Instrument Panel from Memphis Belle Donated to NMUSAF

[Noha307]

The National Museum of the United States Air Force just held a ceremony yesterday to announce that they had been donated the original pilot's instrument panel for the Memphis Belle. Apparently, it had been removed from the plane at some point and given to the president of Boeing. It was then given to a WWII veteran who donated it to the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. They, in turn, have just now donated it to NMUSAF. Although, it is only the left-hand side of the instrument panel, it includes the original data plate!

The funny thing is, if it hadn't been removed from the plane back then - given the vandalism and theft that occurred while it was on display in Memphis - we probably wouldn't have it now. The only other original part that has been returned that I am aware of is the "engine primer knob from the co-pilot’s side panel". Anyone aware of any others? (IIRC, they declared amnesty for anyone returning a part that was stolen.)

Watch the ceremony here: Memphis Belle Pilot’s Instrument Panel Donation

EDIT: I almost forgot; they announced that the Belle would go on display on the 75th anniversary of the 25th mission in May 2018.

[Steve Nelson]

I saw the by about the donation on Facebook yesterday, but there wasn't any info to go along with it. I assumed it was just a generic B-17F panel..great to hear it's the real deal!

SN

[cooper9411]

Freaking Awesome!

[Chris Brame]

Terrific video - and there's a bonus for us prewar buffs at 13:56; check out the Douglas O-46 being reskinned in the background.

[gary1954]

I saw the by about the donation on Facebook yesterday, but there wasn't any info to go along with it. I assumed it was just a generic B-17F panel..great to hear it's the real deal!

SN

My question is this.....Who took it from the ship in the first place?

[Pat Carry]

When the plane was on display at the Natl Guard there in the Memphis area, many parts were taken from the interior and no one really cared at that point.