In conjunction with the private unveiling of a new oil painting by noted Lewes artist, Paul Rendel, FMHA recently hosted Larry Kelley and a number of his crew members at The Fort Miles Museum. Paul unveiled his latest painting formally titled “Fort Miles Flyover,” which he donated to FMHA for our permanent collection.
Larry Kelley purchased “Panchito” in 1997. Panchito is a B-25J bomber that was instrumental in defeating the Japanese Empire in World War II. In 1945, the original Panchito flew the first bombing mission to attack the Japanese mainland since the Doolittle raid in 1942.
Larry (kneeling second from right) and crew in front of “Fort Miles Flyover.”
Mr. Kelley gave a talk on Panchito describing its history during WWII and its many uses post WWII. Since 1997, Larry and his dedicated crew have flown Panchito to numerous air shows across the U.S. to the delight of many veteran pilots who flew hundreds of combat missions in the B-25 aircraft.
Artist Paul Rendel with “Fort Miles Flyover
featuring Panchito and an iconic Fort Miles fire control tower.
Paul presents a print of “Fort Miles Flyover” to Larry Kelley,
which was purchased and donated by local artist Joanne Guilfoil.
Larry Kelley and Paul Rendel flanking “Fort Miles Flyover”
now part of the permanent FMHA art collection.
