The Last Survivor: A Glimpse into the 100th Bomb Group

The Legacy of the 100th Bomb Group

In the annals of World War II history, the 100th Bomb Group stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the American bomber boys who took to the skies against Nazi Germany. Their harrowing experiences and valiant efforts have been immortalized in the upcoming Apple series, Masters of the Air, produced by the iconic duo Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks. The series, based on the book Masters of the Air: America's Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany by Donald L. Miller, offers a poignant portrayal of the group's trials and tribulations.

Raff Law as Ken Lemmons in Masters of the Air

The 100th Bomb Group, known for their formidable B-17 Flying Fortress bombers, played a pivotal role in the Allied air campaign during World War II. Their courageous missions and the sacrifices of their members have left an indelible mark on history, earning them the moniker 'The Bloody Hundredth' due to the heavy losses they endured. The group's legacy lives on through the compelling narratives of their experiences, shedding light on the untold stories of resilience, camaraderie, and heroism amidst the chaos of war.

Pilots waving and standing together in Masters of the Air

John 'Lucky' Luckadoo: The Last Survivor

As of the present year, the legacy of the 100th Bomb Group is embodied by one remarkable individual, John Luckadoo, affectionately known as 'Lucky.' Luckadoo's journey began at the tender age of nineteen when he enlisted in the U.S. Army and embarked on a courageous odyssey as a pilot with the 100th Bomb Group. His unwavering courage and resilience were exemplified through 25 combat missions, etching his name in the annals of history as a true American hero.

Austin Butler in Masters of the Air.

Following his service in the 100th Bomb Group, Luckadoo ventured into civilian life, embracing the roles of husband, father, and property developer. Despite the passage of time, he remained reticent about his wartime experiences until the 1980s when he took on the noble endeavor of sharing his stories with younger generations. This culminated in the publication of his memoir, Damn Lucky, co-authored with war correspondent Kevin Maurer. The book serves as a poignant chronicle of Luckadoo's time with the 100th Bomb Group, offering a profound insight into the tragedies and triumphs that defined their wartime endeavors.

Austin Butler as Buck Cleven Masters of the Air

In 2023, Luckadoo celebrated a remarkable milestone as he marked his 101st birthday, a testament to his enduring spirit and resilience. As of January 2024, he resides in the Presbyterian Village North in Dallas, Texas, embodying the living legacy of the 100th Bomb Group and serving as a poignant symbol of remembrance for a bygone era of valor and sacrifice.

Anthony Boyle as Harry Crosby in Masters of the Air

Masters of the Air: A Tribute to Unsung Heroes

The forthcoming series, Masters of the Air, not only pays homage to the collective valor of the 100th Bomb Group but also serves as a poignant tribute to the unsung heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. Through its captivating portrayal of the group's trials and tribulations, the series offers a compelling narrative that immortalizes the indomitable spirit of the bomber boys and the enduring legacy of their contributions to the Allied cause.

Austin Butler and Callum Turner in Masters of the Air

While the series depicts the remarkable feats and heart-wrenching ordeals of the 100th Bomb Group, it also sheds light on the profound impact of their experiences on individual lives. The stories of courage, loss, and resilience resonate through the characters, paying homage to those who served and sacrificed in the name of freedom. The series serves as a timeless reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the enduring legacy of the 100th Bomb Group, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Masters of the Air Episode 2 Cast