Rep. Williams Recognizes the Bluebonnet Belle on the House Floor

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin) took to the House floor Wednesday evening to recognize the famed Bluebonnet Belle C47 Skytrain, which has been in use since 1944.

Williams' remarks are below:

"Mr. Speaker, today I want to recognize the famed Bluebonnet Belle C47 Skytrain in Burnet, Texas, that I represent.

"The Bluebonnet Belle was designed and built in 1944. It flew more than 75 missions during World War II to carry cargo, passengers, and evacuate causalities.

"The Highland Lakes Squadron – Commemorative Air Force purchased the Belle in 2002 where it then made its way to Burnet, Texas, and has called the Lonestar State home ever since.

"As recently as last year, this aircraft was used to transport food and supplies to the good people of Texas who suffered from Hurricane Harvey. It logged 13.6 flight hours going back and forth – which is incredible for a plane of this age.

"Unfortunately, on Saturday, June 21, as the plane headed for the Oshkosh Air Show in Wisconsin, it crashed upon takeoff before catching fire and eventually exploding.

"By the grace of God, all 13 crew members and passengers aboard the aircraft survived and are now in good spirits and are safe.

"I am thankful for the first responders who tended to the aircrew, and to those who helped contain the fire.

"I am sad to say that the Bluebonnet Belle will not be able to be restored. It is a huge loss for Burnet and for Texas-25. We will always remember this plane and all it accomplished across the United States and the world. It was a treasure that cannot be replaced.

"In God we trust, I yield back."