Ep 14. Last B-24

During the waning days of World War II, a B-24 bomber plane was sent on a mission deep into Japanese-held territory. The plane's crew of 11 men flew into history, becoming among the last Americans killed in combat during the war. For 75 years, the wreck of the plane lay untouched on the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, until a team of deep-sea divers located the wreckage. In this episode of NOVA, viewers follow the team of experts and historians as they travel to Papua New Guinea to retrieve the last B-24 bomber and uncover the mystery of what went wrong on that fateful day.

The episode begins with a somber tone as viewers hear the back story of what happened to the plane and its crew. The crew of the B-24 was on a mission to bomb an airfield when the plane was hit by anti-aircraft fire. Despite their best efforts, the crew was unable to keep the plane aloft, and it crashed into the ocean. The only survivor was George H.W. Bush, who would later become the 41st President of the United States. The rest of the crew, however, was lost to the Pacific.

The story then shifts to the present day, as the team of deep-sea divers prepares to locate the last B-24 bomber. The team includes experts in underwater archaeology, diving, and aviation history. Viewers get a glimpse into the intricate preparation that goes into organizing such an expedition, from securing permits from the local government to testing equipment. The divers face several challenges, including the remote location of the wreckage, the depth of the water, and the dangerous marine life that inhabits the area.

Once the team arrives at the site of the wreckage, they begin their exploration of the area. Viewers get a first-hand look at the underwater environment, including the conditions of the ocean floor and marine life that inhabit these depths. The highlight of the episode is when the divers finally locate the wreckage of the B-24 bomber. For many of the team members, this is the first time they have seen the wreckage, and the emotions are palpable.

The archaeologists and dive experts work together to carefully document the condition of the wreckage and its surroundings. They explore the engine, gun turrets, and the cockpit, capturing footage of each discovery. The History buffs among viewers will appreciate the unique glimpse into aviation history, with a detailed examination of the technologies and materials used, which will fascinate even the most experienced aviation enthusiasts.

The episode concludes with the team analyzing the data collected from the wreckage and piecing together what may have happened on that tragic day. Those interested in a little mystery and history will find this portion of the episode particularly enjoyable. The final report highlights how the ocean floor has preserved much of the wreckage's condition, 75 years after the crash.

Overall, the episode is a fascinating and emotional journey into both the history of aviation and World War II. It offers viewers a look at the intricate planning that goes into diving expeditions, while also providing unique insights into the tools and technologies used during the war. Viewers will also gain an appreciation for the dedication and the skills of the team as they dive deep into the ocean to explore such treasures of history.