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Sixty-two years ago today, the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress took flight for the first time. The B-52 began life as a proposed replacement for Strategic Air Command’s B-36s and B-50s. Originally designed to be powered by turboprops, Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engines were selected as the powerplant of choice. At the roll-out ceremony, Air Force Chief of Staff General Nathan Twining said: “The long rifle was the great weapon of its day…today this B-52 is the long rifle of the air age.” The BUFF (Big Ugly Fat Fellow) is the longest-serving front-line warplane in history and is one of the best-loved of all aircraft. Although it was designed as a nuclear bomber, the BUFF is capable of carrying a huge conventional payload. The B-52 was widely used in the Vietnam War and flew 1,624 sorties during Operation Desert Storm. Production of the B-52 ended in 1962 after 744 aircraft were built and 94 remain in Air Force and Reserve inventory.
Here is a photo of a “BUFF” at the 2010 Thunder Over Michigan Air Show.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
The B-52 is Big! But it is neither ugly or fat!
..climbed around about every inch of those guys..hard to believe the BUFF is still going..