TF-104G "38459" (US serial number 63-8459) at Luke AFB in July 1980

TF-104G, construction number 583D-5763, company model 583-10-20, US serial number 63-8459, built by Lockheed
manufactured by Group USA (ARGE-USA); assembly at Lockheed-Palmdale for Germany; test flights 1963 with US serial number "63-8459"
aircraft for Germany delivery date in 1963
 operated by the 4510th CCTW at Luke AFB, Arizona (German shadow serial number 2761); coded 38459 in USAF Silver-finish color scheme; 2.792 flight hours in May 1977
crashed July 14, 1981 after engine failure due to a broken throttle control linkage (Electrical Fire), both crew ejected safely
3.417 flight hours; 69 TFTS, struck off charge order (AVA) July 14, 1981; crash site: near Aquila, 15 NM West of Wickenburg.

copyright © Dave Schultz

badge of 4512th CCTS (Combat Crew Training Squadron) of 4510th CCTW