The Flying Fortress

The 100th Bomb Group’s B-17 Flying Fortresses were heavy bomber aircraft which specialised in daylight raids deep into German territory, at tremendous risk. The crews engaged in bombing strategic targets such as airfields, bridges, enemy ground defences, oil installations and submarine and transport facilities.

The planes quickly acquired mythic status. They were capable of great destruction, could defend themselves and were able to return home safely even after sustaining extensive battle damage.