I have a fantastic neighbor. He's 83 but might at well be 55. Still drives, still flies a Citabria, goes hunting, bush hogs his farm, maintains a yard, you name it. I think he has more energy than I do. He and his wife are tremendously nice to boot.
He was in the aviation cadets at the end of WWII when his pilot class was told they were going to become flight engineers. He trained on the B-24 and was released to civilian life. In the Korean era/early 50's he was recalled to active duty as a B-29 flight engineer. He flew KB-29s in a unit supporting then-secret recon over Russia. These KB-29s used the early grappling hook and reel system of refueling - a technique I don't see much documentation on. His stories are something else. Loitering for several hours over the sea waiting for their RB-29 to meet back up and onload fuel for the ride home. The fact that this system worked is amazing to me. And proof that just because someone didn't serve the front lines in a shooting war, they are no less an honored veteran who made significant sacrifices and contributions to our nation. He went on to have a succesful career in the airlines, first as an Engineer and eventually Captain on 727s and DC-9s.
Anyway, through my old unit at Robins, I made a contact at the Museum of Aviation to see if I could surprise my neighbor by letting him climb aboard their B-29 and sit at his old panel. Those are some super folks. They graciously allowed us to spend about :30 aboard the B-29 but warned us that her restoration is very much in progress and that we might be disappointed at how shabby the interior was. So, below are some photos from our visit and, with all due respect for the Museum, I think the airplane is great; they have nothing to apologize for. They have saved a valuable artifact and I have no doubt that, over the years it will do nothing but progress. And yes, my neighbor had a great time - it was an honor to share in the moment. Photos from October 2007.
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