Memphis Belle: Her Final Mission

[@lukeclayton8771]

As a Brit this is a beautiful and humbling reminder of how blessed we are for the brave men and women who so valiantly fought and contributed towards the freedoms we are so fortunate to have today. Forever grateful to our Allies across the Atlantic.

[@peter2023]

I am 74 now my dad took me to see the American grave site of bomber crews ,,, my God its like a field of white crosses

[@peter8545]

Men were men then and balls were BALLS

[@mitrooper]

Mostly Men.

[@ComeAlongKay]

That’s been a rare sentiment among most British people I’ve seen. They generally really do not like Americans regardless of how nice said American is.

[@kevinpittman2517]

@@mitrooper u know u can say men and man and it known to refer to women as well don't you... serving donuts and coffee or flying freight had its merits too..

[@daisen7988]

What a fantastic documentary. This documentary should be shown in every US classroom in high school. Educating today’s generation of the sacrifices from heroes of past generations in preserving the freedom that they enjoy today didn’t come free.

[@MBrieger]

Ahm, sure. What about the Germans that flew a lot more missions?

[@atlasmasterdmind4070]

​@MBrieger, which ones? The Germans did not hopelessly as most of their great aviators were lost, too, just like all the forces who fought. Stop being a biased person. Bottom line, the German Luftwaffe were doomed because of the war they were fighting for was one of epic human failure and was destined to destroy countless human lives.

[@daisen7988]

@@MBrieger well, they shouldn’t have started something they can’t finish.

[@daisen7988]

@@atlasmasterdmind4070 Biased? It’s factual.

[@MBrieger]

@@daisen7988Yeah, the age old Problem of being unable to read. Germany always had 2 issues. Avoiding two fronts at once and the utter lack of resources. That's the bottom line why they failed.

[@SkyWriter25]

My father was a ball turret gunner in a B-17. After the "war bond tour" was over, the Memphis Belle was used training at MacDill in Florida. My dad flew a training mission in the Belle there.

[@willl7780]

oh man...thats crazy....you could not pay me enough to get into the ball turret...well...i wouldn't fit if you tried lol...very brave

[@MsDenver2]

Wow your dad was very brave 👍

[@davidmacalistair8599]

not building young men like your father anymore

[@MaxRank]

While the kids of today question their gender, 81 years ago the same age group risked their lives for a cause greater than anyone living today could possible fathom. My respect and gratitude goes out to all those that paid the ultimate price and to those that survived, without their bravery and sacrifice I would not be living the life I often also take for granted. Thank you, we will never forget.

[@bencoyle7555]

Straight truth!

[@mikehiggins946]

The saddest truth for the snowflake generation is they will never know if they might've stepped up like the WW2 generation did because they were never asked to. Certainly some of them would've risen to the challenge and become fighting men. How sad for them to be so coddled and protected by parents who pretended they were doing it for their children's safety and benefit when in reality they were taking the easy way out.

[@bencoyle7555]

@@mikehiggins946 I’d have to disagree with you there sir. As much as it kills me to say it. Our incredible nation is just steps away from war with several different nations. I’d bet any amount of money that we will be at war in the next 3-4 years, whether it’s with China, Russia, North Korea, Iran, or many of them at the same time. War is on its way, and there’s not s damn thing we can do to stop it. Since 2019 I’ve been in the Navy Reserves after spending 18.5 years on active duty. I fought for this great country once and I’ll gladly do it all over again. I’ll never live up to the brave men who fought before me in WW1/2, Korea, and ‘Nam. I’m proud to be related to 3 of those brave men. God Bless those men and women, may they all rest in peace and god bless this beautiful nation they fought for🇺🇸🫡. You’ll NEVER be forgotten.

[@jeffg6008]

@@mikehiggins946Can you imagine GEN Z LBTGQ actually storming Normandy or flying B-17’s over Germany? Thank God for the Greatest Generation 🇺🇸

[@lisamcbride8921]

I know, right?!

[@chrishann5714]

With all the things going on in our country today and you watch what our country endured through those years it saddens me to see what we have become, that generation knew true sacrifice and heartache they were true American heroes, Thank you all for your service

[@stephensmart7388]

Totally agree there all true Legends and We Should all be So grateful and proud of them all God bless you all

[@smokeykitty6023]

I'm in complete agreement with you. The ignorance, selfishness and lack of pride or morals astounds me. Videos like this only serve to make me more disheartened...

[@vikingdad.3678]

My uncle mark was a tail gunner on one of those beauties and he lived to be a grumpy old man but he had some amazing spine tingling stories.. God bless those men and those like them.

[@donaldmclennan1594]

Be blessed that he was grumpy, but I can read into it that even though he was grumpy you had a lot of love for him. good on you friend. Grumpy can also be a direct result of PTSD which was not recognised then. I only realised my own symptoms when it was too late. I have paid the price..

[@OneLastHitB4IGo]

I've seen many a documentary on the men and women of the Greatest Generation, but I've never seen one any better than this. They were truly a generation the likes of which we will never see again. To all who worked so hard and so long to bring the Belle back to life for us to admire...THANK-YOU!

[@donsmith9899]

Dad was a B17 Mechanic in Molsworth England 8th Army Air Force. He was a Senior Master Sergeant, and took care of 12 B17s. My older brother made a model for the Bell, that sat on my Father's Office Desk for as long as I can remember. I can't thank you enough for all the work you did, on the restoration of the Memphis Bell. For every B17 Mechanic, ground crew member, and Flight Crew. I Think You.

[@montiliusbeatty9831]

My dad was a flight line firefighter in the army air Force at the same time of your dad. Was in seabees first.

[@jasonblack4339]

My grandfather was the radio operator on the Memphis Belle. I use to love the stories he told me. RIP Bob Hanson I miss you everyday.

[@n.elliottnoorlun8304]

Blessings to his loving patriotic memory!!! >

[@ghomerhust]

im glad his old ship has been restored and preserved like this. truly a heroic story. may your Grandpa Hanson rest easy, knowing that the next mission is on us, the new generation of air force!

[@neilbrown8659]

77 ppl

[@adityasanthanam1945]

He was a hero who protected us. May his memories and stories live on forever.

[@georgiebest99]

God bless your grandfather, good sir!

[@debbiemichaels4632]

The greatest generation. Thank you all for your service.

[@joehagen8854]

Birthday number . 81. Just. One year past the end of WW. 2. I am living through. The Worst generation on Record. Only a few. Years. Eighty to be Precise. When. Men Became. Animals the Butchery of the. Concentration camps Still lingers alll you have to do is take a Tour round all the. Camps organised by Himmler and. Hydrich You will not find Ones destroyed by. American soldiers But as a lesson to. Us Some like. Auschwitz And. Triblinka are still there to remind us Just what did happen Behind. Barbed wire Is not fable or. Is it Make. Believe but the Blatant. Truth. I know. Its 80 years past i Also know it took place in my. Generation if this is Of no interest try find A person that suffered The. Barbarity. And. Constant beatings from the camp guards It has become clear that are not interested In the. Want to be forgotten past. Have you the least idea that The past can be brought about by pure Ignorance

[@LemonandCrackhead]

I would like to consider myself an extremely devoted student of history, with the happenings of WWII being one of my favorite focal points for a plethora of reasons. However, it wasn't until after my grandpa (who was the pilot for 17s and 24s) had passed away that I realized my absolute love of history. It honestly kills me inside knowing that I had a direct and personal connection to one of those great men that fought this war, and I never once talked with him about it. He passed away while I was on deployment not long after my ship had pulled out of Saipan, one of the bases he had been stationed at. Rest in peace 1st Lieutenant Ken Smith.

[@21jl21jl]

Tradutor

[@21jl21jl]

Tradutor

[@All_Hail_Chael]

My neighbour was at Dunkirk and was a Japanese POW. We were told never to ask him about WW2. I assumed this was the same for all WW2 vets and never once asked my Grandad about the war. Turned out he was a spy in WW2 and I never knew until his funeral. So I feel your pain.

[@lyscottrell380]

My grandfather was a yo man on a decoy during World war 2. He didn't see any action. He was lucky he didn't. The ship he was on could have been blown out of the water it was taking ammunition to other ships during World War 2.

[@LemonandCrackhead]

@@lyscottrell380 Not trying to be high an mighty, but it's Yeoman, shortened to YN for rate and rank purposes. Admin basically. Just want you to know so you can talk about him proudly. I'm glad he survived unharmed, their generation was incredible.

[@leadsled40]

We and the family visited the Belle last week at the museum. She is one amazing and inspiring aircraft. Hats off to the restoration crew bringing this story and plane back.

[@dmytrogazhur3382]

At least, you saw what it means. To be a man. To be a soldier. To be reliever. To be honest in front of God.

[@williamdelashmutt1421]

My dad flew on a B-17. He was the radio man, gunner and medic. I have his memoirs. He told me the most difficult flights were over Vienna where there were over 1,300 88's shooting at them. Incredible man and I am very proud of him. He is 95 now. He is the last survivor of his crew.

[@a-spears]

God bless him!

[@benscoles5085]

tell Dad I said Thank You for his service, all Honors to Him

[@Xerox-1961]

please give your father sincere thanks from myself and my family. He literally helped save the world. We will always be grateful.

[@Duschbag]

@@Xerox-1961 I would like to offer my sincere thanks to him and his shipmates. They ARE the Greatest Generation. Bar none....

[@jameslouis8282]

Nothing but respect for your Dad and his crew. Please tell him thank you for the heroic service. They literally saved the world. God Bless him. He is a bonafide hero.

[@andyfire5737]

Literally bought me to tears. We are blessed.

[@vista706]

Great work of restoration! Only a passionate team can do this! 👍

[@richardbowen8059]

One of the best videos I’ve watched in a long time. Respect firstly to all the airmen, the ground crews and support staff mentioned. My admiration to all those involved and the dedication in restoring an iconic relic to the condition it deserves. Hi from France 🇫🇷

[@markwagstaff7209]

Scary stuff the heroism of those crews is unbelievable

[@steveshoemaker6347]

As a very old solder now l.....Salute you guy's....Thanks....l am a voice from the past.....!

[@lydiaanderson7752]

@Hello Steve how are you doing?

[@steveshoemaker6347]

@@lydiaanderson7752 Why am l getting this question again and who are you.? Thanks l am doing great....But of course....!!

[@Isaiah-gz4gp]

My wife and I take the kids to the Air Force museum every Memorial day. I hope to God they grow up and appreciate what the men of the Memphis Belle and all veterans have sacrificed.

[@busman2050]

Why go see the same planes over and over again? Take them to a different museum or a zoo

[@Isaiah-gz4gp]

@@busman2050, We've been all over. Wright-Patt is 40 min away and the kids ask to go, plus it gives me a chance to honor my friends that lost their lives.

[@esperanzamorales8354]

You and your wife are doing a good thing. You've planted seeds. Watch them grow. If your children ask to go to the museum, keep taking them. They will grow up knowing and appreciating their history. God bless you all.

[@randyallen8673]

Even though I’m not an American (Canadian), I can still appreciate the sacrifice of people who flew these missions. I found it to be a very moving documentary, very well told. I liked the mixture of the veteran stories & the restoration team.

[@jackrussell19a]

Many Canadians flew these missions from England aswell in Avro Lancaster Bombers with their commonwealth English brothers 👌👍

[@metam.devad.neimte9212]

ديسات كلها في الفكس بلا كامل

[@The.Original.Potatocakes]

Hey dude Canada was with us over there. 👍

[@Willysmb44]

Canadians did their share in WW2 and earned their share of honor

[@MOTOMINING]

I second that, my Grandfather survived The Battle of the Atlantic@@Willysmb44

[@davehodges1193]

To all those brave young Americans that came and fought with us Brits and gave so much. From the bottom of my heart thank you. So proud of you.

[@paulcreed8151]

Yes and we rescued France twice, once in 1914 then again in 1943. Now the French have forgotten, They often disrespect us. The Dutch are the opposite. If we don't really understand what the air war was like then future generations will make the same mistake. People like you and I are here, we have a voice, tell your kids and grandkids what it was like, how stupid war is, how the masses die in the process. So sad.

[@NukeFinity]

@@paulcreed8151 they even disrespect us Germans

[@giannycrazy9865]

dont forget the pigeons

[@DStortoise]

Australia who?

[@ruhri0411]

@@paulcreed8151 Okay, the French don't need you any more either, because Germany no longer poses a threat to France. On the one hand, because the two countries have buried their hereditary enmity and, on the other, Germany no longer has a powerful military anyway. They simply don't want it any more, it's no longer important to them.

[@OlSgtLove]

OUTSTANDING JOB !!!!!!!! The History you have preserved for our Nation is greatly appreciated !!! America will Never see the likes of these men again ... I so glad she has made it home back with the U.S Air Force ... God Bless you all ...

[@JoeRocket-sf6qs]

The likes of these men sir, are serving in our millitary today and will always exist as long as people want to be" free ".

[@NESHER1972]

Those guys are on another level !!!

[@GeoHvl]

I'm from Asheville, NC. While growing up, we heard all our lives about how Capt Robert Morgan buzzed the Asheville city building while flying the Memphis Bell on his War Bond drive after the Bell returned home for the 25 missions. He is a legend here in Asheville.

[@natedog1619]

Legend. Almost got court martialed for it but who cares lol. The ball turret gunner on the Belle was from my home area, Altoona PA! Much love.

[@charlesarmstrong5292]

A truly moving story. Thank God for all those young men who flew bombing runs throughout that horrid war. Their dedication and courage is beyond words.

[@odysseynz]

Misty eyes I have. Thanks for this documentary.

[@davey2363]

It always moves me so much….the Americans lost thousands in those raids and were as brave as lions……bravo to all of them….🇬🇧

[@wendylinton453]

SO MUCH RESPECT TO THESE BRAVE HEROS 🇬🇧👏👏👏👏❤🇱🇷

[@usafvet100]

The 8th AF suffered more losses than the US Marines in all Pacific Campaigns combined. RAF Bomber Command also experienced terrible losses despite operating under cover of darkness. Mad respect to the American and British aircrews.🇺🇲🇬🇧

[@dlbdlb3919]

Defund Wars

[@usafvet100]

@dlbdlb3919 And bow to tyranny? Stand idly by while an entire ethnicity gets turned into air pollution? Sometimes the choice is facing death on your feet or living on your knees. I would die before submitting to the Swastika, Hammer and Sickle, Star and Crescent, or any other representation of a barbaric, malignant, totalitarian ideology. War is never anything but terrible, but some things are worse still, and some things are worth defending and fighting for.

[@scottswin4236]

I am 67. Love the sound of WWll war birds. I cried watching this. So proud of those airmen and all the soldiers of the Greatest Generation.

[@Slycockney]

What an incredible documentary and impossible to watch without getting watery eyed.

[@djangounchained7314]

Today, April 4th 2024 I was finally able to visit this amazing masterpiece of history ... thanks 🙏🏼 God !

[@CartGoBroom]

" there's no crew left unfortunately, but their kids were there" rip to the whole crew of MEMPHIS BELLE

[@cherylhaugen1897]

Wonderful story! So much dedication, so much care, and so much honor given to the crew and the plane! The care taken to get it all “right” was enormous. We have lost so much history and I wish there was a way to teach it again. Thank you.

[@donpaladino]

goosebumps and heart palpitations............my Uncle Gordon was a belly gunner on a B17, shot down after dropping bombs on Magdeburg, spent 6 months in Stalag Luft 4 and, with his 'inmates', spent another 6 months in a march toward Germany, his captors trying to stay ahead of the Red Army. He survived and for several decades he didn't talk about the war, and was a wonderful Uncle.

[@toddmartin6572]

I’m in tears now. Bless all of our heroes..

[@edtrout]

Thank you guys for doing it the right way. She deserves the best.

[@13BGunBunny]

A very touching video. It brought this 57yo Vet to the brink of tears. God bless all who sacrificed their lives in that terrible war.

[@terryleeschiller8515]

Thank You for Your Service.. My Dad was Army & i am proud to say a Recipient of the Bronze Metal. Sargent First Class.Carl John Warnke. I am Always moved by these documentaries ! God Bless You 🕊🇺🇸💝

[@Rodney-dh2gf]

SIR...I only have words,THANK "YOU" AND ALL WHO SERVED,I'M FREE BECAUSE OF PATRIOTS LIKE YOU AND THE MANY WHO GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE AND THOSE GOD SPARED. MY DAD WALLACE CHECKALSKI SERVED IN WWII AND IN HIS LAST DAYS HE SAID WHEN HE LOOKED BACK,HE SAID IT WAS ALMOST INCOMPREHENSIBLE THE WAY OUR NATION CAME TOGETHER AT THAT TIME TO STOP EVIL. GOD PLEASE BE WITH ALL THOSE SERVING NOW. THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO PUT THEIR WHOLE HEART INTO PRESERVING A VITAL PART OF HISTORY.

[@eeuphoria9077]

The ending made me tear up. God bless the Memphis Belle forever! 🇺🇸🇺🇸 damn proud to be an American💪🏼

[@johndavid5618]

🇺🇲🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🙌🙏

[@odinsraven116]

And you should be. 🇺🇸

[@carlfitzpatrick5864]

In 1991 I was a young airman in the US Navy stationed at NAS Millington going to school to become an Aviation Structural Mechanic. One weekend that summer me and a couple others took the bus from the base to mud island in Memphis Tennessee it just happened that in the pavilion where the Memphis Bell was a group was selling self guided tours through the aircraft to help get it restored and I had a chance to walk through and sit in every position on the aircraft. I have a picture of me at the right hand waist gunners spot. I grew up reading all about all our hero’s from WW2 and had finally got a chance see part of history that won the war in Europe.

[@ashcatdundee]

How brave were those boys. Thank you from the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

[@peterdemkiw3280]

It's a shame that the 90s film changed all the names of the crew and even invented back stories for them that were not very nice. The Only thing they got right in the film was the name of the aircraft.

[@richdavies3575]

What a wonderful, well put together documentary, one of the best I have seen in a very long time. It had me from the beginning till the final credits. It was so moving to watch, the brave men who flew those missions, their sacrifice, I have so much respect for them and the ground crew too. And hats off and respect to those devoted guys who dedicated their time restoring the magnificent beautiful Memphis Belle. Thank you for sharing this wonderful video.

[@Maxtowers71]

This has been so emotional... Thanks to those Airmen who brought freedom to this continent and to those who put so much passion and dedication to keep the memory alive.

[@mrb4852]

It makes me happy to know that the restoration of the Belle was so lovingly done.

[@shanefrance5071]

These crew will never be forgotten the sacrifices they made.... Thanku usa from Britain....

[@camann33]

Wow! Thank you for this. "Breathtaking' is an excellent word for this story, and the work these people did on the Belle.

[@GuyOnABuffalo82]

I got to meet Col. Morgan my Senior year in HS and he was an incredible gentleman. I was obsessed with the Memphis Belle movie as a kid and that gave him a good laugh.

[@ccoopey]

An amazing story of some of the brave airmen who fought against tyranny from airbases in the east of England during the Second World War. The restoration of the Belle is a fitting testament to their sacrifice and was beautifully done. I hope one day to visit the museum to pay my own respects. ❤️

[@jeffreytan2948]

This documentary is so eloquently written. Just brings tears to my eyes... And I'm not even American.

[@filipinowhiteboy]

You should see the one on the Civil War by Ken Burns. It's fantastic. the narration is like poetry

[@maryjaneedwards2893]

Lllll000000000000

[@fletsepopje]

There are 2 US WW2 cemeteries here in Belgium. We Belgians will never forget those young men that gave the ultimate sacrifice to liberate us from Nazi tyranny. When you visit one of the cemeteries and see row upon row of white marble crosses, you can help to feel humbled and honered by standing on the shoulders of giants. May we never forget the fallen and may we never forget the price of freedom.

[@Mr_Bean_Stalk]

So grateful that you all are confiscating our truck driver's ham and cheese sandwiches.

[@EstorilEm]

It really is great to know that people overseas still understand and respect those who gave the ultimate sacrifice - thanks for being "that person". Everything has changed these days - I swear the majority of people in the US now thing that the war was stupid and we just murdered a bunch of people for no reason. Zero context.

[@IH-oo3le]

As you well know we're in a very tight spot over here right now by attack from within. In this dark time your kind words about our republic i love so much are touching. Thank you so kindly from the grandson of a wwII vet

[@jackj.4304]

Thank you, Belgium.

[@chazvalvo2840]

I have a special place in my heart for Belgium. Worked at a Belgian airbase securing A10 aircraft. Even though it was 40 years since VE the Belgian security troops were more than hospitable. I remember one instance when I was on duty on the flightline and a Belgian troop who was also working pulled out a smoke offered me one I thanked him and mentioned that our schedule didn't leave time to shop and he disappeared for about 15 min and came back with 2 packs of cigarettes handed them to me and refused money. Unfortunately the German people were still holding a grudge and weren't happy to have us there.

[@guyski666]

My father was a sniper in WW11 for the Canadian Army. Today I write this to let him know that the sacrifices he, and the other men/boys like him, made are not forgotten and much appreciated. Many of them paying the ultimate sacrifice in order to me to be able to have the wonderful life I have had......

[@equarg]

Canada is an under appreciated hero in both WW1 and WW2 in my opinion. As an American I salute your veterans and am thankful for their sacrifice. In fact one of my favorite historical WW1 hero’s is Francis Pegamagabow. He was a WW1 Sniper, Scout, and Soldier. He was a First Nations man who used a Ross Rifle (considered by most to be a POS) to officially snipe 378 kills. One of the highest official kill counts from WW1. He also captured over 400 enemy soldiers, personally scouted enemy trenches, and trolled the enemy by silently cutting off medals and rank off sleeping enemies he found.....and leaving them alive. There is a song about him on KZbin by the Band “Sabaton” called “Ghost in the Trenches”. He was not considered a Canadian Citizen at the time because he was “Native American”, he had to fight for his benefits after the war too because of the prejudice at the time, but he was one of the highest promoted First Nations soldiers at the time. I think Francis and the Finnish “White Death” would make a truly deadly sniper team. May he RIP.

[@alancameron2433]

@@equarg Nia:wen.

[@luker9595]

I am in my 30s writing this, but I feel I am fortunate and humbled to have gotten to know WW2 vets from several countries, the memories live on. I thank your father and his Comrades. One of the Vets "Fred" I got to know was a POW at 17years old, brought to Canada to work on a farm out west, the people here treated him fairly and honestly, he was so turned by his experience in Canada, working on a farm with no fences no guards, no gates, in the middle of nowhere, nowhere to run, but nothing to stop you, after the war he returned to Canada, the people here gave him fair chances, and as a low ranking solider the misinformation he had been given turned him against his previous nation.

[@thomasblanchard6778]

@@luker9595 More heartwarming stories of POWs turned citizens can be found in the video here "The Germans We Kept"

[@dutchbird100]

What a fantastic piece of work. Both the restoration and the documentary. This deserves a million views and likes.

[@n.elliottnoorlun8304]

Amen to THAT!!! I fully agree!!!

[@ghomerhust]

been watching a lot of documentaries, im laid up after ankle surgery. being a retired airman myself, ive been watching a lot of ww2 aircraft shows, and this one popped up on my suggestions. im really glad i clicked it, simply a fantastic program. ive known of the Belle since my younger days, my grandparents had the vhs of the footage from the major that was shot during flights of the Belle. to see her brought back to glorious perfection really chokes me up. its a beautiful machine, and an incredible story, and the ole girl has earned her place in our military's history

[@steveperreira5850]

A popular industrialist and scientist has said in recent years, “3 times America saved the rest of the world from Tyranny: WW l, WW ll, and the Cold War.”

[@delmusingle2338]

How long will KZbin allow those many views before it deletes them all? ... I hope never.

[@sirswerve2493]

Time will tell.

[@samuelmorado70]

Best Documentary I’ve seen. Thanks for the sacrifices to ALL veterans deceased and living.

[@DuVey64]

One of the best documentaries I have seen , well done to all involved 👍🏻🇺🇸

[@rgerber]

wow

[@ralphstadler7373]

My Dad was a pilot of a B-17 in WWII. What a beautiful story and plane!@ Thank you all, may God bless you!!

[@restoredoutboards]

Excellent documentary. The display at the museum is overwhelming and the best exhibit I have ever seen. Thanks god she was saved.

[@ljh45s]

They were Great men and women who gave it all ,,to keep what we have today, God Bless them all, may we never forget, thank you for the post, God Bless,

[@ronaldmorrell-pruitt5333]

I know this is not a new documentary. But, I have to still express my gratitude and thanks to all for this wonderful piece of art. Staff Sargent, Dayton, Ohio

[@generalkaffenberger8675]

Are You the young Stunt Double for Eddie Murphy ? Proud that You have the WISDOM to be in U.S. ARMY Service, Staff Sergeant. OUTSTANDING, Soldier, You carry on !

[@williamross9482]

While attending Christian Brothers University from 1970 - 1973 I lived on Roberta Drive, just around the corner for the guard armory when the Memphis Belle stood on concrete pedestals in the open air. I admired the at aircraft. It was later moved to Mud Island where it was on display in a covered canopy. Thank Memphis for spending $350 (back then) to save the Belle from destruction and preserving it for history. Congratulation to the men that restored her. Great video.

[@arthurbrunelle9828]

I visited the museum in 65 ....age 6. They had just received the X-3.....was still parked outside. There was a B-17....but of course I don't recall the name. This experience was one of the things that motivated me to become a pilot. My hats off to all the people who have and continue to preserve our history....the genious of the creators and the honor and bravery of the men who flew them. For those who have fallen, may God bless you and rest in peace. To the family members, know your father or grandfather fought with honor, doing a difficult job that had to be done. My thanks and honor to you all....God Bless! 🇺🇲🇬🇧

[@southlondon63]

Brave brave men like these should never be forgotten, this side of the pond we are for ever thankful for the sacrifices endured. l have been to the American cemetery in Cambridge just to give my thanks.

[@greggarner4477]

My Dads best friend was a B17 belly gunner. He and my Dad are both gone now. I sit here at the end of this crying my eyes out. Not sad, grateful. Grateful for all who served, serve today and these guys who had my ultimate dream job of restoring one of the greatest pieces of history ever. What a beautiful job! God bless these men! Zeke would be so proud!

[@ghomerhust]

im right with you, friend. im retired air force, and i knew the story of the belle from my childhood. seeing what has become of her today is really heartwarming, because she was a beacon of hope and power during some incredibly bleak times. she's getting a well deserved rest, and the respect of a hero

[@karenhenningsen4671]

What an honor to see her in person. I did in Sept 2021. Just about brought tears to my eyes. My Dad was shot down 2 times on 31 missions and survived a downing in the North Sea. He was the Pilot.

[@龙源探索]

A very well written and produced documentary of the boys and the Memphis Belle. To them and all the men that fought and gave everything, my God bless and comfort you all for eternity. 🙏🙏

[@HawthornandClark]

What a beautifully told story and what a great tribute, not only to those that flew, but also that maintained her, then and now....well done!

[@jimcruse1766]

My father is gone now but he served as a aircraft mechanic. He was one of the men who kept the B-17's flying.

[@PhillRobinson]

It was 1939 for us where were you until Pearl Harbour ???

[@timblack6422]

God bless him

[@therealdeal6846]

Credit to him!!..Engineers are the unsung heroes.

[@RUHappyATM]

@@PhillRobinson it was 1937 for China...where were you?

[@AlanpittsS2a]

My great grabdfather worked at boeing at the time.

[@Brianthehistorynerd]

Bravo to the guys who restored her!! Outstanding job gentleman. I definitely need to get out there and see her.

[@turkeybird7679]

I was greatly moved by this documentary, the efforts of the men who restored her, and the airmen who took such great risk to bring the fight to the Nazi war machine and preserve America. WELL DONE!

[@dafyddthomas7299]

The UK, Commonwealth and Russia had a hand in the fight also against the Axis powers and you have to question why USAF repeated the same mistakes RAF did - loosing lot of brave American Airmen by bombing in daylight when a) they should have stuck to night bombing until the fighters (P51's) could escort the bombers all the way to the target.

[@stevebales1487]

Weird

[@stevebales1487]

@@dafyddthomas7299 It took alot of research to find howgermany knew where our air craft was at It came down the redness of the super chargers on the bottom of the engines!

[@dafyddthomas7299]

@@stevebales1487 Not so weird - in USAF repeating same mistakes RAF did by bombing in daylight and in the early WW2 years without Fighter cover (P51) all the way to Germany and losing thousands of brave USAF air men.

[@mattsteward2247]

Just incredibly awesome. Sometimes words just aren’t enough ... this is one of those times. 🇺🇸

[@buckshot704]

One of the most extraordinarily done documentaries I’ve ever seen. 🇺🇸✈️👍

[@ofirtzafrir]

Makes me want to fly from the otherside of the world to see this in real .

[@paulkillick527]

What a beautiful documentary about the Memphis belle this bought a tear to my eye and in this crazy world we are living in today it’s nice to appreciate to likes of us who respect our heroes who fought hard for our freedoms so that we can live may all servicemen and women who perished and the ones that survived and now have passed away thank you and may you rest in peace 🪦🇺🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇺🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@alturner737]

Wonderful documentary. Much gratitude to those who labored selflessly to make a beautiful restoration. My father served as radio operator/gunner on a B-17, "The Weary Wolf", 487th BG Lavenham.

[@catface3473]

So proud of our service people ..then and today..so proud of the crew and those who kept the honor and memories alive..true American hero.s...excellent documentary..thanks !

[@tbwpiper189]

May God Bless all who served, serve, and will serve to keep us free. Freedom is precariously held these days and those who serve are the stewards of that freedom. Thanks from Canada.

[@robbliven01]

Fabulous story and brilliant work!!! Thank you to the restorers; their dedication is admirable!!!

[@johnfrancis2215]

In 1994 I was on holiday with my wife and decided to have a day in Oxford, we were in a town centre pub when I noticed a elderly gent in a leather jacket, on closer inspection I saw a squadron insignia on the back, luckily he and his wife came and sat at our table apparently he was going to a reunion of his bomb group, we had a brilliant half hour together as I lapped up his memories of the missions he flew from England, I wanted to buy him a drink but he said he couldn't manage another but as he left I shook his hand and thanked him for fighting by our side in the dark days of the 40s so glad I met him it gave me a nice memorial

[@michaelsharp1991]

What a treasure she is. Magnificent. Incredible story of brave young men and their plane. She carried them into harms way 25 times and brought them home. She and the the crew were one. Outstanding documentary. Goosebumps and misty eyes knowing what a value she is. Great job.

[@sauve76]

Respect and Love to all that fought, American, British, Canadian, Australian ...those who server will never be forgotten

[@terryleeschiller8515]

AMEN 🕊🇺🇸💝

[@Duschbag]

I'm 61. My father faught in WWII in the Pacific Theater. He was a mechanic on Amphibious Vehicles on Saipan. It wasn't until I was in my 40's when he told me about what he saw. . . . What he described was Hell on Earth. Because of him, I have mad respect for every single veteran in any and all Wars. No matter when or where they served. It does not matter to me. I feel every one are Heroes. May God Bless everyone of these Men and Women. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@grantadams4114]

Why just american dude?????

[@Duschbag]

@@grantadams4114 THERE... Are you happy now..? 🙄

[@grantadams4114]

@@Duschbag Kapai ehoa. Kia kaha from Aotearoa. Its good that some American's can still learn.

[@Duschbag]

@@grantadams4114 So Grant... Where you be from..? 🤔

[@grantadams4114]

@@Duschbag Northland in New Zealand.

[@Blackcomb1-h9e]

Beautiful and deeply moving. Very sad too. I came from an RAF background. My Grandad served, my Dad from age 15 as a boy entrant, my brother, and I. I loved the life.

[@smokenjoe3745]

The greatest generation this country will ever see God bless them all.

[@zero1898]

Cherish these, because we are losing them by the numbers and there will be none left to tell the stories. I recently lost my great great uncle who fought in Guadal Canal, Iwo and went on to fight the Korean war and train kids for Vietnam. It wasn't until I joined the Army and went off to my own war in 2003 that I got to hear stories of the smells, sights and sounds of WW2 or Korea. He was legally blind and had a hard time walking when I got home from Afghanistan in 2011 and when I left the Army 3 years later due to injury. We shared a silent afternoon last March before COVID and I am forever grateful to have known him and experienced his wisdom, stories and advice.

[@albertschultz7151]

First and foremost, my thanks to all that offered their lives so we could live as free men, to those that made it back home. A debt we can never repay. Secondly a brilliant restoration done with respect and honesty. Thanks for sharing.

[@johndavidwhite8837]

I'm so glad to see this PBS station video "Memphis Belle Her Final Mission". Best Regards, J. David White - Secretary/Treasurer for the Memphis Belle Memorial Association, Inc., Memphis, TN.

[@arthurbrunelle9828]

Thank you and your association for saving this important piece of history! The Memphis Belle was one of thousands.....but a wonderful representative of all the aircraft and especially the brave men who flew them! 🇬🇧🇺🇲

[@raycarolewallace466]

This past hour or so made me cry because I was living when these guys were dying "Over There" ( a song during WWll) They gave more than any film could ever capture, and said less than a pageless book about it. Love them, Ray

[@jwise7114]

Ive been on that beast. Love the history and bravery of the young men willing to put it all on the line. You guys are amazing.

[@husqv5147]

Great video! Great restoration,! Great God above please give my thanks to the men who risked their lives on board this beautiful bird of war!

[@dhall058]

Brilliant documentary! Well done to the restoration team, who truly honored the crew and their B-17.

[@dairuth8738]

1

[@MrNegative57]

This makes me happy and sad. Happy she was properly restored. But sad because Memphis lost the Belle. I grew up seeing her. 2 groups argued over who was going to take care of her so nothing was done. These folks did a better job than ever would have been done in Memphis. Need to go see her in all her glory

[@holeshotv311]

Awesome documentary on the ole' Girl. Thanks for sharing!

[@roterakaten636]

To the team members who restored the Memphis. I say to you. You did one hell of a good job. The ground crew would be proud of you. Thank you for spending that much time on her and doing it right.

[@StevenVanLoven]

Thanks for the story , the restoration , preservation , and all the young guys back in the day.

[@artybarra6054]

Thank you for this. May we never ever forget the men who made our country great. And always remember that freedom is not free. One nation under god, with liberty and justice for all.🙏🙏

[@ConvairDart106]

I recall reading a story back in flight school, in the 70's. There was a senior airline pilot, who got lost on the taxi way in Frankfurt. The controller, being irritated, asked the Boeing 747 Captain, if he had ever been to Frankfurt before, to which he replied, "yes sir, but that was many years ago, in a different type of Boeing, and we just dropped some things off, we didn't stop!"

[@Abidingdude427]

@@flightforensics4523 I’m glad you are here to police up stories intended to brighten someone’s day.

[@ConvairDart106]

@@flightforensics4523 I was not aware of things going viral, in the 70's. That was 20 years before the internet, and it was published, and NOT a joke circulating in my school, but, what the hell do I know? Where you there?

[@BillHalliwell]

G'day Convair, I suspect you will be attacked for telling a supposed apocryphal story. Don't worry I totally believe you and that this was possible. In 1961, my former boss was flying from Tokyo to Hawaii and a little way out of the destination the Japanese skipper came on the intercom to warn of a sudden thunderstorm approaching the airport. With a friendly, assuring voice he advised that he would take extra care when landing in Hawaii, then adding with a completely straight voice, "... because I haven't flown here since 1941, thank you." My boss swears that it took several seconds for the import of what the pilot just said to sink in to the passengers. He reported that there were a couple of chuckles, a few gentle gasps but otherwise, total silence. My boss was a good man; a serious man and definitely not one to tell gags. Lastly, he said there wasn't another word spoken, that he could hear, from that moment till they landed. Cheers, BH

[@crankyyankee7290]

@@ConvairDart106 I read about that incident long ago(before the internet) in Readers Digest, ya gotta love the "experts" like that one, I once was telling someone a story online about a tragedy that happened about 15 miles up the road long ago, and had an "expert" call me BS, that his professor had declared it an urban myth, I had a few rude suggestions for him and the professor, and suggested they try telling that to some who had lost family in the event, and see how many teeth they retained after that.

[@Zephyrmec]

There is another anecdotal story along the same lines, which may have originated with a grain of truth about a confrontation between a French customs officer with a bad attitude giving an American senior citizen a hard time about not having his passport ready, the old timer sarcastically replied that in the past the French were not so particular concerning passports and visas, of course the pompous officer went off with a lecture concerning passports and security.... old timer told customs agent that the last time he entered France he didn’t have to show a passport. The customs agent said that was totally impossible! And asked when this supposed entry without a passport happened. “June 6th of ‘44” the old man replied..... there are plenty of these supposedly true incidents and they have been passed around for years

[@esperanzamorales8354]

Thank you all for your heartfelt dedication to this masterpiece of such great importance. Wonderful job. I pray I'll be able to see her before I pass. So proud of all of you. God bless you.

[@HeavensGremlin]

As a Brit', I was at the Sun & Fun in 2003 and I had a good chat with the pilot, Morgan, who was signing copies of his book. A quiet, gentle chap - I'm glad he survived to help tell the tale of their struggles - and of those who were not so fortunate. He's gone now - and so are all the other old-lags that came from all the corners of the planet to fight that fight - but the Belle is still there to tell the story, so hat's-off to all those who brought her back to life and keep the memories alive.

[@maddogmorgan1]

....and what is the relevance of "As a Brit"?

[@HeavensGremlin]

@@maddogmorgan1 ;- It called 'context' smart-arse.

[@tomayrscotland6890]

Tom Copland Ayr Scotland. It is an honour to watch you guy's restoring a great part of history, The Memphis Bell A great Name like all the other names on those planes that went down and the crews who never came Back. Might get over for a Visit some Day. I will be watching your work till you have finished the job. Take care to you all.

[@bretthazlett1037]

What can i say as I wipe tears from my eyes. Thank you to all involved in keeping history alive

[@WilliamWallaceRoss]

Thank you for sharing this with all of us! At the end, I got emotional, thinking of the men of the Memphis Belle, and those other brave men, who sacrificed their lives, not only for America, but, for the free world. Semper Fi!

[@rustylove5035]

Thank you gentlemen who all put their heart bring in the myth as bell back and put it inside the museum we appreciate it

[@BillHalliwell]

Thank you TVPBS! What an excellent, brilliantly balanced, touching and accurate documentary. I'm an ex-RAAF bloke from Australia and a military historian. I was, initially, put off the Memphis Belle story by the 1990 motion picture because it was too 'Hollywood' and William Wyler's famous 43-minute documentary, although stunning and risky for shooting real air combat footage was understandably, by its nature, a propaganda piece. I would have liked to have seen more of the 11 hours of footage shot by Wyler's camera men, one of whom was, sadly, lost on a mission. I decided to do my own research on 'the Belle' and what a fascinating story it is. This outstanding documentary is not only a tribute to those ultra-dedicated folks who toiled for 12 years on a meticulous restoration but it also gives us a real glimpse of the crew of this famed, beautiful B-17F model. The Lancasters, Liberators and Fortresses that pounded the ground stolen by the Nazis and then the Nazi homeland did a truly magnificent job, but with a heartbreaking toll of young, lost lives. The deaths of aircrew from RAF Bomber Command and the USAAF 8th Air Force totalled 87,205 with thousands of others wounded and others becoming POWs. The importance of this restoration cannot be over stated. As was so rightly said at the end of this film, soon we will all be gone and The Memphis Belle will still be here to remind future generations of the bravery of that horrendous aerial warfare but also of the absolute carnage dealt out to that part of the WW2 effort. Perhaps that aircraft and the other restored WW2 weapons of the sky will stand as a solemn warning that such a conflict must never happen again. That never again should the insanity of one or two despot dictators should have the reach to slaughter innocent people on such a sickening scale. Finally, I'm also a serious modeller of WW2 aircraft. In my modelling shop I have a large-scale model of a B-17F with the identifying decals of The Memphis Belle, and a large model kit of an Avro Lancaster, 'G' George, crewed, over Europe, by young Australians. Very soon now, I will build those models as well as I possibly can; a tiny personal tribute to 'The Belle's' crew and the boys of Bomber Command, but moreover to the nearly 90 thousand lives that were snuffed out in the quest to return the world to democracy and freedom. Thank you again for this informative, harrowing and inspiring documentary. Cheers, BH

[@lydiaanderson7752]

@Hello Bill how are you doing?

[@jeffduford5847]

Not sure if you have seen this, but the National Archives at College Park, MD (where the original footage is preserved) put all 11 1/2 hours of footage up on KZbin. Just search "Memphis Belle Outtakes." Enjoy!

[@BillHalliwell]

@@jeffduford5847 G'day Jeff, Thanks mate! BH

[@jeffduford5847]

G'day Bill...my pleasure! 😃

[@charlieparker2773]

WHAT A GREAT STORY , THANK ALL OF YOU WHO WORKED SO HARD IN WAR & IN PEACE TIME TO SAVE THE MEMPHIS BELLE

[@joescott58]

Such an incredible story of the valor of America’s soldiers’ & the sacrifices we make for America & indeeds for the whole world. Land. Air. & Sea.

[@sturtcrow56]

This is a fantastic show to watch, what they did is a stunning tribute