About this Unit
The 644th Bomb Squadron was an integral unit of the United States Army Air Forces, activated during World War II as part of the 410th Bombardment Group. Equipped primarily with the Douglas A-20 Havoc light bomber, the squadron participated in numerous tactical bombing missions across the European Theater, supporting Allied ground forces following the D-Day landings. The 644th played a key role in disrupting German supply lines, rail yards, and troop concentrations through precision low-level attacks. After the war, the squadron was inactivated in November 1945 as part of the general postwar drawdown of USAAF forces.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 644th Bombardment Squadron was activated on 1 July 1943 as part of the 410th Bombardment Group, flying the Douglas A-20 Havoc light bomber.
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European Theater Operations: The squadron deployed to England in early 1944 and participated in tactical bombing missions in support of the Normandy invasion (D-Day) and subsequent Allied advances.
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D-Day Support: On June 6, 1944, the 644th Bomb Sq flew low-level missions against enemy gun positions and transportation targets on the French coast, directly supporting Operation Overlord.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The squadron was awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation for its performance during a mission over France on August 7, 1944, when it attacked heavily defended German positions despite intense anti-aircraft fire.
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Battle of the Bulge: The 644th flew critical missions during the Battle of the Bulge, targeting German supply lines, bridges, and troop concentrations to slow the enemy advance in December 1944 and January 1945.
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Transition to A-26 Invader: In 1945, the squadron transitioned from the A-20 Havoc to the newer Douglas A-26 Invader, allowing for increased range and bomb load.
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Postwar Inactivation: After VE Day, the squadron returned to the United States and was inactivated on November 7, 1945, as part of the general demobilization of the USAAF.
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Redesignations: The squadron underwent several redesignations over the years, including as the 644th Bombardment Squadron, Light, and later as 644th Tactical Bombardment Squadron, reflecting changes in aircraft and mission.
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Unit Insignia: The squadron’s emblem featured a caricatured bomb-carrying bird, symbolizing speed and striking power, and was proudly displayed on its aircraft during WWII.
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Legacy and Honors: The 644th’s legacy is preserved in the lineage of successor Air Force Reserve units, and its history is commemorated in museums and veteran associations dedicated to the 410th Bomb Group.
