This Military Service Page was created/owned by
SSgt Harry McCown (Mac)
to remember
Bates, Earl Jack, Jr., TSgt USAF(Ret).
If you knew or served with this Airman and have additional information or photos to support this Page, please leave a message for the Page Administrator(s) HERE.
Contact Info
Last Address NEW PORT RICHEY, FL
Date of Passing Nov 07, 2012
Location of Interment Florida National Cemetery (VA) - Bushnell, Florida
Aircraft/Missile Information
Boeing developed the rigid flying boom system to improve on the hose and drogue in-flight refueling (IFR) system. The boom, mounted at the aft-most portion of the KB-29P, was fitted with two small wings that allowed the boom operator to maneuver the boom. The pilot of the receiver aircraft, guided by the boom operator and light signals on the tanker belly, flew behind and below the tanker for refueling. Once in position, the boom operator "flew" the boom into the refueling receptacle, and the KB-29P flight engineer began fuel transfer.
