492nd B-24s July7 1944

[digiartist]

Hi guys, I wonder if anyone can help. I'm putting together preliminary research for a painting depicting the mass stern attack of Sturmbocks against B-24s of the 492nd BG on July 7th 1944 over Oschersleben.

Specifically I'm featuring the lead ship in the middle flight, and was hoping someone could help with information on this Lib, was it named, any photographs and what was it's fate? I don't know if it was one of the B-24s shot down from this box, but I was looking to add some engine damage to it at least.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

cheers

Gareth

[digedag1]

Lead ship on 7/7/44 was B-24J "GAMBLING LADY", #44-40113, Konstand-crew (857th BSqd.) with Maj. Heaton on board on this day.
Plane foto (but with markings after the ship's transfer to the 93rd Bomb Group) ---->

http://www.492ndbombgroup.com/cgi-bi...tPage=44-40113

Lt Konstand signed for a brand new B-24J, 44-40113. Because of his crew number being 7-11 the crew named their ship the GAMBLING LADY. The nose art includes a pair of dice, one showing a 4 and the other a 3.
The 857th BS was not attacked by Luftwaffe fighters that day and the ship survived.
Regards,
digedag1

[digiartist]

Thank you for that digedag1, much appreciated!