JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
A member of the original Tuskegee Airmen unveiled a replica of the aircraft used to train the Air Force's first black pilots during WWII, at the Joint Service Open House May 15, 2010.
Retired Air Force Col. Charles McGee flew the BT-13 more than any other pilot during his training in 1943.
"It's hard to tell someone what it feels like to fly in what I call the third dimension," said the colonel, standing next to the replica. "It's just a thrill -- almost beyond explanation. To experience a sunset at 45,000 feet and watch the stars come out is beautiful."
The replica, a TU-70 called the "Tuskegee Trainer," closely represents the BT-13 aircraft. It is dedicated to retired Gen. Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., combat leader of the Tuskegee Airmen, and Mr. McGee.
The restoration of the replica is an initiative of the National Capitol Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force.