World War II veteran takes first flight in a B-17 bomber in 64 years
MERIDIANVILLE, AL -- On Tuesday morning, Bill Varnedoe climbed aboard a B-17 bomber to take his first ride in a Flying Fortress since 1945, when he flew the last of 26 combat missions over Europe.
This time, there wouldn't be hundreds of other bombers in formation, no worry of mid-air collisions, no enemy fighters or anti-aircraft shells bursting and staining the skies around him.
"Nobody shooting at me," said the 86-year-old Varnedoe, who wore a broad grin along with his replica leather flight jacket. "This is a fun flight."
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