Object Record
Images
Metadata
Title |
Martin B-26 Marauder,Interupting work on a V-1 Rocket 'ski site' |
Accession Number |
2011.22 |
Description |
Color Art/print of (4) B-26's attacking enemy rocket site, 1 aircraft being hit with rocket on fire. |
Notes |
Flak Bait is a Martin B-26 Marauder aircraft that holds the record within the United States Army Air Forces for the number of bombing missions survived during World War II. Manufactured in Baltimore, Maryland as a B-26B-25-MA, by Martin, it was completed in April, 1943 and christened Flak Bait by its first assigned pilot, James J. Farrell, who adapted the nickname of a family dog, "Flea Bait". Flak Bait was assigned to the 449th Bombardment Squadron, 322d Bombardment Group stationed in eastern England.[1][2] During the course of its 202 (207 if one includes its five decoy missions[2]) bombing missions over Germany as well as the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, Flak Bait lived up to its name by being shot with over 1,000 holes, returned twice on one engine and once with an engine on fire, lost its electrical system once and its hydraulic system twice, and participated in bombing missions in support of the Normandy Landings and the Battle of the Bulge.[1][2][3] Flak Bait returned to the United States in December 1946. The aircraft is currently undergoing preservation and conservation at the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum.[3] |
Collection |
Unknown Donator |