Hydrogen filled balloons were used at Fort Sill, Okla. for observation of artillery fire. In 1918, a spark of static electricity caused a balloon to explode while the ground crew was still holding onto the guide ropes. Six Soldiers were killed and another 30 injured in that incident.
(Photo courtesy of Oklahoma Historical Society)
While editing the Frontlines slideshow, I came across this picture from Fort Sill and thought it worth sharing, especially in light of today's widespread use of unmanned observation aircraft. Given the camera technology of the day, the fact that the photographer managed to even make this picture is amazing. -Mike
