Army & Navy: Flying Teakettle

Since the summer of 1941 hardy British countrymen, inured to many a shock of World War II, have been startled out of their wits on various occasions by the swift and noisy visitations of a friendly but seemingly insane aircraft.

It would pop into sight with a squealing shriek that sent some groundlings dashing for shelter, sure that a heavy bomb was screaming down near by. As it whisked overhead the sound changed to something like "a giant whistling teakettle on the boil." It disappeared over the far horizon before you could say "knife." After a while, neighborhood people got used to...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!