The famed B-17F "Memphis Belle" became the first heavy bomber to return to the US after flying 25 missions over Europe in WWII. It had been on loan from the Air Force to the city of Memphis and was relocated to the museum in 2005. After years of meticulous restoration, it was placed on public display in the World War II Gallery in May 2018

The Memphis Belle was on display on Mud Island in the Mississippi River in an open air pavilion with a tarp cover from 1987 through 2003. Due to exposure to the elements it was transferred to the USAF Museum in 2004 for restoration. Completed in 2018, the aircraft is now on display in the World War II Wing of the museum.

The original "Memphis Belle" on display in the World War II Gallery at NMUSAF. Built at Boeing Seattle, she was named after Capt. Robert K. Morgan's girlfriend Margaret Polk. Flying with the 324th BS, 91st BG at Bassingbourn, England, the B-17 was the second USAAF bomber to complete 25 missions over Europe between Nov. 1942 and 17 May 1943, preceded by 358th BS B-17F "Hell's Angels" in this feat. She was the first to return to the USA and completed a three-month war bond tour with more than 30 stops.

7/42: TOS USAAF, assigned to the 324th Bombardment Squadron/91st Bombardment Group (Heavy). Beginning 11/42: Operating out of Bassingbourn, England the "Memphis Belle" flew 25 combat missions. 8 June 1943: Arrived in the USA, assigned to 4 different units until 8/45 when SOC. 3/46: Sold to City of Memphis, TN for $350. Lots of history until moved to Air Force Museum for restoration in Oct 2005. 2009-2018: Restored. Place on display 17 May 2018