Written by Daughter of Albert F. Lang: The ball turret was so tight it was like slipping into a womb, forcing the gunner to curl. Albert had been given that assignment because he was slight in height and size weighing in at only 160 lbs.

The open slot for gun movement in the ball turret often allowed stray flak and explosives to enter the ball. I remember sitting on the floor as a youngster listening to Dad's tales including two that stuck in my mind forever. Because the ball turret was so visible on the B17G underbelly, Dad claimed enemy fighters used them as targets in air battle.

Then he said "flak blasted in and ricocheted around the ball". He really believed he had been hit for a moment, and prepared to die. But it was a miracle! His jacket was ripped but he was safe. Albert saved 2 pieces of flak as a good luck charm for the rest of his life, which now grace my office desk at home.

The second story involved hearing at the mess hall that another B17G Ball Turret Gunner had been blasted when an incendiary explosive entered the turret. When they landed they had to use a hose to empty the remains. Dad said he prayed for that gunner's soul and that he hoped his own death in the "ball trap" would be just as swift. Fortunately, his good luck brought him home to Babara L. Dirmeyer whom he later married. Our loving hearts remember!

Albert F Lang