IX Engineer Command

One pass over the enemy field was not enough, for the engineer-observer required at least two "deck-level" passes at a constant rate of speed straight down the center line in order to calculate the runway length. Even in a fast Lightning, enemy ack-ack sometimes pierced the Droop-Snoot with "beaucoup" shell holes before the mission was completed.

This aerial reconnaissance provided the command with information of the greatest importance on these airfields. It kept the engineers informed of the suitability of various airfields for rehabilitation before they had been taken from the enemy.

This has been the story of the aviation engineers in Germany. A story of quick adjustment, hard work, and great accomplishment. Throughout the S and E campaign our armies were quick to praise the engineers, but top praise came from their tall, trim, grey-but-youthful commander, Brigadier General Newman, who upon inspecting this work had occasion to say, "I have been prouder of the command in these recent days than ever before, and that's saying a great deal because I have always been proud of this organization".