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Re: US should take over Canuck Land

Posted by Mike Henniger on Mon Dec 16, 2002 11:39:30 AM

In reply top US should take over Canuck Land posted by Rob Rohr on Mon Dec 16, 2002 09:05:59 AM

: The USAFM is pressuring the Canadian to prove what of any
: historic valua this 17 has to Canadia since they never ope
: rated 17, and the National Museum charteer states only air
: craft that have sinificant history to Canadia can be displ
: ayed.

I would agree that a B-17 has much less historical significance to Canada than the U.S. And I would agree that if someone has the $$$ now to go ahead and carry out a recovery then it should be done, rather than let deterioration continue. I don't know how having a airframe at the bottom of a remote body of water contributes to heritage in anyway. Mind boggling.

I think however I should point out a few things...

#1: Canada did operate some B-17s (a limited number) and I think it was on the National Aviation Museum's website that I saw pictures of them. I think they were used in a utility role and not a bomber role. I don't have the time right now, but I will try to find those pictures and post the link later today.

#2: I took some training back in the mid 1990's to volunteer as a tour guide for the National Aviation Museum. I didn't live in Ottawa then, and as a result I didn't end-up giving tours. However, during the training I pointed out Sikorsky H-4 Hover Fly in the storage area, and asked what significance it had with Canadian Aviation History, i.e. I was wondering why it was in the collection. The answer was that the scope of the National Aeronautical Collection was not limited to aircraft of Canadian significance and was to include aircraft that made a significant contribution to aviation history.

In connection to that second point, if the museum had the $$$ I think they would jump at the chance to add B-17 to their collection. It would be a significant addition and I am sure there would be celebations. However I doubt the $$$ are there and it all comes down to $$$.

: Has I stated before us Yanks should just take over Canadia
: and make it part of the USA, then that would solve all so
: rts of problems.

Rob, I am sure you are trying to be humourous here, and I ever chuckled a bit at this comment. But as a proud Canadian, and one that is thankful to have such a significant national neighbour, I must point out that this is a sore subject for many Canadians. You have to consider all points of view. One nation's problems are another nations cherished sovereignty.

BTW... I asked about this a little while ago but didn't get a response. Does anyone know of any detailed newspaper articles regarding this B-17? I wanted to do a some reading/brief research before writing to the National Aviation Museum and giving them my $0.02 worth.

Regards,

Mike (in Ottawa)

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