bob, that was something we used to call "leading edge tape". it was an amber/mustard opaque type tape put on the leading edges of the wings, stabs, and tail surfaces. it was usually applied as part of the anti corrosion effort and protected the paint on the leading edge surfaces.
i used some vallejo color on a hobbyboss a-6a. will look through my stash to see if i can find it. basically, i just ran a brush over the bottom leading edge of the slat/stab and top edge of same. maybe 1/16".
that said, i dont think anyone would notice if you didnt put it on......