716th Bomb Squadron — 449th Bomb Group, 15th Air Force
They flew through flak-filled skies over Ploesti, Vienna, and Munich. Now you can carry their legacy.
This premium apparel collection honors the 716th Bomb Squadron, 449th Bomb Group (Heavy), 15th Air Force, Army Air Corps — the B-24 Liberator crews who flew strategic bombing missions over Nazi-occupied Europe from Grottaglie, Italy, beginning January 1944.
Why This Piece Matters
- Authentic Squadron Insignia: Historically accurate design honoring the 449th Bomb Group's WWII service
- Three Premium Styles: Classic Tee, Premium Tee, and Hoodie — all crafted from quality materials built to last
- True-to-Size Comfort: Designed for everyday wear with a comfortable, reliable fit across all sizes
- Distinguished Unit Citation: Honors a unit recognized for extraordinary heroism — the Ploesti oil field raids
The Story Behind the Insignia
The 449th Bomb Group flew some of the most dangerous missions of World War II — targeting oil refineries, aircraft factories, and marshalling yards across Germany, Austria, and Romania. The 716th Bomb Squadron was one of four squadrons that made it happen. Crews faced relentless anti-aircraft fire, enemy fighters, and mechanical failure over hostile territory — every mission a testament to courage under fire.
Operating from Grottaglie, Italy, as part of the 15th Air Force, the 449th Bomb Group earned its Distinguished Unit Citation for its role in the crucial bombing of the Ploesti oil fields — one of the most heavily defended targets in all of Europe. The sacrifice of these airmen helped bring about the defeat of Nazi Germany.
For WWII veterans' families, aviation historians, 15th Air Force alumni, and those who believe history deserves to be worn — not forgotten.
Strategic bombing. Courage over Europe. Wear history with pride.