He was fortunate enough to witness this incredible piece of aviation history. This bomber is over 70 years old and has been kept in running condition by the Experimental Aircraft Association based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. There are only 12 of these bombers still flyable in the entire world. 

The B-17 has four 1200 hp Wright Cyclone R-1820 engines. Each engine is equipped with a supercharger and a turbocharger. This old bird can burn up to 200 gallons of gasoline per hour. Has a maximum takeoff weight of 65,500 lb and a maximum speed of 287 mph.