B-29 15 of the 19th Bomb Group
Standardization of Unit Markings
Initially, B-29 unit markings were not standardized and varied from group to group. This was particularly true of the 58th Bombardment Wing (BW), which was the first group to operate the B-29. The 58th BW was equipped with B-29s that were carried by the remainder of the early units upon arrival in India, and which remained the case for a number of weeks during this equipment phase. For example, in early 1945, the 444th Bomb Group (BG), part of the 58th BW, marked its aircraft with three vertical rudder stripes, while the 462nd BG, also part of the 58th, used a belly band just aft of the national insignia on the fuselage. Squadrons within these groups were identified by color: red for the 676th Bomb Squadron (BS), blue for the 793rd BS, yellow for the 45th BS, and green for the 794th BS. Individual aircraft were often further distinguished by nose art.
The lack of a standardized system made it difficult to quickly identify aircraft, especially during combat. The USAAF recognized this problem and began experimenting with different marking schemes.
One of the earliest attempts at standardization occurred in the 73rd Bomb Wing. In late 1944, the 73rd BW began using a simple system of squares and numbers to identify its groups and squadrons.
The first truly standardized system was introduced by the 313th BW in early 1945. This system involved the use of a large geometric device on the tail, with a group letter inside.
For example, the 6th BG used an “L” in a triangle, the 9th BG used an “X” in a circle, the 504th BG used an “E” in a diamond, and the 505th BG used a “W” in a square.
The system also included the last four digits of the aircraft’s radio call number on the vertical tail, and a squadron number inside the geometric shape.
- This allowed for the identification of individual aircraft within a squadron.
The 313th BW’s system was adopted by other bomb wings in the 20th Air Force, becoming the standard marking scheme for all B-29s by April 1945.
Reasons for Standardization
The need for a standardized system of unit markings on the B-29 during World War II stemmed from several factors:
Improved Aircraft Recognition: As the number of B-29s in service increased, it became crucial to be able to quickly and accurately identify friendly aircraft, especially in combat situations.
- The early lack of a standardized system led to confusion and potentially dangerous situations, with American crews often misidentifying all enemy fighters as “Zeros.”
Enhanced Operational Efficiency: A clear and consistent marking system helped to streamline operations, particularly in the vast and complex Pacific Theater.
- It allowed for easier formation assembly, rendezvous procedures, and coordination of attacks.
Boosting Unit Cohesion and Morale: Standardized markings fostered a sense of unity and pride among B-29 crews and ground personnel.
- The adoption of group and squadron emblems on the aircraft further reinforced this sense of belonging and esprit de corps.
Implementation of the Standardized System
The implementation of the standardized unit marking system for the B-29 involved a transitional period where older markings were gradually replaced.
Some units, like the 462nd BG, retained elements of their previous markings even after the introduction of the standardized system.
The application of the new markings also varied somewhat between aircraft and units, with some units adopting a more stylized approach while others adhered to a more strict interpretation of the guidelines.
The standardization of markings on the B-29 was an important step in the development of the USAAF’s strategic bombing capability. It helped to improve the effectiveness and safety of B-29 operations, and contributed to the eventual victory over Japan.