We must note the passing

(Via Frugal Squirrels)

The F-4 Phantom will be making its final flight on December 21, 2016 after 58 years of defending our country.  With some affection known as “Old Smokey” and the “Lead Sled”, the F-4 for many years ruled the skys wherever it flew.  However, time and technological advances have rendered it obsolete, so like most of the rest of the old Cold Warriors, it’s time for it to go out to pasture.  Given the expense of maintenance and flight, I doubt few if any will remain flying in private hands, although some may remain flying in foreign air forces for some years.

We’ll remember them fondly.