8th United States Army Air Force in Britain (1942 - 1945). 'The Yanks are Coming | Education Video by World of Military

<p>8TH AIR FORCE</p><p>The Eighth Bomber Command (re-designated 8th AF in February 1944) was activated as part of the U.S. Army Air Forces on January 28, 1942. Brigadier General Ira C. Eaker relocated the headquarters to England in February 1942 to prepare for its mission of conducting aerial bombardment missions against Nazi-occupied Europe.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During World War II, under the leadership of such Generals as Eaker and Jimmy Doolittle, the 8th AF became the greatest air armada in history. By mid-1944, the 8th AF had reached a total strength of more than 200,000 people. At its peak, the 8th AF had the ability to launch more than 2,000 four-engine bombers and 1,000 fighters on a single mission. For those reasons, the 8th AF became known as the "Mighty Eighth".</p><p><br></p><p>The Mighty Eighth compiled an impressive record during the war. This achievement, however, carried a high price. The 8th AF suffered one-half of the U.S. Army Air Forces’ casualties in World War II (47,000-plus casualties with more than 26,000 deaths).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Awards earned by personnel of 8th Air Force:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>17 Medals of Honor</p><p>220 Distinguished Service Crosses</p><p>