Invader 43-22653 391st Bomb Group at Nordholz March 1945
The 391st Bombardment Group (BG) was an essential component of the Allied air operations in Europe during World War II, known for its strategic bombing campaigns and critical support during key battles such as D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. Overview of their history and operations:
Key Operations and History:
Arrival in England and Initial Combat:
- The 391st BG arrived in England in January 1944 and quickly entered combat within two weeks. Initially, the Group focused on strategic targets in northern France, Belgium, and Holland, including V-weapon (V-1 and V-2 rocket) sites, which were critical to disrupting German offensive capabilities.
D-Day Operations:
- On June 6, 1944 (D-Day), the 391st BG played a vital role by strafing coastal gun batteries, which were part of the German defenses at Pointe du Hoc. During these operations, the Group’s B-26 Marauders shot down a German Fw 190 fighter, showcasing their effectiveness in both bombing and air-to-air combat. The Group continued to focus on destroying fuel dumps, troop concentrations, and lines of communication to support the Allied landings.
Move to the Continent and the Battle of the Bulge:
- In September 1944, the 391st BG relocated from England to a base on the European continent, allowing them to extend their operations deeper into Germany. During the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, the Group was instrumental in attacking heavily fortified enemy positions, for which they were awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC) for their actions between December 23-26, 1944.
Final Operations and Transition to A-26 Invaders:
- As the war progressed into 1945, the 391st BG concentrated on destroying the German transportation system, significantly disrupting the movement of enemy troops and supplies. In April 1945, the Group began transitioning to the A-26 Invader aircraft, a faster and more versatile medium bomber, which they used during the final weeks of the war. Their last combat mission was flown on May 3, 1945.
Post-War and Deactivation:
- After the end of hostilities, the 391st BG was redesignated as the 391st Bombardment Group (Light) in July 1945. They returned to the United States in September and October 1945 and were subsequently deactivated.
Organizational Details:
Squadrons and Codes:
- 572nd Bombardment Squadron (BS) P2
- 573rd Bombardment Squadron (BS) T6
- 574th Bombardment Squadron (BS) 4L
- 575th Bombardment Squadron (BS) 08
Bases:
- Matching, Essex, England – January 26, 1944
- Roye/Amy, Picardie, France – September 1944
- Asch, Belgium – April 20, 1945
- Vitry-en-Artois, France – June 1, 1945
- Laon, France – July 27, 1945 – September 1945
Aircraft:
- B-26 Marauder (January 1944 – April 1945)
- A-26 Invader (April 1945 – July 1945)
Commanding Officer:
- Col. Gerald E. Williams (January 26, 1944 – September 1945)
Aircraft Markings:
- The 391st BG adopted a distinctive yellow equilateral triangle as their Group identification marker. This symbol was placed on the upper tail section above the aircraft call number and featured a 3-4 inch black border on natural metal finishes. Squadron codes and aircraft call letters were applied to the fuselage with Sky on camouflaged finishes and black on metal surfaces.
Unit Decorations:
- Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC): Germany, December 23-26, 1944.