In memory of her father Harold L. Bootz Jr., a World War II pilot, Barbara Witte plans to experience the growling engines, whipping winds and distinct smell of hot oil that arises from flying in a B-17, the very type of plane her father piloted during his time in the war.
This weekend, the Evansville Wartime Museum is hosting the Texas Raiders. The group of volunteers travels to share the stories and experiences of the war-era planes they pilot and service. The group offers tours and the chance to fly on one of the three planes they travel with.
On Saturday, Witte plans to ride in the plane with her daughter and granddaughter, three generations of her family remembering the history of Evansville and their own. Witte shared with excitement the specifics of her plan to commemorate her father.