Lt. Gen. Ira Eaker, Commanding General

7 March 1943

To: Commanders 91^st, 301^st, 303^rd, 305^th and 918^th Bomb Groups

From: 8AF HQ, Eaker

Subject: Distinguished Unit Citation

1. As you are very aware, the period of August 1942 through February 1943 has been a very difficult one for this command. We have seen our strength stripped from us to provide assets for “Torch” in the Mediterranean, we have had to develop doctrine and tactics to pursue and prove daylight bombardment, and we have endured at times heavy losses.

2. New groups and new aircraft are starting to arrive at a good pace. Replacement crews are coming out of training installations and making up for those men who have either been killed, sent home with wounds, or are languishing in German prison camps. But for all those months, your five groups carried the whole weight of the air war against the Nazis. It has been your units that have suffered the losses, developed the tactics and shown to be valid all that we have worked so hard for.

3. In recognition of the hard work of your men, both those in the air and on the ground, General Spaatz has recommended, and General Arnold has approved, and I am pleased to present your units with the Distinguished Unit Citation. Such award to date from 1 March 1943 and covers the period from 1 August 1942 through 28 February 1943 (dates inclusive).

3. This is a unit citation. All personnel who have served with your groups for at least 30 days during that time may wear the citation permanently on their uniforms. Those who join subsequent to that date may wear the citation for the duration of their service with the group, but must remove it if transferred. A streamer will be provided to affix to your group colors.

4. Allow me to offer my most sincere congratulations and thanks for your efforts and sacrifices. May God bless all of you and bring this war to a swift and victorious termination.

(signed)

Ira C. Eaker,

Lt. Gen., Air Force, US Army

Commanding General,

Eighth Air Force

cc: Maj. Gen. Pritchard

cc: Col. Davenport

cc: Maj. Gen. Devers