There are several symbols or insignia associated with the 384th Bombardment Group. The most prominent is probably the “Triangle P” symbol painted on the tail of the 384th’s B-17s. VIII Bomber command developed group recognition symbols in mid-1943. The 384th was assigned the “Triangle P” symbol, likely in honor of the 384th’s first commander, Col. Budd J. Peaslee.
Triangle P Insignia from the 384th Bomb Group Wing Panel
The 384th also had a group motto. It seems that originally, the group’s motto was “Veni Vidi Vici,” meaning “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
Col. Budd J. Peaslee wearing 384th Bomb Group motto patch. The patch reads “Veni Vidi Vici,” meaning “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
However, the group changed their motto after Group Deputy CO, Major Selden L. McMillin, better known as “Major Mac,” was shot down on the group’s second mission. After a crash landing in Holland, the crew was taken prisoner. In a postcard back to the base, Major Mac told Col. Peaslee to “Keep the Show on the Road.”
384th Bomb Group’s Insignia from the Wing Panel
Each of the bomb squadrons – the 544th, 545th, 546th, and 547th – also had their own symbols.
544th Bomb Squad Insignia from the 384th Bomb Group Wing Panel
545th Bomb Squad Insignia from the 384th Bomb Group Wing Panel
546th Bomb Squad Insignia from the 384th Bomb Group Wing Panel
547th Bomb Squad Insignia from the 384th Bomb Group Wing Panel
And of course the symbol of the Mighty 8th Air Force, of which the 384th Bomb Group was a part, is shown off nicely in this patch:
Mighty Eighth Air Force Patch
Thanks to the 384th Bomb Group for sharing their wealth of information and photos.
© Cindy Farrar Bryan and The Arrowhead Club, 2015
The Arrowhead Club 