The Collins foundation brings their warbirds to Marana airport near Tucson AZ, where my wife and I spend the winter season. Four or five years ago, I purchased a ride in the
B-17. As one of the last to get aboard, I sat on the floor where the waist guns are located. After getting airborne, we were allowed to get up and move about the bomber. We all took turns at the various positions. I remember looking through a side window up front where the #2 engine was real close. It was truly a "once in a lifetime" experience. I have returned to Marana each year to look at the airplanes and also go out to the road and take pictures as the airplanes flyover to the landing. This year they also brought a recently restored P-40. The cowling was off and I got some real close up pictures. I would post them here, but don't really know how to post pictures here. It is really sad that this accident happened with a loss of lives and of course, a diminishing artifact.