On 31 March 2005 and 08 June 2006 and again on 03 February 2009, I paid a visit to the
Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, located in Mesa Arizona.
The flagship aircraft of the CAF is a restored B-17G named Sentimental Journey.
Betty Grable graces the nose of this aircraft, fully restored in all of its glory.
Sentimental Journey's markings are those of the 457th Bombardment Group, 8th Air Force.
I plan to take a ride in Sentimental Journey soon. A flight costs $400 for about 20 minutes. A total of five visitors are scheduled together.
Lots of controls, Lots of gauges. Lots of responsibility for a 21 year old 2nd Lieutenant flying in formation with
literally hundreds of other B-17s at 30,000 feet over Europe.
The two side gunners and indeed the entire crew had to do battle in an open, un-pressurized fuselage. Heated suits were provided, but the flight gear, oxygen lines could themselves freeze up.
Sentimental Journey is being prepared for an air show. Her port inboard engine is serviced in June 2006.
Vintage aircraft require tender loving care. Only the very best of care will do.
My favorite aircraft of WW II is the P-51 Mustang. This awesome aircraft performed escort duties to heavy bombers like Sentimental Journey in the campaign against Germany.