C-47 Fly-In And Paratrooper Jump From The Tico Belle And The Placid Lassie

August 12, 2022

On April 27, 2022, I photographed a dual C-47 military aircraft fly-in at the National Museum Of The United States Air Force. The Tico Belle And The Placid Lassie are historic aircraft that participated in 1944’s D-Day over Normandy, France. These planes flew very high above WPAFB in preparation for the paratrooper demonstration that was about to occur. This was my first C-47 fly-in and paratrooper jump.

I have been around military aircraft my entire life due to having the Air Force Museum and WPAFB in town. While I like military aircraft, I really prefer commercial aircraft. So, when these C-47s flew in, I wasn’t as excited as the other photographers. Most of the other aviation photographers that attend these events know the history and importance of every aircraft. I admire their knowledge.

Photographing The C-47 Fly-In And Paratrooper Jump

Along with several flyovers that day, 20 or so paratroopers parachuted out of the planes onto Historic Wright Field in Dayton Ohio. I wasn’t sure what to expect from 20 people all jumping out of planes at the same time. For a while, I was underwhelmed. It was very quiet and the parachutes were very high up. As they approached the ground, I sprang into action photographing the paratroopers; It was quite a site. See my aviation photography.

About The C-47

The C-47 holds a special place in aviation history. This versatile aircraft played a pivotal role in World War II and continued to serve in various capacities long after the war ended. Designed as a military transport aircraft, the C-47 was built to haul troops, cargo, and equipment to the front lines. It quickly proved its worth during the D-Day invasion when hundreds of C-47s dropped paratroopers into enemy territory under cover of darkness. These daring missions showcased the aircraft’s ability to deliver troops safely and efficiently.