B-17 Flying Fortresses of the 390th Bomb Group break formation on their return from a mission. Handwritten caption on reverse: '13/2/44.' Censor no: 305241. On reverse: Fox Photos [Stamp]. Printed caption from reverse: 'U.S ARMY AIR FORCE PREPARES FOR INVASION. - IT WILL BLAST THE PATH FOR THE ALLIED INVASION FORCES ON THE EURPOEAN MAINLAND. MB/HT. U.S. Army Air Forces in this country are preparing for the final European assalt , namely the invasion of the European mainland from the West. They will soften up the landing bases in order that the invading ground forces may establish themselves. They will clear the skies for forward advance. Finishing touches are now being put to their intense training. More and yet more bombers and fighters are brought in to be manned by the well-trained and efficient personnel of the U.S. Army Air Force, who have already proved their worth in smashing the German industry of war production. Although new members pour in, many veterans of the air will take part in the invasion: Men who have gained invaluable flying experience both over German targets and those in enermy occupied territory. Here is a series of pictures, secured at a U.S. Army Air Force base in Britain, illustrating what can almost be termed the final preparations for the great assault. PHOTO SHOWS: The fortresses return. Flying in and peeling off, for landing, after a day raid. Fox Photos: 15 February, 1944 14.'[typed caption]. ' Passed for publication 15 Feb 1944'[stamp]. '