This article describes the steps that 4 Nebraskans, including Joseph Laughlin, had to complete in order to be eligible to get their wings. It also describes the air corps program under which the new pilots were sought, as the Army Air Corps realized…
In this article taken from the Associated Press, the 362nd received their second Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in Germany.
In this article, Colonel Laughlin describes what he sees on the ground after his 362nd Fighter Group bombed and strafed a region outside Mainz in Germany.
An unknown newspaper announcing that Colonel Laughlin would be receiving a German Officer's pistol. The pistol was one of thousands turned over when 20,000 German soldiers surrendered, a feat Colonel Laughlin and the 362nd were credited with helping…
A Nebraska newspaper announces that Colonel Laughlin has received the Distinguished Flying Cross while he was stationed in England. The citation states that his proficient and aggressive manner has helped him lead his men against the enemy.
This Nebraska newspaper announces the Croix de Guerre medal has been awarded to Colonel Laughlin for meritorious service. This is after the 362nd had just received their second Presidential Unit Citation.
This article announces the return of Colonel Laughlin stateside after V-J day. It gives a brief overview of his time in the Pacific and European Theaters of Operation.
This article describes the attack at Brest Harbor, including the destruction of a German Light Cruiser that was credited to Colonel Laughlin. No aircraft were lost in the bombing of the Cruiser and 14 additional merchant vessels.
The before and after shots of the Linder Dam show the short term effect of the damage done by squadrons of the 362nd Fighter Group. The 378th and 379th squadrons took part in the bombings, with Colonel Laughlin leading the way. The pilots were…