Forgotten Heroes of the 100th Air Group in WW2
The 100th Air Group, also known as the “Bloody Hundredth,” was a United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) unit that played a significant role in World War II. The group was formed in 1942 and flew B-17 Flying Fortresses from various bases in England. During their time in combat, the 100th Air Group suffered heavy losses, earning their nickname. Despite these losses, the group produced many heroes who demonstrated exceptional bravery and sacrifice. Here are five notable heroes of the 100th Air Group:
Major Robert H. Rosenthal
Major Robert H. Rosenthal was a command pilot and squadron leader in the 418th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group. On September 6, 1943, during a mission to Stuttgart, Germany, Rosenthal’s aircraft, “Rosie’s Riveters,” was severely damaged by enemy fire. Despite the damage, Rosenthal managed to fly the plane back to England, saving the lives of his crew. For his heroic actions, Rosenthal was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Colonel Robert H. Kelly
Colonel Robert H. Kelly was the commander of the 100th Bombardment Group from July 1943 to January 1944. Kelly was a highly respected leader who flew 31 combat missions, including the infamous Regensburg mission on August 17, 1943. During this mission, Kelly’s aircraft, “Piccadilly Lilly,” was damaged, but he managed to fly it back to England, earning the respect of his crew and peers. Kelly was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his exceptional leadership and bravery.
First Lieutenant Donald J. Gott
First Lieutenant Donald J. Gott was a co-pilot in the 351st Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group. On January 11, 1944, during a mission to Oschersleben, Germany, Gott’s aircraft, “Heavenly Body,” was severely damaged by enemy fire. Despite the damage, Gott helped his pilot, Lieutenant Colonel Robert W. Sheets, fly the plane back to England, saving the lives of the crew. Gott was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions.
Staff Sergeant Maynard H. Smith
Staff Sergeant Maynard H. Smith was a gunner in the 418th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group. On December 31, 1943, during a mission to Ludwigshafen, Germany, Smith’s aircraft, “Banshee,” was attacked by enemy fighters. Despite being wounded, Smith managed to defend his aircraft, shooting down two enemy planes. For his bravery, Smith was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.
First Lieutenant Harry W. Randall
First Lieutenant Harry W. Randall was a navigator in the 351st Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group. On March 6, 1944, during a mission to Berlin, Germany, Randall’s aircraft, “Maiden’s Prayer,” was severely damaged by enemy fire. Despite the damage, Randall helped his pilot, Lieutenant Colonel Robert W. Sheets, navigate the plane back to England, saving the lives of the crew. Randall was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his exceptional navigation skills and bravery.
📝 Note: The stories of these heroes serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men of the 100th Air Group during World War II. Their bravery and selflessness continue to inspire future generations.
In conclusion, the heroes of the 100th Air Group in World War II demonstrated exceptional bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to their country. Their stories serve as a reminder of the importance of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.
What was the 100th Air Group’s nickname?
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The 100th Air Group was nicknamed the “Bloody Hundredth” due to its high casualty rate.
What type of aircraft did the 100th Air Group fly?
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The 100th Air Group flew B-17 Flying Fortresses.
Who was the commander of the 100th Bombardment Group from July 1943 to January 1944?
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Colonel Robert H. Kelly was the commander of the 100th Bombardment Group from July 1943 to January 1944.
