"In one of the most unusual action series of the air war, this ill-fated Martin B-26 Marauder of U.S. 9th Air Force was photographed by cameraman of a Combat Camera Unit just before and during the catastrophe which occurred as the armada of medium bombers attacked military targets at Wittlich, Germany. Camera is trained on wing plane for routine picture of Martin B-26 Marauders in flight". Martin B-26B-30-MA Marauder (s/n 41-31896) named "Louisiana Mud Hen" (aka "Circle Jerk") from the 453rd BS, 323rd BG, 9th AF. Lost on December 23,1944 when it was shot down by AAA over Germany. All 6 crewmen were KIA. MACR 11659 - Shown just seconds before a direct hit by flak in the left engine sent the plane spinning out of control. NARA Ref 342-FH-3A20421-55826AC.