Eugene Adkins Papers
This collection contains the papers of Eugene Adkins related to his time in WWII. Available are photocopies of correspondence to Adkins from multiple men he became friends with while serving. Among the letters is a flight card certifying Adkins had flown enough to achieve the rank of 2nd Leiutenant. Also available is an autographed copy of Menno Duerksen's The Memphis Belle and a video presentation Adkins gave to a classroom in 1988.
Dates
- 1942 October 28-1944 July 8, 1987, 1988 May 2
Language
The material in this collection is in English.
Conditions Governing Access
Collections are stored offsite and must be requested in advance. See www.special.lib.utk.edu for detailed information. Collections must be requested through a registered Special Collections research account.
Conditions Governing Use
The UT Libraries claims only physical ownership of most material in the collections. Persons wishing to broadcast or publish this material must assume all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any claimants on www.special.lib.utk.edu for detailed information. Collections must be requested through a registered Special Collections research account.
Extent
0.25 Linear Feet
Abstract
This collection contains the papers of Eugene Adkins related to his time in WWII.
Biographical/Historical Note
Eugene Adkins was born in Tennessee on May 21, 1919. During World War II he served as the top turret gunner in the famous B-17 "The Memphis Belle." He flew six missions on the Belle before being replaced after his hands froze during the sixth mission. Adkins remained with the Air Force before retiring with the rank of Major. He died in 1995 and is buried in Johnson City, TN.
Previous Citation
This collection was originally listed as a part of MS.1608. It was then listed as CSWS.WWII.1.0013 until receiving its current number.
Acquisition Note
Special Collections acquired this collection via the Center for the Study of War and Society. Materials were donated by veterans and their families.
Repository Details
Part of the Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Repository