media-380622.jpg FRE 1803 Technical-Sergeant Donald V Birdsall, a top turret gunner of the 448th Bomb Group in position inside his B-24 Liberator (serial number 42-7746) nicknamed “Bag O’ Bolts”. Image stamped on reverse: 'Associated Press.' [stamp], 'Reviewed and passed 23 Feb 1944.' [stamp], 'Not to be published until 27/2/44.' [stamp] and '307108.' [Censor no.] Printed caption on reverse: 'AFIRE RIDDLED BY 400 BULLET HOLES "BAG O' BOLTS" COMES HOME ON TWO ENGINES. Riddled by four hundred bullet holes, its waist section gutted by fire and one of its remaining two engines still aflame, the Liberator, "Bag O' Bolts" presented an amazing sight as it returned to base after taking part in Monday's raid on Germany. Attacked near the target, the bomber was thrown out of position when flak set no 4 engine on fire, cut the power of no 1 engine, put all the turrets out of commission, and started a raging fire amidships. The pilot nevertheless made a second bombing run and, while the crew fought the fire, dropped his load on the target. He then dived the ship to "deck" and flew all the way home within 20 to 25 feet of the ground although chased by four Germany fighters who gave up once they ran out of ammunition. Two of the crew were wounded and a third, believing the dive to "deck" meant a crash, bailed out. Associated Press Photo Shows: T/Sgt Donald V Birdsall, of Wells Bridge, NY, seen in his top turret position which was shattered by a direct hit while he was operating his guns. He was untouched by the explosion on fragments.' Roger Freeman Collection

IWM, Roger Freeman Collection