Bat Bombs

On January 12, 1942, Lytle S. Adams, a Pennsylvania dentist, contacted the White House with a proposal to alter the fortunes of World War II. Small bombs strapped to bats, according to Adams, would give America the edge it needed against the Axis menace.

However, this was a sophisticated system that was being designed. The scientists needed to find out how to transport and deploy the tiny creatures. First, the bats had to be kept in a dormant state while being conveyed. They were placed in ice cube trays and chilled to accomplish this. Second, they had to find out how to release them while still in the air. A cardboard container was designed to open and release the bats automatically.

The bat bomb, like all great plans, had its share of difficulties. During testing, a few bomb-laden bats were accidently unleashed, destroying a hangar and a general's automobile. Following the disaster, the US Marine Corps took over the program in December 1943. The project was canceled after thirty demonstrations and $2 million. Lytle Adams, not one to give up easily, focused his efforts on developing fried chicken vending machines.

Year of Experiment: 1942