Alameda Gallery

Vought DF-8F Crusader 143703

United States Navy - Vought DF-8F Crusader 143703 (call-sign 103'), target tug, of the Pacific Missile Centre, at Point Mugu Naval Air station, on 15 May 1965. At least forty-five F-8A's were modified to serve as target-director aircraft; designated DF-8F. In practice the DF-8F pilot spooled out a target on a cable from the port wing, which was towed at a safe distance behind. While in tow, fighters would practice gun-and missile-firing exercises, shooting at the target in tow. After the practice, the pilot retrieved the target, or empty cable. 143703 is currently aboard the USS Hornet Museum, Alameda, CA, on loan from National Naval Aviation Museum. Date: 1965

© The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans A The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans

Del Lord and the Neptune Swimmers

Girls of the Neptune Swimming Club of Alameda, California posing for a photograph while on a visit to Los Angeles and specifically the Mack Sennett Studio, well-known for bathing girl comedies (an actual film genre in 1925 apparently). They are entertained by Mr Del Lord the director who specialised in comedies. From left to right, Miss Leoma Phelan, Miss Bunny Fergus, A Pacific Coast diving champion, Miss Brownie Marsh, Miss Bernice Phelan and Miss Adrienne Gibson. Date: 1925

© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans