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453rd Bomb Group Mission Diaries


Every officer and every enlisted man knew it was against regulations for anyone to keep records of missions flown. Perhaps that's why so many were kept! I have at least three facsimile copies in my possession - doubtless the tip of the iceberg...

Seriously, the reason HQ prohibited the practice was that they were concerned that airmen might be shot down over Axis held areas with information in their possession that might provide clues to American methods or objectives.


  • The Snider Diary
  • The Bryson Diary - This is one of the most interesting mission diaries I have read because Bryson not only gave information regarding bomb loads and targets, but also mentioned his feelings regarding his orders; frictions with other crew members, etc.
  • Kraus Crew Missions List - Not exactly a diary. It's more of a list of missions flown by one crew.
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