Wings Of Freedom Tour Returning

OXFORD — The Wings of Freedom Tour, which brings historic aviation to communities and offers tours through authentically restored aircraft, will return to Oxford Airport. Three World War II vintage airplanes — a B-17 Flying Fortress, a B-24 Liberator, and a P-51 Mustang — will be arriving at Oxford Airport’s Keystone Terminal about 2 pm on Thursday, Sept. 10, and staying until noon on Monday, September 14.

The planes will be open for tours Thursday 2 to 5 pm, Friday through Sunday 10 am to 4 pm, and Monday 10 am until noon. Tours are $12, $6 ages 12 and under, and free for World War II veterans. Reservations are not needed.

Flights are also available, and are done before and after open tour hours. Reservations are required; call 978-562-9182. A 30-minute flight aboard the P-51 Mustang is $2,200, and a one-hour flight is $3,200; a 30-minute flight aboard B-24 or B-17 is $425.

The planes are owned and maintained by the Collings Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization dedicated to preserving American aviation history.

The Wings of Freedom Tour travels the nation as a flying tribute to the flight crews who flew these fortresses during the Second World War, the ground crews who maintained them, the men and women who built them, the soldiers, sailors, and airmen they protected, and the freedom they helped preserve.

In addition to Waterbury-Oxford, the tour will also visit Bridgeport (September 8–10), Groton (September 14–16), and Hartford (October 7–9).

WWII Crew Sought

Air and ground crew veterans who served on these types of planes are sought to tell their experiences to visitors when aircraft visit Oxford.

Plans are being made to have the veterans sit at tables under the wings of the bombers and show their memorabilia such as photos and flying gear. Veterans will be encouraged to relate their experiences during the war years.

Air and ground crew members who wish to participate are asked to contact Walter Hushak at 860-276-0749. Individuals can choose the day(s) and time(s) of participation convenient to them.