@ Honolulu, HI
September 2009
While leaving the base after the 2009 Hickam AFB Open House Airshow, we saw this Phantom gate guard in the colors of the 199th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, Hawaii ANG. In October 1976 the 199th FIS traded in their F-102 Delta Daggers for the F-4C Phantom II. The Hawaii ANG used the Phantom in fighter-bomber and interceptor roles during training exercises, as well as retaining the standing air defense alert at Hickam. Designed by McDonnell Aircraft and first flown in 1958, this classic fighter served with all three US services and air forces around the world. December 21, 2016 would mark the phinal retirement of the Phantom from US service. F-4 production ran from 1958 to 1981, with a total of 5,195 built, making it the most produced American supersonic military aircraft. McDonnell Aircraft would later merge with Douglas Aircraft in 1967. Nikon D300 w/70-300mm.
