July 4, 1942 First US Raid.

[rob van den nieuwendijk]

Hello all,From USA official reports/documents:"Notes on the 15th Bombardment Squadron (L): The first aerial blow struck by American bombers upon the continent of Europe was delivered by fliers of the 15th Bombardment Squadron (L). (...) Six A-20 American light bombers were used by the 15th Bombardment Squadron fliers, who combined their effort with six planes of the British 226 Squadron, also A-20's or Bostons, as termed by the British."War Diary of 15 Bombardment Squadron (L), Station Molesworth. 4 July 42: The first offensive action in the ETO by American airmen took place today. Also see 2 Group RAF by Michael J F Bowyer, pages 242-244. On 29 June 42 Capt Kegelman with Lt Bell, T/Sgt Golay and Sgt Cunningham flew in Boston AL743 - lead by S/L Kennedy of 226 Squadron Kegelman participated on a circus to Hazebrouck M/Y - this was the unofficial first operation of USAAF airmen over ETO.Best wishes,Rob