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Question about SBD Dauntless in the Pacific

Discussion in 'Information Requests' started by TD-Tommy776, Jul 20, 2012.

  1. TD-Tommy776

    TD-Tommy776 Man of Constant Sorrow

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    I have been trying to determine how late into the War the Army Air Force used the SBD Dauntless. I recall reading somewhere that in early 1945 only Marine Aviation units were still using them, but I haven't been able to find that source again. That is why I am putting the question to you folks:

    How late into WW2 did the various US military branches (AAF, Marines, Navy) use the Dauntless for combat missions? Keep in mind that I am interested in the PTO, not the ETO even though that would also be interesting to know. :D
     
  2. LRusso216

    LRusso216 Graybeard Staff Member

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  3. Slipdigit

    Slipdigit Good Ol' Boy Staff Member WW2|ORG Editor

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    This article says the last Marine squadrons were folded up 1 Aug 1945.

    France used them until 1949.
     
  4. PzJgr

    PzJgr Drill Instructor

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    I could be wrong but I believe the Army Air Force was not a big supporter of the dive bomber. If they possessed them, I have not read where they were used in the war. As the war progressed, they turned to the fighter bomber (P-47) but left the bombing to the level bombers.
     
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  5. formerjughead

    formerjughead The Cooler King

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  6. muscogeemike

    muscogeemike Member

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  7. TD-Tommy776

    TD-Tommy776 Man of Constant Sorrow

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    Thanks guys! Looks like I get to do more reading. :hypnotize:

    And I finally remembered the reference I mentioned. Of course, it was on HyperWar:

    History of US Marine Corps Operations in World War II - Chapt. 3, Page 342
     

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