The B-17 bomber is coming back

Plane to be shown June 24-27

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

WESTSIDE- Probably one of the most iconic and most recognized bomber aircraft of World War II is the Boeing B-17 “Flying Fortress.” It was one of many aircraft credited with the fall of Germany in 1945.

One of only 11 surviving B-17s will be on display at the Fayetteville Executive Airport (Drake Field) June 24 through June 27. The Arkansas Air and Military Museum and EAA Chapter 732 will host the event.

This particular aircraft, which is called “Aluminum Overcast,” is owned by the Experimental Aircraft Association based in Oshkosh, Wis.

The aircraft received its name while on a photos hoot some time in the late 1980s.

A small two-seat AT-6 advanced trainer, also from the World War II era, was flying with the B-17, serving as the photo plane. As the T-6 flew under the bomber, the pilot remarked how the B-17’s shadow covered his entire aircraft.

“It’s like an aluminum overcast,” he remarked.

And that name has been with the aircraft ever since.

“Aluminum Overcast” tours the U.S. as a flying museum, allowing the younger generations the chance to experience these remarkable machines. It also serves as a flying memorial to the air crews that flew them into combat and to the thousands who died in the defense of freedom during those dark hours in human history.

For more information, call the Arkansas Air and Military Museum at 521-4947 or 587-1941.

News, Pages 4 on 06/12/2013