Merced

Restoration of RF-8G Bureau Number 145607

Updated May 2, 2011

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Restored in the style of VFP-63

[Webmaster's Note: vfp62.com provided information to the restoration team at Castle Air Museum at Merced, CA when RF-8G Bu. No. 145607 was brought to them from Edwards AFB, for restoration. At that time, it could have been restored as VFP-62, VFP-206, or VFP-63. It had an illustrious career with VFP-62, having flown missions during the Cuban Missile Crisis in Oct-Nov 1962. It was decided to restore it as a VFP-63 plane. I received the following input (including historical photos & information) as the restoration process began.]

"RF-8G 145607 was in VFP-206 until the very end in early 1987. I believe that was the RF-8 bailed to Rockwell for B-1B chase work. I checked out Rockwell Chief Pilot Ken Dyson in that airplane (if it was the one sent to Rockwell) in the summer of '87. I flew in the back seat of a Rockwell F-106B, and the RF-8 could out accelerate the F-106 up to Mach 1.2 or so when it hit the brick wall. Hopefully, they will restore it in VFP-206 livery." --Moon Rivers

Rockwell International in Palmdale, California obtained two RF-8Gs from VFP-206 and 306 after these reserve units decommissioned. These were 144617 and 145607. They were used in support of Rockwell's Advanced Technology Wing program. However, only 144617 actually made any flights. In May of 1987, the ATW program ran out of funds, and no further tests were carried out. (145607- Rockwell International N114NR).--Ken Simmons (CAM Restoration Crew)

[Update April 4] Click to see photo on: -Modern Warbirds Registry

[Update April 8]: Capt. John Hudson USMC VMCJ-2 flew a photo mission over Cuba on 13 November 1962. This documents it was a VFP-62 RF-8A during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

[Update April 8] EXTERNAL LINK: 145607 (VFP-206) on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) 15 Sept. 1985 -- Ken Simmons (Crew Chief C-47 CAM)

[Update April 13]New photos of: VFP-62 RF8 145607 refueling _Picture #2 VFP-206 RF8 145607 Contributed by: Wayne "Flash" Whitten LCOL USMC Ret.

RF-8G BuNo 145607 saw service with VFP-62 circa 1960 and ended up with VFP-206 until 1987. It has been moved from Andrews AFB and will be restored at [EXTERNAL LINK]: -Castle Air Museum (CAM), Atwater, CA.

Click to see:_145607 in the VFP-62 hanger-circa 1958-60

[Update Sept 28]An update on the restoring of the RF8 at the Merced Air Museum. Thanks to Henry Livingston - a reserve Photo pilot in DC - Charlie was able to get in touch with a gent named Claude - something or other - in France. Claude had a collection of spare parts from the French F8's. Charlie bought a complete set of tires - and wheels - and is having them shipped to Merced. The cost was $1,200 which included shipping. The money came out of his back pocket. For an Air force guy, it says a lot that he was willing to pay to restore a Navy aircraft. Henry and I have each sent him $200 to help defray the cost. If you know of anyone who is willing to cvontribute any reimbursement - in any amount - let me know and I will give him Charlie's address. Apparently the RF8 is third in line for the restoration effort. They are currently working on an F15.---Scott Ruby

Update 4/24/10: I have received notification that the RF8 at the old Castle AFB museum will be painted as a VFP-63 bird (see below). The project is fully funded, and those that have provided a donation are thankfully appreciated. It is anticipated that the RF8 will be painted in the next 4-6 weeks, and be put on display shortly there after. There wil be some sort of ceremony - as yet to be determined - with a dinner to follow. Those who wish to attend will be notified.

We are working on a plaque commemorating those that have contributed to the restoration. Also, as suggested by Rog Crim, we are working on a memorial to those 12 VFP-63 pilots that were lost in Viet Nam.--Scott Ruby VFP-63 pilot.

Update 7/11/10: Click to see :the painting of Bu No 145607 in progress Photo: Scott Ruby

Update 12/20/10: EXTERNAL LINK: Click to see : Painting Progress --Painted as a VFP-63 bird--Contributed by J.J. McKenna

26 March 2011: I have been leading the effort to get the RF8G restored at the old Castle AFB. I received the E-Mail below indicating the Naval Sea Cadet unit in the area plans to assume the responsibilty for keeping the bird in the best shape possible. They are looking for information reagarding plane captain duties in particular. I was hoping you would put this out on the F8 internet in the hope that someone out there would be willing to provide the information requested. I can provide information when I get there as to what an aviator looks at, but would need help regard plane captain duties. Any help that can be provided would be appreciated. The information/POC can either be forwarded to me, or to Dave as desired. Scott Ruby

[Webmaster's Note: VFP-63 pilot Scott Ruby provide leadership to get the RF-8 restored as a VFP-63 RF-8G. The following are Scott's remarks about the dedication of the plane:]

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Created on ... May 01, 2011