VF-18 Hellcats Battle of Leyte Gulf

[Troy White]

I am trying to locate photos of VF-18 Hellcats during its second tour: 16 August - 30 November 1944. At this time the unit was based aboard the USS Intrepid and was a major player in the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

After a lengthy search I have uncovered only 1 photo which shows the paint scheme. I have also found a couple of decal profiles; one a 3-color scheme and the other overall glossy sea blue.

With over 175 victories and 15 aces (including Cecil Harris who was one of the Navy's top scorers with 24 victories) I would think there would be some decent photos out there documenting what their Hellcats looked like.

Is there anyone out there that has access to such photos or can steer me in the right direction?

Thanks a bunch,

Troy White

[fsbofk]

Not sure if this is the one photo you've found, but Osprey's Hellcat Aces of World War 2 has a photo on page 56 of "31" in a tri-color scheme aboard Intrepid 29 Oct 1944. In addition to the number, the tail carries VF-18's + symbol. Also, there is an illustrated history of the Intrepid - I don't remember the title, but it used to be sold at the Intrepid gift shop in NYC - that might have photos of Hellcats during that tour.

[Troy White]

Thank you for the post. The photo you mentioned is the one photo that I have. I was unaware of the illustrated history... I have contacted the Intrepid museum but so far have gotten no joy from them...

Cheers

Troy

[fsbofk]

I've found some more photos of VF-18 Hellcats from Intrepid during the Fall 44 period - it'll take me a few more days to look for more, and scan them to post here.

[Troy White]

Thank you very much. I am sorry for the delay in replying to you but things have been hectic here in southeast Queensland with monsoonal rains cutting us off from civilization and being quite disruptive to my daily routine.

If you would like to contact me directly, go to this link and click on the "contact us" button. http://www.starduststudios.com/

I'm looking forward to seeing the above mentioned photos.

Blue Skies,

Troy White

[fsbofk]

Haven't forgotten - too many other things around home are sucking my time, but I'll get to copying some photos as soon as I can.

[Troy White]

Thanks a bunch. It seems I have been having the same problem lately.

Cheers,

Troy