9th Troop Carrier Command

The 9th Troop Carrier Command of the United States Army Air Forces was activated in 1942 to organize, train, and coordinate air transport units assigned to support air and ground operations in the European theater. Its main mission was to transport troops, equipment, and paratroopers, as well as to tow gliders for airborne operations in direct support of Allied forces.

Deployed to Great Britain in 1943-1944, the 9th Troop Carrier Command participated in preparations for Operation Overlord, training and coordinating air transport units for the dropping of paratroopers and the towing of gliders during the invasion of Normandy. On June 6, 1944, its units were engaged in the airborne landing in Normandy, dropping troops behind enemy lines and supporting ground forces in securing bridgeheads.

After the landings, the 9th Troop Carrier Command continued its transport and logistical support missions throughout Normandy and northern France, facilitating the movement of troops and equipment for the advancing divisions. It also participated in tactical parachute operations and supported Allied offensives in Belgium and the Netherlands, notably during Operation Market Garden in September 1944, which consisted of troop drops and support for air and ground units in the northern Netherlands.

During the winter of 1944-1945, the 9th Troop Carrier Command was employed in operations related to the Battle of the Bulge, transporting reinforcements, supplies, and equipment to areas in difficulty. In 1945, it participated in logistical and airborne support missions during the final offensive in Germany, Operation Varsity, transporting troops and equipment to facilitate the crossing of the Rhine and the advance towards central Germany until the German surrender in May 1945.

After the end of hostilities, the command was tasked with transport and repatriation missions, including the movement of personnel and equipment, before being gradually deactivated.

The 9th Troop Carrier Command's service record covers the campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, the Netherlands, the Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe, with a central role in tactical air transport and support for American airborne operations throughout the conflict in Europe.