McDonnell-Douglas F-4D Phantom II

By Htam

@ United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO

January 2014

While visiting relatives, I was able to get access to the Cadet Area.  The primary feature of the area is a large, square pavilion known as The Terrazzo with the iconic Cadet Chapel.  Four aircraft mark the corners of The Terrazzo.  This classic design is one of the most versatile aircraft in US military history, performing fighter, ground attack, reconnaissance and interceptor roles.  Originally developed for the United States Navy by McDonnell Aircraft, it first entered service in 1960 with the U.S. Navy followed by the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force.  This particular Phantom is the only US aircraft to be credited with six enemy kills since the Korean War. Nikon D300 w/18-200mm, processed with Photomatix and Aperture.