A wooden model Grumman F7F Tigercat “NATC” built by Ralph Sarosi. The F7F Tigercat was a twin engine fighter that could operate from Midway class carriers or larger. It saw service in Navy and Marine Corps colors from the Korean war on. Most were land based, and only the F7F-4N was certified for carrier service. The yellow paint job indicates that the plane was used for towing targets for gunnery practice. Numbered “288” which is Joe Bridi’s competition number.
This aircraft model was made by former Air Force pilot Ralph Sarosi. Ralph flew a large number of different aircraft over his career, from a P-51 after WWII to fighter jets. He flew chase planes when the Space Shuttle landed at Edwards AFB, so his career spanned from propellers to spacecraft. Mr. Sarosi’s aircraft models are carved from wood and expertly painted. They were purchased and collected by R/C flyer Joe Bridi, who eventually donated them to the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum where they are now on display.