Captain Herb Barnum flew a C-47 around the European Theatre in WWII. His usual passenger was General Omar Bradley.

Recently, work began on a project that I’ve had in the back of my head for quite some time...that being to photograph WWII “bomber jackets”.  More properly known as “A2” jackets, many have distinctive artwork on both sides, and of course are unique to their owners.  As the horrors of WWII recede from memory, it seems to me that now, more than ever, is the time to remember the brave souls who sought to end this collective tragedy.

For anyone who enjoys a good English accent, this interview is a real treat.  John Beattie has had quite the career flying in the Royal Navy, and in several other venues.  When the Seafire restoration project was nearing completion, he was contacted about test flying the aircraft.

Bob "Punchy" Powell doesn't consider himself a "hero", in the military sense.  You see, he was a pilot in WWII, and flew the P-51 Mustang over the beaches of Normandy, during the D-Day invasion.  He has been heard to say that the guys on the ground that day were the real heroes...he was just doing his everyday job.

The Women Airforce Service Pilots that served during World War II are set to receive a Congressional Gold Medal. Former WASP, Bernice "Bee" Haydu talks about her experience and meets with Holly Hutchinson, a modern-day female pilot.

As a fan of history, it is not often that one has the opportunity to "touch" history. And yet, I had the rare chance to do just that last week, when I photographed several WWII aviation artifacts in a private collection. They belong to my friend and P-51 Mustang fighter ace, Bob "Punchy" Powell. Having lived through the dark days of WWII, he has since amassed quite a collection of memorabilia, including several items I'd never seen before.

It is not often that one has the opportunity to literally “step back into history”, but that chance occurred this last week when EAA’s B-17 Aluminum Overcast was in town on it’s fall tour stop. I got up early (twice!) to make photos as the first light of day broke over the horizon. Not only was it possible to take a “ground tour” of the aircraft, but it was also possible to take a half-hour ride.

I’m pleased to say that I had the chance to spend an hour with him last summer, at the invitation of a mutual friend.

Bob "Punchy" Powell, who holds a piece of the cowling from his crashed P-51 Mustang.