Typed manuscript entitled "Dropping the First Atomic Bomb," two pages, 8.5 x 11, signed at the conclusion in blue felt tip, "Theodore J. 'Dutch' Van Kirk." Van Kirk makes a few handwritten corrections to the first page, adding "Over Hiroshima" to the title, "atomic bomb" to the first paragraph, and noting that Lt. Col. John Porter was "not on flight." The manuscript states that it was President Truman's decision to drop the atomic bomb, gives the crew members' names and assignments, and discusses Gen. Spaatz and LeMay's role in picking the city of Hiroshima. It continues, in part: "Approximately fifteen minutes into the flight at 3:00 a.m., Parsons began to arm the atomic bomb. As we approached the target I worked closely with the bombardier, Tom Ferebee, to confirm the winds and aim point. The bomb fell away…Since we were going away from the bomb at the time, all we saw inside the plane was a flash of light. Then we felt 2 shock waves from the bomb strike. Then…Tibbets turned the plane back and we took a look at the city. We saw a big white cloud, the entire city of Hiroshima was under this huge cloud. The cloud was boiling up, mushrooming. It was a sight no one had ever seen before, but there was no drama. We had a job to do and we did it." In fine condition.
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