22nd Bombardment Group - Red Raiders of the Pacific
Honor the legacy of the Pacific War's heavy bomber crews. This premium t-shirt celebrates the 22nd Bombardment Group, 408th Bombardment Squadron—the "Red Raiders" who flew B-24 Liberators with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific Theater during World War II. From the aftermath of Pearl Harbor through the final victory over Japan, the 22nd Bomb Group struck at enemy targets across the vast Pacific, helping turn the tide of war. Featuring authentic 22nd BG insignia, this is apparel worthy of the Greatest Generation.
Premium Aviation Heritage Construction
- Authentic 22nd BG Design: Features the 22nd Bombardment Group Red Raiders insignia with pride
- Superior Fabric Quality: Premium materials engineered for durability and all-day comfort
- True-to-Size Fit: Precision-cut for a comfortable fit that honors the wearer
- Fade-Resistant Graphics: Advanced printing technology ensures lasting vibrancy through countless washes
- Reinforced Durability: Double-stitched construction built to last
From Peacetime to Pacific War
The 22nd Bombardment Group traces its roots to December 22, 1939, when it was formed as the 22nd Bombardment Group (Medium). The group became active on February 1, 1940, at Mitchell Field, New York, and moved to Langley Field, Virginia, in November 1940. On December 7, 1941, when Japanese carrier aircraft attacked Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, the 22nd Bomb Group was thrust into a global conflict that would define a generation.
The 408th Bombardment Squadron was one of the original squadrons of the 22nd Bomb Group, serving alongside the 2nd, 19th, and 33rd Bombardment Squadrons. These squadrons would fly thousands of combat missions throughout the Pacific War, operating the B-24 Liberator—the four-engine heavy bomber that became the workhorse of America's strategic bombing campaign against Imperial Japan.
B-24 Liberator Combat Operations
The 22nd Bombardment Group operated as part of the 5th Air Force, conducting strategic bombing missions against Japanese military installations, airfields, naval facilities, supply depots, and industrial targets throughout the Southwest Pacific. Flying from bases in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines, B-24 crews of the 408th Bombardment Squadron struck at the heart of Japanese military power in the region.
The B-24 Liberator was a formidable heavy bomber capable of carrying substantial bomb loads over the vast distances of the Pacific Theater—a critical capability when targets were separated by thousands of miles of ocean. The 408th Squadron's crews flew through tropical storms, faced Japanese fighter opposition and intense anti-aircraft fire, and navigated over endless expanses of water to deliver their ordnance on target and return home safely.
Red Raiders Combat Legacy
Known as the "Red Raiders," the 22nd Bombardment Group earned its reputation through relentless combat operations against Japanese forces. The group participated in major campaigns including the defense of Australia, the New Guinea campaign, the liberation of the Philippines, and the final air offensive against the Japanese home islands that brought the war to its conclusion.
The aircrews of the 408th Bombardment Squadron—pilots, co-pilots, navigators, bombardiers, flight engineers, radio operators, and gunners—faced the unique dangers of Pacific combat flying: mechanical failures over vast ocean distances, violent tropical weather, determined enemy fighter opposition, and heavy anti-aircraft fire. Their courage, skill, and determination helped achieve air superiority in the Pacific and contributed to the ultimate defeat of Imperial Japan.
Built for Aviation Heritage Enthusiasts
This isn't mass-produced military merchandise. It's premium apparel designed for those who understand and appreciate the 22nd Bombardment Group's legacy—whether you're a descendant of a 408th BS crew member, a B-24 Liberator enthusiast, a Pacific War historian, or simply someone who honors the sacrifice and courage of WWII aircrews who fought in the Pacific Theater.
Perfect For:
- 22nd Bombardment Group descendants and families
- 408th Bombardment Squadron veterans and supporters
- B-24 Liberator and heavy bomber enthusiasts
- 5th Air Force and Pacific War historians
- WWII aviation collectors and heritage supporters
- Airshow attendees and warbird fans
Honor the Red Raiders. Remember the Pacific War. Celebrate the Greatest Generation.
22nd Bombardment Group | 408th Bomb Squadron | B-24 Liberator | 5th Air Force | Premium WWII Aviation Apparel