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Martin B-26B-25-MA Marauder "Flak-Bait", 1943. Creator: Martin Aircraft Co
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Martin B-26B-25-MA Marauder "Flak-Bait", 1943. Creator: Martin Aircraft Co
Twin engine medium bomber.Wing Span 2, 160 cm (850 in.), Length 1, 780 cm (701 in.), Height 660 cm (260 in.), Weight 10, 886 kg (23, 999 lb). Project engineer Peyton M. Magruder designed the Glenn L. Martin Companys B-26 Marauder in response to an Army Air Corps specification issued in January 1939. This specification also caught the attention of North American Aviation, Inc. and that firm responded with the B-25. War fever caused the Air Corps to forego a prototype test stage and both bombers went from the drawing board straight into production. The consequences were deadly for men flying the Martin bomber. The Army threatened to withdraw the aircraft from combat, but Marauder crews stuck with their airplane. By wars end, they had lost fewer airplanes than almost any other combat unit and compiled a notable war record. The NASM B-26B-25-MA nicknamed " Flak-Bait" (aF serial number ) survived 206 operational missions over Europe, more than any other American aircraft during World War II
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This print showcases the iconic Martin B-26B-25-MA Marauder, affectionately known as "Flak-Bait" in all its glory. Designed by project engineer Peyton M. Magruder of the Glenn L. Martin Company, this twin-engine medium bomber was a response to an Army Air Corps specification issued in 1939. Unlike other aircraft of its time, both the B-26 and its competitor, the B-25 from North American Aviation, Inc. , skipped the prototype test stage due to war fever gripping the nation. Unfortunately, this decision proved fatal for many pilots flying the Martin bomber. Despite initial setbacks and threats of withdrawal from combat by the Army, Marauder crews remained steadfastly loyal to their beloved airplane. Their dedication paid off as they lost fewer aircraft than almost any other combat unit during World War II and achieved an impressive war record. Among these resilient bombers was "Flak-Bait" bearing serial number 41-31773. This particular B-26B-25-MA survived an astounding 206 operational missions over Europe – a feat unmatched by any other American aircraft during that period. As we admire this photograph capturing a moment frozen in time, let us remember not only the technical prowess behind this magnificent machine but also pay tribute to those brave men who risked their lives flying it into battle. The legacy of "Flak-Bait" and her fellow Marauders will forever be etched in history as symbols of courage and resilience amidst adversity.
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