Historic World War II aircraft return to Broomfield

The B-17 Flying Fortress bomber is back in Broomfield as part of the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum’s annual Flying Legends of Victory Tour.

The B-17 along with another historic World War II aircraft, the B-25 Mitchell, landed at Broomfield’s Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport on Tuesday. The B-17 visited Broomfield last summer as part of the tour put together by the Arizona Commemorative Air Force members, which is composed solely of volunteers. The members take two of the museum’s World War II aircraft on tour each summer to expand the museum’s reach and educate people on the role aviation has played in combat history.

“Our mission is to honor those who served in World War II,” said Tour Director Mike Garrett. “We want to honor them and also educate the generation that does not know about those who fought in World War II.”

The Flying Legends of Victory Tour starts in May and ends in October, Garrett said. During the tour, two of the museum’s aircraft travel to about 18 cities.

The Boeing B-17 is one of only five flying in the world out of the more than 12,000 manufactured for combat during World War II, according to the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum.

The B-25 was used for high- and low-level bombing, strafing, photo reconnaissance and submarine patrol, the release said. Its most distinguishing role was in the historic raid over Tokyo in 1942.

Tickets for rides or ground tours can be purchased for both aircraft. Ground tours will be held from 2-6 p.m. through Sunday. Ground tour tickets cost $15 per person or $30 for a family of four. Rides are also offered from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sunday. Tickets range from $375 to $850 and can be booked at www.azcaf.org/location/ broomfield-co-tour-stop/ or by calling 480-462-2992.