F4F-3 VF-3 maintenance on USS Enterprise (CV-6) 1941

A U.S. Navy Grumman F4F-3 Wildcat fighter undergoes maintenance on the hangar deck of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CV-6), on 28 October 1941. The plane bears the markings of Fighting Squadron Three (VF-3), including a "Felix the Cat" insignia under the cockpit windshield. The part held by the Chief Petty Officer in the foreground bears the number 3973, and is possibly the Bureau Number of this plane. Note the aircraft propellers stowed in the hangar overhead.The F4F-3 3973 was lost on 19 October 1942 in a crash near Tutuila, American Samoa, while in service with Marine Fighting Squadron VMF-441. The pilot was 2nd Lt. Henry Deal.