Hobby Master 1/72 F-4J Phantom II 155580 VF-96 USS Constellation 10 May 1975

On May 10, 1975, F-4J Phantom II fighters of VF-96 Fighting Falcons operated from USS Constellation during Operation Frequent Wind and the Mayaguez crisis in Southeast Asia. As part of Carrier Air Wing 9, VF-96 provided fleet air defense, fighter escort, and combat air patrol missions during a period of heightened regional tension following the fall of Saigon. The F-4J was equipped with advanced radar and air to air missiles, making it a key component of the carrier's defensive capability. VF-96 crews maintained high readiness and supported US military operations throughout the closing stages of the Vietnam War.