Combat Squadrons of the Air Force WWII
Author: Maurer Maurer
Publisher: USAF Hitorical Division DC
Edition: First
Cover: Hardcover
Published: 1969
History
Synopsis: Maurer Maurer's encyclopedic reference work provides comprehensive documentation of every combat squadron that served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, creating an essential resource for historians, researchers, and family members seeking information about specific units. This massive compilation represents years of research through official records, unit histories, and personal accounts to create the definitive guide to AAF combat organizations. Maurer organizes material by squadron type and numerical designation, providing standardized information about formation dates, training periods, deployment schedules, and combat operations for each unit. The work includes detailed lineage and honors information, documenting the official history and decorations earned by each squadron during its wartime service. The author provides information about aircraft assignments, showing how different squadrons transitioned between aircraft types as new equipment became available and operational requirements changed. The book documents the geographic deployment of squadrons, tracking their movements between training bases, staging areas, and operational theaters throughout the war. Maurer includes command relationships and organizational changes, showing how squadrons were assigned to different groups, wings, and commands as the AAF expanded and reorganized. The work provides statistical data on combat operations, including mission totals, casualties, and major engagements that characterized each squadron's wartime experience. The author documents the evolution of squadron organization and equipment, showing how tables of organization and authorized aircraft changed to meet operational requirements. The book includes information about key personnel, particularly commanding officers and notable pilots who served with distinction in various squadrons. Maurer provides cross-references and index systems that allow researchers to locate information about specific squadrons, aircraft types, or operational areas. The work documents the training progression of squadrons from formation through combat readiness, showing how units prepared for their specific operational roles. The author includes information about squadron insignia, mottos, and traditions that developed during wartime service and continued in post-war organizations. The book covers the demobilization process, documenting how squadrons were deactivated and their personnel returned to civilian life at war's end. Maurer provides guidance on additional research sources, directing readers to archives and collections that contain more detailed information about specific squadrons. Through comprehensive documentation and careful organization, this work preserves the institutional memory of AAF combat squadrons, ensuring that future researchers and family members can access reliable information about the units that fought and won the air war in World War II, serving as both reference tool and tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served in combat aviation.
Combat Squadrons of the Air Force WWII, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.
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