Flying Fortress - Naval Aviation Centennial

B-17 Flying Fortress flyby at Naval Centennial Celebration

The Boeing B-17G Sentimental Journey, pictured on the left, participated in the "Parade of Flight" during the Naval Aviation Centennial Celebration. This Flying Fortress is from the Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. The "G" model B-17 is distinguished from the earlier versions by the chin turret. This aircraft also has a Cheyenne tail turret add-on which had more windows for better visibility and an improved angle of fire.

B-17s were obtained by the U.S. Navy in 1945 and were eventually re-designated PB-1. These aircraft were equipped with early warning radar, and used for search and rescue work, and antisubmarine patrols. The U.S. Coast Guard received 16 of the B-17s which served on iceberg patrols as well as search and rescue missions.  The B-17 served in the Coast Guard until 1959.

The short video clip below was taken during the Naval Aviation Centennial "Parade of Flight".