Hope inthe Air
Comedian Bob Hope waves to crowd at McDonnell Douglas plant in Long Beach on Tuesday, where a new C-17 transport jet was named in his honor.
The Air Force said it was naming the plane for Hope in thanks for his contribution to the service.
It was the latest in a string of military honors over the years for the 93-year-old comedian, who has entertained U.S. troops at home and overseas for more than 50 years.
The four-engined C-17 is designed to land on short runways in battlefield areas with heavy weapons and troops.
The aircraft dedicated Tuesday will be assigned to the Air Force’s 437th Airlift Wing at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
