On April 25th, 1945, the 15th Air Force launched the last mass bombing raid in the war in Europe, on Hitler's self-declared hometown of Linz, Austria. This strategically-important transportation hub was also the location where Hitler dreamed of creating a shrine to himself and Nazism, in the form of museums, monuments, (stolen) art collections, and eventually his grave.

Mike Croissant, author and retired CIA analyst, discusses the raid with John Moser, as the two review the closing days of the war, the dangers of American daylight bombing, and the tragic end to the life of Croissant's uncle, who fly in the raid and was the inspiration for the book.

If the courage and stories of the 'Greatest Generation' interest and inspire you, take the time to listen to this episode, and check out Mike's book, out now: https://a.co/d/0Pnycx3

Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea

#ww2 #15tairforce #europe #secondworldwar #strategicbombing

00:01 Exploring the untold story of a WWII bombing raid on Hitler's hometown through a retired CIA officer's personal journey of family mystery and historical investigation.

04:27 Piecing together WWII bombing missions leads to a deep dive into the horrific raid on Hitler's hometown, Lind, Austria, resulting in a decade-long research endeavor and the forthcoming publication of a book revealing the city's significance in Nazi plans for cultural domination and wartime production.

08:42 The 15th Air Force faces a staggering increase in anti-aircraft defenses during their harrowing mission to bomb Lind, Austria, a pivotal target crucial to the German war effort in the waning days of World War II, highlighting the intense aerial battles and strategic importance of the raid.

13:03 During the harrowing mission over the Alps and towards Lind, bombers faced extreme conditions and fierce anti-aircraft fire, marking the last mass bomber raid of World War II in Europe and emphasizing the significance of strategic targets in the final days of the conflict.

21:27 The return journey of Allied prisoners of war from the Soviet Ukraine to Italy unveils harrowing tales of survival, abuse, and encounters with outraged civilians, highlighting the mixed treatment of captured bomber crews by German forces during World War II.

25:48 Exploring the tragic fate of a bomber crew member, the author uncovers the neglected maintenance and pilot error that led to a fatal plane crash, shedding light on the personal sacrifices and enduring trauma endured by World War II aviators.

30:06 Delving into the profound impact of war on a young bomber crew member, the author uncovers the enduring struggle with trauma and the eventual journey towards peace, offering insight into the often-silent sacrifices of World War II veterans.