1/48 Tamiya P-47D 348th FG Kearby's "Fiery Ginger IV"

[lawdog114]

I figured I'd share another recent build. Instead of the normal ETO Thunderbolt, I opted to switch gears a bit and do a rarely done Pacific version for a change. I decided on Medal of Honor recipient Neel Kearby's last Jug, Fiery Ginger IV, from 348th FG, so named after his wife Virginia. On October 11th 1943, Kearby led 4 P-47s on a sweep over Wewak and ran into 40 plus Japanese fighters. In the ensuing battle he personally shot down 4 Ki-43s and 2 Ki-61s. This battle, which lasted an hour, earned him the MOH. On March 5th 1944, while flying Fiery Ginger IV, he was shot down by a Ki-43 and ultimately KIA. Kearby was credited with 22 kills and was on pace to outscore Bong before his death.

The Tamiya P-47 is probably my favorite kit, as the Jug is one of my favorite subjects period. Kearby's FGIV was an early D-4, so I modified the lower two cowl flaps to represent this. I used an Eduard Look IP and the accompanying seatbelts. I also used some Ultracast block tread wheels, which I love. I added brake lines and wired up the engine, as I do with all my radials. I painted on the main markings with spare Montex masks and used Thundercal decals for FG IV specific markings. Paints are AK Real Colors OD and faded OD over Neutral Grey. I love this new AK Real Colors line. I was going for faded so I used more of the faded OD. Chipping was done with the liquid frisket technique and I'm fairly pleased with it. I wanted it noticeable but not overdone. Weathering was first done with diluted black-brown post shading then a follow up with a mix of MIG Ammo and AK enamel washes.

That's all I can think of. I have a recent bubbletop I'll share soon as well.

[tempestjohnny]

I've watched your work for many years and it still amazes me what you do with an airbrush

[Floki]

Beautiful paint job and weathering!

[Stikpusher]

Oh very nice! That came out gorgeous!

[keavdog]

Another beauty. The tank is awesome.

[LyleW]

I've watched your work for many years and it still amazes me what you do with an airbrush

That pretty much says it ,all.....wow.

[BlackSheep214]

A fantastic finish! Tamiya has the best P-47 Thunderbolt kit hands down.

[lawdog114]

I've watched your work for many years and it still amazes me what you do with an airbrush

Thanks for the kind words John.

[lawdog114]

Beautiful paint job and weathering!

Thank you Floki

[lawdog114]

Oh very nice! That came out gorgeous!

Thanks Stik