Work In Progress

This article is still under construction. It may contain factual errors. See Talk:Air Force (1943) for current discussions. Content is subject to change.

Air Force (1943)

Air Force was a 1943 World War II film that followed the crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress as they encounter several engagements in the Pacific including Pearl Harbor, Wake Island and the Philippines. Directed by Howard Hawks, the film was released during the height of the United States' involvement in the war.

The following weapons were used in the film Air Force:

Rifles

M1903 Springfield

Several U.S. troops can be seen armed with M1903 Springfield bolt-action rifles. These rifles are appear to be used by Japanese soldiers as well.

M1903 Springfield Mk. I rifle - .30-06

Submachine Guns

M1928A1 Thompson

Several Marines are seen with the M1928A1 Thompson.

M1928A1 Thompson with 50-round drum magazine - .45 ACP

Handguns

Colt M1911A1

A Colt M1911A1 is seen in the holsters of US Army officers in the film.

World War II issued Colt M1911A1 Pistol - .45 ACP

Colt New Service

Model 1909 Colt Army Revolver - .45 LC. This model is stamped "Property of U.S. Government" under barrel and "M1909" on front bottom of grip strap. Grips not original - US issue bore plain uncheckered walnut

Machine Guns

Browning M2 Aircraft

The Browning M2 Aircraft heavy machine gun is the main armament of the Mary Ann, the B-17 Flying Fortress seen in the film.

Browning M2 Aircraft - .50 BMG

Browning M2 (Water Cooled)

What appears to be the water cooled variant of the Browning M2 is seen in anti-aircraft positions held by the US in the Phillippines. It's possible that these are Browning M1917's mocked up to resemble the M2.

Browning M1917 machine gun with tripod and ammo box‎ - .30-06

Browning M2- .50 Water Cooled

Browning M1919A4

The Browning M1919A4 is seen used in the gunner position of a US plane. When Japanese planes attack the airstrip in the Phillippines, several members of the B-17 crew open fire with these M1919 variants.