Flying Fortress

“Liberty Belle,” one of only 14 World War II era B-17 “Flying Fortress” bombers still flying visited San Diego County on a tour honoring those who flew in them, and in many cases died while doing it, as they defended the World against the Nazis. The plane really isn’t as big as most people think it, but it sure packed a punch when it went into action in the skies over Europe. As is the case with many tours like this, media types at each stop are invited to go on a flight so we can publish stories and let the public know they can come out and see the plane for themselves, which is what I was able to do. It was a quick flight, only about 15-minutes, so shooting as many photos while in the air as quickly as possible was a must. This incarnation of the Liberty Belle never saw combat, but is named after the original plane that flew 64 missions before being salvaged in 1945. More photos.

Howard Lipin
Photos used by permission of The San Diego Union-Tribune

Flying Fortress