The Messerschmitt-ME-323-Gigant was a hasty redesign of a transport glider intended for the invasion of Great Britian. First fielded in 1942 it was uniquely equipped with six engines and built to address German Army logistical shortfalls as the war turned against them. Although 200 were built, none survived the war. But Frederico Peyrani has a lead on two that were shot down on or near La Maddelana while airlifting wounded from Sardinia. Here is the story of his search for their wreckage and what it means to the families of the lost solders and the residents of La Maddelena.
—David Foss