WWII Warbirds arrive in Owensboro, tours and rides available

September 10, 2024 | 12:10 am

Updated September 10, 2024 | 12:13 am

Photo by John Kirkpatrick

Two iconic World War II-era aircraft — a B-17 “Sentimental Journey” and a B-25 “Maid in the Shade” — arrived in Owensboro on Monday ahead of this weekend’s air show. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) operates the planes and will offer ticketed tours and flights for the public, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to experience aviation history up close.

The B-25J was built in 1944 and was one of the last B-25 models constructed. 

“This aircraft flew 15 combat missions during World War II, mostly targeting railroad bridges in Italy and Yugoslavia,” said Colonel Mitch Counce, a member of the CAF crew. 

The B-25 was known for its speed and firepower, with 11 .50-caliber machine guns allowing it to fight its way in and out of combat zones. Counce explained that the aircraft carried a crew of six, including a pilot, co-pilot, flight engineer, navigator, bombardier, and gunner.

Meanwhile, this particular B-17G “Flying Fortress” was also built in 1944 but never saw combat as the war was nearing its end. 

“This is one of only three B-17s still flying in the world today,” said retired Marine Colonel Dan Groeling. “After the war, this B-17 served as a mothership for drone aircraft, took part in nuclear testing, and even operated as a fire bomber before being donated to the CAF.” 

The plane is covered with signatures of World War II veterans who served on similar aircraft, a testament to its historical significance.

It recently helped create the sounds for the hit TV show “Masters of the Air,” produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg. The show’s sound crew recorded audio directly from the aircraft to capture the real noises of a World War II bomber in flight. 

“They set up microphones all around the plane and recorded everything from the engines starting to the sounds of the crew,” Groeling said.

Groeling said the crew even requested some special effects. Each of the plane’s 10 crew positions was also recorded to ensure the sounds used in the show were as accurate as possible.

“They asked if we could make the engines backfire,” Groeling said. “We didn’t plan on it, but they got what they needed.” 

Both planes are based at Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona, and are on the home stretch of a national tour. 

“We’ve traveled from Dallas to New York and everywhere in between. We’re excited to share these planes with the people of Owensboro,” Counce said.

The aircraft will be on display from Tuesday through Thursday for tours, with rides available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

“It’s a chance for people to see, touch, and feel a piece of history,” Groeling said. “For us, it’s about preserving the legacy of those who served and sacrificed during the war.”

According to Groeling, maintaining and flying these aircraft is not easy. 

“It costs about $3,500 per flight hour to keep these planes operational,” he said. “But it’s all worth it when you see the reactions of World War II veterans and their families.”

The planes will also participate in the air show’s flight performances this weekend. To purchase tickets for tours or rides, or for more information about the Owensboro Air Show, including a schedule of events, parking, etc., visit owensboroairshow.com.

September 10, 2024 | 12:10 am

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