Description

Our F-105D Thunderchief tag is proudly handcrafted from the skin of an F-105D Thunderchief that saw significant combat during the Vietnam War.

One of our most prized possessions is the F-105D Thunderchief – Serial #59-1731 – an aircraft steeped in rich combat history. This remarkable Thud is a prolific USAF veteran of the Vietnam War. Formerly bearing the callsign “The Frito Bandito,” it was piloted by Major Jose Olvera and Crew Chiefed by Doug Harried during its tenure in the Vietnam War. One of its most notable missions involved the bombing of the Paul Doumer Bridge, now known as the Long Biên Bridge, which serves as a vital link between Hanoi and the port of Haiphong.

Following its tenure in the Vietnam War, our F-105D was reassigned to the Virginia Air National Guard in 1971 and was shortly thereafter rechristened as “The Huns Hammer,” and continued to serve until 1981. Following Virginia Air National Guard service, it was transported to AMARC in Tucson, AZ for storage in 1981.
After about 15 years of retirement at AMARC, 59-1731 was put up for auction by the DRMO along with another F-105 we acquired, 60-0452, known as “Rebel Rider”. Shortly after winning the auction in the mid 1990s both aircraft were transported to St. Louis, Missouri for storage and restoration work.

We have embarked on a restoration project for the whole aircraft of 60-0452, while portions of 59-1731 have been artfully upcycled for our TransportTags so you can own a piece of a legendary aircraft with epic combat history! However, we are not decimating the legendary “Frito Bandito” and are dedicated to preserving the cockpit.
Our aim is to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to appreciate these extraordinary pieces of history. The story of our F-105D Thunderchiefs is a testament to the monumental journeys that such warbirds can have, transitioning from active service during a large scale conflict to a life showcasing living history both via our TransportTags and the future display of our legendary Thuds.