World War Photos

P-47D Thunderbolt serial 42-28367 of the 506th FS, 404th Fighter Group Fritzlar Germany Y-86

The 404th Fighter Group (404th FG) was a highly effective unit in the 9th Air Force during World War II, primarily flying the P-47 Thunderbolt. The group was instrumental in providing air support during key operations across Europe, from D-Day through the end of the war.

Operational History

• Formation and Early Operations (1944):

  • The 404th FG became operational in May 1944, shortly after its title was modified earlier that year.
  • The group’s early missions focused on strafing strategic targets in France in preparation for the Allied invasion of Europe. The 404th mounted its first mission on 9 May 1944, targeting V-1 flying bomb sites with some success.

• D-Day and Support for Allied Advances:

  • On D-Day, the 404th FG provided top cover over the beachheads, ensuring air superiority for the Allied landings.
  • On 10 June 1944, the group conducted a significant operation where 48 of its aircraft attacked railways, bridges, and artillery positions in Normandy.
  • Throughout the subsequent months, the 404th FG continued to perform close-support missions for the advancing Allied armies, moving to France in July 1944 to enhance their operational effectiveness.
  • The group also undertook escort sorties, protecting heavy and medium bombers targeting factories, airfields, and other critical enemy infrastructure.

• Key Engagements and Awards:

  • The 404th FG played a crucial role in aiding the First Army at St. Lo at the end of July 1944, despite suffering heavy losses from enemy flak. For this action, the group was awarded the French Croix de Guerre with Palm Leaves.
  • The group earned a Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC) for conducting three armed reconnaissance missions on 10 September 1944.
  • Additionally, the Belgian Government recognized the 404th FG for its contributions to the liberation of Belgium, awarding it the Order of the Day for the period from 6 June 1944 to 30 September 1944, and again from 1 October 1944 to 15 January 1945.

• Post-War Activities:

  • After the end of hostilities in Europe, the 404th FG participated in the dismantling of the German aircraft industry and the Luftwaffe. The group returned to the United States in August 1945 and was subsequently deactivated.

Squadrons and Codes

• 506th Fighter Squadron (FS): 4K
• 507th Fighter Squadron (FS): Y8
• 508th Fighter Squadron (FS): 7J

Bases

• England:
  • Winkton, Hampshire: 4 April 1944.
• France:
  • Chapelle, Basse Normandie: 6 July 1944.
  • Bretigny, Île-de-France: 29 August 1944.
  • Juvincourt, Champagne-Ardenne: 13 September 1944.
• Belgium:
  • St. Trond: 1 October 1944.
• Germany:
  • Kelz, Province Limburg: 30 March 1945.
  • Fritzlar, Hessen: 12 April 1945.
  • Stuttgart: 23 June 1945 – August 1945.

Commanding Officers

• Col. Carroll W. McColpin: 27 January 1944.
• Lt. Col. Leo C. Moon: 25 November 1944.
• Lt. Col. John R. Murphy: 23 April 1945 onwards.

Unit Decorations

• Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC):
  • Germany: 10 September 1944.
• French Croix de Guerre with Palm: 29-31 July 1944.
• Order of the Day, Belgian Army:
  • Period: 6 June 1944 – 30 September 1944, 1 October 1944 – 18 December 1944, and 15 January 1945 – Belgian Fourragere.

Aircraft Markings

• The 404th FG’s aircraft were mostly natural metal finish P-47s, with minimal additional markings beyond the standard squadron codes, call letters, and Allied Quick Identification Markings. The group marking was a white noseband and a horizontal band across the fin and rudder.