Another of Jeanette's gifts was a two day EAA flight school and flight in a B-17, in Oshkosh, WI.
The school covered the B-17's development through all of it's models.
After supper, Col Weekly, a WWII B-17 pilot, would talk about his experiences.
He referred to himself as a B-17 driver.
A photographic aircraft was transitioning under this B-17 when the B-17 pilot ask him what he saw.
The photographer responded that all he could see was an "Aluminum Overcast". Hence it's name!
This B-17G could carry twice the bomb load of the "A" model.
It had 13-50 caliber machine guns, hence the name "Flying Fortress"
It as late fall and cold. No heat in the aircraft!
This was looking aft from the upper turret.
The pilot and co-pilot were dresses for cold. The instruments with any hint of blue, are not original.
Looking forward at the bombardier's position.
A perfect place to be until landing, then one is terrified!
The famous Nordon bomb site.
Those engines kept be from falling into that frozen lake.
The 50 caliber machine guns.
Another view of the ball turret gunner's position.
Looking aft towards the tail gunner
They wouldn't let me fly it cause they were afraid I'd crash through the hanger doors!
A wonderful experience.
The next morning. I told you it was cold.
