1/48 Tamiya P-47 D 348th FG "Neel Kearby's Fiery Ginger IV" (Finished and some in-progress pictures)
Hello, I enjoyed the bubble top Jug so much I had to immediately build a razorback version. I opted to switch gears a bit and do a Pacific version for a change. I decided on Medal of Honor recipient Neel Kearby's last Jug, Fiery Ginger IV, from 348th FG, so named after his wife Virginia. On October 11th 1943, Kearby led 4 P-47s on a sweep over Wewak and ran into 40 plus Japanese fighters. In the ensuing battle he personally shot down 4 Ki-43s and 2 Ki-61s. This battle, which lasted an hour, earned him the MOH. On March 5th 1944, while flying Fiery Ginger IV, he was shot down by a Ki-43 and ultimately KIA. Kearby was credited with 22 kills and was on pace to outscore Bong before his death.
First I modified the lower two cowl flaps to represent an early D-4 model. I used an Eduard Look IP and the accompanying seatbelts. I also used some Ultracast block tread wheels, which I love. I added brake lines and wired up the engine, as I do with all my radials. I painted on the main markings with spare Montex masks and used Thundercal decals for FG IV specific markings. Paints are AK Real Colors OD and faded OD over Neutral Grey. I was going for faded so I used more of the faded OD. Chipping was done with the liquid frisket technique and I'm fairly pleased with it. I wanted it noticeable but not overdone. Weathering was first done with diluted black-brown postshading then a follow up with a mix of MIG Ammo and AK enamel washes.
I'll probably build another one soon, as I'm stuck in P-47 mode at the moment.
A few in progress pictures.
Why I rig my radials. It makes a huge difference.
