Famous WWII planes visit Bremerton June 18-20 | Kitsap Week

BREMERTON — Tour three planes that helped America win World War II, June 18-20 at Bremerton National Airport’s main terminal.

A Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, and North American P-51 Mustang will land at approximately 2 p.m. as part of The Wings of Freedom Tour, presented by the Collings Foundation. Bremerton is one of 110 cities on the nationwide tour.

These are rare planes. The B-17 on the tour is one of 10 in flying condition in the United States; the B- 24J and P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples of their type flying in the world.

Visitors can explore the planes for a $12 donation for adults and $6 donation for children younger than 12. WWII veterans can tour the aircraft at no cost. For information about taking a 30-minute flight, call (800) 568-8924.

“In the last three years, we have lost more of our World War II veterans, but are heartened to see the kids, grandkids, and great -, if not great-great-, grandkids of local veterans come to see and experience the vintage planes,” said Cindy Brooke, Bremerton visit organizer.

Documentaries featuring local Navy and Army Air Corps veterans will be shown. A display pays tribute to Lt. Col. William Holloman, a Tuskegee Airman.

The B-17 and B-24 were the backbone of the U.S. war effort from 1942-45 and were famous for their ability to sustain damage and still accomplish the mission. The P-51 Mustang was affectionately known as the bombers’  “Little Friend”— saving countless crews from enemy fighters.

 

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