1/32 Douglas A-1H Skyraider (Vietnam War)

Sandy Over the Jungle

This 1/32 scale build of the legendary Douglas A-1H Skyraider is inspired by its service in the Vietnam War, particularly during the mid-to-late 1960s. The tropical camouflage, surface staining, and mission-weathered details all reflect the rugged life of a “Sandy” escort bird flying close air support and rescue missions deep over the jungle.

The Skyraider was a single-seat attack aircraft built for power and persistence. Even in the jet age, it held its ground—flying low, carrying massive ordnance loads, and protecting downed pilots during CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue) missions.

🔧 Modeling Notes
The finish was built up with airbrush tonal layering and hand-painted panel accents, capturing wear from jungle humidity, fuel leaks, and repeated sortie grime.

Heavy exhaust staining and oil streaks were added to emphasize the powerplant's long flight endurance and combat abuse.

The pilot figure, canopy framing, and realistic prop blur in flight were added to evoke the feel of motion and tension.

The build is based on real references (last pic) Douglas A-1H Skyraider 52-139738, call sign, “Sandy.” Lieutenant Colonel William A. Jones III, commanding the 602nd Special Operations Squadron, flew this airplane on 1 September 1968 during a Combat Search and Rescue mission for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor. On 22 September 1972

✈️ Tribute Through Texture
This Skyraider isn't meant to look pristine—it's meant to look flown.
Every scuff, chip, and streak is part of a larger narrative about the aircraft's role in one of the most intense low-level air wars in history.

8 additional images. Click to enlarge.