After the first few months in which the Americans began their bombing missions against Germany, a significant increase in cases of what became known as "flight fatigue" began to be recorded.
It basically consisted of a mental breakdown that prevented members of an air crew from continuing to fly. This was not a moral problem. The men were simply exhausted.
It was concluded that lacking a clear goal led them to think that they would be flying until they were finally shot down, which was extremely discouraging.
To correct this situation, it was decided to establish a maximum number of 25 missions. After completing those 25, the airmen would be assigned to the United States or assigned a ground position in England.
In March 1944, the number increased to 30 and in July to 35. They did not want to do without them when they had more experience.
The chances of completing the new combat turn were at that time only 20%. Not at all encouraging, but at least a glimmer of hope.
War Academy
American aviation flight fatigue World War II.
After the first few months in which the Americans began their bombing missions against Germany, a significant increase in cases of what became known as "flight fatigue" began to be recorded.
It basically consisted of a mental breakdown that prevented members of an air crew from continuing to fly. This was not a moral problem. The men were simply exhausted.
It was concluded that lacking a clear goal led them to think that they would be flying until they were finally shot down, which was extremely discouraging.
To correct this situation, it was decided to establish a maximum number of 25 missions. After completing those 25, the airmen would be assigned to the United States or assigned a ground position in England.
In March 1944, the number increased to 30 and in July to 35. They did not want to do without them when they had more experience.
The chances of completing the new combat turn were at that time only 20%. Not at all encouraging, but at least a glimmer of hope.
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