Memphis Belle: Her Final Mission

The iconic Memphis Belle underwent a 13 year restoration at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. Our documentary features the work of two teams: the crew who flew her into combat and the team that restored her to her former glory.
Learn more and support this project at thinktv.org/memphis-belle-the... or www.cetconnect.org/memphis-be....

[@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?!

[@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.

[@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 👍

[@CartGoBroom]

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

[@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..

[@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.

[@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.

[@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. 🇺🇸

[@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.

[@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...

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@synthman2000]

My grandfather was in Cambridge with the Army Air Corp in WWII and worked on these beautiful beasts. Tested them, flew in them, rescued landings and primarily 50MM gun maintenance, repair.

[@DStortoise]

Australia who?

[@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

[@debbiemichaels4632]

The greatest generation. Thank you all for your service.

[@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.

[@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.

[@andyfire5737]

Literally bought me to tears. We are blessed.

[@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"

[@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

[@vista706]

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

[@charlieparker2773]

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

[@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

[@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....!!

[@laurenhutton596]

I remember seeing the “Memphis Belle” at Mud Island in Memphis, Tennessee in the summer of 1992. The ground crews/maintenance crews were TRULY TRULY among the MOST UNSUNG of our World War II heroes, along with the men of the Red Ball Express. HATS OFF to the restoration crew at Wright-Patterson!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@grantsmythe8625]

I saw her there too or maybe it was near some War themed restaurant near an airport. I left Memphis in '88 so it was before then. Long time ago.

[@jbazinga2385]

I was going through the US Navy Aviation Electronics Technician school from mid '87 through mid '88 and was lucky enough to go visit. Very humbling to a young man that was just starting his military career.

[@NESHER1972]

Those guys are on another level !!!

[@odysseynz]

Misty eyes I have. Thanks for this documentary.

[@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.

[@chrismarcus9371]

Thank you. I was stationed at Base J Offenburg near Florennes, Belgium during the 1980s. I visited Bastogne, Waterloo, Malmandy, and many other places. I lived in Hastiere, the Belgians never forgot and your countrymen were very good to us. You are forever in my heart my friend. Thank you.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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 ".

[@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

[@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. ❤️

[@edb1913]

My father completed 25 missions as pilot of the Pig Chaser B-17 of the 463rd Bomb Group of the 15th Air Force. God bless all these brave men. We owe them everything.

[@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.

[@toddmartin6572]

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

[@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.

[@mrb4852]

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

[@13bgunbunny46]

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.

[@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

[@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

[@jerrymiller3320]

You should see it in Dayn...it's beautiful. It's where it should be.

[@charlessmart7640]

My Dad was a Navy frogman, the forerunner of the Navy Seals. After the war he opened his law office in my hometown. His associate was a former tail gunner on a Flying Fortress. Both of them had troubling memories of the war, which lasted for years. We owe WW II veterans a tremendous amount.

[@joewimpelberg9110]

John Quinlan he was my great uncle, I had the pleasure of meeting him 1 time when I was a little boy. I will always remember that day. He was very special.

[@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?

[@alanluscombe8a553]

My great grabdfather worked at boeing at the time.

[@371francis]

A tip of the hat to all those who flew, maintained and restored her.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@sauve76]

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

[@terryleeschiller8515]

AMEN 🕊🇺🇸💝

[@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

[@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! 🇺🇲🇬🇧

[@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! 🇬🇧🇺🇲

[@tomlawrence713]

Bob Little of Dyersburg, TN was pilot crew member on Ferry flight from Oklahoma to Memphis after the war. He mentioned they took a check for $350 to cover fuel, oil and getting aircraft ready for flight. Bob went on to fly for C&S Airlines in Memphis which was acquired by Delta in early 50’s. Delta closed Memphis as a crew base, Bob flew out of New Orleans until his retirement. Many folks in Dyersburg who knew Bob did not his background with the Memphis Belle. Bob in retirement years worked on Clocks. Great Guy, unassuming Pilot.

[@jazzclarinet2006]

Robert Morgan really was a nice guy. Like one of the restorers interviewed here I got to meet him at an airshow here in NC back in the '90s when I was five years old. My enthusiasm must have made a good impression as he ended up taking me up into the cockpit of the "movie" Belle and sat me in the pilot's seat while he took the copilot's (something visitors weren't supposed to do but, hey, you can't say no to the man himself ) and showed me the rest of the airplane. I'll always cherish the memories and photos of that day and the couple of other times I got to see him. One of these days I'm going to make sure to visit and see the original Belle (along with the rest of the amazing museum)!

[@bradnbuttr]

It helps when you're cute as a button. 😉

[@warrenchambers4819]

To the 8th AAF and those who served with her=Thank you for your sacrifice for our freedoms. May your service and those you lost never be forgotten. To the restoration team=Thank you you've saved an American icon. She looks fantastic. To the City of Memphis=Thank you for having the foresight in saving the Belle and seeing after her for all these yrs. Without your dedication to history America would have lost this treasure. America appreciates the sacrifice you made in passing her to the museum. Memphis you saved the Belle a second time in doing so.

[@warrenchambers4819]

@Jay Schnitzler No Jay that generation I was referring to has had their day in the sun and did a phenomenal job as well. What your referring to is our day not theirs. So I ask you what have you done or are you going to do to stand up as those before us have? Our freedoms are at stake and AMERICA will fall and it's on our watch not theirs. What sir are you prepared to do about it besides complain that is?

[@lydiaanderson7752]

@Hello Warren how are you doing?

[@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.

[@genegarren833]

I was a good friend of Robert Morgan and his wife. He was an incredible man as was his crew. God Bless them all forever.

[@davidsanchez6682]

Qà

[@lrmbowling5396]

My name is Robert Morgan?!?!?

[@supernurseprivatedutyrn]

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.

[@turbine6338]

To those young men who give so much for use all, we thank you.

[@factstrumpprejudice6740]

They confronted fascism, yet fascists openly march American streets with their Tiki Torches, they disgrace democracy. They disgrace these brave mens sacrifice, they disgrace humanity. The evils of fascism is still with us and must be resisted all over again, lest we forget.

[@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.

[@edtrout]

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

[@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.

[@mattematsson554]

I'm a 65-year old private pilot and I've flown quite a number of small aircraft including my own Opus280 (SE-LIZ). However, seeing this clip brought tears to my eyes regarding the dedication of yesterday crews and today's restoration crews!

[@hugebartlett1884]

A truly remarkable documentary of the rescue and restoration of a bomber who this day represents the very best of American achievement and American courage displayed at a time when three quarters of the world feared annihilation,and came to realise that hope and salvation was at hand çarried into the fight by young men who stepped away from safety and took on the mantle of destroying a heartless enemy and brought light back into the world. Probably the greatest generation that ever lived,and who proved their greatness in the most glorious way,and who earned our honour and respect for ever. R.I.P.

[@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.

[@haroldtuttle3766]

My father flew in a B17 during WWll unfortunately he was shot down over Germany was terribly wounded and spent the rest of the war as a pow. He credited other captured airmen for saving his life, was liberated spent a year in rehab. Came home got married had 5 sons then passed away at the age of 47. I would give anything to be able to talk to him. God I miss him even after all these years.

[@ulrichjackisch7637]

he was respected as pow

[@DuVey64]

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

[@rgerber]

wow

[@djangounchained7314]

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

[@paaat001]

The story of the discovery at Altus OK deserves more attention. A group of local school girls discovered that the Belle was in the boneyard there. They initiated the rescue effort that made this story possible.

[@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! 😃

[@bobpfeiffer39]

My Father was building I think it was B29 planes in the Kansas City area. He was a machinist and was assigned to the U.S. Army Air Corps. After extensive trading He was relocated to England on a base just outside London and was in a group of B-17s dropping bombs over Germany of railroads or military plants. As the flight engineer he was third in command after the pilot and co-pilot and also had a duty station in the top turret just outside the pilots cockpit. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions on a mission over Germany after their aircraft was hit. He didn’t talk about the war when he returned home and just was happy to have survived. My dad and the men & women who served with him are truly our Greatest Generation.

[@lydiaanderson7752]

@Hello Bob how are you doing?

[@mattsteward2247]

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

[@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.

[@nickjohnson811]

When we think we have serious problems, we should realize that they're trivial compared to what these aircrews went through. Their bravery and willingness to persevere while their friends were dying all around them should be an inspiration to everyone.

[@heatherweikle3122]

They will forever be grateful for these hero's. They have a place in my heart and honor forever.

[@klucko1996]

Yes them! Fighting Men were tough ! Hope we can make there efforts worth it !

[@jackthorton10]

@@klucko1996 We will, in time we will step up to the plate and make ourselves known the world.

[@user-ex5jr5to6q]

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. 🙏🙏

[@samuelmorado70]

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

[@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.

[@cosplayshop]

I remember seeing the Belle in the early 90s in an airshow in Memphis when she was still in the declining year, back then I was just a high school kids ddt even know anything about the history of the belle and the only thing I know about the belle was from the movie "Memphis Belle" that was released early in 1990 or 1991 (I forgot exactly when was the movie was release so correct me if I am wrong) And that my dad took me down to Memphis to see the actual Belle. So I was there, and reading the brief story and the crew list, an old man come behind me and said "Did you know all 11 of the crew got back home safe?" And being an ignorant young'un, I simply told the old man "There were only 10 men in a crew" and the old man replies, "No, there were 11th, her name is Margaret Polk and she got them all home safe" Back then I didn't know anything so I walk away feeling kind of strange, but after a while when I got older, I realise the old man was actaully Bob Morgan and Margaret Polk was the sweet heart he name his plane for. (You need to understand, i really think the pilot of the belle was Dennis Dearborn) I really want to go back in time and apologise to him for giving him the cold shoulder and being offensive, but I guess I never have the chance, so here it is, Colonel Morgan, I salute your service

[@glenrobertson6095]

We all f -up or it just wouldn't be living life. As long as you take credit for the good ya have to own your bad . Learn or repeat.

[@robertestep7017]

WELL SAID....

[@kellybreen5526]

We all do stupid things like that. We redeem ourselves by realising it and admitting it. Oh the things we would and would not say if we got a second chance!

[@klucko1996]

Well done !!

[@jbarn49]

The book by the pilot is really interesting. He said almost everything on the original plane had been replaced. Sometimes more than once. He also said that on a recruitment tour across the u.s. he turned the plane sideways and flew between buildings on the main street of either Tulsa or OK CITY. There I s a picture if my memory is correct.

[@davidhobman399]

I am always amazed at the bravery of the b17 crew members. Flying into danger every mission. I salute their bravery and tenacity to keep going whatever the odds.

[@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 !

[@martinmontano708]

She looks so Beautiful, Thanks guys for doing such a wonderful job on restoring her. She's Eternal 😁😁😁😁😁😂😂😂😂

[@camann33]

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

[@jmw9904]

I got to see her a month later. A beautiful sight. After growing up watching the documentary of her last mission, I finally got to see her in all her Glory.

[@redlegs3835]

From a iraq war army field artillery vetran thank you for your serviice and sacrafices..Rip..memphis belle group.

[@tedshort6260]

As i watched this toward the end i had a few tears roll down my face. My hat's off to those who served in the US Armed Forces and to those who had a part in the Belle's restoration.

[@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.

[@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.

[@scottyblack1674]

Dubbed the Greatest Generation that ever Lived. They were United unlike today. What great wisdom there is to learn from these men and women. Wish the govt we have would look back and remember the sacrifice that was given.

[@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 .

[@lavernedofelmier6496]

The B-17 is becoming a rare bird with the tragic loss of the B-17 909. The restoration is beautiful may future generations understand what freedom costs.

[@brownacres2639]

Yes she is a rare bird but she will be in my mind for life

[@ulrichjackisch7637]

I saw may on fire in yhe 40 s Berlin Bombers

[@kbuttstadt]

I named my first dog Belle because of this plane. I actually met one of the waist-gunners when I was a kid. My Dad & I randomly ran into Bill Winchell on a Barrington sidewalk. It was comparable to meeting Hercules or Batman. Beautiful documentary about some of the most courageous & lucky airmen of WW2. A heavy bomber crew had the most dangerous job in the entirety of the Allied Forces. 10,000-30,000ft. Open windows. -50⁰ temps. Constant attacks from German fighters and anti-aircraft guns. These kids were in literal hell. The recent HBO doc The Cold Blue is another amazing documentary & uses real footage from Belle's missions. The main reason WW2 will always fascinate me is because the stories show the entire spectrum of the human condition. Heroism, hate, violence, pacifism, segregation, equality. It's all there.

[@vickorano]

The day of the Memphis Belle unveiling was the very last time my father ever went to the National Museum of the US Air Force. His health was failing rapidly, he had Leukemia & wasn't getting better. We missed the actual unveiling ceremony but I will always remember that day, as well as the few other times we were able to visit the Dayton Museum. He had a great passion & deep respect for WWII aircraft & the men & women who served during the war. Grampa, dad's dad, was a WWII Navy vet. A good man. Browns fans, that whole side of the family. Because of dad's interest, I grew up watching movies like the 1990 Memphis Belle, Empire of the Sun, The Tuskegee Airmen & others. Like many on the restoration crew, dad grew up building models & going to airshows from a young age. He'd take us to our local airshow every year, and when that one ended, he'd started taking us to the Cleveland Airshow. Again, every year. It had dwindled in size over the years but they always managed to include the Heritage Flight with the ever-present B-17 & P-51 Mustang--his personal favorite aircraft. The last time he was able to make it out there, he was only able to sit. We's set up his chair in the shade under the wing of a C5A. I think he was happy to be there but he was just so miserably sick... my brother and I did everything we could to make him comfortable. I just wanted him to be happy. I miss my dad so much. Thank you for this documentary, I treasure the Memphis Belle.

[@vnorvi]

My dad flew over the “hump” from Burma. Proud of him, and all those like him. He wouldn’t ever tell me about it. This helps me understand why.

[@klucko1996]

Ya ! it's a hard tell !

[@terryleeschiller8515]

My Dad didn't talk about it until 16 months before he passed. He apologized for being a better soldier then a Father. I Still Love him Dearly. I found out he recieved the Bronze Metal.. Served 30 years in the Army.. God Bless Our Service Men & Women🕊🇺🇸💝

[@johnhardin4358]

About half those Hump fliers are still there. They carried coolies who gambled to pass the time. If out of money, they bet their lives. Losers went out the cargo door. Maybe they knew something the aircrews did not. Compares to Murmansk Run losses.

[@TheAnthoula14]

It doesn't matter how many documentaries I watch about the air war in WW II, I'm still equally moved by the young men who got in these planes and did the most difficult of duties under the most terrifying of circumstances.