Don Brooks and His Flying Fortress
by Frank Drain

Spring, 2003

At our March volunteer dinner, board member Don Brooks gave a presentation regarding his ongoing efforts to acquire a flyable B-17. Quite an undertaking! After the presentation Don announced that he had just concluded a deal for a B-17 currently being restored to flying condition.  

Don has been trying to acquire and restore a B-17 for the past decade. His efforts have included searches for B-17’s in Greenland and in the Canadian wilderness. The Greenland expedition discovered a B-17, but it was crushed under the weight of several hundred feet of ice. This effort did result in the recovery of a P-38, later restored in Kentucky and finally flown last fall after a 10-year restoration. He then focused on the recovery of a B-17 that was located in a Canadian lake, and after locating the aircraft, has been negotiating with government authorities for the right to salvage it.

While not giving up on being able to eventually recover the Canadian B-17, Don started looking for other opportunities. He announced at our dinner that he had just concluded a deal for a B-17 currently in restoration by Tom Reilly in Kissimmee, Florida. Don has been involved with Tom on various projects over the years, including restoration of a rare P-40.

The aircraft has an interesting history. B-17G (44-85734) was heavily modified and operated by Pratt & Whitney as a test bed for their turboprop engines. The turboprop was mounted in the nose of the aircraft, resulting in a 5 engine aircraft. In the late 1960’s the B-17 was donated to the Connecticut Aeronautical Historic Association in East Hartford. It was heavily damaged in a tornado when another aircraft was thrown onto the B-17’s mid-section.  Tom Reilly acquired the aircraft, along with another damaged Fortress (44-85813), with the intention that he would use what was left of these two aircraft to build one flyable example. The aircraft should be completely restored to flying condition within the next 12 months.

Don has set up a 501(c)3 foundation called “The Liberty Foundation, Inc”, that will own and operate the aircraft. His intention is to take it on the airshow circuit to promote the history of the 390th Bomb Group, as well as to honor all veterans. The aircraft will be a living, breathing reminder of these aircraft and the men who flew and supported them. 

Sometime in the near future, we will be able to view something not seen for almost 60 years, the sight of a “Square J” Flying Fortress in the air. Volunteers will be needed to help provide logistical support while the aircraft tours the country. We will provide updates to this project in the Bulletin over the next year and let members know how they can help.

The B-17 will be a great tool to help spread the message of the 390th Memorial Museum, and should generate tremendous interest in our mission. Don has  indicated that a portion of the fee charged to fly in the B-17 will go towards a one-year membership in the 390th Memorial Museum Foundation. 

 All 390th Members owe Don a great deal of thanks. His drive and dedication is typical of the many outstanding leaders in the 390th family. We all look forward to seeing the results of his vision.

Thanks Don!