Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Description
Awarded to Detachment 15, 1st Combat Evaluation Group for participation in Tactical Air Operations 2 June 1967 - 28 June 1973.
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
Awarded by General George Brown to Detachment 15, Ton San Nhut (June 1967-1970) Classified
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Description
While Viet Cong and North Vietnamese military activity in South Vietnam continued at a low level and U.S. forces gradually withdrew, the Republic of Vietnam re-equipped and modernized its armed force
While Viet Cong and North Vietnamese military activity in South Vietnam continued at a low level and U.S. forces gradually withdrew, the Republic of Vietnam re-equipped and modernized its armed forces in a program called “Vietnamization.” To meet the VNAF ‘s needs for trained personnel, the USAF in the fall of 1969 began training programs both in South Vietnam and the United States. On December 1, 1969, the AC-47 gunships flew their last combat missions as U.S. aircraft: subsequently, the United States transferred the AC-47s to the VNAF and the Royal Laotian Air Force (RLAF). A few weeks later, on January 22, 1970, the U.S. Air Force began transferring to the VNAF the Tactical Air Control System that handled air defense, tactical attacks, and air traffic control in South Vietnam. On March 15 the USAF inactivated the 37th Tactical Fighter Wing at Phu Cat, an air base on the coast 250 miles northeast of Saigon, and the 12th Tactical Fighter Wing at Cam Ranh
Bay, 180 miles northeast of Saigon. The USAF began withdrawing civil engineering units in April.
The USAF might reduce its forces and operations in South Vietnam, but other events prompted increased U.S. involvement in Laos. On November 1, 1969, with the onset of another dry season. the USAF began another intensive air campaign. COMMANDO HUNT III. in the Laotian panhandle to counter an increasing flow southwards of enemy troops and supplies. The 14th Special Operations Wing's AC-119 and AC-130 gunships. although only flying a small number of the total sorties along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, accounted for almost half of the destroyed or damaged trucks. Meanwhile. tactical air and B-52 aircrews focused on area targets and antiaircraft positions.
While the USAF effort in the Laotian panhandle focused on interdiction. aerial action in northem Lam involved close air support. In January 1970 the Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese mounted a major offensive against Royal Laotian forces. On January 4 the Seventh Air Force sent a helicopter squadron to Long Tieng, an airstrip 100 miles north of Vientiane, for operations around Muong Soui. It also dispatched AC-119K gunships to Udorn Air Base. Thailand. on February 15 to provide armed reconnaissance along major roads in northem Laos and close air support for Laotian forward bases. Two days later. in an effort to slow the enemy advance. the USAF used B—52s against North Vietnamese and Pathet Lao positions in northern Laos. Despite the intense air attacks. the Communist forces captured Muong Soui on Febuary 24 and advancing over the Plain of Jars. by March 17 threatened Long Tieng. The Seventh Air Force helped fly in reinforcements of Thai and Laotian troops to Long Tieng and evacuated refugees, while its tactical aircraft provided close air support to the beleaguered troops. By March 30 the Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese forces once again had retreated. and Long Tieng appeared safe, at least until the next dry season.
‘The North Vietnamese and Viet Cong for many years had used Cambodia as a sanctuary with relative impunity, although the USAF as early as
March 1969 bombed targets in Cambodia with B-52s. Then, in March 1970, a new Cambodian government challenged the Communist military
presence. The Communists reacted with a military campaign against Cambodian forces. As the conflict escalated, on April 20 Cambodian Premier Lon Nol formally sought U.S. aid. On the 24th the USAF began flying tactical missions against enemy targets in Cambodia, and 5 days later, the ARVN entered Cambodia to destroy enemy bases and supplies and assist Cambodian troops fighting the Communists.... More
Description Operation Arc Light was the 1965 deployment of B-52F Stratofortress as conventional bombers from bases in the US to Guam. Arc Light missions continued until the cessation of hostilities by all U.S. foOperation Arc Light was the 1965 deployment of B-52F Stratofortress as conventional bombers from bases in the US to Guam. Arc Light missions continued until the cessation of hostilities by all U.S. forces on August 15, 1973.... More
Memories Lt. Col. McGowan was Squadron Commander, Ground Directed Bombing at both Pleiku AB and Bien Hoa AB iLt. Col. McGowan was Squadron Commander, Ground Directed Bombing at both Pleiku AB and Bien Hoa AB in 1966. During this time he also assisted in establishing other radar sites in Vietnam.
From June 1967 through January 1968 Lt. Col. McGowan was Commander of All Radar Bombing in SEA (HQ was Detachment 15 Tan Son Nhut).
Operation Hawthorne
Operation Hawthorne was "one of the most successful military operations of the war to date" and one of the bloodiest. An entire major NVA unit was rendered "combat ineffective" with over 1200 KIA. The battle raged from June 1st through June 21st.
Skyspot played a major role in Operation Hawthorne and was commended by General Westmoreland. "During the hours of darkness and periods of reduced visibility resulting from the southwest monsoons, around-the-clock close air support was provided by 160 radar-controlled air strikes."
The 101st Airborne arrived in Pleiku on May 28th, 1966. Col. McGowan (Lt. Col. at the time) visits them the next day. On May 31st General Pearson, CG of the 101st visits Skyspot in Pleiku. It is only a few days later when General Pearson calls in Arc-Light missions and Skyspot to help his troops with close air support.
In early June, the 1st Brigade of the 101st Airborne was airlifted to Dak To in the Central Highlands "to relieve an ARVN Regional Forces garrison besieged by a large NVA force at the Toumorong outpost twenty kilometers northeast of Dak To."
Read about the battle at this link: http://101_lha.tripod.com/101st_lha/id78.html
Another good source is the book, History of the 101st Airborne Division edited by Colonel Robert Jones.
The following are excerpts from letters concerning Operation Hawthorne from my father, Col. McGowan:
Sun 29 May 1966 [Pleiku] Dear Norma, Mike and Patty, The 101st at Airborne came in last Thursday and pitched their tents just across the street from us. The Catholic Chaplain just called yesterday and said he had the 101st Catholic Chaplain with him and would I like to go and visit the 101st. This was really an experience to see the way they live. They sleep in sleeping bags on the ground with a poncho pitched like a pup tent over them to keep them dry. I asked one why they didn't have tents and he remarked that anything the men used, they had to carry themselves and ponchos are much lighter than pup tents. They also dig a ditch around their tent with a drain at one end to keep from floating away. I asked the Priest what he was going to do when he returned to the States, and he said he was going to a Monastery for a year. I told him it would take about that long to Church Break his language. He laughed and said if he's not careful when he gets back, he's really going to shock some sedate Priest. He talks just like the rest of the men and is half covered with mud like everybody. This is one of the best outfits over here and they've been in the thick of it for a long time. Of course, the Priest is always with them getting shot at just like everybody else. The meat that they were cooking, it all comes out of cans called "A" rations, looked and smelled better than that which we get at the Officer's Club. I also met the Commander, Lt Col Fleming. I understand there was quite an article about him in either Time or Newsweek. Love, Dad
Tues. 31 May, 1966 [Pleiku] Dear Norma, Mike, & Patty, Had another dignitary visit the site at 0800 this morning. Brig. Gen Pearson, the Commander of the 101st Airborne, spent about forty five minutes with us and was very impressed. He couldn't have given the group any more praise than he did. We've also been assisting the 1st Cavalry Div. Love, Dad
Sun 12 June 1966 [Pleiku] Dear Norma, Mike, & Patty: We were just highly complimented by General Westmoreland on the large part we played in Operation Hawthorne! Love, Dad
Thur 16 June 1966 [Bien Hoa] Dear Norma, Mike, & Patty: We played a major role in operation Hawthorne. In fact we put in about 90% of all the strikes in that area with excellent results. This last week has been the busiest week we've had. Read in the Stars and Stripes, the Hong Kong Daily, and the Saigon News about a new bombing system called Skyspot that can drop bombs on enemy troops on a 24 hour basis regardless of weather or whether it's day or not. Also read in the same article about their participation in Hawthorne. Love, Dad
[The following letter was written shortly after Captain Carpenter returned from the battle. Capt. Carpenter received the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroism during Operation Hawthorne. On June 9th, completely surrounded by NVA and taking heavy losses, Captain Carpenter took the only course of action available to him ? he called in a napalm strike on his own positions. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Carpenter]
Wed 22 June 1966 [Pleiku] Dear Norma, Mike, & Patty: Mailed two more rolls of film home to you this afternoon. Most of the pictures are of a Vietnamese ceremony. Once a month they have Heroes Day at II Corps Headquarters which is just down the hill from our site. I didn't know what was going on so I went and got the camera and went down to see. I was standing in the crowd when a Vietnamese Major came over to me and said, "You come with me, have seats for you." I got escorted to one of the red leather chairs in the front row next to the speaker's platform. The man in the left section, front row, far right is Capt. Carpenter. He's in the front row far left after they leave the platform. The natives in the picture are Montagnards.
Love, Dad
Mon 27 June 1966 [Bien Hoa] Dear Norma, Mike, & Patty: Understand there have been news broadcasts, television pictures, and write ups in newspapers and magazines about our operation. There's also supposed to be an article about it in Newsweek. Would you save all these for me to read when I get back. All this started with our participation in operation Hawthorne. The final report is due at MACV the end of this week. Gen. Pearson, the CG of the 101st Airborne, has already said that this was the best joint effort of Army and Air Force since this war started. We didn't put the napalm on Capt. Carpenter! Love, Dad
Below is a portion of a commendation letter that Gen. Westmoreland sent to Skyspot in September of 1966.
"Letter of Commendation
"I wish to commend the personnel of the 1st Combat Evaluation Group (SAC) for their contribution to the counter-insurgency effort in Southeast Asia by outstanding performance of duty in the expedited installation and operation of the vital Sky Spot facilities. The detailed planning, extensive coordination, sound engineering and technical skills that were applied during these installations are commendable and in keeping with the highest professional traditions of the Strategic Air Command. Although operational only a few months, the Sky Spot facilities have increased greatly the offensive capabilities of US and the Free World military forces in Southeast Asia; and were a vital contributing factor to our highly successful campaigns in thwarting the enemy's monsoon offensive.
"The rapid reaction and minimum installation time in accomplishing the required tasks under adverse weather conditions and frequently in a hostile environment has been particularly noteworthy. Over the past four months SAC personnel have directed in excess of 5000 air strikes against targets thereby contributing significantly to the counter-insurgency effort. The success that this operation has enjoyed is directly attributable to the dedication and professionalism displayed by these personnel.
"W. C. WESTMORELAND General, United States Army "Commanding"... More
Criteria The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding ac... The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not involving aerial flight. MoreHide
Comments Commander Detachment 15, 1st Combat Evaluation Group in the Republic of Vietnam. 15 June 1967 to 12 January 1968. awarded for displaying "outstanding ability in the command and control" of Combat Sk... Commander Detachment 15, 1st Combat Evaluation Group in the Republic of Vietnam. 15 June 1967 to 12 January 1968. awarded for displaying "outstanding ability in the command and control" of Combat Skyspot units in Southeast Asia. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Comments
Commander, Operating Location 22, 1st Combat Evaluation Group, Pleiku Air Base, republic of Vietnam. 2 April 1966 to 14 September 1966
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Description The Cuban Missile Crisis, also known as the Caribbean Crisis or the Missile Scare, was a 13-day (October 16–28, 1962) confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union concerning American bThe Cuban Missile Crisis, also known as the Caribbean Crisis or the Missile Scare, was a 13-day (October 16–28, 1962) confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union concerning American ballistic missile deployment in Italy and Turkey with consequent Soviet ballistic missile deployment in Cuba. The confrontation, elements of which were televised, was the closest the Cold War came to escalating into a full-scale nuclear war.
In response to the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion of 1961, and the presence of American Jupiter ballistic missiles in Italy and Turkey, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev decided to agree to Cuba's request to place nuclear missiles in Cuba to deter future harassment of Cuba. An agreement was reached during a secret meeting between Khrushchev and Fidel Castro in July 1962 and construction of a number of missile launch facilities started later that summer.
The 1962 midterm elections were under way in the United States and the White House had denied charges that it was ignoring dangerous Soviet missiles 90 miles from Florida. These missile preparations were confirmed when an Air Force U-2 spy plane produced clear photographic evidence of medium-range (SS-4) and intermediate-range (R-14) ballistic missile facilities. The United States established a military blockade to prevent further missiles from entering Cuba. It announced that they would not permit offensive weapons to be delivered to Cuba and demanded that the weapons already in Cuba be dismantled and returned to the USSR.
After a long period of tense negotiations, an agreement was reached between President John F. Kennedy and Khrushchev. Publicly, the Soviets would dismantle their offensive weapons in Cuba and return them to the Soviet Union, subject to United Nations verification, in exchange for a U.S. public declaration and agreement never to invade Cuba again without direct provocation. Secretly, the United States also agreed that it would dismantle all U.S.-built Jupiter MRBMs, which were deployed in Turkey and Italy against the Soviet Union but were not known to the public.
When all offensive missiles and Ilyushin Il-28 light bombers had been withdrawn from Cuba, the blockade was formally ended on November 20, 1962. The negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union pointed out the necessity of a quick, clear, and direct communication line between Washington and Moscow. As a result, the Moscow–Washington hotline was established. A series of agreements sharply reduced U.S.–Soviet tensions during the following years.... More
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Criteria The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, ... The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty status for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Criteria The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or,... The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or, an aggregate service of one year within the Continental United States during the same period under the following circumstances: On permanent assignment outside the continental limits of the United States; or, On permanent assignment as a member of a crew of a vessel sailing ocean waters for a period of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service outside the continental limits of the United States in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non consecutive days; or, For service in active combat against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat; or, For service within the continental limits of the United States for an aggregate period of one year. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal... 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf clusters and the European Theater ribbon with three battle stars. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal... 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf clusters and the European Theater ribbon with three battle stars. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal... 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf clusters and the European Theater ribbon with three battle stars. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal... 1st Lieutenant McGowan had been in the USAAF four years and served 8 months with the 34th Bombing Group in England. As a bombardier on a B-17, he flew 26 missions over Germany. He wore the Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf clusters and the European Theater ribbon with three battle stars. MoreHide
Criteria The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, ... The European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty status for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description On March 22, 1945, the U.S. Third Army established a second salient, in addition to the one at Remagen, across the Rhine River at Oppenheim, 288 miles southwest of Berlin. The next day its troops alsoOn March 22, 1945, the U.S. Third Army established a second salient, in addition to the one at Remagen, across the Rhine River at Oppenheim, 288 miles southwest of Berlin. The next day its troops also crossed the river at Boppard, 40 miles northwest of Oppenheim. Farther north, British and Canadian forces went across near Wesel, 65 miles northwest of Bonn. Ninth Air Force and Royal Air Force troop carriers and gliders dropped an American and a British airborne division north of Wesel on March 24, while the U.S. Ninth Army crossed the river 10 miles southeast of Wesel. The next day the U.S. First Army began an advance into Germany from Remagen, just south of Bonn, and on March 26 the Seventh Army crossed the Rhine River north of Mannheim, about 25 miles south of Oppenheim. Five days later, on March 31, French troops crossed the Rhine 10 miles south of Mannheim.
Before the Allied armies began crossing the Rhine in force, Allied air forces bombed and strafed German positions in the contested areas along the river. Heavy bombers also flew battlefield interdiction missions between March 21 and 24, before returning to strategic bombardment missions against targets in Germany. Although little of strategic value remained because of the destruction wrought by the
combined bomber offensive, oil refineries and fuel depots remained primary targets.
The Luftwaffe could no longer effectively oppose the heavy bombers nor could it provide close air support for retreating German troops.
When fuel was available, the enemy continued to intercept Allied bomber formations with a few fighter aircraft. On the battle front, AAF fighter-bombers flew close air support and tactical reconnaissance missions for Allied forces, while medium bombers attacked bridges, trucks, troop concentrations, railroads, and airfields. Troop carrier and transport aircraft flew critically needed supplies to forward airfields that had been rebuilt by aviation engineers behind the advancing Allied armies. After delivering supplies, the pilots loaded wounded soldiers and liberated prisoners of war and returned them to the rear areas. The last mission of the AAF's heavy bombers in Europe involved flying supplies to the starving population in The Netherlands.... More
Other Memories
The 34 Bomb Group by Don Skinner http://airforce.togetherweserved.com/usaf/servlet/tws.webapp.WebApp?cmd=Profile&type=Person&ID=90008
The 34th Bomb Group (BG) consisted of the 4th, 7th, 18th, and 391st Bomb Squadrons (BS)
The unit was activated 15 Jan 1941 at Langley Field, VA. The Group was equipped with B-17 aircraft, and upon completion of training, moved to Westover Field, MA. Anti-submarine patrols on eastern seaboard flying from Pendleton Field, OR from Jan 1942 to May 1942. The unit moved to Davis-Monathon Field, AZ , and then on 4 July 1942 to Geiger Field, WA to be a replacement training unit. Many personnel were drawn from 34th BG to build a new BG for the 8th Air Force.
On 15 Dec 1942, the unit moved to Blythe Field, CA where it formed part of 358th BG, but reverted to operational role to train in B-24 aircraft for overseas duty.
The air echelon began the move to overseas duty 31 Mar 1944 taking the southern ferry route which was to Florida, Trinidad, Brazil, West Africa, Morocco, and to England. The ground echelon left 1 April 1944.
While in England, the unit was assigned to Mendelsham, Wetheringsett, Suffolk. All squadrons flew the B-24 H and J model aircraft until 24 August 1944, and then flew B-17Gs from 17 Sept 1944.
The unit was redeployed to the U.S. in June 1945. The ground echelon sailed on the Queen Elizabeth on 6 Aug 1945. After leave and R&R, the Group was established at Sioux Falls Army Air Field and deactivated on 28 August 1945.
The B-24s were olive and grey factory finish colored. A natural metal finish was used from April 1944. Group marking was an "S" in a square. In June 1944 the leading third outer tail painted red, remainder white or bare metal. Aircraft letter in black on rudder. Square and "S" were not placed on replacement aircraft. Aircraft used as PFF had all red outer sides on vertical tail. (See note)
The B-17s were natural metal. Colored nose bands were utilized. Squadron codes painted under left wing after VE Day. Squadron codes were:
4BS 3L White 7BS R2 Yellow 18 BS 81 Red 391BS06 Green
Some aircraft had the squadron colored bands on fuselage aft of waist gun position.
Group markings: Front half of vertical tail fin in red, other part metal finish. Red band around each horizontal stabilizer and wing outboard of engines. Aircraft letter in black on rudder with serial number on the red and bare metal finish of the tail fin.
The Group lost 34 aircraft to enemy action; claimed 24 enemy aircraft.
The Group did not lose a bomber to enemy fighter action over enemy territory. All losses came because of crashes, or encounters with enemy fighters over Allied territory. Note: Aircraft utilized as PFF were known as "pathfinders." This was a tactic adopted from the RAF in which several designated aircraft flew ahead of the bomber stream and dropped navigational markers. The RAF used flares because they usually bombed at night. The Americans used yellow dye markers, clearly visible in the daylight.
Although none of the 34lh BG (as far as I could find) used it, another tactic of the RAF was aircraft equipped with Gee-H system, and used in other BG. This was a navigational system in which a master transmitter and two slave or auxiliary stations were used to ascertain positioning. This was a forerunner of the LORAN system later developed by the U.S. Although simple in functioning, the technical description needs to be read to understand. GOOGLE: LORAN
Description Air Offensive, Europe Campaign 4 July 1942 to 5 June 1944) Pre-war doctrine had held that waves of bombers hitting enemy cities would cause mass panic and the rapid collapse of the enemy. As a result,Air Offensive, Europe Campaign 4 July 1942 to 5 June 1944) Pre-war doctrine had held that waves of bombers hitting enemy cities would cause mass panic and the rapid collapse of the enemy. As a result, the Royal Air Force had built up a large strategic bomber force. By way of contrast, Nazi German air force doctrine was almost totally dedicated to supporting the army. Therefore, German bombers were smaller than their British equivalents, and Germany never developed a fully successful four engined heavy bomber equivalent to the Lancaster or B-17, with only the similarly sized Heinkel He 177 placed into production and made operational for such duties with the Luftwaffe in the later war years.
The main concentration of German raids on British cities was from September 7, 1940 until May 10, 1941 in the most famous air battle of all time, known as the Battle of Britain. Facing odds of four against one the RAF held off the mighty Luftwaffe forcing Hermann Wilhelm Göring to withdraw his forces and more importantly indefinitely postpone invasion plans. This proved the first major turning point of the War. After that most of the strength of the Luftwaffe was diverted to the war against the Soviet Union leaving German cities vulnerable to British and later American air bombings. As a result of the victory, Great Britain was used by U.S and other Allied forces as a base from which to begin the D-Day landings in June 1944 and the liberation of Nazi-occupied Western Europe.
From 1942 onwards, the efforts of Bomber Command were supplemented by the Eighth Air Force of the United States Army Air Forces, U.S. Army Air Forces units being deployed to England to join the assault on mainland Europe on July 4, 1942. Bomber Command raided by night and the US forces by day. ... More
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
In 1961, McGowan was a B-52 Stanboard Nav at Barksdale AFB.