The crews of the Enola Gay and the Bockscar, the airplanes that dropped the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki respectively, have not been extensively studied for PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) specifically related to their involvement in these bombings. However, it is plausible to assume that some crew members may have experienced psychological distress as a result of their roles in these historic events.
During World War II, the concept of PTSD was not yet recognized or well-understood, and the mental health impact of traumatic events was not as widely addressed as it is today. Moreover, there were cultural and societal norms at the time that often discouraged open discussions about emotional and psychological struggles related to combat or wartime experiences.
The decision to use atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki was a highly controversial and complex one, and the crews involved were tasked with carrying out their military orders. The bombings caused significant loss of life and massive destruction, including civilian casualties. Even though the crews were not on the ground to witness the immediate aftermath of the bombings, they were aware of the scale of destruction they had caused.
It is reasonable to assume that some members of the crews may have experienced emotional and psychological distress, such as guilt, grief, or moral conflict, due to the enormity of the bombings and the suffering they caused to countless individuals. However, since there is limited public information or detailed records about the psychological well-being of these specific crew members, it is challenging to draw definitive conclusions about their experiences or whether they developed PTSD as a direct result of their involvement in the bombings.
PTSD research and awareness have significantly evolved since World War II, and today, there is a greater focus on understanding and addressing the mental health challenges faced by military personnel and civilians involved in traumatic events. If similar events were to occur in contemporary times, it is likely that more attention and support would be provided to those involved to cope with the potential psychological impacts.