Inside the B-17 Flying Fortress
The Flying Fortress. A name that conjures up images of brave young men conducting daylight raids deep in enemy territory, far from home. The B-17 was bristling with defensive weapons and could also carry a heavy bomb load to distant locations. It rapidly became the symbol of US air power of early 1940s. We take you inside the B-17F to expose how it worked, how it was operated and the tactics that made it a formidable offensive and defensive weapon. It's reputation and achievements have made the B-17 one of the most iconic and recognizable aircraft in the history of aviation. VIDEO HERE (25:26 minutes)
Inside the B-17 Ball Turret
The B-17 Ball turret. Every military aviation fan has looked at this iconic piece of ww2 equipment and wondered how on earth anyone could be brave enough to spend a mission inside this cramped, cold and exposed environment. This small sphere was tightly packed with weapons, ammo, sophisticated mechanisms and one brave gunner who had to contort himself into position. This gunner was usually the shortest guy in the crew and his job was exceptionally tough. If you ever wanted to know more about the details of how the ball turret worked, what it was like to operate and its secrets then this is the video for you.
VIDEO HERE (18:58 minutes)
*****
Both are from the same channel and both are outstanding videos, well worth the time to watch.
