B-17 to identify
 

Hi all,
Does anyone have more info on this B-17?

https://i.ibb.co/K9P6zpQ/jonwrunner70-004.jpg

Thanks in advance,
Rudi

Re: B-17 to identify
 

The serial number appears to be 44-8587.

Osborne's Fortlog: https://b17flyingfortress.de/en/b17/44-8587/

has: Delivered Cheyenne 27/10/44; Hunter 2/12/44; Grenier 18/12/44; Assigned 301BG PFF Lucera 31/1/45; Salvaged 5/7/46.

Another photo here:
https://avaluer.org/explore/1016888-...87_on_airfield

The 301st BG site shows a couple of missions flown by different crews in the 32nd BS. (I would think there would be some more missions):

https://www.301bg.com/MissionDetails.cfm?MDET=486

https://www.301bg.com/MissionDetails.cfm?MDET=475

Re: B-17 to identify
 

I'm a little confused. The tail marking of the 301st BG should be Y in square. The 2nd BG had Y in circle, black rudder, wing bands and elvators.



Rgds

Re: B-17 to identify
 

It is not impossible this aircraft was transferred to the 2ndBG after the 301st had been inactivated in October 1945.

The 2ndBG lasted in Italy until 28 Feb 1946 when it also stood down.

If someone has the IARC for this aircraft I would be very interested to know where it was salvaged. It is pretty rare for the IARC to mention units assigned abroad, but the place of salvage might give a clue (in Italy or USA)

Cheers
Stig

Re: B-17 to identify
 

Hi Stig,


I found this. Assigned to 419th BS 31 Jan 45. PFF a/c. Salvaged overseas 5 Jul 46.


Rgds

Re: B-17 to identify
 

That was interesting
None of the 301BG sites or books I have mention the actual squadron.

I suspected it was salvaged overseas, but had no evidence for that.

May I ask which source you found?

Cheers
Stig

Re: B-17 to identify
 

Source:



http://www.2ndbombgroup.org/5thBombWingB-17sBook.pdf


Rgds

Re: B-17 to identify
 

The B-17G on the right is probably 44-8376 (305BG) Triangle "G" of 1st Air Division, salvaged 5 July 1946 with Ninth AF in Germany.
Their green tail band is still visible.


Nick

Re: B-17 to identify
 

Excellent, thanks :)
Stig

Re: B-17 to identify
 

No, it's 44-48483. Does this help to identify the pace this photo was taken?

https://i.ibb.co/G53nY8g/jonwrunner70-064-2x-4x3.jpg