Photo 1: A newly restored RF-4B Phantom jet waits on the NADEP Cherry Point flight line behind Building 137 in anticipation of the opening of Havelock’s new tourist visitor center. The jet was received by the depot in 1990 and was originally intended for conversion to a drone aircraft. But because the RF-4B is longer than the standard F-4, it was incompatible for that purpose and became a donor aircraft for spare parts. While in this status, the city of Havelock acquired it. Depot artisans removed the engines and main components and painted it as true to its historic paint scheme as possible. It will soon be on static display at the new visitor center. The F-4 is one of three vintage aircraft the depot is slated to restore on a cost reimbursable basis for display. Work is only done as time and space become available. (Photo by Dykie Whitfield)

Photo 2: Airframe Mechanic Myron “Bucky” Buckhalter (left) of the F-4 Drone Shop and Painter Jack P. West Jr. of the Final Finish Aircraft Paint Shop discuss the work that was done on the restored RF-4B Phantom jet. Both artisans were involved in preparing the aircraft for display at the new Havelock tourist center. (Photo by Gary Rice)