Eugene Adkins Papers
This collection contains the papers of Eugene Adkins related to his military service in World War II. 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 Lieutenant. 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
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 (1 quarter box)
Abstract
This collection contains the papers of Eugene Adkins related to his military service in World War II.
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.
Repository Details
Part of the Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Repository