St. Louis Area F-101F Voodoo Fighter Jet Display Getting Face Lift

By Carmelo Turdo

A fighter jet on display in north St. Louis County is getting a face lift from local volunteers.  The aircraft, a McDonnell F101F Voodoo interceptor trainer retired from the Texas ANG, was moved to the James Eagan Civic Center at Florissant Valley Park in 2004 and put on display at the crest of a hill some distance away from the main buildings.  Recently, the aircraft was vandalized, leaving fire damage to the left jet intake and surrounding area, necessitating repairs and repainting of the entire jet.  New intake plugs will be installed, and measures to prevent damage from insects and birds will also be taken.  Along with Florissant Parks and Recreation staff, volunteers from Boeing retirees, the Missouri Aviation Historical Society and other local groups will work to complete the restoration by Veterans Day.  Here are some views of the aircraft as it looks today: