Brigadier General
James M. Stewart, USAF Reserve
Operations Officer
Second Air Division - 8th Air Force
B-24 "Liberator" Bombers
Willow Run Colossus of American Industry  Page 5-2

Brigadier General James M. Stewart
USAF Reserve

Operation's Officer
Second Air Division - 8th Air Force
B-24 "Liberator" Bombers

The following is a letter from the 8th Air Force to Ben Kidder

F.C. "Hap" Chandler
President

Mr. Warren B. Kidder

Dear Ben:

Thank you for taking the time to visit our matchless Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum. It was a pleasure to work with you regarding the history and "Time Line" of the Mighty Eighth during World War II.  Your book, "Willow Run"  Colossus of American Industry is a classic and much needed addition to the history of the Mighty Eighth's activities during World War II.  It has been very helpful to our year long study of the accomplishments of the wartime 8th as, without the production of large numbers of B-24 bombers, the air war against the Third Reich would have been impossible.

I have also reviewed in detail your proposal for production of a motion picture concerning the B-24.  It is exceptional, and should be made into a first class movie!  Be assured that I, and my colleagues, will do whatever we can to assist you in bringing this timely and excellent motion picture to fruition.  Your inspiring story of Charles Sorensen, the production genius who planned and built Willow Run is particularly timely.  I am sure you detected the enthusiasm and interest of the museum staff as you outlined your idea.  We will assist you in any way possible to make your plan a reality.

I'm am not an expert in movie production, however John Travolta, during his recent visit to the Museum became very enthusiastic about a picture portraying the Mighty Eighth.  Your script encompasses all aspects of the Mighty Eighth story - an Air Force Private Ryan in concept.

As you saw we have considerable resources to help in this endeavor.  You need only call for help as required.  We wish you well in your important and timely project to preserve the saga of a matchless aircraft and magnificent men who flew them.

Your devoted friend,

F. C. Chandler
President Second Air Division Association 1999-2000
Trustee, The Mighty Eighth Air Force Heritage Museum
Founding President Georgia Chapter 8th Air Force Historical Society.
85 Combat Missions.