The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress flew in every combat zone during World War II, but its most significant service was over Europe. Along with the B-24 Liberator, the B-17 formed the backbone of the USAAF strategic bombing force, and it helped win the war by crippling Germany’s war industry. The aircraft on display, the famed B-17F Memphis Belle, became the first heavy bomber to return to the US after flying 25 missions over Europe. The Memphis Belle, which had been on loan from the Air Force to th

This amazing footage shows the B-17 in action in 1943. There is no sound with the video, but it shows many incredible shots of the Flying Fortress in air and on the runway. | Palm Springs Air Museum

93K views · 1.7K reactions | The Boeing B-17 ‘Flying Fortress’ boasts...

Boeing B-17D "The Swoose" This aircraft is the oldest surviving B-17 Flying Fortress and the only D model in existence. Originally named Ole Betsy, this B-17D participated in several bombing missions in the desperate weeks after Pearl Harbor. Later named The Swoose, it also served as a transport for the commander of Allied air forces in the Southwest Pacific, Lt. Gen. George Brett. #avgeek #restoration | National Museum of the U.S. Air Force