This little device would hang by the navigators position in a WW II bomber. A small door in the roof of the aircraft exposed a mount, spring loaded for recoil, for attaching the flare pistol. Various pyrotechnic rounds were used depending on the situation. It appears that at least three different companies made these for the government. SWC, WMSC and EVCC (Eureka Vacuum Cleaner Company). This one is a Eureka. Just goes to show you, everyone was into the war effort. The big hook on top is for opening to load and unload.

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When the bombers were returning to base, they would fire different colors to indicate things like "Wounded Crew Member" or "Landing gear won't extend", or worst of all, "Live Bombs still in rack."

You see movies using real footage and see the flares, but in black and white film you don't know what color they actually shoot.

Ivan

I'm going to contact the Confederate... I mean the Commemorative Air Force to donate it to them, if they want it. My old friend and doctor, Doc Alman, who was an AF reserve flight surgeon at NAS Dallas was a member. His hangar in Denton was home for several war birds that he owned.

Any body know what the WWII AAF bomber landing
flares ment? I know one was wounded on board. Another
meant heavy damage. Another was live bombs on board.

There may have been others, but I'd like to know what color meant
what.

i found FSNs and descriptions of the 8 or so flares but not the meaning of each. I have reached out to the CAF about giving it to them. Someone in the organization should know. I'll report back if I find out what different flares mean.