not considered a true participant in the war. The Japanese surrendered while the carrier was in route from Pearl Harbor to the Yellow Sea. Once they arrived, the carrier's mission changed to a basic police action roll, so the torpedo units assigned to it didn't see any official combat. Therefore, photos and documentation are not readily available.
Could anyone point me in the direction of some good info (and maybe tail photos) for Squadron #89?