‘High Life’ nose art steps back in time to echo original 100th BG markings from WWII

U.S. Army Air Force Tech. Sgt. James P. Scott, 351st Bomb Squadron and 100th Bomb Group radio operator gunner, was assigned to Lt. Col. Donald Oakes’ crew on the B-17 Flying Fortress “High Life” during World War II. Scott was the step-grandfather of U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Garlow, 100th Air Refueling Wing commander, and was one of the High Life crew honored during a nose art unveiling on a KC-135 Stratotanker at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, Aug. 17, 2024. Although the High Life nose art has already adorned a 100th ARW tanker for several years, it has been given a redesign to echo its heritage and the original B-17 nose art. The KC-135 will now wear both designs to act as as a reminder of those who served before us, while also honoring those who serve today. (Courtesy photo from 100th Bomb Group Foundation archives)