WWII planes part of ‘aviation history’ on display at Page Field

FORT MYERS, Fla.- Three unique aircrafts used during World War II are on display at Page Field Airport in Fort Myers through the Wings of Freedom Tour.

On Monday, spectators watched a B-24 bomber touch down. Some onlookers were too young to know the role the airplane played during WWII, but for others, the plane brought back memories of their time in the service.

“It brings back, after 55 years, military training and lifestyle,” said veteran Frank Langmaid. “I did go to Ramstein Air Base in Germany where all the American fighter planers were stationed.”

A B-17 Flying Fortress and P-51 Mustang are the two other vintage WarBirds available to crowds for a closer look.

“What they did 75 years ago to win a war was amazing,” said Langmaid, “the men that fought these planes… it’s amazing.”

Langmaid says he has a passion for airplanes even though he stayed on the ground during his time in service.

“It makes me kind of wonder, who was the pilot? The history… they are probably all gone now, but the history is still there,” Langmaid said.

When Dane Coffman was drafted into the Army in 1968, he wanted to fly.

“Aviation has always been one of my favorite things,” Coffman said. “When I got drafted, I put in to fly helicopters, but I couldn’t pass the eye physical part.”

After his time in the Army, Coffman moved on to become a Delta Airline employee, working “46 years with Delta on the ground and in the air.”

Both Coffman and Langmaid say they’re glad the planes on display are now fulfilling an educational mission.

“It’s memories we have to keep alive and that’s what these folks are doing with the airplanes. keeping the memories of those who flew, fought and died on these airplanes,” Coffman said.

“They are all intriguing, all intriguing. There is no question about it,” Langmaid adds.

The Wings of Freedom tour departs from the Page Field Airport at noon on Friday. Until then, visitors can explore the aircrafts inside and out at $12 for adults and $6 for children. WWII veterans can tour the planes at no cost. For more information, click here.