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Nick Alkemade was a tail gunner for an RAF AVRO Lancaster Bomber during World War II who is notable for surviving a "chuteless jump".
On March 23, 1944, Alkemade's plane was attacked by a German JU-88 fighter plane and began to spiral out of control. Because his parachute was in the cabin, Alkemade opted to jump from the aircraft, preferring his death to be quick.
Alkemade fell from 18,000 feet to the ground below. His fall was broken by pine trees and a soft snow cover on the ground. He was able to move his arms and legs and suffered only a sprained leg.
See Also
External Links
Parachute History Website (http://www.parachutehistory.com/other/bonusday.html)
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