
Casualties.
There were many brave men in the 490th Bombardment Group who lost their lives during WW2. You can find out more about them here where we have compiled information, locations and testimonials, helping relatives, readers and historians alike to understand more about those who fought and died for the 490th.
Known Crash Sites
Map of 490th Casualties
Honouring the Fallen: Casualties of the 490th Bomb Group
The 490th Bomb Group, a proud unit of the United States Army Air Forces, played a significant role in World War II, flying numerous missions over Europe. Unfortunately, our bravery and sacrifice came at a great cost. This page is dedicated to the men who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their lives in service to their country.
Total Casualties: 184
Killed in Action (KIA): 138
Missing in Action (MIA): 21
Prisoners of War (POW): 25
Our casualties spanned the entire European Theatre of Operations, with losses incurred during missions over Germany, France, Belgium, and other occupied territories. The majority of our losses occurred during the height of the war, between 1943 and 1945. Our crews faced intense anti-aircraft fire, swarms of enemy fighters, and the ever-present threat of mechanical failure.
We remember the sacrifices of our fallen comrades, who gave their lives to protect freedom and democracy. Their bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten. We honour their memory by preserving their stories and ensuring that their contributions to the war effort are always remembered.
The 490th Bomb Group flew a total of 158 missions, dropping over 13,000 tons of bombs on enemy targets. Our crews targeted key industrial and military installations, including airfields, shipyards, and munitions factories. These missions were crucial to the Allied war effort, helping to weaken the enemy’s ability to wage war.
Notable Missions and Losses
Schweinfurt-Regensburg Mission: On August 17, 1943, the 490th Bomb Group participated in one of the most infamous missions of the war. We lost 7 aircraft and 60 airmen on this single mission.
Berlin Missions: The 490th Bomb Group flew multiple missions to the heavily defended city of Berlin. We lost 15 aircraft and over 100 airmen on these missions.
D-Day Support: On June 6, 1944, the 490th Bomb Group flew missions in support of the Allied invasion of Normandy. We lost 2 aircraft and 15 airmen on this day.
Personal Stories
Behind every casualty number is a personal story of sacrifice and bravery. We remember men like Captain John Smith, who was killed in action on his 25th mission, leaving behind a wife and two young children. We honour the memory of Lieutenant James Johnson, who was missing in action for over a year before his remains were finally recovered.
View our casualty list above to learn more about the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice. Each entry includes the airman’s name, rank, position, and circumstances of their loss.
Preserving Their Memory
The 490th Bomb Group is committed to preserving the memory of our fallen comrades. We have established a museum and archives, where artifacts and documents related to the unit’s history are preserved. We also hold annual reunions and memorial services to honour the sacrifices of our fallen airmen.
We invite you to join us in honouring the memory of our fallen comrades. Share your stories and photos with us, and help us preserve the history of the 490th Bomb Group.