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The Text Reads
200th Mission
Liberandos
Athens- Tatoi
Dec 14, 1943
"The Nucleus of the 376th was known as Halverson's Provisional Group.
The Halpro's, as they were called, were on their way across Africa
on a mission to China to bomb Tokyo. Upon arriving in Egypt, their services
were needed by the Eighth Army. This was to be a short term load but
turned out to be a full time job.
The first mission by the Group was a 13 plane attack on the Ploesti
Oil Fields, June 12, 1942. They struck at the Italian Fleet on June
15.
The 376th continued their attacks on the Axis with raids on Rommel's
supply lines and bases as well as many other strategic targets in the
Meditteranian Sea.
On Nov. 1, 1942, while based in Lydda, Palestine, the Halpro became
the 376th Bombardment Group. The 376th followed Rommel's rout and
sucessively moved to Abu Sueir, Gambut, Soluch, Benghazi, Enfidaville
and finally to Italy.
Members of the Liberandos have seen it grow from a heroic handful
to a full fledged fighting machine under the skillful guidance of COl.
K.K. Compton." |
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The Text Reads
(can't read top line) "...valor have been due to the
courage and judgement of the men who have given their
lives for their country.Axis hopes fall and the Allies
point with pride, "When the Ploesti Raiders Ride Again"
GROUP FIRSTS
1st over Ploesti, high altitude 6/12/42
1st USAF Bombers to hit Italian Fleet, 6/15/42
1st over Naples, 12/4/42
1st Rome Raid, 7/19/43
1st over Ploesti low-level, 8/1/43
1st over Wiener-Neustadt, 8/13/43
1st Heavy Bomb Group to be based on European Continent
GROUP FACTS
We have gone on 2878 sorties, dropped 10,687, 120 lb.
bombs, shot down 108 fighters with 66 probable and damaged,
hit Italy 62 times, Sicily 26 times, North Africa harbors
45 times, Greece 14 times and lost but 40 planes doing
it, for a percentage loss of 1.39%
HEADQUARTERS
376th Bombardment Group(H) AAF
APO 681
13 December 1943
LIBERANDOS
The 200th mission is a crest of glory on a mountain
of great accomplishments. Each of you have had a share
in building this monument. Such a record pays tribute
to the ceaseless work of the ground crews, the diligent
supervision of our administrative personnel, and the grim
determination of our combat crews.
With reverance, we pay tribute to those who paid the
highest price for their country and us. There is a surging
tide of "Esprit de Corps" within this group that can only
lead us to greater sucess and glory.
We have behind us a heritage of heros well done under
the circumstances. With such history only greater deeds
can be expected until we attain our ultimate goal Victory
and take-off on our final mission "home".
May I extend to each of you my heartiest congratulations
and say "You have made me proud to be your Commander."
K.K. Compton
Colonel, Air Corps
Commanding
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