Statements on the Memphis Belle issue

This comes from the Memphis Belle Website (http://www.memphisbelle.com).
Press Release by Memphis Belle Memorial Association March 14th, 2005

“After re-examining the future care and restoration of the Memphis Belle, and in consultation with the Tennessee Congressional delegation, the Air Force has agreed to affirmatively offer the Memphis Belle Memorial Association (MBMA) an opportunity to demonstrate it can provide for the aircraft’s long-term care, display and restoration.

Upon review of the proposal by the MBMA Board and our attorney, we are optimistic that a solution can be reached. The MBMA has formulated a plan and has spoken with the attorney advisor with the Air Force.

The MBMA and the Air Force have a partnership and share the same goal to ensure that the Memphis Belle is preserved and displayed with the appropriate honor and respect that the aircraft holds in airpower history.”

I can’t find a USAF statement which says anything like the above, but these are the USAF press releases going back to October last year.

http://www.af.mil/mediacenter/pressrelease.asp?prID=?storyID=123008845 (10/4/2004)

“For more information on the Memphis Belle announcement, contact (name) in the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Public Affairs”

“For more information on the aircraft’s transport to the NMUSAF and future restoration and exhibit efforts, contact the museum’s public affairs division..” (and gives the phone number)

http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123008852 (10/5/2004)