Ray Dieckman’s Goodyear FG-1D Corsair, NX773RD, over the shores of Lake Matthews, California. The restored carrier-borne fighter is equipped with a rear seat so that Ray can share the enjoyment of flying in it.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

A classic view of the Corsair and its inverted-gull wing as Ray brings the fighter close into the camera platform.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

Ray Dieckman airborne in the Corsair on July 20, 2000, near Chino, California. The paint scheme took many hours of research and mixing to obtain the dark blue colour that conforms to the federal standard of the period. To achieve the semi-gloss finish, Ray mixed matt clear with gloss clear varnish to obtain the correct lustre.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

With its undercarriage down, the Corsair turns finals at Chino. After the war, sold surplus in incomplete condition from Naval Aircraft Factory Litchfield Park, this aircraft went to El Salvador, where it served as a spares source for the country’s flying Corsairs.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

The white tape atop the fuselage, forward of the cockpit, was applied in the Pacific to keep salt and moisture out of the fuel tank and instrument area.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

Marine’s Dream at Chino, with port wing folded, at the time of Ray’s attempt to make the maiden post-restoration flight to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the Corsair in May 2000. After the engine setback, the aircraft went on to glory, winning the Reserve Grand Champion Trophy at Oshkosh a few weeks later.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

On the approach: Ray Dieckman's Goodyear FG-1D Corsair Marine's Dream

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

Ray Dieckman with another Corsair, The Air Museum’s F4U-1A N83782.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940

The distinctive Marine’s Dream nose artwork was applied by artist Bruce Crandall.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Vought F4U Corsair - СШАUSA - 1940