Boeing B-17F Memphis Belle - Dispelling the Myths: Part 1

Presentation by Dr. Harry Friedman of the Memphis Belle Memorial Association (MBMA), held at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force on 18 April 2018. Video by NMUSAF Public Affairs Division-Ken LaRock The B-17F was the fastest model and the primary heavy bomber early in the strategic bombing campaign. The later B-17G had a nose turret for better frontal defense, and it was also the most numerous, representing about two thirds of all B-17s made. By the end of production in May 1945, more than 12,700 B-17s had been built. The aircraft on display, the famed B-17F Memphis Belle, became the first heavy bomber to return to the US after flying 25 missions over Europe. The Memphis Belle, which had been on loan from the Air Force to the city of Memphis, was relocated to the Museum in 2005, and after years of meticulous restoration, it was placed on public display in May 2018.