Battle of Kasserine Pass Group Build: 1/48 Bf-109F
After several assignments Franz picked up a factory new F-model Bf-109 that was already painted in desert camouflage with a white spinner. He would fly it to Martuba Airfield in Libya and join Fighter Wing 27 (Jagdeschwader27) or JG-27. After arriving he noticed the number 12 had been painted on his 109 and his girl had a new name, White 12.
It was during the summer of 1942 he noted "the men lived like animals." they didn't sleep in tents or under the stars. "To avoid British strafing they slept in what Franz called "graves.." six by six foot holes hacked into the earth, with a sheet of canvas overhead. The days of showering in freshwater were over, everyone stank."
In the spring of 1943 he went home on leave to visit his parents. It was then he realized that Germany was going to lose the war. He would later pick up a new G or Gustav model Bf-109 and proceed to Sicily. Later during the defense of Germany Franz had an encounter with a B-17, "Ye Old Pub" flown by Lt. Charlie Brown. That engagement was classified secret until well after the war. But that's another story. You can however read about it in a book written by Adam Makos, titled 'A Higher Call."
Construction:
Typical Hasegawa kit, no real issues, fit and alignment was fine. Not much detail in the cockpit so I kept the canopy closed. I did add some PE hardness but nothing else to enhance her appearance. Decals are from EagleCals and were excellent. Paints were Model Master RLM enamels and were applied with an airbrush. As usual I used nylon threat for the antenna.
I like it, Tom...nicely presented (and photographed).
Great 109,Tom! And an interesting narrative.
Another stunner, Tom. And I should be the one offering the thanks. This presentation is fantastic, and you answered the call when no one had claimed a Bf 109. Much appreciated!
By the way, I've learned that a pressure cooker can make the toughest hat tender enough to cut with the side of a fork. But as they say in some quarters, the sauce makes the meal...
The secret is in the sauce... 🙂
Craig, Robert and David, thank for the kind words.
That’s a cracking 109 Tom. I’m really impressed by the high standard of your KP builds. The narrative is great too. I’m reading a book at the moment that is made of interviews with WW2 air crew members. What Strikes me most is that the majority of people involved were ordinary humans doing extraordinary things. It seems Stigler fits that bill too. Thanks for sharing this brilliant model, great photos and very interesting post!
And so was Franz, I really recommend his book, quick but fascinating read.
Hi Tom. Franz Stigler is one of my favourite subjects of WW2, despite being on the wrong sigde. Your 'Friedrich' is gorgeous - lovely painting and attention to detail.
...and I hope Herr Thomas enjoys his hat!
The secret is in the sauce David.
That's a great looking Friedrich and like everyone else has said, cleverly set and photo'd in a desert setting. I've got an Eduard F sitting on the shelf waiting for an appropriate time and subject. Like you, I enjoy building models around the history of their pilots and their exploits. Great work! Paul
Makes it more interesting and fun doesn't it.
Tom, a good looking 109, the Hasegawa 109 kits are always enjoyable to build. I really like the desert scheme. Nice work.
Thanks Terry
Very nice work Tom, you can list it as one of your best. Nice presentation also.
Thanks Tom, took it to the IPMS Columbus and it took a Silver. Was quite surprised as the competition was really excellent.
Lovely 109! I don't believe I have an F in my stash, but may have to add one. I like desert-scheme birds, and this one is great!
Thanks Greg
Hey Tom ! Man you knocked this one out of the park ! I love it ... The desert base for the plane is a very nice touch.
I like everything about this one. The article and accompanying original era photos help to make it really stand out. These Hasegawa 109's build up rather well...
Well done Sir !
Now about that hat... 🙂
Yea I'm always swinging for the fences but some times I strike out. Thanks for the comments Louis
Great 109, Tom! You've been really busy!
Did Stigler continue flying after the war? I just watched the YouTube video of their 1st meeting (1987) but neither said what they'd done later in their lives.
Truly a touching story and a great model to honour it, Tom!
Thanks Jeff, look forward to seeing you Mar 10th in Indy
Tom, great looking 109F. I like Afrika markings on those more than European or Ost Front.
Whatever markings they have 109s always look great and this one is no exception, nice history and photographs as well, all round good job. Your prize was well deserved.
Nice story and model but what that rocks under ? It will destroy tyres in seconds 🙂