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Description
- September 2022, Centennial Airport (KAPA) -

There are a lot of complicated feelings wrapped up in these photos, hence why it took nine months to post them. I am incredibly fortunate to have flown aboard B-17 Texas Raiders. But I must also recognize, two of the crewmen who were flying with me that day were also flying when Texas Raiders was lost to a midair collision. Having met the crew in 2021 and 2022, including a few formal work dinners (and informal after work drinks), it was a tragic loss. I want to recognize the good work of the Gulf Coast Wing, respect the lives lost, and honor the aircraft which will be sorely missed.

***

The B-17 had a media flight when it first arrived at our hangar. One of the Channel 13 cameramen was late, so I got to take his spot. To my surprise, seats hadn't been specifically assigned. The flight crew asked who wanted the bombardier position, and my hand rose the fastest.

To sit in the bombardier's position is to be in the airplane's nose. The only thing in front of you are the guns. It's some of the most beautiful sightseeing you can experience in an airplane. There are also little side windows, which make the wings visible, if somewhat awkward to photograph.

Description
- September 2022, Centennial Airport (KAPA) -

There are a lot of complicated feelings wrapped up in these photos, hence why it took nine months to post them. I am incredibly fortunate to have flown aboard B-17 Texas Raiders. But I must also recognize, two of the crewmen who were flying with me that day were also flying when Texas Raiders was lost to a midair collision. Having met the crew in 2021 and 2022, including a few formal work dinners (and informal after work drinks), it was a tragic loss. I want to recognize the good work of the Gulf Coast Wing, respect the lives lost, and honor the aircraft which will be sorely missed.

***

The B-17 had a media flight when it first arrived at our hangar. One of the Channel 13 cameramen was late, so I got to take his spot. To my surprise, seats hadn't been specifically assigned. The flight crew asked who wanted the bombardier position, and my hand rose the fastest.

To sit in the bombardier's position is to be in the airplane's nose. The only thing in front of you are the guns. It's some of the most beautiful sightseeing you can experience in an airplane. There are also little side windows, which make the wings visible, if somewhat awkward to photograph.