What are the myths of the Memphis Belle? Air Force museum to tell all

The flight controls for the B-17F Memphis Belle were installed Jan.4, 2018 by restoration specialists at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The plane was the first U.S. Army Air Forces heavy bomber to return to the United States after completing 25 missions over Europe. When restoration is completed it will be placed on public display at the museum May 17, 2018. LISA POWELL / STAFF

The flight controls for the B-17F Memphis Belle were installed Jan.4, 2018 by restoration specialists at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The plane was the first U.S. Army Air Forces heavy bomber to return to the United States after completing 25 missions over Europe. When restoration is completed it will be placed on public display at the museum May 17, 2018. LISA POWELL / STAFF
Military News
By Barrie Barber
April 9, 2018
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An author of a book on myths about the iconic World War II B-17F Memphis Belle will speak April 18 and 19 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

Harry Friedman, a four-decade member of the Memphis Belle Memorial Association, will speak with museum curator Jeff Duford in audience presentations set for 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, and 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19, in Carney Auditorium.

The plane was the first U.S. Army Air Forces heavy bomber to return to the United States after completing 25 combat missions over war-ravaged Europe.

RELATED: Two B-17s will soar over Dayton as part of Memphis Belle debut

After years of restoration, the Memphis Belle will be unveiled in a new exhibit at the museum in a three-day celebration May 17-19.

Friedman, a resident of Memphis, Tenn., co-authored with Graham M. Simons the 2008 book, “Memphis Belle: Dispelling the Myths.”

RELATED: Memphis Belle to go on display at Air Force Museum in 2018

He and the co-author are due to sign the book during the celebration, museum officials said.

Two B-17G Flying Fortresses and more than 130 World War II re-enactors will be part of the celebration.

FIVE QUICK READS:

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Explore Famous World War II Memphis Belle exhibit still a secret: Five things to know
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About the Author

Barrie Barber