The 490th Bomb Group was formed on October 1, 1943, at Salt Lake City Army Air Base, Utah, as part of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) rapid expansion program during World War II. The group was established as a B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bombardment unit, with the primary mission of conducting strategic bombing operations against enemy targets in Europe.

The Need for a New Bomb Group

In the summer of 1943, the USAAF was facing a critical shortage of heavy bombardment units in the European Theater of Operations (ETO). The Allies were preparing for the invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe, and the demand for bomber aircraft and crews was increasing exponentially. To meet this demand, the USAAF authorized the formation of new bomb groups, including the 490th.

Training and Preparation

The 490th Bomb Group was formed from a nucleus of experienced airmen and officers, who were tasked with training and preparing the new unit for combat. The group’s first commander, Colonel Lloyd H. Watnee, was a seasoned bomber pilot with extensive experience in the B-17. Under his leadership, the 490th began an intensive training program, which included flight training, ground school, and combat simulations.

Deployment to the ETO

In April 1944, the 490th Bomb Group deployed to the ETO, where it was assigned to the 3rd Bombardment Division, 8th Air Force. The group’s first base was RAF Eye, a Royal Air Force (RAF) station in Suffolk, England. From RAF Eye, the 490th conducted its first combat mission on June 5, 1944, targeting German coastal defenses in Normandy, France.

Early Operations

The 490th Bomb Group’s early operations were marked by a series of challenging missions, including attacks on heavily defended targets in Germany and France. The group’s crews faced intense flak and fighter opposition, but they persevered, earning a reputation for their bravery and skill.

The 490th’s Place in History

The 490th Bomb Group played a significant role in the Allied victory in World War II, conducting over 250 combat missions and dropping more than 13,000 tons of bombs on enemy targets. The group’s contributions to the war effort were recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Unit Citation and the French Croix de Guerre.

Today, the 490th Bomb Group Memorial Group honors the memory of the men who served in this remarkable unit, preserving their history and legacy for future generations.

Key Dates

• October 1, 1943: The 490th Bomb Group is formed at Salt Lake City Army Air Base, Utah.
• April 1944: The 490th deploys to the ETO and is assigned to the 3rd Bombardment Division, 8th Air Force.
• June 5, 1944: The 490th conducts its first combat mission, targeting German coastal defenses in Normandy, France.
• May 1945: The 490th completes its final combat mission, attacking targets in Germany.