[Milsurplus] lunch w. B17 radio op

[Unserviceable but Repairable]

Yo Jay

Yo Kees if you're looking

Early on the B17s DID have a 30 cal. behind the top turret.  Was for
radio op.

It was removed soon since it wasn't well thot of.  The radio op became a
waist gunner when needed EXCEPT if he was the one in the leader or deputy
leader acft.  Then they took an extra man.

This man's acft became a leader on his 18th mission.  He flew 30 all
told.

Only acting leader acft. talked via '375 on CW.  Squadron base in England
used a 'big Hallicrafters.'  Guess BC-610

Kees, take note.

Next the story of dropping food in Holland two weeks before 5/7 armistice
(radio op's 20th birthday).  Eisenhower said soldiers firing on delivery 
bombers wud be tried as war criminals.  The german flak gunners stood 
erect & at attention in front of their equipment as the planes flew 
by @ 100.'  Pallets dropped out side openings @ near stall speed.

My bud flew 30 missions & his plane made over 100.  Was used in '46
for bond drives.  Great ground crew.  Always came home on 4 engines -
tho lotsa flak holes.

He stayed aboard 6 more mo.s ferrying French outa N. Africa to Paris.  
About 15 at a time.

 -30