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Re: P-47s in 1st TACAF
There is a fairly substantial book titled "First TACAF" by Victor Tannehill ISBN 1-891570-07-2 published in 1998.
The foreword states:
"From October of 1944 until May 1945...nearly 30,000 American and French airmen served and fought together in a unique organisation designated the First Tactical Air Force (Provisional). Its purpose and mission, though never officially stated was to provide air co-operation and support for the Franco-American Sixth Army Group (US 7th Army and French 1st Army)...".
Apparently the reason for "Provisional" is that the decision to form the First TACAF was made in the field and not by the War Dept or the Combined Chiefs of Staff. It was never allotted an official "Table of Organisation and Equipment" (TO&E). Units were transferred from the 12AF and 9AF.
On 9 May 1945 ORBAT included: 27FG, 50FG, 86FG, 324FG and 358FG with P-47s. The French units also flew P-47s.
Steve
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