Originally Posted by
Top_Gunn
I think it's the Handley Page Halifax. The clues about the three complete examples and the memorial seem to nail it down.
We have a winner!
The specifications set out for the Halifax required it to fit in existing RAF hangars, and also be capable of other roles besides “heavy bomber”. It’s stablemate the Lancaster was under no such limitations. The early versions were Merlin powered, but the switch to the radial Hercules engines really boosted performance.
Bomber command brass much preferred the Lancaster, as it could carry larger bomber, further and at a higher altitude. Crews preferred the “Halibag” as it was more comfortable and easier to move around in. Not to mention your chances of surviving in a crash were better than in a Lanc.
there are two restored airframes, one in Canada and the other in the UK. A third airframe is on display “as found”, also in the UK.
Glider towing Halifaxes wore invasion stripes during D-Day. Others were converted to carry paratroopers and insert SOE operatives.