Above is "Tondelayo." (larger image here) Those who have seen the documentaries about the air war over Europe and Japan and on television may get a false impression of the size and capability of these planes which did so much to secure VICTORY in the Second World War.
Up close and personal you get a whole new understanding and appreciation for the crews, who suffered enormous losses over both Germany and Japan. These planes are TINY compared to the jets of today. And if you ever have the chance to climb aboard, you'll realize what a burden these small spaces were, even to the very fit and limber young crews of the day.
Here's a comparison between today's F-16 and a B-17.
Imagine being shot at by anti-aircraft guns and fighter planes while bouncing around in a tin can with narrow and constricted passageways. Getting out as the plane is spiraling towards earth after being damaged by enemy fire would be a horror.
It's a great testament to the courage and bravery of those who volunteered to risk their lives, and the many who lost theirs, that we succeeded in winning World War II, cementing at least for a time, a better prospect for peace.
It's also a tribute to the political leadership of both parties which realized that our technological leadership and progress was just as important as the spirit behind the men brave enough to fly such machines in the defense of freedom.
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