Hoping you all can assist with a couple questions regarding this specific bomber:



This Big Bird is an obvious B-17, and looks to me like a G model. Am I correct? Also, with that specific tail number (46426), is there a way to determine which Squadron of the 97th Bomber Group it belonged to?

This picture is from my Uncle, taken from his plane; he was a B-17 pilot, few 7 combat missions, made LTC, then became the 97th's Operations Officer.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Oh, one more from the same film:



Thanks all,

Mike

I think I can help a bit, the aircraft is indeed a B-17G. It was the first model to employ a chin 50 cal turret. Take care. Jim

Thanks Jim!

I plan to recreate this bird for a display of the top picture, a couple other pictures, and my Uncles awards, badges, and the like.

I have Monogram's B-17G with all the resin interior components...BUT, 1/48 will be too big. So, any recommendations on a well done, needs little AM, 1/72nd kit?

Mike

I've built the Monogram kit and it is indeed big, but, it is also a pretty good kit. I've heard good things about Revell of Germany's new 1/72 kit but can't off the top of my head remember if it was a G model or not. Easy enough to find out though. Keep us posted, sounds like a great project. Take care :-) Jim

Hi Mike,

It is a Douglas-built Fort with the Cheyenne tail turret: B-17G-50-DL 44-6426

This tail code triangle-Y over 1 is the 341st Bomb squadron:
http://wapedia.mobi/en/341st_Bombardment_Squadron

I'd suggest Revell's new B-17G. It can be built with or without the Cheyenne tail turret: http://aeroscale.kitmaker.net/review/5772

Try this site: 97th BG

:-)

P.S., who noticed that the escorts weaving over the bombers are P-38s?

Or a twin engined Luftwaffe type manoeuvreing!
I love the "bombs away" photo,thanks for that.
Steve

Thanks Fred!!

I've run across a few websites devoted to the 15th, 5th, or 97th, but until now, hadn't been able to narrow down my Uncle's squadron.

Thought this photo may be of some interest:



Mike

I have a almost exact photo of this plane 46426 and area I will scan and post. I have been looking all over for information I beleive it may have been my dads plane.

From what I gather, the bird that the picture was taken from is my Uncle's. Now, THAT is too cool!!

Mike

Here are a few more pictures any one you know? The names in back row standing are from left to right.
http://gallery.kitmaker.net/showphoto.php/photo/371165/ppuser/49123