by Michael Hatfield
1/350 USS New Mexico (Trumpeter)
This is a 1/350th U.S.S. New Mexico circa 1920, dramatically modified from a Trumpeter Arizona kit (Arizona was BB 39, New Mexico was BB 40) with Tom's Model Works photoetch (I needed two sets for the proper height of the cage-style masts). The bow and everything above the gun deck were scratch-built.
The model was given to then-Governor of New Mexico, Gary Johnson, with the instructions that if he were succeeded by a Democrat, the model became his personal property (the signal flags spell out "GOP"). While he was in office, the classy Governor Johnson kept the model on the front of his desk, and would direct his visitor's attention to it.
