C-46 Q8-D of the 349th Troop Carrier Group
The 349th Troop Carrier Group (TCG) was a unique unit within the 9th Air Force during World War II, primarily because it arrived in the European Theater of Operations (ETO) too late to participate in major combat operations. Despite this, the Group played a crucial logistical role in the closing stages of the war.
Key Details and Operations:
Arrival and Late Entry:
- The 349th TCG arrived in England from the USA at the end of March 1945, a point by which most significant troop-carrying operations had already been completed. This timing limited the Group’s involvement in direct combat actions.
Primary Role:
- Instead of combat, the 349th TCG focused on logistical operations, including the transportation of various supplies across continental Europe. Among these supplies were critical liquid fuels, delivered using two C-109 aircraft, which were modified B-24 bombers repurposed for fuel transport. The Group also operated the uncommon C-46 Commando aircraft, which were primarily used for evacuating wounded troops and prisoners of war (POWs).
Movement to France:
- In mid-April 1945, the 349th TCG relocated from Barkston Heath in England to Roye/Amy in France. However, a detachment of the Group briefly returned to Barkston Heath and Saltby in early May 1945 to airlift British airborne troops to Norway. This detachment rejoined the main unit in France after approximately two weeks.
Post-War and Inactivation:
- The 349th TCG was inactivated in July 1945, marking the end of its brief yet impactful service in Europe. By August 1945, the men and equipment of the Group had begun returning to the United States.
Organizational Details:
Squadrons and Codes:
- 23rd Troop Carrier Squadron (TCS) [Q8]
- 312th Troop Carrier Squadron (TCS) [9E]
- 313th Troop Carrier Squadron (TCS) [3F]
- 314th Troop Carrier Squadron
Bases:
- Barkston Heath, Lincolnshire, England – Arrival: March 30, 1945
- Roye/Amy, Alsace, France – April 18, 1945 – July 13, 1945
Commanding Officer:
- Col. Leonard J. Barrow Jr. – Commanding from November 26, 1943
Aircraft:
- C-46 Commando – Primarily used for troop and cargo transport, and medical evacuations.
- C-109 – Modified B-24 Liberators used for transporting liquid fuel.
Operations and Contributions:
The 349th TCG’s operations were primarily logistical rather than combat-focused. Their contributions included the vital delivery of supplies and the evacuation of wounded soldiers and POWs during the final months of the war in Europe.
C-46 Markings:
- Little is known about the specific markings and color schemes used on the aircraft of the 349th TCG during their deployment.