Saga of the 320th: A B-26 Marauder Group in WWII
Author: Victor Tannehill
Publisher: Boomerang Pub CO
Edition: Second
Cover: Hardcover
ISBN: 0-9605900-2-1
Bomb
Synopsis: Victor Tannehill's detailed continuation of the 320th Bombardment Group's story provides expanded coverage of their B-26 Marauder operations throughout World War II, examining both their Mediterranean theater service and their crucial role in the liberation of Western Europe. This comprehensive account builds upon the group's earlier history to create a complete portrait of one of the most distinguished medium bomber units in the American air forces. The book extensively covers the 320th's transition from Mediterranean operations to participation in the crucial pre-D-Day campaign, when medium bombers systematically destroyed transportation targets across France to isolate the Normandy invasion beaches from German reinforcement efforts. Tannehill provides detailed accounts of the precision bombing missions that targeted bridges, rail yards, and communication centers, describing how B-26 crews developed the accuracy necessary to destroy small targets while avoiding civilian casualties. The narrative chronicles the group's direct participation in D-Day operations, including close support missions that attacked German strongpoints and artillery positions threatening Allied landing forces during the invasion's critical first hours. The author addresses the evolution of close air support tactics, examining how medium bomber crews learned to coordinate with ground controllers and infantry units to maximize effectiveness while minimizing friendly fire incidents. Tannehill provides mission-by-mission coverage of the 320th's role in supporting Allied advances through France, including attacks on German defensive positions during the breakout from Normandy and the rapid pursuit across northern France. The book examines the group's participation in major strategic operations, including the systematic destruction of German transportation networks that prevented effective enemy response to Allied ground movements. The narrative includes detailed coverage of the challenges faced during the Battle of the Bulge, when tactical bombers provided crucial support for American ground forces facing the last major German offensive in the west. Tannehill addresses the technical evolution of the B-26 throughout the war, describing how continuous modifications enhanced the aircraft's effectiveness and crew survivability under changing combat conditions. The author provides extensive coverage of individual aircraft and crews, creating personal portraits of the men who served in the 320th while facing the constant dangers of medium-altitude tactical bombing operations. The book chronicles the group's final operations during the crossing of the Rhine River and the subsequent advance into Germany, including attacks on remaining German defensive positions and industrial targets. Tannehill examines the psychological challenges of tactical bombing, where crews could directly observe the impact of their attacks on both military and civilian targets during rapidly changing battlefield conditions. The narrative concludes with the group's transition to occupation duties following Germany's surrender, assessing their overall contribution to Allied victory through precise tactical bombing that complemented strategic operations conducted by heavy bomber forces. This comprehensive saga serves as both detailed military history and fitting tribute to the 320th Bombardment Group's exceptional service throughout the European theater, honoring the courage and sacrifice of the airmen who flew some of World War II's most dangerous and effective tactical bombing missions.
Saga of the 320th: A B-26 Marauder Group in WWII, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.
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