Hi-
I stumbled across this website looking for information on color schemes for KC-97 Stratofreighters (Stratotankers?). We recently dived an unknown wreck off Cape Canaveral, Florida, that turned out to be a Boeing KC-97F-17-BO Stratofreighter. Due to the rarity of crashes of this aircraft type in this area, we were able to quickly identify the airframe as USAF Serial Number 51-363 (Manufacturer's Serial Number 16430) that was lost during a ditching due to engine issues on March 30, 1960. Unfortunately three crew died in the event.
In any case, I am trying to learn more about this aircraft, and in particular what she may have looked like before her demise. You can see Dayglo paint on the nose, which I read was introduced by the USAF on its tankers in the late 1950s to increase visibility.
It seems quite a few members here are experienced at producing brilliant renderings of aircraft. I am not sure if this is appropriate, but would anyone be interested in trying to do a period-correct rendering (perhaps with the actual serial and squadron number) of this particular KC-97? I would love to be able to see what this exact aircraft might have looked like in her prime, and perhaps gain permission to use that image for presentations I may give on this wreck.
Right now, we are researching the aircraft and looking to reach out to potential surviving crew members and their families to learn more about this incident, as well as inquiring about archival information, crash reports, etc.
For those that might be curious, here is a link to footage of the wrecked aircraft:
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https://youtu.be/5uOXPgiIkbA<!-- m -->
She rests in 111 meters of water and is quite a challenging dive.
Thanks in advance for any information anyone can share on this aircraft and its color schemes, etc.
Cheers,
Mike
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