Popular Mission

A new kind of war fraternity—one that Eleazar would have hailed—was recently inspired by the heartfelt appreciation on the part of bombers for the help of fighter escorts during the 15th Air Force raids over southern Germany and celebrated in a successful land mission attack on a case of rum. The idea of a land-mission attack on a case of rum was offered by Lt. Col. Frederick C. Eaton '4O after "the gang suddenly noticed that the unanimous comment among the bombers seemed to be, 'Thank God for those fighter boys.' We thought something should be done about it."

The unique orders for the night's mission of March 8 summoned bomber crews and fighter pilots to rendezvous in the mess hall of the bomber group, and read in part (UNCENSORED): "Officers of this heavy bombardment group will attack and destroy a case of rum. Maximum long-range drinkers of the group will destroy the target under cover of the groups and squadron commanders of these several fighter groups. Alternate target: Any other drinking material in sight. Order of flight: First come, first served. Axis of attack: Rightside up. Target time: The sooner the better. The bomber call sign will be 'Give me another.' The fighter call sign will be 'Fill her up.' Standard drinking procedure will be observed."

The mission was carried out to the letter.