Some time ago I was asked by a close friend if I could build a model of this particular ship for him, a John Butler Class Destroyer Escort. He was a former sailor and served on FFGs in the 80’s and early 90’s, but this ship was before his time. Why did he want a build of this particular ship? It was one of many of the class built, participated in no major engagements, and was mothballed shortly after WWII. Just another small ship with a small part in a big war. But.... the man for which the ship was named was his great uncle, Lance Corporal USMC, Silver Star recipient, killed in action on Guadalcanal. My friend has the paperwork, medal and champagne bottle top from the ships commissioning to back it all up. He wanted a model to display along with his uncles medal, citation, and ship stuff in his home. How do you say no to that?
So since then I have been slowly researching the Butler Class, and gathering the items I would need to make this happen, and make it happen properly. A 1/350 DE is a tad bit too small to display with the medal, citation, and photos. But 1/300 is a bit bigger and would look ok. Lindberg makes a Rudderow Class DE kit in 1/300. The Rudderow Class and Butler Class were visually identical, but had different power plants. And the old Linberg kit, well it needs help. Quite a bit of help. 3-D printed items from Shapeways and a 1/300 PE set for the Revell USCG Roger B Taney will help. As for anything else that comes up along the way, modeling skills required.
So here is the real thing....
And here is my starting point kit
Last night I began construction...
"Surely I have made my meaning plain? I intend to avenge myself upon you, Admiral. I have deprived your ship of power, and when I swing 'round, I intend to deprive you of your life."
FLSM
