December 11, 2013

Topper Operation X500 missile base

EDIT: Fixed the link.

I must have been about 6 or 7. It was the early 1960's.

A local grocery store used to set up toy displays around Christmas time; they had one of these missile bases set up in the place of honor, and I would run over to stare at it every time my mom took me in there.

A couple days before Christmas we went in there and...it was GONE!!! Nothing but an empty space.

Came out Christmas morning to find it set up under the tree.

I wish I still had it, as it is pretty collectible these days. Unfortunately, it succumbed to an assault by firecrackers, lighter fluid, and pellet rifle when I was about 14 or 15.