44-6485

Mechanics of the 401st Bomb Group examine the foam-covered wreckage of a B-17 Flying Fortress that exploded. Printed caption on reverse: '65725 AC- Mechanics were working in the bomb bay of this Boeing B-17 "Flying Fortress" when sparks from a torch caused an explosion in the oxygen system- this was the result- the aircraft was sent to salvage. 401st Bomb Group, England 24 September 1944. US Air Force Photo.'

media-380522.jpg FRE 1714 Mechanics of the 401st Bomb Group examine the foam-covered wreckage of a B-17 Flying Fortress that exploded. Printed caption on reverse: '65725 AC- Mechanics were working in the bomb bay of this Boeing B-17 "Flying Fortress" when sparks from a torch caused an explosion in the oxygen system- this was the result- the aircraft was sent to salvage. 401st Bomb Group, England 24 September 1944. US Air Force Photo.' Roger Freeman Collection

401BG records (AFHRA via 401BGA)

Object Number - FRE 1714 - Mechanics of the 401st Bomb Group examine the foam-covered wreckage of a B-17 Flying Fortress that exploded. Printed caption on reverse: '65725 AC-...

Delivered Hunter 19/8/44; Dow Fd 3/9/44; Assigned 612BS/401BG [IY-X] Deenethorpe 23/9/44; during acceptance check by crew chief T/Sgt Tony Donalaio in bomb bay created spark which ignited oxygen and aircraft caught fire in top turret; Salvaged 25/9/44.