100th Air Group WW2 History

Introduction to the 100th Air Group

The 100th Air Group, also known as the 100th Bombardment Group, was a unit of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. The group was formed in 1942 and played a significant role in the Allied efforts in Europe. The 100th Air Group was part of the Eighth Air Force and was stationed in England, where they conducted bombing missions over Germany and other parts of Europe.

Formation and Training

The 100th Air Group was formed on June 1, 1942, at Orlando Army Air Base in Florida. The group was initially composed of four squadrons: the 349th, 350th, 351st, and 352nd Bombardment Squadrons. The group’s first commander was Colonel Robert H. Kelly, who led the unit through its initial training phase. The 100th Air Group spent several months training in the United States before being deployed to England in May 1943.

Combat Missions

The 100th Air Group began conducting combat missions in June 1943, with their first mission being a bombing raid on the German submarine base at Cuxhaven. Over the next two years, the group flew over 300 missions, targeting key German industries, military installations, and transportation hubs. The 100th Air Group was known for its bravery and sacrifice, with many of its airmen being awarded medals for their heroism, including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star.

Notable Missions

Some of the most notable missions flown by the 100th Air Group include: * The Regensburg mission, which took place on August 17, 1943, and was one of the longest and most difficult missions flown by the group. * The Berlin mission, which took place on March 4, 1944, and was one of the first times that the Allies had bombed the German capital. * The D-Day mission, which took place on June 6, 1944, and saw the 100th Air Group providing air support for the Allied invasion of Normandy.

Aircraft and Equipment

The 100th Air Group flew the B-17 Flying Fortress, which was one of the most iconic and successful bombers of World War II. The group’s aircraft were equipped with a range of weapons and equipment, including: * Norden bombsights, which allowed the group’s bombardiers to accurately target their missions. * M2 Browning machine guns, which provided defensive firepower against enemy fighters. * SCR-268 radar, which helped the group’s navigators to navigate and avoid enemy defenses.

Table of Aircraft and Equipment

Aircraft	Equipment	Description
B-17 Flying Fortress	Norden bombsight	Allowed for accurate targeting of missions
B-17 Flying Fortress	M2 Browning machine gun	Provided defensive firepower against enemy fighters
B-17 Flying Fortress	SCR-268 radar	Helped navigators to navigate and avoid enemy defenses

Casualties and Legacy

The 100th Air Group suffered significant casualties during World War II, with over 1,700 airmen being killed or missing in action. Despite these losses, the group’s bravery and sacrifice helped to contribute to the Allied victory in Europe. Today, the 100th Air Group is remembered as one of the most heroic and accomplished units of World War II, with its legacy continuing to inspire and educate people around the world.

💡 Note: The 100th Air Group's history is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the airmen who served during World War II. Their legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered today.

In the end, the story of the 100th Air Group serves as a reminder of the importance of courage, perseverance, and teamwork in the face of adversity. The group’s contributions to the Allied war effort were significant, and their legacy continues to be felt today. The 100th Air Group’s history is a fascinating and inspiring topic that continues to captivate people around the world.