Douglas A-1 Skyraider overhead. Photographed from directly beneath during a commemorative flying display, this view shows what made the Skyraider indispensable: fifteen underwing and centerline stations able to carry some 8,000 pounds of ordnance - more than a Second World War heavy bomber - on an airframe that could loiter over a target for hours. A second Skyraider flies in formation at the left of the frame. In Southeast Asia the U.S. Air Force used the type for close air support of special-operations reconnaissance teams and as the 'Sandy' escort that located downed aircrew and shepherded the rescue helicopters in. From the collection of Donald L. Engebretsen, A-1 pilot, OLAA Da Nang detachment. Project: 219505