“Flak Inferno: The Final Moments of ‘Little Warrior’ Over Fallersleben, Germany, June 29, 1944” (Watermarks do not appear on the actual photograph.)
“Flak Inferno: The Final Moments of ‘Little Warrior’ Over Fallersleben, Germany, June 29, 1944” (Watermarks do not appear on the actual photograph.)
Caption on verso
Caption on verso
Clifford A. Stocking
20.3 x 25.4 cm
Further images
On June 29, 1944, during a mission targeting the Junkers aircraft factory in Fallersleben, Germany, the B-24H Liberator “Little Warrior” of the 493rd Bomb Group, 861st Bomb Squadron, was struck by anti-aircraft fire. The hit ignited the aircraft’s fuel tanks, leading to a catastrophic explosion. This photograph, taken by Staff Sgt. Clifford A. Stocking, waist gunner aboard the nearby B-24 “Green Hornet,” captures the exact moment the “Little Warrior” was engulfed in flames. The image stands as a stark testament to the perils faced by bomber crews and has been featured in numerous publications and exhibits, including the U.S. Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio.
This photograph is considered one of the most iconic images of World War II aerial combat. It has been featured in various books, articles, and museum exhibits, underscoring its historical significance.
Provenance
U.S. Army Air Forces PhotoU.S. Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio.
Past in Present.com Inc private historical archive.