On October 6, 1944, this group of Servel employees was photographed to celebrate the completion of the 15,000th wing panel for the P-47 Thunderbolts manufactured at the Republic Aviation plant in Evansville during World War II. The first wings rolled off the assembly line in July 1942, requiring over 12,000 hours to build, but within two years, the process was reduced to only 2,334 hours. Servel also manufactured wings for Republic’s plant in Farmingdale, New York, and shipped some to war zones to replace those damaged in combat.
FOOTNOTES: We want to thank Patricia Sides, Archivist of Willard Library for contributing this picture that shall increase people’s awareness and appreciation of Evansville’s rich history. If you have any historical pictures of Vanderburgh County or Evansville please contact please contact Patricia Sides, Archivist Willard Library at 812) 425-4309, ext. 114 or e-mail her at www.willard.lib.in.us.
