Jake takes in a play and names his airplane

[mgc1961]

Unfortunately, I don't have any photos of nose art. They may not have painted their airplane like so many other crews did.

This V-mail was written on 26 January 1944 and postmarked on 06 February 1944.

From 730th Bomber Squadron 452nd Bomber Group

Still in England

Dearest Dad,

I haven't heard from you. One letter from Sister came today. Jessie's came two days ago. The mail system is quite bad now. It took 12 days for one letter to come to me.

The new name of my ship is Panda-monium. Which means, things confused in general. We have a small panda for a mascot.

Everything is quiet over here, so far. I can't say when but I'll be glad when things get going.

I visited Liverpool and had a fine time. I would see more of this country if I had the time.

Write soon.

Love to all,

Jake S. Colvin

This letter was postmarked 29 January 1944.

From 730th Bomber Squadron 452nd Bomber Group

Thursday

Dearest Dad,

I ave been writing V-Mail letters to keep you posted. I can't say much in the short space allotted. To tell the truth, I can't say much anyway.

The food is still good and the post is not too bad. It will take time to prepare it to our taste. It has been warmer for the last few days. Hope it stays that way for awhile.

My trip to Liverpool was really nice. We saw a lot of what we read about in the papers. The play Babes in the Wood was something really different. I wish you and Mother could have seen it.

I have been flying a little. The ship is really a beauty and is in fine shape. It should take me through 25 missions without any trouble.

I don't guess you have heard anymore from anyone concerning Chuck. I would like for you to send me his squadron and group number and, if possible, where he was stationed. There is no telling where he could be, but if he has been stationed near here I could at least try to find out something.

Tell all the folks hello and be sure and tell Mrs. Banks that her card was beautiful and muchly appreciated. I got a nice letter from Fred DuBard too. It's good to know that people are thinking about me at home.

From what I can find out Masons are rather strong over here. I haven't met any members except the ones in my own group, but I'm going to try to go to some of the meetings.

Well, Dad, don't worry about me. I will be home before too long. Give my love to all.

Your devoted son,

Jake Jr.

[Historic NY]

1. Somewhere out there a "nose art" photo exists....

here is what the bomb group planes looked like the 452nd was radio call sign "Spencer" .
I know Panda-monium is listed. I had an old 8th Col. who lived in Town he was responsible for most of the USAAC nose art photos published, sadly he passed don't know where his stuff went.

730th Bomber Squadron 452nd Bomber Group
http://www.8thafhs.org/bomber/452bg.htm

their forum should be helpful
http://forum.armyairforces.com/f68.aspx

[mgc1961]

2. Thank you.

I have a photo of the airplane in which Jake actually went down, but I'd be really interested in knowing if his primary aircraft had nose art too.

[Historic NY]

3. tail numbers - tailnumbers see if you can see them...

they are like license plates.

I've sent you a pm.....perhaps its info you haven't seen.