Cessna OE-1 VMO-6 United States Marine Corps

These are 1/72 scale decals for the Cessna OE-1 Bird Dog, operated by VMO-6 (Marine Observation Squadron 6), United States Marine Corps — depicted in the early transitional scheme of Army Olive Drab and still carrying its original U.S. Army serial number 50-1596.

In the early days of Marine Corps Bird Dog operations, aircraft were transferred directly from U.S. Army stocks and pressed into service before full USMC repainting and renumbering could take place. This aircraft represents that fascinating transitional moment — wearing Army colors and markings while already serving with a Marine observation squadron, a snapshot of the rapid buildup of Marine organic aviation during the Korean War era.

VMO-6 was a Marine observation squadron that flew the OE-1 in direct support of Marine ground forces, providing low-altitude reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and forward air control. The retention of Army Olive Drab and the original Army serial makes this a uniquely interesting and historically accurate variant that tells the story of inter-service aircraft transfers in the early 1950s.

Please allow some time for decal printing and shipping.