Legendary plane, WWII Boeing B-17, lands in Pensacola

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - A legendary WWII Boeing B-17 landed in Pensacola as a part of the Liberty Foundation's 2012 Salute to Veterans tour.

The B-17, known as the "Flying Fortress" due to its defensive firepower, landed at the Pensacola International Airport Monday, November 12.

"The B-17 is the most recognizable aircraft of World War 2. It's certainly the workhorse of the war... It's certainly a sight to see," said Scott Maher with the Liberty Foundation.

The airplane is being flown across the United States, giving rides and tours to the public and veterans.

"So many veterans get on board and they're 19 and 20-years-old all over again. A lot of family members want to come out and get a better understanding of what dad and grandpa did. It's truly hands-on history," Maher said.

The plane was produced near the end of the war and never saw any combat. It has thirteen .50 caliber machine guns and a bomb load of 10,000 pounds.

Many of the B-17's were operated by the 8th Airforce in Europe and participated in numerous missions from based in England, deep into enemy territory.

The planes were used in countless missions in Europe, deep into enemy territory. Now, they're a reminder of a great cause.

"It's an honor to be able to fly this aircraft around the country. When we're looking through the cockpit we're seeing the view that our heroes saw 70 years ago. We certainly want to honor their services because we wouldn't be sharing this history without them," said Maher.

The Liberty Foundation is allowing public flights on November 17 for $450.

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