AIR: Fighters Up

Out from England again last week laced the multiple vapor trails of Eighth Air Force bombers and fighters bound "for Germany. For the Thunderbolts and Lightnings, it was their longest mission yet (over 400 miles out) and a new high in U.S. fighter-bomber relations.

When the first Spits and Thunderbolts started their escort work last spring, trigger-itchy gunners of Forts and Liberators warned them that it was hard to distinguish between friend & foe in an air battle. Some friendly fighters were shot down before fighters learned never to point their noses at bombers, as attacking Nazis do....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!