Tulsa Barb B-29

[Second Air Force]

Here is another Superfortress nose art mystery I'd like help with. I sent this to tulsaboy and he didn't know her identity, so here is the photo:



Of course, the data block is only partially readable (by me at least) but I can definitely read 44- on the serial number block. It also doesn't have the antenna doubler on the lower fuselage confirming later production.

Since Barb has a swimsuit on I suspect she was either a CONUS aircraft or assigned to the 314th Wing, post-censorship of nose art. The only possible selection I could make, and a tenuous link at best, is "City of Tulsa", 314th Wing, 19th Group, 28th Squadron, serial number 44-69815. I doubt they are the same airplane, but it is the only connecting lead I have so far.

Thanks in advance,
Scott (and tulsaboy)

[pfortune]

Tulsa Barb was in the 313th BW, 6th BG, 39th BS at Tinian. Her crew commander was Capt. William H. Cleverden. All this is from the 6th BG website (www.philcrowther.com).

Does anyone know her serial number and/or tail code?

[Second Air Force]

Thanks for helping with this one. I don't have a serial number for her but I'm still hoping something will be discovered. I'll re-examine what I have here now that you've pinpointed her combat unit.

Scott

[pfortune]

Scott,

More research has been done (I have developed the most complete inventory of 6th Bomb Group B-29s that I know of) and all I've discovered about Tulsa Barb is that she had tail number CIRC R 30. Another 6th BG plane ("Rip Van Winkle) had the same tail code, so that wrinkle needs to be sorted out. I have contacted the family of Tulsa Barb's captain but they have no info. They did say that his fiancee and future wife was named Barbara and that they were from Tulsa.

Have you discovered anything?

Peter Fortune

[The Inspector]

Can't someone do an enhanced scan of the data block in the photo? I've seen some members perform s/n 'miracles' with simular photos.

[pfortune]

Oops!SNAFU. The tailcode is not R30--still unknown. My bad.

I can't even make out the 44 on the data block. Sure would like to put this one to rest.

[the330thbg]

i love the turret lid on the ground in the reflection.

Great shot, Scott.