1/72 HobbyMaster (HA4306) North American F86F Sabre (c/n 51-2910) "Beauteous Butch II" flown by Joseph C. McConnell Jr. {TOP ACE with 16 Kills) Suwon AB, South Korea 1953, 39th FS, 51st FW, U.S.A.F. (Limited Edition of 1000)

In late 1952 Joseph C. McConnell Jr. was assigned to the 39th FIS/51st FIW in South Korea. Between January 14, 1953 and May 18, 1953 McConnell became the USAF top ace of the Korean War with 16 MiG-15 victories. During the Korean War McConnell flew 3 different F-86s, all named “Beautious Butch II”; a pet name for his wife. An F-86E, then an F-86F that was shot down and finally F-86F 51-2910 buzz number FU-910. On May 18, 1953 McConnell scored victories 15 and 16 and his F-86F had the name repainted to “Beauteous Butch II”.

North American F-86F Sabre

Designed to meet a USAAF requirement for a day-fighter/escort fighter/dive-bomber, the F-86 was first flown on October 1st, 1947. The Sabre's swept-wing "flying tail" configuration and a hydraulic flight-control system were some of its many firsts in technology and design that have now become standard for jet-powered aircraft. Armed with six 50 caliber machine guns, the F-86 saw extensive action in the Korean War, where it was often pitted against the MiG-15. The Sabre pilot had to be in visual contact and within gun range of the enemy in order to attempt a shoot-down, thereby making this aircraft the last true "dogfighter" in Air Force inventory.

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