Embedded Files
384th Bomb Group: Stories of Service
One of the ways that the Association keeps the 384th's legacy alive for today's families is through the art of storytelling. Through our unwavering commitment to historical preservation, and through the sharing of these personal narratives, we serve as a vital bridge between generations. We honor the legacy of every individual who served with the 384th Bomb Group.
From the commanding officers who led the way, to the pilots in the cockpit, to the ground crew and support personnel whose tireless work made every mission possible, we ensure that the courage and sacrifices of all of these men are not just preserved, but truly understoof and remembered by their families and the world.
Read their stories below and join us in honoring their enduring legacy.
Colonel Budd John Peaslee
Colonel Budd John Peaslee was one of the first to be assigned to the 384th Bomb Group. He was the group's first commanding officer, and he assumed command on May 29, 1943.
Major William "Pop" Dolan
Major William Edward "Pop" Dolan served as Intelligence Officer and Station Photographic Officer, and he remained with the 384th throughout the duration of the war.
Major Selden McMillin
Major Selden Longley McMillin served as Deputy Group Commander and pilot for the 384th Bomb Group. The legacy of the Group is in large part linked to McMillin and his words, "Keep the show on the road."
Group Chaplains
Chaplain Dayle Schnelle, Father Method Billy, and Father Herbert Butterbach served as the Group's chaplains. They helped the Group through the darkest days of war, and their contributions were profound.
S/Sgt. William Bodenschatz
S/Sgt. William John Bodenschatz served as parachute shop supervisor for the 443rd Sub-Depot, one of the Group's support units. His precision and care directly saved the lives of over 1,000 men from the Group.
2nd Lt. Robert Griffin Crew
2nd Lt. Robert Griffin and his crew were killed in action on March 19, 1945 on board B-17G 43‑39035. They crashed into Reigate Hill as a result of cloud coverage and poor weather conditions.
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