Amazing satin-finish 14 x 11 photo of the atomic bomb’s devastating aftermath in Hiroshima, signed with a lengthy message in black felt tip, “The skies were clear as I helped Tibbets and Ferebee locate our aiming points in Hiroshima. We dropped Little Boy from an altitude of 30,060 feet on August 6, 1945 at 9:15 AM Tinian time. The 9400 lb bomb detonated 43 seconds later at an altitude of 1800 feet over the city of Hiroshima. There was a bright flash followed by two shock waves measured at 3.5 G’s. This mission was necessary to end the war with minimum loss of life. It saved the large casualties that would have resulted from an invasion of Japan. Dutch Van Kirk, Navigator—Enola Gay, Hiroshima, 6 Aug. 1945.” In fine condition, with Van Kirk using two different pens to accomplish the long statement. A terrific firsthand account from the Enola Gay navigator, providing great insight into the actions and mindset of the crew. RR Auction COA.
