549th Bombardment Squadron

The 549th Bombardment Squadron was first activated at Davis-Monthan Field, Arizona, as one of the four original squadrons of the 385th Bombardment Group. Moving to El Paso Army Air Field, Texas, the squadron did not receive a full complement of personnel and began training with Boeing B-17 Flying Fortresses until it relocated to Geiger Field, Washington in February 1943. Completing its training, the squadron began deploying to the European Theater of Operations in May 1943.

Combat in Europe

Strategic Bombing Campaign

Upon assembling at RAF Great Ashfield, England, the squadron initiated its participation in the strategic bombing campaign against Germany, flying its first combat mission on 17 July 1943. The 549th Bombardment Squadron conducted attacks on a myriad of industrial targets, air bases, and communication centers across Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and even as far as Poland.

Attack on Regensburg

One of the notable missions included the attack on the Messerschmitt aircraft factory at Regensburg on 17 August 1943. This daring raid over heavily defended enemy territory earned the squadron the Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC).

Attack on Zwickau

On 12 May 1944, the squadron participated in an attack on an airplane repair facility at Zwickau. Facing an estimated 200 enemy fighters, the squadron demonstrated courage and accuracy, earning a second DUC for this mission.

Other Strategic Targets

The 549th's strategic targets in Germany encompassed various key industries, including factories at Oschersleben and Marienberg, a battery manufacturing plant at Stuttgart, oil refineries, and rail marshalling yards. Additionally, the squadron attacked Luftwaffe bases in France.

Air Support and Interdiction Missions

Occasionally, the 549th was diverted from its primary mission to perform air support and interdiction missions. These included attacking coastal defenses in preparation for Operation Overlord, striking transportation chokepoints on D-Day, supporting Operation Cobra, and conducting attacks during the Battle of the Bulge.

Final Missions and Deactivation

The squadron flew its last mission on 20 April 1945. After V-E Day, it transported prisoners of war and dropped food supplies in the Netherlands. The air echelon began ferrying aircraft back to the United States in June, while the ground echelon left Europe in August 1945, sailing on the RMS Queen Elizabeth. The squadron was subsequently inactivated at Sioux Falls Army Air Field, South Dakota, on 28 August 1945.

Conclusion

The 549th Bombardment Squadron's history during World War II is a testament to its remarkable courage, efficiency, and dedication. From executing daring raids on strategic targets to providing vital support for ground operations, the squadron played a significant role in the Allied victory in Europe. Its contributions continue to be a symbol of bravery and military excellence.