398th Mission Data Files
As follows is a table which provides access and associated pointers to detailed 398th Mission data. At this stage, not all data files associated with our 195 missions have been uploaded. But those that are can be found in the column labeled: 398th Data File. Links in that file will provide downloadable .pdf files for one or more 398th missions.
Each of these files contain a large number of files, generally numbering in the 500+ range. The source data are the 398th Maxwell Records. These "Official WWII 8th AAF 398th Bomb Group Historical Data" are part of the 8th AAF Maxwell AFB Records and are also available on Microfilm. These are referred commonly referred to as the Maxwell Records.
Some of the more interesting and desireable data items are listed in the additional columns. These are:
- The Flight Log - which list the pilots name and takeoff and landing times. It is useful for quickly identifying which pilots and aircraft flew that day
- Squadron Load List - usually 1-2 sheets for each squadron which show the crews which flew that day
- Interrogation Reports - lists for each crew along with information about the mission. A secondary source for who flew on a mission should the Load List be unreadable. Interrogation Reports are only available from May to about September 1944 when they were stopped.
- Operations Officer's Report - an overview of the mission for each Squadron
Unfortunately, many of the records are very hard to read and many are unreadable. However, with patience key parts can many times be figured out. Sometimes the original Microfilm is a little better and can be ordered an viewed at your local library. But these on-line records are a good place to start.