PENTICTON — A historic war plane has landed in Penticton, serving as a reminder of days gone by.
A steady flow of people have been lining up since Monday to walk through the B-17 bomber and take a step into the past.
Unlike other bombers, this one named Sentimental Journey didn’t see any combat. Instead, the aircraft was used for Search and Rescue efforts over the Pacific Ocean.
But still, people visiting the Sentimental Journey are getting a glimpse into the harsh realities airmen faced.
Pilot Russ Gilmore says the B-17’s could reach temperatures of -50 degrees once it soared above clouds, causing crew members to suffer frostbite.
“It gives you a little taste and a little idea of the sacrifices they made for the freedoms we enjoy today,” says Gilmore.
The plane is part of a fleet of historic aircraft based in Arizona.
It’s the second time in two years the Commemorative Air Force has sent a plane to Penticton. Last year, about 1,500 people came to see a B-25 bomber named Maid in the Shade.
“They were so happy with the numbers from last year, they figured they could probably increase the numbers by coming here with a bigger and more famous plane,” says Eduward Festel, the Vice President of the Penticton Flying Club.
Both Festel and Gilmore say it’s unlikely such a historic war plane will be coming to Penticton in the near future.
Bomber buffs will have until Sunday, August 2 to see Sentimental Journey.
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