Lt Felix Kozaczka 363rd Fighter Group, 382nd Fighter Squadron on P-51B Mustang
The 363rd Fighter Group (363rd FG) was an active fighter unit of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Below is a detailed overview of the group’s activities, organization, and significant contributions during the war:
Operational History
Arrival in England:
- The 363rd FG arrived in England in December 1943, coming directly from training in California. Initially stationed at Keevil, Wiltshire, the group was soon equipped with P-51 Mustangs in January 1944.
Early Combat Operations:
- The group’s first operation took place on 23 February 1944, where it began escorting bombers and fighter-bombers on missions to France, Germany, Belgium, and Holland. In addition to its escort duties, the group also engaged in strafing missions against strategic enemy targets.
D-Day and Normandy:
- On 6 June 1944, during the D-Day invasion, the 363rd FG played a crucial role by escorting C-47s of IX Troop Carrier Command (TCC) that were towing CG-4 gliders over Normandy. The group also carried out attacks on frontline positions, contributing to the success of the Allied landings.
Move to France and Redesignation:
- At the end of June 1944, the 363rd FG moved to France, closer to the frontline, to provide more direct support to the advancing Allied forces. However, on 4 September 1944, the group was redesignated as the 363rd Tactical Reconnaissance Group to assume a new role, transitioning from fighter operations to tactical reconnaissance missions.
Unit Decorations
- Order of the Day, Belgian Army:
- The 363rd FG was awarded the Belgian Army’s Order of the Day for its operations on 1 October 1944, and again for its activities from 18 December 1944 through 15 January 1945. Additionally, the group was awarded the Belgian Fourragere, recognizing its distinguished service.
Overseas Combat Commanders
- Col. John R. Ulricson: Commanded from 5 June 1943.
- Col. James B. Tipton: Took over command on 7 May 1944.
- Lt. Col. James M. Smelley: Assumed command on 1 September 1944.
Overseas Stations
- Keevil, Wiltshire: 23 December 1943 (initial station in England)
- Rivenhall, Essex: January 1944
- Staplehurst, Kent: April 1944
- Maupertus, Basse-Normandie (France): 4 July 1944
- Azeville, Basse-Normandie (France): August 1944
- Le Mans, Pays-de-la-Loire (France): September 1944
Combat Operations
- Period: 23 February 1944 – 3 September 1944
- Primary Missions: Bomber escort, fighter-bomber missions, strafing of strategic targets, and providing close air support during the D-Day landings and subsequent operations in Normandy.
Squadrons and Codes
- 380th Fighter Squadron (FS): [A9]
- 381st Fighter Squadron (FS): [B3]
- 382nd Fighter Squadron (FS): [C3]
Bases
- Keevil (UK): 23 December 1943
- Rivenhall (UK): January 1944
- Staplehurst (UK): April 1944
- Maupertus (France): 1 July 1944
- Azeville (France): August 1944
Aircraft and Markings
Aircraft:
- The 363rd FG operated P-51 Mustangs, one of the most iconic fighters of World War II, known for its long-range and versatility.
Squadron Markings:
- 380th FS: Blue spinner and nose tip; black horizontal band across the fin and rudder.
- 381st FS: Yellow spinner and nose tip; black horizontal band across the fin and rudder.
- 382nd FS: Red spinner and nose tip; black horizontal band across the fin and rudder.
Aircraft Markings:
- The 363rd FG adopted squadron colors primarily on the propeller spinner and the forward 12 inches of the engine cowling. The squadron codes and aircraft call letters followed the standard British style, with white lettering on camouflaged aircraft and black on natural metal finishes. These markings were approximately 24 inches in height.