The Douglas AD-1 Skyraider, seen here around the time of its first flight on 18 March 1945, would go on to become one of the most versatile attack aircraft in American military history. Originally designed as a carrier-based dive and torpedo bomber for the U.S. Navy, the Skyraider later served with distinction in the Vietnam War as the A-1, prized for its ability to carry heavy ordnance loads and loiter over the battlefield to support ground troops and rescue downed airmen. Project: 219913