The Martin B-26 Marauder was one of the most successful bombers operated by the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. It was also one of the most disliked.
The B-26’s relatively small wings demanded high takeoff and landing speeds to generate enough lift, that was intimidating to many pilots except the most seasoned ones. The aircraft also suffered from frequent engine and propeller malfunctions. Regular crashes by inexperienced crews during training earned the bomber a host of grim nicknames, including “Widowmaker,” “Martin Murderer,” and “Flying Coffin.” Yet by the end of the war, the B-26 had achieved the lowest combat loss rate of any U.S. aircraft. Among the thousands of Marauders that flew over Europe, one in particular—nicknamed Flak-Bait—emerged as a legend.
Two B-26 Marauders in flight over France on bombing mission to Germany. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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