The Don Englebreston Collection

Douglas A-1 Skyraider with Wing Folded, Veteran Attendees at Operation Tailwind Reunion Event

Douglas A-1 Skyraider with Wing Folded, Veteran Attendees at Operation Tailwind Reunion Event

A Douglas A-1 Skyraider, the propeller-driven attack aircraft nicknamed the "Spad" for its rugged, low-tech reliability, is shown here with its wing raised in the folded position, revealing the dive-brake panels and hinge mechanism beneath. Painted in the tan-and-green camouflage worn by Skyraiders flying close air support over Laos and South Vietnam, the aircraft was a mainstay of missions supporting MACV-SOG reconnaissance teams, including Operation Tailwind in 1970. Veterans and guests gather beside the aircraft at a reunion or museum event, continuing the tradition of honoring the pilots and ground crews who kept the A-1 in the fight. Project: 219527