From: everette (194cbteng@bellsouth.net)
Date: Sat Nov 22 2003 - 13:07:34 PST
Some information about the Memphis Bell
Some friends of mine that are very well acquainted with the Old Bird have
told me that years of exposure to the elements have taken their toll. There
is a lot of damage to the frame of the Lady, it is doubtful that she could
ever soar above the clouds again.
I was in West Memphis, Ark a few years back when 7 (seven) Fortresses were
gathered for a show, MAGNIFICENT, My memory is not good enough to list the
wonderful planes that were there. Was said this was largest gathering of
17s in many years...
I am in 100% agreement that nothing can compare to the sound of a 17 making
a low run over the field, and feeling the ground shake from the engine
noise.
I even had the wonderful experience to taking my M37 to assist in cranking a
17 at a Halls Tenn. air show a few years back. I did nothing more than make
the 24 volts available should they need them, there was some question as to
battery condition on the 17, but she started with out a boost from me. And
as luck would have it no one took a picture of my M37 sitting under wing of
the 17.
But as to the Bell;;;;
Lets not expend parts that are getting harder and harder to find in an
effort to put the Bell back in the air. Lets save these parts for the ones
that are now flying.
Everette
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