The Consolidated B-24 Liberator was an American heavy bomber, built by Consolidated Aircraft. It was produced in greater numbers than any other American combat aircraft of World War II and still holds the record as the most produced U.S. military aircraft. Often compared to the better known B-17 Flying Fortress, the B-24 was a more modern design with a higher top speed and greater range yet it had a similar bomb load and defensive armament. Nevertheless, popular opinion among aircrews and general staff tended to favor the B-17's rugged qualities above all other considerations.
B-24 Liberator in Days of Infamy
After the US Naval strike that sank the Akagi and the Shokaku, the US Army Air Corps followed up with an aerial assault that involved B-24s and B-17s that pounded Japanese positions, airfields and ships. The attack also destroyed the Japanese Army's armory, forcing the Japanese soldiers to use captured American rifles. The bombers flew all the way from the North American continent, and after dropping their payload, went on to land at a secret airstrip constructed on the island of Kauai.[1]
After the Marines landed, they were all refueled and continued their bombing activities against strategic targets.
References
- ↑ End of the Beginning, pg. 289.
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