NJANG - 119th Fighter Squadron - Jersey Jerk

Print:  11x17" Maquette

Subject:  119th Fighter Squadron - F-16C - NJANG

Paper:  Satin finish heavyweight card stock

In December 2024, the New Jersey ANG's 119th Fighter Squadron unveiled a specially painted F-16 to honor the unit's heritage.  Bearing a special tail flash, F-16 86-0309 was nicknamed "Jersey Jerk," in honor of U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Donald Strait, a retired commander of the New Jersey Air National Guard (NJANG), who flew a P-47 Thunderbolt and a P-51 Mustang of the same name, the “Jersey Jerk.” 

Strait was born in East Orange, N.J. in 1918. Throughout his childhood he had a distinct fascination with aviation. Strait enlisted in 1940 with the 119th Observation Squadron assigned to the NJANG. Over the course of a 36-year-long career, Strait served in England during World War II, achieved the title of a “flying ace,” commanded the NJANG, and became the first NJANG officer to be appointed Major General. 

The “Jersey Jerk" and its unique heritage scheme will continue to serve as a symbol of the 119th Fighter Squadron’s heritage. 

Available now from Third Offset Designs, this print is a unique showcase of the F-16, the NJ ANG, and the heritage of the 119th Fighter Squadron.