WWII: Gunner fell 22,000 feet WITHOUT a parachute and survived

[Arcadiasix]

Ranked among the luckiest people in the world, Alan E. Magee survived a free fall of almost four miles from a B-17 bomber during a raid in WWII.

When his bomber came under fire from German anti-aircraft guns, he ran out of options. His bomber was spinning mid-air and spiralling towards the ground. Magee had to jump out of it to escape certain death. But he was not aware that he had jumped in a 4-mile drop without his parachute.

Magee’s survival story has featured in many magazines and is considered one of the most miraculous survivals of WWII. After the war, Magee did not discuss his ordeal or his survival story with anyone.

http://www.warhistoryonline.com/war-articles/wwii-gunner-fell-22000-feet-without-a-parachute-and-survived.html

[Arcadiasix]

1. If God doesn't mean it to be your time. It isn't your time.

[PoliticAverse]

2. 'Terminal velocity' can be your friend. n/t

[sakabatou]

3. G forces on the other hand...

[DeSwiss]

4. Was just watching a couple of vids recently.......

[Telcontar]

7. I'm sorry, but i think that first video is complete BS

I have years of jump experience, that doesn't look like a real jump.

1. His orientation in flight was standard belly to earth, so his terminal velocity is in the 135 mph range.

2. They show him coming through the opening feet first, yes the instant before the body camera showed him still in horizontal position.

3. Assuming a 180 lb weight, he would hit with 132 kJ of force, equivalent to about a quarter stick of TNT.

If this was real, he would go through the trampoline like it was a cheese grater.

[appalachiablue]

5. Incredible story, thanks for the post. Luck man indeed!

[Telcontar]

6. I remember hearing about him. Legendary

I recall my airborne instructor telling us we can always jump without a parachute at least once in our lives.