media-380787.jpg FRE 1980 B-24 Liberators of the 467th Bomb Group lined up at RAF Welford. B-24 (4z-E+, serial number 42-94910) is visible in the foreground. It was taken during the first couple of days (most likely 15 or 16 Sept 1944) of the ‘Trucking Missions” that started 12 Sept 1944. The 467th had a key role in ferrying fuel to bases on the continent to support Patton’s 3rd Army. Prior to Rackheath being ready to support the transfer of fuel, the 467th (along with other bomb groups of the 2nd AD) used the RAF bases at Welford, Horsham and Beaulieu.

The foremost aircraft in the front row is B-24H-20-FO "No Name” 42-94910. The aircraft immediate behind ‘910' is B-24H-15-CF "Tender Comrade” 41-29369. Next is B-24H-20-DT 'Wolves Inc.' 41-28981 and then B-24H-15-CF 'Slick Chick' 41-29388. The next is thought to be B-24J-140-CO "Old Iron Pants/The Perfect Lady” 42-110168. In the rear row, the first aircraft can’t be identified. The second aircraft is B-24H-20-FO ’No Name' 42-94963. Next is B-24H-15-CF 'Slugger Jr.' 41-29397. The next aircraft can’t be determined. The next, and last identified, is our favorite...B-24H-15-FO “Witchcraft" 42-52534.

It is thought that the aircraft in the very far distance on the left are gliders (CG-4a’s?) used by the 101st Airborne that was stationed at Welford.

Handwritten caption on reverse: 'Rackheath.' Roger Freeman Collection

Location and aircraft identified by the 467th Bomb Group Association, with thanks to J. Peter Horne, archivist and Vice President of the Association for sharing the information with the American Air Museum.