|
Letters
Photos of lone B-29 flyover, Tokyo Bay, September 1945 Do you remember a 'low' flyover by a lone B-29? This was by a pilot in my Dad's squadron and he was looking for a photo. Could you point me in a direction? thanks! Smisek and the 330th! S. Smisek Thank you for your message, I well recall the morning of the 2nd. of September 1945, I had been at sea since August of 1939, and was waiting for the particular day to dawn, when at long last it was all over, and the Japanese were to formally surrender aboard the USS Missouri. Something like a 1,000 Naval aircraft from all the carriers flew past first. They were followed by the USAAF B 29 bombers, but I cannot remember a lone B 29 Bomber flying over, that is not to deny your statement, I just did not see that single plane. In the attached page are three photos, numbered 58, 43 and 86. The one of the 4 B 29's is Photo SC 211875 taken by the Army Signal Corps, it is in the collection in the US National Archives. I guess I would start there to try and uncover the shot you are seeking. My internet search has not been able to turn up any photograph of a single B 29, flying over the Fleet or over USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, on that morning, now so long ago, but the passage of time has not diminished its significance to all who were there, to all who fought in WW2, and to the world at large on that momentous day, or all who have followed since. The light of Freedom burned brightly then, and we must continue to be vigilent to make sure it never goes out. I am very sorry I cannot help you specifically in your quest. With best wishes from Australia, Mackenzie Gregory.
One from 1945 and the other from 1996. Thanks again and thanks for your contribution to our freedom
Best regards,
|
