Red Label Area with former China Lake A-4A Skyhawk BuNo 137818, F11F-1F Tiger BuNo 138647, XF4D-1 Skyray BuNo 124587 and NAS Atlanta A-1D Skyraider BuNo 127007, 7B-007, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

AN-M64 500 lb. fat bombs with Snakeye retarder fins on the bomb cart, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

Mk-82 iron bombs with Snakeye retarder fins, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VX-5 Vampires hangar and control tower, Armitage Field, 1965. NAF SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333 at right. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VA-122 AD-6 Skyraider BuNo 134526, NJ-211, Armitage Field, NAF China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

NAF China Lake QF-9G Cougar drone BuNo 131042 taxiing SE of the Hot Line to runway 32, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VX-5 Vampires F-4B Phantom II BuNo 151487, XE-14, with MK-4 HIPEG and 5.0 ZUNI, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

NAF China Lake NA-1G Skyraider BuNo 132598, four PMBR racks, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VX-5 Vampires Ordnance bomb truck and Ordies, Scotty Burns (driving), Tiger, Murphey and Acord, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

Freeman Acord, Tiger, Sidney Ellis, and Scott Burns loading Mk 81 Snakeye bombs on a VX-5 Vampires Skyhawk, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965. A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145112 at right. Photo from David Woolsey.

NAF China Lake QF-9J Cougar drone and the drone control van, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965. Photo from "Boom" Powell.

NAF China Lake F-8E Crusader BuNo 150669 in the arresting gear on runway 21 after a missile launch damaged the port wing resulting in the loss of both hydraulic systems, Armitage Field, China Lake, 1965/66. Photographer unknown from Don Hart collection.

USAF B-47B Stratojet s/n 51-2120, Sweet Marie, Armitage Field, China Lake, 01 Jan 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149659, XE-4, over the Sierra mountains, circa 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell.

VX-5 Vampires A-4F Skyhawk BuNo 152015, XE-6, with (l-r) Mk-122 Fireye, AGM-45 Shrike, CBU-75 Sadeye, AGM-62 Walleye and Mk-20 Rockeye ordnance, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965. Photo from Ray Powell.

VX-5 Vampires F-4B Phantom BuNo 150440, XE-13, in-flight, circa 1965. Photo from Ray Powell.

Aircraft Armament Delivery Maneuvers, circa 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell..

F-4 Phantom II Recon artwork, circa 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

AIM-7E Sparrow is fired from a ground launcher, China Lake, circa 1965. Photographer unknown.

XMIM-43A Redeye missile fired from the XM147 launcher, consisting of the launch tube, the grip stock, and an XM59 telescopic sight assembly with a target acquisition indicator, China Lake, circa 1965. Official U.S. Army photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 151987, XE-4, aboard the USS Constellation, CVA-64, with an AGM-62 Walleye on the centerline, circa 1965. VAH-123 A-3B Skywarriors BuNo's 138937 and 142251 at left. TF-1 Trader BuNo 146031 at right. Photo via The Tailhook Association.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149655, XE-5, AGM-45 Shrike missile, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Sidewinder AIM-9B, AIM-9C and AIM-9D missiles, China Lake, circa 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142787, Bigeye Mk-82, in-flight, China Lake, 12 January 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Unknown NAF China Lake A-4 Skyhawk and CBU-75 Sadeye cluster bomb, Armitage Field, China Lake, February 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145112 (XE-8) & VX-5 members who grew a beard for Whiskey Flats Days, China Lake, February 1965. L-r standing: unknown, Bill Gaspar, Larry Pickell, next 2 unknown, Rich Galope, next 2 unknown, Ken Wrasler (sp) and unknown. L-r kneeling: 1st 3 unknown, Dillion (sp), Bob Matthews & Tom Smith. Photo from Tom Smith.

NAF China Lake China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 144947, AGM-62 Walleye drop, China Lake, 04 Feb 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 151988 (XE-5), AGM-45 SHRIKE missile, China Lake, 05 Feb 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake QF-9G Cougar drone BuNo 128164 and dual target presentation camera receive pre-flight attention, Armitage Field, China Lake, 2 February 1965. Checking out TV control camera are (l-r) Ronald G. Stoutmeyer, Victor D. Bizon, Lloyd J. Holt, James W. Baker and AE2 David W. Maghe. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake LCdr. Jack Miner flies the 2nd QF-9G Cougar, BuNo 131042, via the dual target presentation camera on BuNo 128164, Armitage Field, China Lake, 5 February 1965. 'NERVE CENTER' team includes (l-r) Robert C. Burks, Ken Seaman, ATN3 John H. KolmDonald, Oscar A. Perkins, LCdr. Miner and Gordon F. Zurn Jr. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake Lt. Todd Crombie guides QF-9G Cougar drone BuNo 128164 on takeoff, Armitage Field, China Lake, 05 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Dark tailed TV control plane NAF China Lake QF-9G Cougar BuNo 128164 (right) in-flight with the dual target presentation camera transmitting picture of "slave" QF-9G Cougar BuNo 131042 at left. Both drones are unmanned and under remote control of ground station on G-1 Range, China Lake, 5 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake based chase pilots l-r) are Lt's Pat Thompson, Ken Sikes, Dick Thomas, Dave Jordan and Dick Karr. Lt. Sikes, due for transfer, is soon to be relieved by Lt. Thomas, assistant division officer. Behind them is DF-8F Crusader chase plane BuNo 143813, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 05 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake DF-8F Crusader BuNo 145351 chase plane guides Q2C "Firebee" target drone into "hot run" pattern. Small-scale targets are used for high-altitude, high speed tests, but also fly low-level, China Lake, 05 Feb 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake "Redbird" division poses in front of QF-9G Cougar drone BuNo 127340. The Division includes two officers, 51 enlisted men and 16 civilians, hangar 2, Armitage Field, China Lake, 05 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

China Lake Home of the Worlds Finest Target Aircraft Division sign and Firebee drone, hangar 2, Armitage Field, China Lake, 05 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 151988 (XE-5), SHRIKE missile, runway 21, China Lake, 05 Feb 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

AIM-9C & AIM-9D Sidewinder display, China Lake, 09 February 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell. 

NASA 16-Foot Transonic Tunnel Test 212 was conducted on Snakeye Mk-81 low-drag general-purpose 250 lb. and Mk-82 low-drag general-purpose 500 lb. bombs during 2/10/1965 to 2/12/1965. To alleviate the blast and fragmentation effects on an aircraft from its own munitions during low-level delivery, both bombs can be fitted with a Mk-14 TRD (Tail Retarding Device) that has four folded fins that spring open into a cruciform shape when the bomb is released. Langley Research Center.

NASA 16-Foot Transonic Tunnel Test 212 was conducted on Snakeye Mk-81 low-drag general-purpose 250 lb. and Mk-82 low-drag general-purpose 500 lb. bombs during 2/10/1965 to 2/12/1965. To alleviate the blast and fragmentation effects on an aircraft from its own munitions during low-level delivery, both bombs can be fitted with a Mk-14 TRD (Tail Retarding Device) that has four folded fins that spring open into a cruciform shape when the bomb is released. Langley Research Center.

Astronaut dummies in Gemini mockup atop 150-foot tower pending ejection test, China Lake, 12 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

ComNOTS Capt. John I. Hardy chats with NASA astronaut LCdr. Alan Bean as NOTS Project Engineer Bob Vorwerk and Range Engineer Jim Keosky check program for todays test, China Lake, 12 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Blast of propellant hurtles dummy astronauts and seats from Gemini capsule, China Lake, 12 February 1965. Rocketeer photo.

U.S. Army C-7B Caribou s/n 63-97xx, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake NA-1G Skyraider BuNo 132510, aft close-up of Mk-24 flares, Armitage Field, China Lake, 01 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake NA-1G Skyraider BuNo 132510, Mk-24 flares, Armitage Field, China Lake, 01 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

MK-20 Rockeye II cluster bomb, China Lake, March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

MK-20 Rockeye II cluster bomb tail, China Lake, March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell. 

MK-20 Rockeye II cluster bomb nose, China Lake, March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333, Armitage Field, China Lake, March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333, looking forward from the radar console, March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333 in-flight over Long Beach, CA, March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333 in-flight near NALF San Clemente Island, CA, March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E BuNo 128333 and cargo ship target used to test the new AOD gear, March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333, over Inyokern and China Lake, March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

China Lake skydiving team, NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune and S-2A Tracker in the background, China Lake, March 1965. Photo by L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake C-117D Skytrain BuNo 17156, China Lake skydiving team, M. Steuermann 5th from left, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

China Lake skydiving team, NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333 and NAF S-2A Tracker in the background, China Lake, circa March 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

Skydiver striker, Armitage Field, China Lake, May 1965. Photo from Larry Heppler.

Skydiver Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, circa March 1965. Photo ©Larry Heppler.

USAF T-39A Sabreliner s/n 59-2871, DIRTY, tracker turret, Armitage Field, China Lake, 05 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Circular track at the GM proving grounds near Mesa, AZ, used to test the circular runway concept, 07 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo by PH1 W. E. McKee, PH1 O.V. Williams, and PH2 A. M. Custro, via John Gabbard.

Cdr. Smith brief's Cdr. Lloyd H. Smith & LCdr. George H. Furlong prior to the circular runway test, 08 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo by PH1 W. E. McKee, PH1 O.V. Williams, and PH2 A. M. Custro, via John Gabbard.

VX-5 Vampires T-28C Trojan BuNo 146286, XE-18, piloted by NWEF Cdr. Lloyd H. Smith & LCdr. George H. Furlong prepares to takeoff, Mesa, AZ, 08 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo by PH1 W. E. McKee, PH1 O.V. Williams, and PH2 A. M. Custro, via John Gabbard.

VX-5 Vampires T-28C Trojan BuNo 146286, XE-18, landing on the circular track at GM’s Desert Proving Grounds track, near Mesa, AZ, 08 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo by PH1 W. E. McKee, PH1 O.V. Williams, and PH2 A. M. Custro, via John Gabbard.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 148437, AGM-62 Walleye, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 16 Mar 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

U.S. Army OH-6A Cayuse s/n 62-4212, DIRTY, N side of hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, 16 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires Lt. Lloyd C. Showman surveys target on C-range and damage from 2,000-pound bomb he dropped in over-the-shoulder release last week as part of demonstration. Release of weapon was at 6,000 feet and 500 knots, landing within 75 feet from center of target. China Lake, 19 March 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake Drill Team leader AT1 Preston L. Beebe is congratulated by NAF CO Robert R. Yount after taking 1st place at the National Orange Show's Armed Forces Parade at San Bernardino last Sunday, China Lake, 19 March 1965. Rocketeer photo.

MK-20 Rockeye II bomblet cutaway, China Lake, 23 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

MK-20 Rockeye II bomblet, China Lake, 23 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

NAF China Lake NA-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145063, Rockeye II CBU release, China Lake, 24 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake NA-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145063, Rockeye II CBU release, China Lake, 24 March 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

AGM-62 Walleye view from 2 miles, circa April 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149659, XE-4, and ordnance tested by VX-5, China Lake, September 1965. Ordies l-r: AO1 Carrel Simpson, AO1 Reginald C. East, AO3 Clenton Forrister, AO2 David G. Murphy, AO3 Ellis Sidney, AO2 Freeman R. Acord AO2 Scott A. Burns & AO3 Gale M. Birge. In rear AQC Donald L. Clark, LT(jg). C.V. O'Brien & AOC John R. Cooper. China Lake, 02 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

AGM-45 SHRIKE missile is handled by VX-5 Vampires AO2 Scott A. Burns, AO2 Freeman A. Acord and AO1 Reginal C. East, Armitage Field, China Lake, 02 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Two Mk-8x Snakeye bombs are carted into position under an A-4 Skyhawk by VX-5 Vampires AO2 Freeman R. Acord and AO2 Joseph W. Knopp, Armitage Field, China Lake, 02 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires Ordies loading Mk-81 Snakeyes on VX-5 A-4C Skyhawk BuNo unknown, XE-10. VX-5 A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149655, XE-5, in the foreground, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 02 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires Lt(jg). Charles V. O'Brien explains device to AOC John R. Cooper, AO2 Freeman R. Acord, AQC Donald L. Clark and AO1 Reginald C. East, Armitage Field, China Lake, 02 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires AO2 William J. Brandon and AO1 Reginald C. East assemble a Shrike missile in the Ordnance shop, Armitage Field, China Lake, 02 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 148437, Walleye, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, 06 April 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires AQF2 Robert L. Gage is congratulated by Lt. E. E. Wanglie after he re-enlists for four more years while sitting in the cockpit of the Skippers A-4E Skyhawk, Armitage Field, China Lake, 09 April 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake F-4B Phantom II BuNo 151435, Aeroheating round, NAF A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142777 in the background, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 09 April 1965. Official U.S.N. photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142892, DIRTY, Michigan pod, and at right, unknown DF-8F Crusader drone controller and F-8D Crusader BuNo 147047, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 22 April 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo

NASA 16-Foot Transonic Tunnel Test 244 was conducted on the Rockwell AGM-53 Condor missile during 4/23/1969 to 5/2/1969. Based on the Tunnel Test Log title, the primary test objective was probably to measure pressures (loads) at various locations on the missile. The Condor missile utilized a television guidance system that was linked to the launching aircraft. Langley Research Center.

NAF China Lake F-4B Phantom II BuNo 151435, SHRIKE TIAS SOSS pod, and A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142892 at right, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 25 April 1965. Official U.S.N. photo.

USAF T-39A Sabreliner s/n 59-2871, DIRTY tracker window, Armitage Field, China Lake, 28 April 1965. Official U.S.N. photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142892, DIRTY Michigan pod, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 28 April 1965. Official U.S.N. photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142892 and VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 148585, XE-12, and people involved in the Snakeye Weapon System. Supporting Program Manager Roy Compton (right front) and Project Manager Tony Simshauser (front left), engineers, technicians, Ordies, technical assistants and secretaries, loading and scheduling groups, B-1 range crew, engineering drawings, packaging, inspection, supply, NAF & VX-5 pilots and plane crewman, China Lake, circa 1965. Rocketeer photo from R. Powell.

NAF China Lake NA-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145063, Fireye release, China Lake, 05 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake DF-8F Crusader BuNo 143813, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

Blue Angels F-11A Tigers & Ted Terhune, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

Blue Angels F-11A Tigers & Larry Heppler, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333, Ted Terhune, China Lake flight line, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake NA-4E Skyhawk BuNo 148613, with PMBR's and practice bombs, p/c G. Verver, hangar 3, China Lake, 14 May 1965. 613 was a modified A4D-2N used to flight test the 5 wing station configuration. Photo by L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake F-8E Crusader BuNo 150284, p/c Mike Steuermann, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

VX-5 Vampires F-4B Phantom II BuNo 150440, XE-13, hangar 3, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake A-3B Skywarrior BuNo 138952, p/c Vern Whipkey and Charlie Malear, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake DT-28B Trojan drone controller BuNo 137663 with 50 Cal. gun pods, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Photo ©L. Heppler.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333 and ramp area and NAF Line Shack from the top of hangar 3, China Lake, May 1965. Photo by L. Heppler.

Blue Angels C-121J BuNo 131623, Armitage Field, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Blue Angels pilots march to their planes and waiting crew, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965 Rocketeer photo.

Armed Forces Day crowd watches a test shot on the Supersonic Naval Ordnance Research Track (SNORT), China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Blue Angels pilot LCdr. Bob Cowles autographs a program for Donna Burgess, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Rocketeer photo.

One of the Golden Knights steers himself to a stand-up landing close to the speakers platform as the demonstration reaches its finale, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Blue Angels F-11A Tigers, China Lake, Armed Forces Day, 14 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Golden Knights, Armed Forces Day, Armitage Field, China Lake, 14 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Deneye II anti-personnel mine, China Lake 14 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo via R. Powell.

Base and forward enclosure of SNORT's new biggest ever sled nearly fills Michelson Lab's south door, and it's not out yet by a dozen feet. Workers successfully eased it out on Saturday, 19 May 1965 with no more than an inch to spare. Rocketeer photo

NAF China Lake DT-28B Trojan, napalm drop, Walker lake, 20 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake SP-2E Neptune BuNo 128333, project DIRTY, East side of hangar 1, Armitage Field, China Lake, 25 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

USAF F-105F Thunderchief s/n 62-4419, SHRIKE missile, runway 21, Armitage Field, China Lake, 27 May 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

MLU-32/B99 Briteye artwork, China Lake, June 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from R. Powell.

RIM-72 Sidewinder based, Chaparral, China Lake, 14 June 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF C-131F Samaritan BuNo 141028 & C-117D Skytrain BuNo 17156, north side of hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa June 1965. Photo from G. Verver collection.

USAF F-105F Thunderchief s/n 62-4419, SHRIKE missile, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 30 June 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake DF-8F Crusaders BuNo 143813 & 144429, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa June 1965. Photo by G. Verver.

NAF China Lake NA-1G Skyraiders BuNo 132510 & 132598, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa June 1965. Photo by G. Verver.

NAF China Lake C-131F Samaritan BuNo 141028 and NAF A-3B Skywarrior BuNo 138952, p/c V. Whipkey & C. Malear, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa June 1965. Photo by G. Verver.

NAF China Lake DT-28B Trojans BuNo 137667 & 138355, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa June 1965. Photo by G. Verver.

NAF China Lake A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 148613, and VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149659, XE-4, on the China Lake Hotline, 1965. G. Verver on the NC-5 & R. Freedman with his back to the camera. Project SHRIKE photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149659, XE-4, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965. SHRIKE project team photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 144947 and A-4 plane captains J. Delorey, C. Malear & Morales, Armitage Field, China Lake, ca. 1965. Photo by G. Verver.

Cdr. Jack Speciale and NAF China Lake F-4B Phantom II BuNo 151435 next to F-8E Crusader BuNo 150284, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, June/July 1965. Photo from J. Speciale.

VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145068, XE-7, taxiing aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, July 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145112, XE-12, ready to launch from the USS Kitty Hawk, July 1965 with a Sadeye cluster bomb on center rack. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VX-5 Vampires AO3 Dave Woolsey aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, July 1965. Photo from Dave Woolsey.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149655, XE-5, USS Kitty Hawk, circa July 1965. Photographer unknown, G. Verver collection.

Crew readies VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145112, XE-12, for launch with a Sadeye from the USS Kitty Hawk, circa July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires AO Scott Burns loads CBU-75 SADEYE cluster bombs on VX-5 A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149655, XE-5, USS Kitty Hawk, circa July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142787, Rockeye II, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, July 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

MK-12 Padeye dispenser, China Lake, circa July 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from R. Powell.

New VX-5 Vampires CO Cdr. Loranger performs traditional cake cutting as Cdr. Riley watches. Observing are Capt. Leonard E. Harmon, DepComOpTevFor (l) and RAdm. Thomas J. Walker, Commander, Joint Task Force Two, VX-5's first CO in 1951, China Lake, 09 July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires stand ready for inspection during the Change of Command ceremony, Armitage Field, China Lake 09 July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Retired NAF A-4A Skyhawk BuNo 137814, being hoisted into position for display in front of the Station's Weapon Demonstration building behind Mike Lab. where it will be loaded with inert weapons by the Air to Surface Weapons Div., China Lake, 9 July 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo, R. Summers collection.

NAF F-4B Phantom II BuNo 151435, Shrike missile, runway 21, China Lake, 13 Jul 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Manual tracking antenna is operated by Code 40 Aeromechanics Div. Roy E. Rockstrom, China Lake, 16 July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Code 30's Instrumentation Lab's Engineering Support Section Head Robert E. Rockwell examines Spinner for installation in former gun antenna, China Lake, 16 July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

In first flight test of BOMROC Clyde Hienzig, experimental ordnance equipment mechanic, prepares to insert rocket In tube at G-2 Range, while Art Butler, ordnance man for ammo and explosives, checks breach, 30 July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Law of the NOTS Ranges - "Pop" Lofnick poses by sign, whose warning he enforced with Kansas tenacity for over 5 years in guarding NOTS' 1,700 square miles of ranges from intruders, and the intruders' safety. China Lake, 30 July 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake F-4B Phantom II BuNo 151435, Fireye, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa Aug 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

TIARA (Target-Illumination and Recovery Aid) night test, Charlie Range, August 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142787 off the runway at Dugway after the pilot ejected when control of the aircraft couldn't be maintained on touchdown, August 1965. Photographer unknown from Don Hart collection.

VA-65 Fighting Tigers A-6A Intruder BuNo 151793, NG-103, DIRTY, 05 Aug 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VA-85 Black Falcons A-6A Intruder, NH-801, Shrike missile, China Lake, 14 Aug 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142777, Fireye, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 11 Aug 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142777, Snakeye I, Armitage Field, China Lake, 24 Aug 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

MK-122 Fireye incendiary bomb, Armitage Field, China Lake, September 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from R. Powell.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 148437 in-flight with a AGM-62, Walleye, China Lake, 01 Sep 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Defense science seminar participants take a "break" in field tour schedule at weapons exhibit (A-4A Skyhawk BuNo 137814) behind Mike Lab - to hash over tour topics - while Dr. William G. McMillan, Seminar Chairman from UCLA, and Franklin H. Knemeyer, head of Weapons Development Dept., (l-r, foreground) evaluate tour. Group included 45 scientists from all U.S, China Lake, 03 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF LCdr. Bill Odman seated in the NOTS-developed ejection seat reenacts for Todd Aslanian, Douglas rep, how he pulled face curtain when he was forced to eject from NAF A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142787 at Dugway, UT, 03 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF NA-1G Skyraider BuNo 132598, fuze test pod, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 Sep 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 147781, AGM-62 Walleye, China Lake, 09 Sep 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

TA-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152103, China Lake, 15 Sep. 1965. 152103 was one of two TA-4E prototypes. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF DT-28B Trojan drone controller BuNo 137667, Armitage Field, China Lake, 15 Sep 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires CO Don Loranger honors (l-r) Ens. Ron Cable (drill team trophies at Mojave and Huntington Beach), AE3 Edward A. Seffel (July Bluejacket of the month), AK2 Josep Perez and YNC Ponciano Vistro (Good Conduct Medals), Armitage Field, China Lake, 10 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Gunners Mates move in to give close attention to pointers on Mark 102 launcher after live demonstrations at G-2 Range. Their recommissioned LSMR and IFS ships are being armed with five inch spin-stabilized rockets, China Lake, 17 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

From ship of the desert at G-2 Range the sand-based Mark 102 rocket launcher fires a Mark 7 spin stabilized five-inch rocket for the benefit of nine officers and ten EM from two former mothballed vessels based at San Diego. China Lake, 17 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF Capt. Robert R. Yount (l), NAF CO, presented 2,000 hour plaques to (l-r) Cdrs. S. F. Abele and M. M. Manger, for time in A-1 Skyraider, and LCdr. A. E. Molloy for F-10 Skyknight. Todd Aslanian (r), Douglas tech. rep., brought plaques to NAF from the aircraft firm, China Lake, 17 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

The Naval Air Facility's prize winning Drill Team will be performing their precision routines in the mile-long Desert Empire Fair parade tomorrow, China Lake, 17 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Lt. Gary Moore reports to NAF China Lake following graduation from the famed four year old Air Force Research Pilot School at Edwards AFB as one of the nations most newly qualified space pilots, 17 September 1965, Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake A-3B Skywarrior BuNo 138952 and two NAF A-4 Skyhawks fly-over at the Empire Fair, 19 September 1965. Rocketeer photo

Posing in front of VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152015, XE-6, are the 1965 softball champs kneeling (l-r) are VX-5's LCdr R. E. Cooper; AZAN Hank Myer; MA1 Joe Hootman; YN3 N. H. Perry; AK2 J. B. C. Perez & J. W. Armistad. Standing (l-r) are SN R. C. Johnson; Lt. Don Marritt, ADR3 T. M. Rose; MA3 M. J. Saul; AMS3 J. L. Schwarting; Lt. W. E. Turlay, Lt. Gene Wangli, and LCdr. G. E. Russell. Not shown: L. T. Yetter and YN2 W. R. Dalmal. China Lake, 24 September 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake NA-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145063, Rockeye II drop, China Lake, 23 September 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 147680, p/c ADJ3 Ralph Ripley, & VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145139, XE-11, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, about Oct 1965. Photo, G. Verver collection.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 147680 and VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145139, XE-11, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, about Oct 1965. Photo G. Verver collection.

NAF China Lake A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 148613, p/c ADJ3 G. Verver, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, about Oct. 1965. At right ADJ3 Ralph Ripley with a huffer starting A-4C BuNo 147680. Photo, G. Verver collection.

NAF China Lake A-4 Skyhawk Misteye dissemination, China Lake, 04 Oct 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Weapon Demonstration Building behind Mike Lab., China Lake, 06 Oct 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 147680, in-flight firing a AGM-45 SHRIKE missile, China Lake, 06 Oct 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

Retired NAF A-4A Skyhawk BuNo 137814 on display at the Weapon Demonstration Building behind Mike Lab. China Lake, 06 Oct 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

AIM-9 Sidewinders quad-mounted on the prototype U.S. Army XM548E1 Chaparral, China Lake, 07 October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo, Duncan Curtis collection.

The airborne XR-45 Multi-mode radar is shown installed in nose of NAF China Lake TF-10 Skyknight BuNo 125807, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 October 1965. It's first such system with micro circuitry. Rocketeer photo.

First hand view of cockpit and instrumentation of VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152015, XE-6, is had by RAdm. Dornin during tour of VX-5, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Technicians review prospects of XR-45 radar installed in nose of NAF China Lake TF-10B Skyknight BuNo 125807. Alfred B. Ferris (left), asst. project engineer from AOD, discusses nation's first microminiaturized airborne radar with Autonetics technician, hangar 3, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

XY profile plotter at Charlie Range is demonstrated and explained to RAdm. Dornin by Clyde Turbett. Instrument records flight path of aircraft during bomb delivery, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

RAdm. Marshall E. Dornan and VX-5 Vampires CO Cdr. Don Loranger head for the ready room after a tour of the COSO Target Range in one of the NAF China Lake UH-34 helicopters, Armitage Field, China Lake, October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

SNAKEYE, the NOTS developed free-fall bomb on VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152015, XE-6, is explained to RAdm. Dornan by VX-5 Vampires LCdr. Richard J. Schulte, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

VX-5 Vampires ADJ1 Clarence Osborn briefed RAdm. Dornin and VX-5 CO Don Loranger on the A-4E Skyhawk Pratt and Whitney J52-P6A jet engine, hangar 1, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Rocket pod carrying capacity and fire power on VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145139, XE-11, is detailed to RAdm. Dornin by VX-5's Skipper Cdr. Don Loranger and Asst. projects dir. LCdr. R. J. Schulte, Armitage Field, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

MK-115 Helicopter Trap Weapon with parachute, China Lake, 08 October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from R. Powell collection.

BLU-80 Bigeye sketch, 12 October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from R. Powell collection.

NAF China Lake A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 147781, AGM-62 Walleye, Armitage Field, China Lake, 12 October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

MIM-72 Chaparral missile specs, China Lake, 13 October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

MIM-72 Chaparral ground launched derivative of the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, China Lake, 13 October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145139, XE-11, and VX-5 Jet shop, China Lake, 14 Oct. 1965. L-r: Ray Averett, C. Osborne, Rich Galope (on ladder), Jim Armistad, J. Javdinski, Vern Snyder, D. McCain, Richard Aldaz & V. Mason. Photo from Rich Galope.

Marceye bomblet loaded with TIARA, October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

Snipe missile, China Lake, October 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

NAF China Lake A-4B Skyhawk BuNo 142892, SNIPE, Hot Line, Armitage Field, China Lake, 15 Oct 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149657, XE-2, Fireye drop, China Lake, 22 Oct. 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149657, XE-2, Fireye drop, China Lake, 22 Oct. 1965. Official U.S. Navy photo from Ray Powell collection.

VX-5 Vampires Lt. Rod K. Kauber is congratulated by VA-192 CO Cdr. E.E. Tissot following a combat strike over Vietnam as they pose in front of A-4C NM-211, 29 October 1965. Rocketeer photo.

AGM-45 Shrike artwork, 01 November 1965. Official U.S. Navy from Ray Powell collection.

NAF China Lake Redbirds QF-9G Cougar BuNo 128164 in-flight with dual target TV pod, China Lake, 04 Nov 1964. Official U.S. Navy photo.

AMS2 Floyd Goldy, pumps pressure into 25-ton wing jack being tested in jack tester while ADJ2 Auren Frei takes readings from gauge. The pair designed and built device to fill need for convenience, economy and speed at NAF. Tester stands seven feet tall, is eight feet wide and weighs two and a half tons. China Lake, 05 November 1965. Rocketeer photo.

PAL Convair 240, N40436, the daily flight to civilization, Inyokern, 08 Nov. 1965. Official U.S.N. photo.

Eight of 15 men in VX-5 who will advance in rates between now and April pose in front of VX-5 Vampires A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 149655, XE-5, and display their new ratings. Kneeling, Eugene Bakke; standing (l-r) David Banks, David Ames, Ellis Sidney, Mike Kane, George Highers; on ladder, Dennis Kimberly, and David McCain, China Lake, 19 November 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Skydivers and crew consult before jumping from NAF China Lake C-117D Skytrain BuNo 17156. They are (l-r) Homer Oldemeyer, club president and jump master, Lt. R.P. Karr, liaison officer; AMC Anthony Trujillo co-pilot; and LCdr. A.E. Molloy, pilot , China Lake, 28 November 1965. Rocketeer photo

Prospects are looking good to club officers before Nov. 28 jump from NAF China Lake China Lake C-117D Skytrain BuNo 17156. From left are Dave Ames, secretary-treasurer; James Tuttle, custodian; Homer Oldemeyer, president; Bill Brandon, vice-president, China Lake, 28 November 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Preflight equipment check is performed before jump from NAF China Lake C-117D Skytrain BuNo 17158 by jump-master Oldemeyer (left). Jumpers are (l-r) Ken Adams, ADJ3; Ron Hardern, AO2; Charles Markin, ADJAN; Bill Brandon, AO2; Jim Dellos, RD1; Clenton Forrister, AO3; Jim Stegall, FTM1; Mike Kane, AN; Dave Ames, AN; Al Holford, PRAN; Dave LeBourgeois, AA; and Russ Jefferson, PR3, China Lake, 28 November 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Student jumper NAF China Lake PRAN Al Holford exits from C-117D 17156 on static line in perfect form as main chute release cord is about to pull taut, China Lake, 03 December 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Mk4 and VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145139, XE-11 - A deadly combination, featuring high rate of fire and little rearming "down time" for aircraft. Pod with its Mk 11 double barrel smoothbore gun can be installed on a variety of Navy and Air Force planes. China Lake, 03 December 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Mk 4 gun pod is rolled up to VX-5 Vampires A-4C Skyhawk BuNo 145139, XE-11, for centerline attachment. Pushing pod are (l-r) PFC Robert Doerr and PFC Nick Colletto, Jr., (USMC) and VX-5 AO2 Scott Burns. Pod, loaded with ammo on deck, gives fast "turnaround," China Lake, 03 December 1965. Rocketeer photo.

NAF China Lake XO Cdr. W. L. Reardon reads orders of advancement to three NAF "Super Chiefs." From left to right, Foley A. Barnes ADCS, James B. Fike ADCS and Gordon F. Staley AFCM, China Lake, 10 December 1965. Rocketeer photo.

Ordnance personnel mount a SNIPE to on the launch rack of NAF China Lake UH-34J Sea Horse BuNo 145676, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965/66. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake UH-34J Sea Horse BuNo 145676, SNIPE launcher, Armitage Field, China Lake, circa 1965/66. Official U.S. Navy photo.

NAF China Lake Redbirds QF-9F Cougar drone BuNo 130866, SNAFU 1, dual target TV pod, Armitage Field, China Lake 30 Dec 1965. Photo Clay Jansson via Tailhook Association.

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