FRESNO (KMJ) — A plane which traces its history back to the World War 2 is making a tour of the Central Valley. The Douglas C-47, which was built in California in April 1943, is making its journey across our skies as part of what’s called the Flying Legends of Victory Tour.
“We always like to share these aircraft that we have with the public,” says Colonel Howard Williamson. The US Air Force veteran now serves as a load master with this crew, based out the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum in Mesa.
“The Commemorative Air Force mission is education, to help the public understand the contributions of military aviation to our nation’s freedom.”
In the skies above Fresno. This WW2 Douglas C-47 is taking a tour of the Central Valley. More on @KMJNOW. pic.twitter.com/8nr8hPTCkJ
— Dom McAndrew (@DomMcAndrew) May 1, 2017
This particular plane saw active service between 1943 and 1945. It assisted in the North African campaign, the invasion of Sicily, the invasion of Greece, and in the Balkan campaign (when it was used to transport mules).
“It’s got a tremendous history behind it, and it operated in the Mediterranean from the time it arrived until VE Day,” adds Williamson.
It’s due to take off in Modesto, Nut Tree, and Visalia. Tickets can be booked clicking here.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
