712th Bombardment Squadron

The 712th Bombardment Squadron was activated on 1 May 1943 at Gowen Field, Idaho, as an original squadron of the 448th Bombardment Group. After initial training with Consolidated B-24 Liberators, the squadron underwent Phase 2 training at Wendover Field, Utah, and completed its final training at Sioux City Army Air Base, Iowa. The ground echelon sailed for England aboard the RMS Queen Elizabeth on 23 November, while the air echelon deployed via the southern ferry route.

Combat in Europe

Strategic Bombing Campaign

The squadron flew its first combat mission from RAF Seething on 22 December 1943, primarily engaging in the strategic bombing campaign against Germany. Targets included ball bearing plants in Berlin, marshalling yards in Cologne, V-1 flying bomb assembly plants, aircraft factories, chemical plants, synthetic oil refineries, and aircraft engine plants. The 712th also participated in "Big Week," a focused campaign against German aircraft manufacturing plants from 20 to 25 February 1944.

Interdiction and Close Air Support

In addition to its primary mission, the squadron conducted interdiction and close air support missions, bombing V-weapon launch sites, airfields, and transportation facilities to aid key operations:

• Operation Overlord: Supported the invasion of Normandy by attacking coastal defenses and choke points.
• Caen and Operation Cobra: Struck enemy positions to assist in the allied attacks.
• Operation Market Garden: Dropped supplies for the attempt to seize a bridgehead across the Rhine.
• Battle of the Bulge: Targeted transportation and communications during December 1944 and January 1945.
• Operation Varsity: Dropped supplies in the airborne assault across the Rhine near Wesel.

The squadron flew its last combat mission on 25 April 1945, attacking a railroad yard near Salzburg, Austria.

Post-War and Inactivation

The air echelon began returning to the U.S. in June 1945, and the ground echelon followed in July. After a period of leave, the squadron reassembled at Sioux Falls Army Air Field, South Dakota. Training with the Boeing B-29 Superfortress commenced, followed by a move to Fort Worth Army Air Field, Texas in December 1945.

Here, the 712th became one of the first units of Strategic Air Command in March 1946. However, the squadron was inactivated in August, and its personnel and equipment were transferred to the 325th Bombardment Squadron.

Conclusion

The 712th Bombardment Squadron's history during World War II epitomizes a combination of strategic precision and adaptable support for allied ground forces. From targeted assaults on crucial German industrial centers to providing vital aid during key military operations, the squadron played a significant role in the European Theater. The transition into the post-war era and the brief association with Strategic Air Command marks the squadron's lasting legacy in military aviation.