General Curtis LeMay wrote in a commendation to "All Former Members of the 500th Bombardment Group,"
I consider it a privilege to be able to convey my personal appreciation to the ex-members of the
500th Bombardment Group for a job well done. Men of your courage, resourcefulness, and determination enabled the B-29s to
lay waste to the heart of the Japanese homeland and thus hasten the close of World War II.
Whether you are now in uniform or have returned to your civilian occupation, the history of the "Fighting
500th" will remain a symbol of your united and worthy contribution to the defeat of the Japanese Empire.
May history also serve as a tribute in memory of those departed members of your group who were not
permitted to share in the glorious victory.
Curtis E. LeMay
Major General
