Browse Items (43 total)

This photograph was taken just after Colonel Laughlin's marriage to Audrey Jean McElroy in late 1945, after his return from the war. It is one of the few times he is seen out of uniform.

In this article, the recent successes of Colonel Joseph Laughlin in France are described. It includes the details behind a Ninth Air Force record-setting flight that was Colonel Laughlin's idea as payback to the Nazis for all that they had done so…

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.

After the 362nd Group Commander, Colonel Magoffin, was shot down on August 10, 1944, Colonel Laughlin was named the new group commander. This move became permanent when Colonel Magoffin was not allowed to return to duty due to his POW status. After…

Inside the briefing tent at Étain, France, Colonel Magoffin insisted on pinning the eagles onto his replacement, Colonel Laughlin.

Colonel Laughlin gives a toothy grin as he settles into the cockpit of his P-47. Notice the suit and tie visible under his flight suit.

Colonel Laughlin "acquired" a black Cocker Spaniel in England. After naming him Prince, he made sure to bring the dog to every base they were stationed at throughout France and Germany. As Prince would roam the camps and airstrips, Colonel Laughlin…

This article, from a newspaper in Ohio, tells the story of a local pilot getting shot down in the Battle of Bastogne, but insisting on getting back to base as he was expecting to hear news that he was a father. This airman, 1st Lt. Duane E. Oyster,…