Vought F4U-1D Corsair Fighter Aircraft "VF-17 Jolly Rogers 16-Victory Ace Lt. Ira Kepford" (1944) US Navy 1/72 Diecast Model

Brand new 1/72 scale diecast airplane model of Vought F4U-1D Corsair Fighter Aircraft "VF-17 Jolly Rogers, 16-Victory Ace Lt. (jg) Ira Kepford" (1944) United States Navy die cast model. Brand new box. Detailed exterior. True-to-scale detail. Comes with a display stand. This model does not have any openings. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately Length- 5.375, Wingspan- 6.5 inches. Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy, realistic feel. HISTORY ASPECTS: The Vought F4U-1D Corsair was a late-war variant of the famed “Bent-Wing Bird,” designed as a rugged carrier-capable fighter with enhanced performance and payload capacity. Introduced into U.S. Navy and Marine Corps service during World War II, the F4U-1D featured an improved Pratt & Whitney R-2800 engine, a strengthened airframe, and the ability to carry rockets or bombs for ground-attack missions. This made the Corsair a highly versatile aircraft, excelling in both air-to-air combat and close air support roles across the Pacific Theater. One of the most celebrated pilots to fly the F4U-1D was Lt. (jg) Ira Kepford of VF-17 “Jolly Rogers,” the U.S. Navy’s first Corsair-equipped squadron. Known for its iconic skull-and-crossbones insignia, VF-17 operated primarily from land bases in the Solomon Islands campaign, where Kepford distinguished himself as the squadron’s top ace with 16 confirmed aerial victories. Kepford flew his Corsair with unmatched aggression and precision, earning two Navy Crosses and a place among the Navy’s elite fighter pilots. His exploits against Japanese Zeros and bombers over the Solomon Islands and Rabaul showcased both the Corsair’s power and the skill of its pilots. The F4U-1D Corsair played a critical role in securing Allied air superiority during the latter stages of World War II. Its ability to dominate dogfights, absorb damage, and deliver heavy ordnance made it a favorite among pilots. In the hands of aces like Ira Kepford, the Corsair became a symbol of American airpower and tenacity, contributing significantly to the successful island-hopping strategy that brought Allied forces closer to Japan. Own a true piece of aviation legend with this 1:72 scale model. With its authentic squadron markings, detailed cockpit, and signature gull wings, this replica captures the spirit of one of World War II’s most iconic fighters and its fearless ace pilot. A must-have for collectors and history buffs alike.