THE MUSEUM

390th Nose Art
By Robert W. Waltz

The naming of an aircraft did not, in itself, make a crew. Nor did it necessarily generate an unshakeable "esprit de corps". It had, however, an influence which would be difficult to measure. During our search for information, Dave Parry (568th Squadron) reminded us that "one of the most cherished traditions of the 8th Air Force was to let the Airplane Commander have complete control over the naming of his aircraft . . . The sentimental titles that the crews bestowed on their Fortresses, which could only be done in combat zones, were a most significant morale factor in the team effort and the "buddy" emotion which existed among them.

"Liberty Bell"
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