WWII Bomber Pilot Visits Old Squadron
by U.S. Air Force SrA William Lunn
September 17, 2024 Team McConnell welcomed the return of WWII bomber pilot retired Maj. John “Lucky” Luckadoo during a visit to McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas on September 6, 2024. 
September 6, 2024 - Retired Maj. John “Lucky” Luckadoo takes a tour of a KC-135 Stratotanker at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. Luckadoo was stationed at McConnell during World War II in the 350th Bomb Squadron. The visit reminded future generations of the sacrifices made by his generation. (Image created by USA Patriotism! from U.S. Air Force photo by SrA William Lunn.)
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Luckadoo, a distinguished pilot in the 100th Bomb Group, also known as the “Bloody Hundredth,” was stationed during the war in the 350th Bomb Squadron, which was later redesignated as the 350th Air Refueling Squadron. He completed 25 missions in the B-17 Flying Fortress and was among the brave few who defied the grim survival rates of bomber crews during the war.
“Maj. Luckadoo was a part of the 350th in World War II so in it was an honor to manage the reintegration process to formally welcome him back to the squadron,” said 1st Lt. Matthew Mickey, 350th Air Refueling Squadron pilot.
His visit commenced with Luckadoo speaking to Team McConnell about his time flying the B-17 and the aerial combat he faced as a pilot. His most dangerous missions involved flying bombers over Nazi-occupied Europe, where he faced relentless anti-aircraft fire, enemy fighters and harsh weather conditions. Despite the constant danger and witnessing many of his comrades being shot down, Luckadoo survived.
An Airman from the 22nd Air Refueling Wing asked Lucky about his favorite moment as a pilot in the Air Force, “The moment I knew it was over, I got out of my bomber and kissed the ground,” he replied.
With every question, the retired Airman passed on knowledge about how to carry on the mission even when you’re at a disadvantage.
“Being able to speak to that many people in this generation was really special and I’m grateful for this opportunity,” said Luckadoo. “I hope all the Airmen got some insight on what we did and why we did it how we did it.”
Pilots and boom operators from the 350th toured Lucky around a KC-135 Stratotanker. They showed him the cockpit, the controls and the boom pod, explaining how they operate.
“Being in the cockpit of the KC-135 was very reminiscent of being in a B-17,” said Luckadoo. “Our technology at the time was so primitive compared to now, but it definitely was enough to bring back some memories. They both were significant contributors to the Air Force, and it was privilege to be in a cockpit once again.”
He then returned to his old squadron where he conducted a reenlistment for a Master Sgt. reading off the oath and signing paperwork for it afterward. 
September 6, 2024 - Retired Maj. John “Lucky” Luckadoo conducts an oath of reenlistment ceremony for a Master Sgt. during his visit at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. Luckadoo was stationed at McConnell during World War II in the 350th Bomb Squadron. The visit reminded future generations of the sacrifices made by his generation. (Image created by USA Patriotism! from U.S. Air Force photo by SrA William Lunn.)
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“The dedication and the passion that McConnell Airmen have for their mission, equipment and comraderie is extremely admirable,” said Luckadoo. “It gives me confidence that the current generation can carry on the tradition and legend of service to the country.” Our Valiant Troops | I Am The One | Veterans | Citizens Like Us U.S. Air Force | Air National Guard | U.S. Air Force Gifts | U.S. Department of Defense |
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