"My Gal Sal"

Four items were recovered from "My Gal Sal" when it was re-discovered in October 1964. Top left of photo: Sextant from "My Gal Sal" that was severely corroded. This corrosion was not due to prolonged exposure of the instrument to the Arctic weather; rather, it was caused by the chemical action from the badly decomposed batteries that were in the box with the sextant. Top center: Bombsight stabilizer unit from the nose of "My Gal Sal." One half inch layer of powdered rust was found inside the unit, indicating that one side of it had been in constant contact with snow or ice. Top right: Octant from "My Gal Sal," which when examined, was found to have fungus growths on it. Cultures were taken and numerous types of fungi were identified. Surprisingly, they were the same types found on equipment returned to the United States from tropical areas following World War II. Bottom: Mess kit from "My Gal Sal." The carbon deposits on the bottom indicate it had been used by the crew for heating food over an open flame sometime during the 10-day period they were marooned. (U.S. Air Force photo)