During World War II, several bomb squadrons were stationed in Europe as part of the Allied efforts against the Axis powers. Below is a list of notable U.S. Army Air Forces bomb squadrons that were active in European operations:
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91st Bomb Group:
- Known for its role in the strategic bombing campaign, this group operated the B-17 Flying Fortress. Key squadrons included the 322nd, 323rd, 324th, and 401st Bomb Squadrons.
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100th Bomb Group:
- Known as the "The Bloody Hundredth," this group flew B-17s. Its squadrons were the 349th, 350th, 351st, and 418th Bomb Squadrons.
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303rd Bomb Group:
- Nicknamed "Hell's Angels," it was one of the first to attack Germany directly, primarily using B-17s. The group comprised the 358th, 359th, 360th, and 427th Bomb Squadrons.
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305th Bomb Group:
- This group also flew B-17 Flying Fortresses and consisted of the 364th, 365th, 366th, and 422nd Bomb Squadrons.
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379th Bomb Group:
- Another B-17 unit known for participating in numerous strategic missions. Included the 524th, 525th, 526th, and 527th Bomb Squadrons.
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B-24 Liberator Bomb Groups (like the 93rd, 44th, and 389th Bomb Groups):
- These groups also played significant roles, using B-24 Liberators in various missions across Europe.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) also had several bomber command squadrons involved in European operations. Here are some RAF bomb squadrons:
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No. 617 Squadron:
- Known as "The Dambusters," famous for the daring raid on German dams.
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No. 9 Squadron:
- Engaged in various bombing operations throughout the war.
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No. 106 Squadron:
- Part of the RAF Bomber Command, also participated in numerous missions over Europe.
These squadrons conducted a wide range of operations, including strategic bombing raids over Germany, support for ground troops, and special operations like the famous Dambusters raid.
For more detailed information on specific missions and contributions, resources such as the American Air Museum in Britain and the RAF Museum can be helpful.