The world's only
flying B-29 Superfortress, "Fifi", and the world's
oldest flying B-24/LB 30 Liberator, "Diamond Lil", will
be in Fargo, North Dakota at the Hector International
Airport, arriving Monday, September 2nd and departing
September 9th.
The
B-29 built by Boeing has been called the weapon that won
the war in the Pacific during World War II. Designed to
eventually replace the B-17 and B-24, it has a wing span
of 141 feet and is 31 feet wide. It flew its maiden
voyage on September 21, 1942.
The B-24 has a
wingspan of 110 feet and length exceeding 66 feet. This
metal giant's Pratt & Whitney engines consume 200
gallons of fuel per hour.
The historic aircraft
are owned and operated by the Commemorative Air Force
("CAF"), a non-profit organization based in Midland,
Texas. They will be available for viewing beginning
Monday, September 2nd from 3:00-6:00 p.m. and will
continue daily from 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. through Sunday,
September 9th. Admission for viewing is $5.00 for
adults, $3.00 ages 9-13 and free for youth under 9
years. All proceeds are used to maintain the aircraft.
B-29
cockpit tours are $5.00 adults, $3.00 ages 9-13 and free
for youth under 9, accompanied by an adult.
B-24
aircraft tours are $3.00 adults, $1.00 ages 9-13 and
free for youth under 9, accompanied by an adult. B-24
rides will be available on Sunday, September 8th. For
information on rides call 915-413-4100.
The CAF's
primary mission is preserving history and teaching the
lessons learned from the past to protect the future and
to inspire the young people of today. "We're excited to
visit Fargo and encourage everyone to come out," said
Sherry Johnson, B-29/B-24 Squadron Tour Director. "This
is a great way for veterans to touch the memories of the
past and for youth to catch a glimpse of America's rich
history!"
The
Fargo Air Museum is asking that all former crew members
contact Pam Miller at 701-293-8043. "We would like to
coordinate some type of reunion for those who served our
country in a way that is very special," said Miller.
In depth information about Tour 2002, Fifi, Diamond
'Lil and the CAF is available at
www.cafb29b24.org.
Special arrangements can be made to schedule interviews
and cover aircraft arrival and departure.