Heroes of the Skies: The Yugoslav Detachment (1942-1945)

Reprinted from the September/October 1992 issue of Serb World USA.

August 27, 1944- Lt. Colonel Richard Fellows, then commanding officer of the 376th Heavy Bomb Group (H) paid a tribute to the men of the Yugoslavian Air Force Detachment. The tribute, given by the colonel in the form of a commendation read as follows:

Headquarters- 376th Bomb Group (H) AAF
It is desired to commend the Royal Yugoslavian Air Force detachment, attached to the 512th sqadron of the 376th Bomb Group (Heavy) and the 15th AF for outstanding performance of duty in action in strategic support of allied forces in the Mediterranean theater.

From November 1943 to August 1944- four (4) crews made up of forty (40) Officers and Enlisted men forming the Detachment flew regular and frequent combat missions attacking vital enemy installations; exhibiting the greatest bravery, stamina and skill completing eighty eight (88) successful missions. During this period the Detachment lost three (3) of thier B-24 aircraft, and sacrificed three of their four crews, all lost over enemy targets. The Royal Yugoslavian Air Force Detachments by its actions has constantly given its utmost in devotion to duty for the allied cause, and wil always be worthy of emulation.
R.W Fellows, Lt. Col.
Air Corps, Commanding 

1) 1st Lt. Vladislav G. Radovich- navigator, 2) unknown, 3) unknown, 4) unknown, 5) Capt. Voyislav N. Skakich- pilot, 6) Major John T. Snyder, 7) unknown, 8) 2nd Lt. Deyan D. Radich- engineer, 9) 2nd Lt. Aurel T. Trailov- gunner, 10) T/Sgt. Viktor A. Starc- gunner, 11) 1st Lt. Momchillo M. Markovich- bombardier, 12) 2nd Lt. Dragomir V. Vidanovich- radio operator