The DEADLIEST Job on a B-17 Flying Fortress You Didn’t Know About

During World War II, the B-17 Flying Fortress gained a reputation as a durable and formidable heavy bomber. Crews operating these aircraft faced extreme dangers over Europe, battling enemy fighters and enduring heavy anti-aircraft fire. Among the ten-man crew, some positions were more hazardous than others. Popular accounts often highlight the ball turret as the most dangerous job, but historical data suggests a different reality. Understanding the risks of these roles sheds light on the lives of these airmen.

The Waist Gunner: A Hidden Peril

The waist gunners operated machine guns on either side of the B-17’s fuselage. Their role appeared straightforward, with a wide field of view to engage enemy fighters approaching from various angles. However, this position came with significant dangers. The waist gunners had minimal protection, as the thin aluminum fuselage offered little defense against incoming fire. Shrapnel from anti-aircraft shells and bullets from enemy fighters could easily penetrate their station.

Environmental conditions made their job even more perilous. The open windows exposed gunners to freezing temperatures at high altitudes, causing frostbite and reduced dexterity. Operating the heavy machine guns under these conditions was physically exhausting and dangerous. The casualty rates for waist gunners reveal the deadly nature of their role—19% were killed, and 21.1% were wounded, making this the most dangerous job on the B-17.

The Bombardier: At the Tip of the Spear

The bombardier’s position at the front of the aircraft was critical but highly exposed. Responsible for guiding the payload to its target, the bombardier took control of the aircraft during bombing runs. Maintaining a steady course during this phase made the B-17 an easy target for enemy gunners. Positioned in the aircraft’s nose, bombardiers faced the brunt of incoming fire, often with little protection.

Early B-17 models lacked defensive weapons to protect the bombardier, though later variants added a chin turret. Even with this improvement, the forward position remained vulnerable. The psychological burden was immense, as the bombardier’s actions could determine the success or failure of the mission. Casualty rates for bombardiers stood at 16.3% killed and 17.7% wounded, reflecting the dangers of their critical role.

The Ball Turret Gunner: Popular Myth vs. Reality

The ball turret gunner operated in a small, rotating sphere beneath the aircraft. This position has been romanticized as the deadliest job on the B-17, but casualty statistics tell a different story. While the cramped space and isolation of the ball turret were challenging, the position offered advantages such as a 360-degree field of fire. Gunners could track and engage enemy aircraft effectively, providing vital defense for the bomber.

Improved armor and targeting systems helped reduce the risks faced by ball turret gunners. As a result, their casualty rates were lower than those of waist gunners and bombardiers, debunking the myth that this was the most hazardous role. The challenges they faced were significant, but their position was not as deadly as often portrayed.

A Collective Sacrifice

While certain positions on the B-17 were more dangerous than others, every crew member faced significant risks. From the pilot and navigator to the tail gunner and radio operator, each role was essential to the mission’s success. The crew’s survival depended on teamwork and mutual support.

The story of the B-17 Flying Fortress is one of technological innovation and personal sacrifice. By examining the realities of these roles, we gain a deeper appreciation for the bravery of the airmen who risked their lives in service of their mission.