Christmas came early at the Sumter Military Museum with the long-anticipated arrival of the historic Bristol F2.B Fighter, now being prepared for permanent display within the museum. This remarkable aircraft is one of only seven original Bristol F2.Bs known to survive worldwide, making its arrival a milestone not only for the museum, but for aviation and military history enthusiasts across the Southeast.

Originally flown during World War I, this Bristol F2.B was painstakingly restored outside Bardstown, Kentucky, using 100 percent original components sourced from around the globe. The restoration process spanned nearly a decade from start to finish, resulting in an airworthy aircraft that stands today as a rare & authentic look of early military aviation.

Bristol F2.B Involvement in WWI

At first glance, one might ask why a Royal Air Force aircraft holds such prominence in an American military museum here in South Carolina. The answer lies in the Bristol F2.B’s role in reshaping aerial combat during the Great War.

The Bristol F.2B Fighter, often referred to as the “Brisfit,” was a revolutionary two-seat aircraft that combined speed, maneuverability, and firepower in ways no other aircraft of its class had achieved at the time. Designed initially for reconnaissance missions, it had evolved into a multirole aircraft capable of combat, bombing, and ground attacks.

A few of the reasons for the Bristol F2.B’s legacy include:

• Combat Tactics: Pilots adopted aggressive coordinated attacks with its firepower to mitigate earlier losses that occurred in 1917.
• Performance: Powered by the Rolls Royce engine, the F2.B was able to out perform many of the other fighters in both speed and arial climbing.
• Firepower: Featured a Vickers machine gun for the pilot, and a rear mounted machine gun for the aircrafts observer.

• Versatility: Successfully performed as a fighter, bomber (carrying up to 450 pounds of bombs), and reconnaissance aircraft.

Together, these items had transformed the Bristol F2.B from a reconnaissance aircraft into one of the most feared and respected aircraft of the era.

South Carolina Connection: 1st Lieutenant Ervin Shaw

Beyond its global historical significance, the Bristol F2.B holds a deeply personal connection to Sumter County through 1st Lieutenant Ervin Shaw, the only aviator from Sumter County to lose his life during World War I.

Shaw was one of only three Americans serving in his RAF squadron and flew the Bristol F.2B on combat reconnaissance missions. These two seater, fabric covered biplanes were powered by a 190 hp engine capable of speeds up to 100 miles per hour, and armed with dual .303-caliber machine guns…one forward firing and one for the observer in the rear.

On July 9, 1918, Shaw and his observer, Sergeant T.W. Smith, departed alone on a reconnaissance mission behind German lines…but never returned. Reports indicate the aircraft was attacked by three German fighters while returning to Allied lines. Enemy fire struck a vital structural component, causing the aircraft to break apart midair.

Fellow officers remembered Shaw not only for his bravery, but for his character. Major K.R. Park described him as “one of our very bravest and coolest lads, always cheery and stout-hearted, no matter what work was wanted.” Another squadron member recalled Shaw’s nightly prayers beside his cot, a quiet testament to his faith and humility.

Lieutenant Shaw & Sergeant Smith are buried together in Regina Trench Cemetery in Courcellette, France, where their sacrifice is honored.

Preserving History Through HVAC Expertise

WBG is proud to support this important project at the Sumter Military Museum. While the Bristol F2.B represents innovation from more than a century ago, preserving such artifacts requires modern mechanical systems designed to meet today’s museum standards.

Our team’s expertise in commercial HVAC and environmental control systems ensures not only visitor comfort, but precise temperature and humidity regulation critical factors in protecting historic aircraft and artifacts from long-term deterioration. Proper environmental control plays a vital role in preserving fabric, wood, metal, and original finishes so future generations can experience history firsthand.

Being part of a project that safeguards both South Carolina heritage and military history reflects WBG’s commitment to being the go to contractor for trusted mechanical solutions for over a century .