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The F-4 Phantom began its Pacific combat career on August 5th,1964, flying its first sortie off the "Connie" during the Vietnam War. Baptized on the hot anvil of war, this huge aircraft went on to serve as a frontline aircraft with eleven other nations. All told, 5,195 aircraft were produced during the 1958-1981 period, making it the most  numerous supersonic plane ever built. Such was its outstanding performance that its crews flew with unparalleled confidence, whilst its foes ran for cover. The F-4's main advantage was its tremendous thrust, allowing its combat crews to engage or disengage at will.

John Shaw, among the most-collected aviation artists in the world, has captured the essence of this beautiful, and at the same time menacing, aircraft.   With the USS Constellation in the background, two F-4 Phantoms head off to hunt MiGs  during their most active period in late 1967.

The lead aircraft portrayed in John's emotive painting represents VF-143's "Pukin' Dogs" squadron. It's R.I.O. "JayBee" Souder was credited with achieving the war's longest aerial intercept.   On his 325th mission, Souder was shot down and captured as a POW, after which he received high honors for his life-saving heroism.   Alongside is an F-4 of Souder's sister squadron, VF-142's "Ghostriders", piloted by MiG Killer Guy Freeborn.