Please forgive if this has been talked about before, I tried searching and found no results. I just finished watching the episode in the gigantic TWAW documentary series and I have a question.

In this particular episode, at about the (30:00-28:00 remaining mark) there is a quick scene of what I assume is german guncam footage of a B17 completely exploding. It pretty much crumbles and the plane begins to break up with debris flying everywhere. I have never seen this particular footage before! It was shocking but at the same time, some of the most amazing footage I've ever seen. It's something I don't think I will ever forget.

Can anyone shed some light on this? What is hit by cannon fire? Bomb?

Thanks in advance.

I found the clip on youtube...at the 0:36 second mark...

YouTube - World At War: Whirlwind 3 of 5

most likely cannon fire,this link explains the german tactics when attacking them...

German Fighter Tactics Against Flying Fortresses

I believe the fuel tanks were in the wings, and when it was hit, it went off like a roman candle.

__________________
On the Plains of Hesitation
lies the blackend bones of countless millions
who, at the dawn of victory sat down to rest,
and resting died....
(author unknown-I wish it was me)

Wow, thanks for the info, guys. And thank you for the link also...very interesting stuff there...a roman candle indeed.

pleasure..