One thing I failed to mention in my introductory post, my uncle, Robert Miller was a radio gunner on a PB4Y-1 with VPB-104. His pilot was Capt. Whitney Wright. Wright was a veteran of the first tour of VB-104 in 1943-44 and the squadron commander of the second tour. I would like to see photos of the PB4Y-1S used by this squadron if anyone has any to share.
My research shows that the PB4Y-1S used on the first tour were early B-24D models fitted with the Erco nose turret and were still painted olive drab over neutral gray. They had colorful nose art with lots of sexy women.
By the time of the second tour the PB4Y-1S were based on the B-24J and were painted in the 3 color Navy scheme, dark sea blue upper sides, intermediate blue sides and white bottom. My uncle told me they weren't allowed to paint personal markings or kill markings on the planes, if they went down and were captured Capt. Wright wanted them to look like new crews. First I have heard of this as most squadrons painted personal name and artwork, along with kill markings.
Dave
My research shows that the PB4Y-1S used on the first tour were early B-24D models fitted with the Erco nose turret and were still painted olive drab over neutral gray. They had colorful nose art with lots of sexy women.
By the time of the second tour the PB4Y-1S were based on the B-24J and were painted in the 3 color Navy scheme, dark sea blue upper sides, intermediate blue sides and white bottom. My uncle told me they weren't allowed to paint personal markings or kill markings on the planes, if they went down and were captured Capt. Wright wanted them to look like new crews. First I have heard of this as most squadrons painted personal name and artwork, along with kill markings.
Dave
