B-17 - Wilhelmshaven 1943 Women's T-Shirt

Historical Context: Wilhelmshaven Harbor – November 3, 1943

On November 3, 1943, the German naval base at Wilhelmshaven Harbor became the target of one of the U.S. Army Air Forces’ major strategic bombing raids during World War II. The harbor, located on Germany’s North Sea coast, was a critical hub for the Kriegsmarine — home to submarine pens, shipyards, and vital industrial facilities supporting Germany’s U-boat fleet.

That day, waves of Boeing B-17 Flying Fortresses from the U.S. Eighth Air Force took to the skies from England, pushing deep into enemy territory under heavy resistance. Despite fierce flak and Luftwaffe interception, the B-17 crews held formation and delivered precision strikes on shipyards, docks, and naval installations. The attack crippled portions of Wilhelmshaven’s industrial capacity and marked a pivotal moment in the Allies’ sustained air campaign against the German war machine.

For the airmen aboard those B-17s, Wilhelmshaven became a test of courage and endurance — a symbol of the daylight bombing offensive’s determination to bring the war closer to Germany’s industrial heart.

Product Specifications:

• 100% Airlume combed and ringspun cotton
• 4.2 oz./yd² (US) 7 oz./L yd (CA)
• Wash in cold with like colors.