Deployed to England in late 1942, the Memphis Belle operated as part of the 91st Bombardment Group. At a time when bomber crews faced staggering loss rates—with only about airmen surviving their tour—the Belle and her crew defied the odds. The Memphis Belle

The is one of the most famous aircraft in history, recognized as the first B-17 Flying Fortress to complete 25 combat missions over Europe and return to the United States. Named after pilot Robert Morgan’s sweetheart, Margaret Polk, the bomber became a powerful symbol of American resilience and sacrifice during World War II. Today, it is fully restored and serves as a centerpiece exhibit at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. Combat History and the 25-Mission Milestone