Unidentified photographer 1953, 18 April Pre-dawn atomic light 10 x 8 ins (200 x 250 mm)
Private collection of Brad Feuerhelm This was taken seconds after the atomic detonation at the AEC Nevada Proving grounds on April 18th, 1953. Although it was before dawn the atomic light lit up the entire area including the six fool deep entrenching area. U.S. Marines of the 2nd Marine Corps Provisional Atomic Exercise Brigade, huddled in the trenches until the blinding atomic light dissipated, then they moved forward in the first tactical maneuver employing the atomic weapon in an offensive thrust against a simulated enemy position.
