Russell Gackenbach Signed 11x14 Photo (PSA) RARE Atomic Bomb Photograph

Presented is a hand-signed and inscribed 11x14 photograph by First Lieutenant Russell E. Gackenbach (1923–2018), the navigator of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Necessary Evil, one of the three aircraft that took part in the historic atomic bombing mission over Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. This rare photograph originates directly from the personal archives of Russell Gackenbach and bears his handwritten inscription:

“Navigator – Necessary Evil Hiroshima 6 August 1945.”

The autograph has been authenticated by PSA/DNA and is accompanied by their Letter of Authenticity, ensuring both verification and long-term preservation.

First Lieutenant Russell E. Gackenbach served with the 509th Composite Group, the elite U.S. Army Air Forces unit created to carry out the atomic missions that brought about the end of World War II. On August 6, 1945, Gackenbach navigated Necessary Evil, which served as the photographic and observation aircraft for the Enola Gay during the bombing of Hiroshima. Equipped with special cameras, his plane documented the detonation of the first atomic bomb ever used in warfare—code-named “Little Boy.”

After completing the Hiroshima mission, Necessary Evil continued to play a key role in the 509th’s operations from Tinian Island in the Mariana Islands. Gackenbach’s meticulous navigation and composure under pressure were vital to the success of a mission that required precise timing, coordination, and secrecy at the highest levels.

Following World War II, Gackenbach returned to civilian life, earning an engineering degree from Lehigh University and pursuing a successful career in the private sector. In later years, he became an important historical voice for the 509th Composite Group, sharing his personal recollections of the atomic missions and the men who carried them out.

This PSA/DNA authenticated and inscribed 11x14 photograph—sourced from Gackenbach’s personal archives—represents a rare and historically significant piece from one of the few surviving crew members directly involved in the Hiroshima mission. It stands as a tangible link to the day that forever changed the course of human history.

Signer: 1st Lt. Russell E. Gackenbach (1923–2018), Navigator, B-29 Necessary Evil

Aircraft: Boeing B-29 Superfortress Necessary Evil, 509th Composite Group

Mission: Hiroshima, Japan – August 6, 1945

Inscription: “Navigator – Necessary Evil Hiroshima 6 August 1945”

Provenance: From the personal archives of Russell E. Gackenbach

Medium: Hand-signed and inscribed in ink on 11x14 photograph

A portion of the sale of this auction will be donated to the General James. H Doolittle Scholarship Fund. The General James H. Doolittle Scholarship Fund was founded to assist college students by awarding one scholarship annually in the maximum amount of $5,000 to a deserving student who is pursuing a baccalaureate or advanced degree in aeronautical engineering or an aerospace science. Students are selected based on their scholastic achievement, school and community participation, demonstrated leadership potential and financial need. More information can be found at the Doolittle Scholarship Funds’ website.

The autograph(s) includes an official PSA/DNA hologram and matching LOA for authenticity purposes.

Authentication: PSA LOA

Due to the uniqueness of each item, please refer to the photos provided in this auction. We offer high resolution images of each item rather than a written description of condition.

This item is being shipped from the Pristine Auction warehouse.