World War Photos

368th Fighter Group P-47D Thunderbolt “Sleepy Jean the 3rd” nose art

The 368th Fighter Group (368th FG), operating under the Ninth Air Force, played a significant role in the European Theater during World War II. The group arrived in England in January 1944 and was equipped with P-47 Thunderbolts, which they used throughout their combat operations. Detailed account of the 368th FG’s operational history, squadron details, and significant contributions:

Operational History

• Arrival and Early Operations:

  • The 368th FG arrived in England in January 1944, with its first combat operation taking place on 14 March 1944. The group conducted a fighter sweep over the French coast, marking the beginning of a series of missions aimed at weakening German defenses in preparation for the D-Day invasion.

• Pre-D-Day Operations:

  • Leading up to D-Day, the group engaged in strafing attacks on German lines of communication, airfields, flak positions, and V-weapon sites. These operations were crucial in disrupting the enemy’s ability to defend against the forthcoming Allied invasion.

• D-Day and Normandy Campaign:

  • On D-Day (6 June 1944) and the days following, the 368th FG provided close air support to Allied ground forces. Notably, on D+1, the group played a vital role in assisting V Corps, which was isolated on the beach, by delivering timely air support that helped secure the beachhead.
  • Move to France: Shortly after the Normandy landings, the 368th FG moved to France to support the advancing Allied forces more effectively.

• Breakthrough at St. Lo and Support Across France:

  • The 368th FG supported the Allied breakthrough at St. Lo, a critical juncture in the liberation of France. The group continued its support as Allied forces advanced across France, targeting enemy positions, supply lines, and reinforcements.

• Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC):

  • On 3 September 1944, during operations around Mons, the group’s P-47s destroyed large numbers of enemy vehicles and eliminated pockets of resistance that were delaying the Allied advance. This action earned the 368th FG a DUC for its outstanding performance.

• Support Across Belgium and the Rhine Crossing:

  • The group continued its support of ground forces as they pushed through Belgium and towards Germany. The 368th FG was instrumental in providing air cover and attacking targets that threatened Allied progress, culminating in their participation in the crossing of the Rhine River.

• Post-VE-Day Operations:

  • After the German surrender, the 368th FG remained in Germany, continuing its occupation duties until the deactivation of the Ninth Air Force in December 1945.

Unit Decorations

• Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC):
  • France: 3 September 1944.
• Belgian Army Order of the Day:
  • 6 June 1944 – 30 September 1944
  • 16 December 1944 – 25 January 1945
• Belgian Fourragere: Awarded for exceptional service during operations in Belgium.

Overseas Combat Commanders

• Col. Gilbert L. Meyers: Commanded from 3 June 1943.
• Col. Frank S. Perego: Took command on 1 November 1944.
• Maj. Dennis Crisp: Commanded from 18 October 1945.
• Lt. Col. John L. Locke: Took command on 2 November 1945.

Stations

• England:
  • Greenham Common, Berkshire: 13 January 1944.
  • Chilbolton, Hampshire: 15 March 1944.
• France:
  • Cardonville, Basse-Normandie: 20 June 1944.
  • Chartres, Centre-Val-de-Loire: 23 August 1944.
  • Laon/Athies, Picardie: 11 September 1944.
• Belgium:
  • Chievres, Province de Hainaut: 2 October 1944.
• France (again):
  • Juvincourt, Champagne-Ardenne: 27 December 1944.
  • Metz/Frescathy, Lorraine: 5 January 1945.
• Germany:
  • Frankfurt-am-Main, Hessen: 15 April 1945.
  • Buchschwabach: 13 May 1945.
  • Straubing: 13 August 1945.

Squadrons, codes and aircraft

• Fighter Squadrons:
  • 395th Fighter Squadron (FS): A7
  • 396th Fighter Squadron (FS): C2
  • 397th Fighter Squadron (FS): D3
• Aircraft:
  • The 368th FG exclusively used the P-47 Thunderbolt throughout its operational history.

Squadron Colors and Aircraft Markings

• Squadron Colors:
  • 395th FS: Red noseband, upper fin, and rudder above a black horizontal band.
  • 396th FS: Yellow noseband, upper fin, and rudder above a black horizontal band.
  • 397th FS: Blue noseband, upper fin, and rudder above a black horizontal band.
• Aircraft Markings:
  • The 368th FG did not utilize squadron colors on camouflaged P-47s. However, on natural metal finished P-47s, engine cowlings and propeller spinners were painted in squadron colors. The group’s yellow identification color was also applied to the top area of the tail fins. Canopies and tail braces were sometimes painted in squadron colors as well.