History Presentation and P-47 Flight Demonstration Ground Attack Warriors Saturday August 16 2025
Doors Open at 8am Presentation Begins at 9am
The P-47 Thunderbolt was one of the most effective fighters and fighter-bombers of World War II. Powered by an 18-cylinder Pratt and Whitney engine with a turbo-supercharger the Thunderbolt could reach speeds of over 400 miles per hour and altitudes over 40,000 feet. It was originally designed as a high-altitude interceptor. When equipped with external fuel tanks it could escort Allied bombers deep into the heart of Germany.
The Thunderbolt was a rugged aircraft that could take a lot of punishment. Armed with eight 0.50 caliber machine guns and 5-inch rockets, it could also carry 2,500 pounds of bombs. This made it a great ground attack aircraft in support of Allied forces advancing across Europe. As the Allies continued the push towards Germany, concepts and procedures were developed using forward air controllers to guide ground attack aircraft to their targets. This further enhanced the effectiveness of the P-47 in its close air support role.
On Saturday, August 16th, at 9:00 am, Docent Fred Boettcher will present the story of the P-47 Thunderbolt, its characteristics, and its role as a ground attack aircraft. He will also tell the stories of some of the aces who flew it during WWII. Then, weather permitting, the presentation will be followed by a flight demonstration of the museum’s own P-47D which is outfitted in the colors of the 78th Fighter Group. On many occasions the 78th conducted low-level ground attack missions against airfields, trains, vehicles, barges, tugs, canal locks, barracks, and enemy troops.
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