Bomb Group Review
To coordinate massive "Maximum Effort" formations, each group used distinct visual markings:
: Letters or symbols painted on aircraft tails identified the group and its division. For instance, a "Square J" identified the 390th Bomb Group. bomb group
: Beyond aircrews (pilots, navigators, bombardiers, gunners), a group required extensive ground support, including armorers, mechanics, and administrative staff. Operational Identification To coordinate massive "Maximum Effort" formations
For those researching a specific unit or relative, several foundations and archives provide detailed guides: 100th BG Reference Guide a group required extensive ground support
: Many units developed famous nicknames, such as the "Bloody Hundredth" (100th BG) or the "Jolly Rogers" (90th BG). Key Resources & Research Tools
: Bomb groups operated under a Wing (tactical control), which reported to an Air Division (strategic planning), which in turn reported to a numbered Air Force (e.g., the Mighty Eighth Air Force in Europe).