24 May, 2003, NW of Edwards AFB: Speaking of neat planes, these dirty lumps of aluminum are all that remains of the YB-49, also known as the Flying Wing. It crashed during testing on June 5, 1948, killing a crew of 5 including Capt. Glen Edwards (for whom the base is named). Pete's grandfather was involved with its design and always had a strong opinion about the controversial project. The YB-49 was way ahead of its time, got squashed by political intrigue, but eventually was reborn as the B-2 Stealth Bomber. To see the YB-49 in action, watch the 1950s movie, "War of the Worlds". |
