Robin Hardy Online
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Since we've gotten so many search-engine hits on the PB2Y3 that Robin's dad flew in WWII (see here) we decided to feature another monster he flew: the PB4Y-1, also known at the B-24. The following photos and text are from the Nov. 1978 Consolidated Vultee/General Dynamics brochure titled, "B-24 Liberator":
"More B-24 Liberator bombers were deployed during World War II than any other type of four-engined bomber. Approximately 18,000 of the Consolidated Vultee-designed bombers were constructed, in addition to nearly 1,800 equivalent spares. Consolidated Vultee later became known as Convair and merged with General Dynamics.
"Formations of B-24s were used on the extremely long-range bombing missions in all theaters of the war, dropping an impressive total of 634,831 tons of bombs. They pounded enemy installations in Europe and Africa; dropped tons of bombs throughout the Pacific zone of war; and played the major role in the successful battle of the American and British navies against enemy submarines. They flew a total of 312,734 sorties. Their .50 caliber machine guns knocked down 4,189 enemy aircraft. The U.S. Navy designation for the Liberator is PB4Y-1.
"Transport versions, designated Liberator Express C-87, were extensively used to carry military equipment and personnel on transoceanic and other long-range flights.
"Toward the end of the war a single tail version, known as the B-24K and B-24N, was designed, but only a few were built.
"Maximum speed of the B-24 was over 300 mph, and maximum cruising speed was 230 mph. The Liberator operated at gross weights ranging from 56,000 to 66,000 pounds. Under emergency conditions, B-24s have taken off with a gross weight of 72,000 pounds.
"Heavily armed, the B-24J Liberator was equipped with four power operated turrets, each mounting twin .50 caliber machine guns. Two waist .50 caliber guns also were provided. It was powered by four Pratt & Whitney R1830 1,200 hp engines. Wingspan was 110 feet; length 67 feet two inches; height 18 feet.
"More than 3,000 B-24s and C-87 cargo versions of the aircraft were assembled at General Dynamics' Fort Worth Division during World War II. B-24D in foreground [below] was delivered June 28, 1943."
(According to Joel Rumerman, General Dynamics sold its Fort Worth Division to Lockheed for $3 billion in March 1993. GD is now headquartered in Falls Church, VA.)
Along with the above brochure, Robin's dad kept the photo below of Samar Island, Philippines. His note on back of the photo reads: "Samar Strip--runway used by VPB-106 in patrol & bombing runs flying over Pacific & China coast" in craft such as the B-24. This photo had also been stamped: "CONFIDENTIAL Official Photograph not to be used for publication by order of the Chief of Bureau of Aeronautics." (large photo loading)
