[Milsurplus] Fwd: Re: "Lancaster" - no copilot

[Michael Hanz]

On 10/4/2017 4:15 PM, Mark K3MSB wrote:
> To say that your "poem" accurately represented how aircrews felt about 
> the B-17 would put the burden of proof squarely upon your shoulders 
> against the overwhelming testimony of history to the contrary.

I didn't see that conclusion anywhere in Joe's posting, Mark.  The 
"testimony of history" and barroom songs are rarely congruent for good 
and sufficient reason.  The B-17, any variant, like any weapon wasn't 
perfect by a long shot, and most military servicemen seemed to like to 
compose limericks or songs about their weapons that are considerably 
less than complimentary at times.  It helps you smile at something in 
the midst of the brutality and tragedy of combat. The war in Viet Nam 
was full of them.  Now - hearing someone from _outside_ the "band of 
brothers" (whatever that limited group might be) verbally malign their 
weapons will bring about a sturdy defense - especially with a bit of 
alcoholic lubrication - but the majority of servicemen understand the 
tradition and take it in good fun.  At least I always did.

          73,
  - Mike  KC4TOS

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