Jacob Winslow
Iconic Tribute Takes Flight in New Jersey
A unique piece of aviation history soars once again, as an F-16 from the New Jersey Air National Guard proudly sports a vibrant homage to a World War II hero. The aircraft, belonging to the 119th Fighter Squadron, now features an eye-catching orange vertical stabilizer honoring Maj. Gen. Donald Strait, a renowned fighter ace.
Honor and Heritage in Every Flight
Strait’s legacy is rooted deep in New Jersey’s skies, having flown P-47s and P-51s adorned with bold nicknames. His P-47 bore the memorable moniker “Jersey Jerk”, a name chosen after a creative disagreement with his crew. They believed that anyone who took on daring missions over the North Sea was either brave or a “jerk,” a word then synonymous with risk-taker. Despite its pejorative evolution, Strait embraced it, proving his valor in 122 combat sorties.
A Legacy Revived
Fast forward to today, the famed “Jersey Jerk” moniker lives on. Lt. Col. Michael Long, the current commander of the 119th Fighter Squadron, reflects on Strait’s indelible mark on the squadron. Long carries the callsign “Jerk 01,” a nod to the legacy that defines their unit’s character and pride. The new tail design, paired with the squadron’s emblem, is not just a decoration but a testament to the courage and history that continues to inspire.
The heritage of Maj. Gen. Strait, who passed in 2015, thrives in the New Jersey skies, reminding all of the unyielding spirit and the tales of bravery etched in history.
How a Fighter Jet’s Paint Honors World War II Hero
A vibrant new tribute to World War II fighter ace Maj. Gen. Donald Strait is turning heads at the New Jersey Air National Guard. The colorful makeover of an F-16 fighter jet, featuring an eye-catching orange vertical stabilizer, embodies Strait’s storied legacy and continues to inspire current squadron members and aviation enthusiasts.
Features and Heritage of the F-16 Design
The F-16’s striking design serves as a bold homage to Maj. Gen. Strait, whose fighter planes were easily recognizable by their unique markings. The current paint job isn’t just cosmetic; it’s a celebration of brave missions and the fearless spirit embodied by Strait and his crew in historic combat roles. The orange stabilizer is a modern echo of the original P-47 Thunderbolt that Strait piloted, known for its nickname “Jersey Jerk.”
Why Paint Schemes Matter
Military aircraft often bear insignia or designs that tell a story and foster a sense of continuity and pride among pilots. In this case, the updated F-16 both honors the past and reinforces the heritage of the 119th Fighter Squadron. The squadron’s identity is tightly linked to the legacy of its ace pilots, their battles, and the courage that defined their missions.
Innovations and Tributes in Military Aviation
The homage to Maj. Gen. Strait reflects a broader trend in military aviation where units actively preserve and promote their historical traditions. This approach helps maintain morale by linking current missions with past glories, educating younger service members on the significance of their squadron’s storied past.
The Current Relevance of Wartime Legends
Lt. Col. Michael Long, the commanding officer of the 119th Fighter Squadron, honors the past through his callsign “Jerk 01,” a heartfelt nod to the original “Jersey Jerk.” This live link between past and present not only cultivates a shared identity within the squadron but also serves as a constant reminder of the bravery required in service roles today.
The Legacy Continues
Though Maj. Gen. Strait passed away in 2015, his legacy thrives, painted brightly in the sky and in the hearts of those serving in the New Jersey Air National Guard. Tributes such as this highlight the ongoing importance of history in shaping and motivating military units, ensuring those stories of valor and courage are never forgotten.
For more insights into the world of aviation history, visit National Guard.
