WW2 nose art *caution for younger viewers*

[PeteLeathersac]

Since both my Gramps were in WW1 and my Father too young for WW2, I always wanted to learn more about WW2. . So with this and an interest in aircraft since a young age, I kind've adopted an RCAF WW2 Canadian Bomber Command Squadron a few years ago to help myself and my boys learn more about WW2 also Canadian and World Air power of the time. .
I've read books and lots of stuff online too, met pilots also other Vets and the results (besides turning into a bit of a Warbird nut) has been not only a much better understanding of the war itself but mostly a greater appreciation of those who served!!!. .
I keep a picture beside my desk at work of these guys and when it seems like I'm into a tough day, reading a bit of this stuff makes anything quickly seem a simple thing...try it! .

Here's to Squadron 427! .

~ Pete

Not just the 427 Squadron number was fitting...their nickname was 'Lion' and the Aicraft Code was what else...ZL! .

Their motto was "Ferte Manus Certas" ("Strike with a sure hand") and they gave all they had for what we all take so for granted today. .

Search out some of this stuff yourself and shake a WW2 Vet's hand and thank him before it's too late! .

Check these links below and don't skip the Juno beach one...just another day for the boys of RCAF Squadron 427-ZL! .

: http://www.rcaf.com/6group/427.html

http://www.rcaf.com/squadrons/400series/427squadron.php

http://www.junobeach.org/e/4/can-tac-air-bom-ess-e.htm

[SS427]

Your story reminded me of one that happened to me 18 years ago regarding my father and brother. Both retired Air Force airframe/avionics crewchiefs.

My mom and dad were traveling in Texas just a year before his death and he became very ill. He was rushed to Lackland AFB for surgery at Wilford Hall Medical Center. My brother, sister and I immediately flew down to be with them. While waiting for everything we walked to a nearby park where there were likely a dozen airplanes on static display. Unbelieveably, my dad's C-119 was one of the airplanes on display. He had no idea it was there.

Fast forward 3 years later and after he had passed away, I flew to Arizona to visit my brother and his wife. During my stay I asked that he take me to some local air museums. One of them was the Pima Air Museum in Tuscon. While walking around the outdoor static displays my brother takes off running towards an F-105 Thunderchief and suddenly drops to his knees in front of the airplane. His wife and I just looked at each other in confusion. Upon catching up to him and finding him in tears we asked what was going on. He pointed to the tail of the airplane. It was HIS plane that he had not seen since his tour in Korat, Thailand during the Viet Nam war in the early seventies. This was the airplane he was in charge of during his tour. From what I recall, he picked this aircraft because of the tail number. See the attached photo.

Just an interested set of events with both father and brother.
Rick

[PeteLeathersac]

Crazy stuff Rick...thanks for sharing your story too! .
Without sounding too goofy, there certainly seems to be more to it all than we may understand?! .

Here's a few more links to RCAF 427-ZL Squadron stuff...starting with the pic I keep beside my desk at work. .

http://www.rcaf.com/6group/427crewpi...27unknown.html


This one has RCAF markings...the 427-ZL Squadron is about 3/4 of the way down. .

http://www.rafweb.org/SqnMark408-429.htm


This one's of a 427-ZL Crash site...just one of lots of stuff online.

http://www.peakdistrictaircrashes.co.uk/awaybj778.htm


A heartfelt salute to all those we owe so much! .

~ Pete