Inside the B-17 Ball Turret . During World War II, the B-17 Flying Fortress was one of the most iconic American bombers. But one of its most dangerous and claustrophobic roles was that of the ball turret gunner—a young man crammed into a small, rotating sphere underneath the aircraft, armed with twin .50 caliber machine guns. This was how a B-17 ball turret gunner did his job.
The ball turret was made of glass and metal and barely large enough for the gunner to fit inside. Once the bomber was airborne, the gunner would climb into the turret, curl into a fetal position, and control the guns and the turret’s rotation with hand and foot controls. From this position, he had a panoramic view of the skies below and behind the aircraft—critical blind spots for enemy fighter attacks.
The job was as terrifying as it was vital. With no parachute inside the turret and limited space to move, the gunner was exposed to freezing temperatures, anti-aircraft flak, and gunfire from German fighters. If the B-17 crash-landed with its landing gear up, the ball turret could become a death trap.
Despite these dangers, ball turret gunners played a crucial role in defending their aircraft and squadron during bombing missions over Europe. Their eyes scanned the skies constantly for enemy fighters, and their twin guns provided a deadly deterrent to any attack from below.
The position demanded sharp reflexes, steady aim, and immense courage. Many ball turret gunners were young—often 18 or 19 years old—and knew the risks every time they took off. Their service was a combination of mechanical skill, physical endurance, and unshakable bravery.
Today, the ball turret stands as a powerful symbol of the sacrifice and resilience of WWII airmen. Inside the B-17 Ball Turret
