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The C-47 Skytrain, known as the Dakota in British and Commonwealth service, was a versatile military transport aircraft used extensively by the Allies during World War II and beyond. Produced by Douglas Aircraft Company, it was derived from the civilian DC-3 airliner and became one of the most iconic transport aircraft of the war.
Description
The C-47 Skytrain was a twin-engine, low-wing monoplane with a streamlined fuselage and a tailwheel landing gear configuration. It featured a reliable and robust design, capable of carrying cargo, troops, and wounded personnel. Its versatility allowed it to be adapted for various roles including transport, medical evacuation, glider tug, and paratroop deployment.
The interior of the C-47 typically accommodated up to 28 fully equipped troops or 6,000 lbs (2,700 kg) of cargo. The aircraft also had large cargo doors on the side, allowing for easy loading and unloading of equipment and supplies. Some C-47s were equipped with litter racks for medical evacuation missions, demonstrating its adaptability to different wartime needs.
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Operational History
The C-47 Skytrain was instrumental in Allied operations throughout World War II, serving in all major theaters of war. It played a critical role in the airborne operations during D-Day and subsequent airborne assaults in Europe. The C-47's ability to transport troops and supplies, tow gliders, and drop paratroopers made it indispensable in support of ground forces.
After the war, the C-47 continued its service with many military forces around the world and in civilian roles. It was widely used in humanitarian missions, cargo transport, and even as executive aircraft. Its reliability, durability, and adaptability have cemented its legacy as one of the most successful transport aircraft designs of all time.
Overall, the C-47 Skytrain's contribution to Allied victory in World War II, coupled with its enduring service in military and civilian roles, ensures its place as an iconic and celebrated aircraft in aviation history.
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Historical Artifacts: We are looking for photos, documents and other types of artifacts including uniforms, medals, insignia, gear, manuals, and training material. We accept electronic/scans or originals of pictures and paper records. A General Order could be an award document that contains information on many servicemen. Special Orders may contain transfers or other information. Flight records, accident reports, maintenance logs, after action reports, pilot encounter reports, diaries and biorgraphies; all of these types of documents help us support or mission: preserving your history! Contact us today for instructions on sending us this material. Contact Today
Are you an AAC, AAF or USAF Veteran, family member, historian or WW2 enthusiast? We Need YOU! Contact us today to see how you can help the Army Air Corps Library and Museum, a Texas Not-For-Profit Corporation. We need your help! We are looking for volunteers that can help us with the following tasks. Typing and Transcriptionists: One of our big projects is extracting data from the thousands of documents we have and putting this data into a database where we can display the information on a website such as this one. We also need assistance with retyping unit history documents.
