@gblair - it was a momentary USN insanity. The covering was supposed to prevent corrosion, but instead promoted it since it was difficult to find it under that stuff, not to mention it was far more difficult for those servicing the airplane who could no longer see the lines and which was which. it came and went quickly, but according to the color photo I found of this airplane and conversation with Tommy Thomason, the FJ-3 was among those that got it - not all, some, including this one. For me, it makes a different look and an opportunity to discuss a little-known fakakte.
