Memphis Belle - 70th Anniversary Today

[B-17 Buff]

The Memphis Belle flew her 25th and final combat mission 70 years ago today from Bassingbourn... 17th May 1943.

Although the generally accepted history is that the crew flew their 25th today, the Belle was two days behind flying hers on the 19th May 1943.

To Bob and the rest of the crew - we remember you.

[Pat Carry]

I'm sure looking forward to seeing the restored Belle sometime next year.

[Pat Carry]

From the NMUSAF's website http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/news/s ... =123348879

[Mark Allen M]

Happy 70th ...


The Boeing B-17 "Memphis Belle" is pictured on her way back to the United States after completing 25 missions from an airbase in England 9 June 1943


The Boeing B-17 "Memphis Belle" in flight.


B-17 "Memphis Belle" on tour at Patterson Field, Ohio. A nice shot for you 'accuracy nut' modelers


Memphis Belle Inspection

[F6FFan]

I remember meeting Captain Morgan when I was 11 years old or so, at the Gillespie Air Show. I got to shake his hand and talk to him with my Dad, and he signed the book that he wrote about the Memphis Belle. That will always be a top memory of my life.

F6FFan

[SaxMan]

I met him at an airshow one time. We briefly discussed the Belle, and he definitely wanted her where she is now, at the NMUSAF. What struck me the most about Morgan were his eyes. While his body was showing his years, his eyes still had that same look that he had when the Wyler movie was shot. I guess it's kind of hard to put into words, but I'm sure everyone around here understands.

He autographed a picture of the Belle for me. For the life of me, I can't find the picture anywhere since we moved 12 years ago and I am absolutely kicking myself for not leaving it in a more obvious spot.

[Mark Allen M]

Good morning all, not sure who was asking a while back, but someone here was wondering what was written on Memphis Belle's tail on her home tour. These two photos may help. looks to be her completed missions and ground crew listings.