A U.S. Air Force A-1 Skyraider pilot prepares his aircraft's canopy before a mission. Affectionately nicknamed the 'SPAD' by its aircrews, the propeller-driven Skyraider served as a rugged, heavily armed close air support and search-and-rescue escort platform throughout the Vietnam War, valued for its long loiter time and ability to absorb battle damage that would down faster jets. Project: 218965