DeMotte WWII Vet to Fly on B-17 Bomber

B-17 Flying Fortress

Three of America’s most famous World War II aircraft will be on display in Valparaiso for three days next week, as part of the Wings of Freedom Tour hosted by the Collings Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational foundation based in Stow, Mass.

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, and North American P-51 Mustang will be available for walk-through tours for $12 for adults and $6 for children 12 and under at the Porter County Regional Airport located at 4207 Murvihill Road in Valparaiso. This event is being held to honor the veterans of WWII, and to educate the nation about the history and impact the war had on our country. Northwest Indiana WWII veterans are encouraged to attend and share their stories with visitors to ensure the memory of those who gave their lives for their country will never be forgotten.

Flights are also available aboard the aircraft for a tax-deductible donation. A half-hour flight aboard the B-17 or B-24 will cost $425 per person, and “stick-time” aboard the P-51 is $2200 for a half hour and $3200 for a full hour. Pilot’s licenses are not required. For more information or to schedule a ride, call (800) 568-8924.

The event will take place July 30 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., July 31 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

DeMotte WWII Veteran Don Anderson will be flying on the B-17 Flying Fortress on Monday, July 30 at 1:30 p.m.