: Beyond aircrews (pilots, navigators, bombardiers, gunners), a group required extensive ground support, including armorers, mechanics, and administrative staff. Operational Identification

: A group was usually made up of four squadrons. For example, the 397th Bomb Group included the 596th, 597th, 598th, and 599th squadrons.

A was a primary tactical and administrative unit of the U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) during World War II, typically consisting of three to four flying squadrons and approximately 50 to 70 aircraft . These groups were organized into larger Wings and Air Divisions to execute strategic bombing campaigns across various theaters of war. Organizational Structure

For those researching a specific unit or relative, several foundations and archives provide detailed guides: 100th BG Reference Guide

To coordinate massive "Maximum Effort" formations, each group used distinct visual markings: