Recognition lights, 1:96 Nicholas model, November 2004.
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Why Nicholas? Because a combination of resources is available: engineering drawings from Bath Iron Works and more than 700 photos, plus input from shipmates, which make it possible to differentiate colors, specific fittings and equipment present in August–September 1945, the period represented by the model. Nicholas’s career also spanned the history of the 2100-ton Fletcher-class destroyers in the US Navy, and thus well represents the class.
Inquiries regarding models of other ships were invited before production was commenced. One was made—for a model of Halford, of which many photos are also available—and Fine Art Models is considering producing a one-off model of that ship.
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Detroit-based Fine Art Models is preparing three 1:48 (i.e. 7' 10¼" LOA) models of the first Fletcher-class destroyer, Nicholas. The models draw upon original Bath Iron Works engineering drawings, high-resolution versions of photos from this web site and shipmates’ comments.
As an early step, the firm also prepared a 1:96 (4' 11" LOA) study model. In Portland, Maine, during their 2002 reunion, Nicholas shipmates examined it in detail and pointed out many corrections, which were communicated back to the modelmakers. This model also toured the 2002 Jenkins, DesRon 21 and Friends and O’Bannon reunions, and is now on display at the US Navy’s Tactical Training Group—Pacific, where active duty officers view it en route to training classes.
A limited edition offering of 1:96 models followed. The latest of these models were prepared following further shipmate review, from which more than 100 additional recommendations were made.
Capt. Dick Arnold, USN, and Dave McComb at Tactical Training Group—Pacific with Nicholas study model, November 2004.
