The only correction to your post Dave is the F-14, although fully capable in the long range interceptor role for long range fleet defense against bombers with the Phoenix, it was at it's core, a true in-close fighter. Extremely maneuverable and armed with a gun that was even canted upwards in order to facilitate tracking in tight turns. The F-4 was an interceptor all the way and the LAST thing you wanted is to let yourself get caught in a low-speed, low altitude turning fight.
I've always thought of the F-14 as described but received some outstanding CAS in Anbar Province in 05 from one. My favorite has always been the F-4 though. I wouldn't turn down support from either!
Late in it's life with the LANTIRN pod and new bombing software and smart munitions the Tomcat turned into a really excellent bomber.
When I was at my first airwing Fallon in 1990 our two Tomcat squadrons tried to drop some inert Mk-82's. (500 lb'ers) The bracketed hwy 50 a LONG ways off the range. That idea was shelved for a decade until the new software.
If something on the internet makes you angry the odds are you're being manipulated
