Warbird Information Exchange

The B-17 with the empenage still supported by the tailwheel is Broome, Western Australia. Following the IJN air raid that killed so many civilians and decimated our flying boat capabilities.

_________________
"If that's a goddamn 'Jug' in front of me, you sure as hell better wiggle your wings." 80FS/8FG Cape Gloucester, December 1943. And the entire 41st Fighter Squadron rocked their wings.

ALWAYS LOOKING FOR P-38 PARTS

I don't think anyone is insinuating that anyone posting in this thread is being dishonest. And if they are then I say 'prove what's true then' ... And I think 43-2195 seems to know his history. To that I say again thanks kindly for bringing the true facts to these old photos. That's all I care about.

As for any resentment the Aussies may have? I can't speak for any of that other than to more than likely agree with some of it. I can tell you this little story though.

My dad came out to see me in California from Michigan many years ago and while he had some 'alone time' he visited the lounge bar at the Biltmore Hotel in Montecito, CA. While sitting at the bar he met an Australian gentleman about the same age as he. They both were in their late 70's at the time if I recall. They struck up a lengthy conversation that afternoon which carried out to having dinner for several nights while both men were visiting the area. Both were fighter pilots in the Pacific theater during WW2 with the US Navy and RAAF. Both saw combat and both had a great deal of respect and a sense of brotherhood for each other. I sat with them briefly one afternoon at the bar and it was obvious they both thoroughly enjoyed each other's company. Needless to say I didn't get to spend much time with dad while his new fiend was around, and I was glad for them. Both had smiles and serious faces at times and both had plenty of stories that only they shared I'm sure. I was honored and proud of both of them.

I wish I knew (or remembered) the Australian gentleman's name. He was truly a class above the rest I recall. Dad went back home and stayed in touch with his 'brother comrad' I'm sure of it.

No matter the country, service, location or role. ALL these men and women who served in that long ago war are true heroes and should always be honored in all ways possible. It makes no difference to me the what, where, when or whys of who they are. They're all my heroes.

Hope some of this made some sense

_________________
“With bottomless pockets...anything is possible”

Amen, and amen.

_________________
ATC: "Oscar 2, cleared to engage wildlife at your discretion..."

I hope you don't mind, I did some photo shop work to your pictures. Mostly just cleared out the tape and some color correction. They are not perfect by any means.

James