media-380093.jpg FRE 1338 John A. Daugherty, a radio man of the 385th Bomb Group sits atop a B-17 Flying Fortress. Another Fortress (serial number 42-107054) nicknamed "Vat 69" is visible in the background. Image via Tim Bivens.

Bivens has handwritten on the reverse: 'John A Daugherty- Radio man. Fred Heiser crew 550th BS, 385th BG. In background B-17G-35-DL "Vat 69".

Bivens enclosed a letter with the print: '7-14-03, Hello Roger, Got another “Mystery B-17” for you. Just recently obtained the enclosed prints from slides taken by the co-pilot Bob James in the photos. As noted, he was KIA flying a Mossie after his 385th BG tour. He shared some of the slides with crew members, my copies coming from the gunner Julius King. All this said, not B-17 G in the background of photo no 1. I found info on it in two different books both showing its assignment to the 398th BG! This photo clearly shows it in the 385th. It’s also listed as being named “Vat 69”. ... They later were shot down while flying 43-38156. If you have any info on 42-107054, let me know…..’ Roger Freeman Collection

IWM, Roger Freeman Collection