B-24 LIberator lands in KC, veterans share stories of WWII with a curious younger generations

The B-24 Liberator, a World War II plane, had a ten-man crew. It consisted of a pilot, co-pilot, radio operator, navigator, engineer and a number of gunners and bombers.

William Conklin knows how this bird flies.

Why? Because 66 years ago, he was flying the B-24 over Austria.

His group was based out of Italy. By the end of his career, Conklin had served his country for 26 years.

On Saturday morning, Conklin attended the Wings of Freedom Tour. The last flying B-24 is a permanent installment on the tour.

Through Wings of Freedom, Conklin has been able to ride on a flight and even have his name posted on the “Witchcraft.” That’s the name of the B-24 Liberator on tour. It's the only plane of its kind that still flies.

According Jayson Owen, an engineer with Wings of Freedom, the B-24 on tour took flight again 22 years ago after previously being retired. However, that would not have been possible without the passion of veterans.

Owen explained that a number of WWII veterans voiced concerns about the plane being a static exhibit. The real beauty of a plane is its flight and the real stories behind the plane happened in the air.

So, through major fund-raising and 97,000 hours of man-power, Owen says the “Witchcraft” finally was ready to fly again.

So, the B-24 Liberator takes an annual flight around the country. This week, it has been in Wichita, Topeka and Kansas City. Next up is Jefferson City, Missouri.

Conklin is thankful for the tour because it helps spark the interest of younger generations.

As hours passed at the tour, veterans became quick tour guides.

Owen explained, “The veterans have got a very important story to tell and they're still telling that story."

He said we must take advantage of hearing the stories of history while we can.

The Wings of Freedom Tour will continue Sunday at the Charles Wheeler Airport in Kansas City. Click here for more information.