Major John Clarence Egan stands as a central figure in the annals of World War II aviation history, particularly within the famed 100th Bomb Group, known as the “Bloody Hundredth.” His service, rising from Air Executive to Commander of the 418th Bomb Squadron, embodies courage, leadership, and the profound bonds forged amidst the harrowing skies over Europe. Recently brought to life in the acclaimed series “Masters of the Air,” Major John Egan’s story continues to resonate, offering a glimpse into the realities faced by WWII airmen and their unwavering spirit.
Born on September 9, 1915, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, John C. Egan’s path to becoming a decorated Air Force officer began in March 1940 when he enrolled as a Flying Cadet. His journey through flight training would intertwine with that of Gale “Buck” Cleven, a friendship that would become legendary within the 100th Bomb Group and beyond. From Randolph Field to Kelly Field in Texas, Egan, alongside Cleven and Ollen Turner, honed his skills, graduating as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Corps Reserve on November 15, 1940. This marked the formal commencement of Major John Egan’s dedicated service to his country.
His early career progression was swift and demanding. Promotions came steadily: First Lieutenant in April 1942 and Captain by August of the same year. During this period, Egan served as an instructor at McDill AAF with Cleven and William Veal, shaping the next generation of pilots. October 1942 saw him assigned as Operations Officer for the newly formed 100th Bomb Group (H) at Gowan Field, Boise, Idaho. This assignment was a pivotal moment, setting the stage for his crucial role in one of WWII’s most storied bomber groups. The 100th Bomb Group moved through various bases – Walla Walla AAF, Wendover AAF, and Sioux City, Iowa, where Egan was promoted to Major in January 1943 – before deploying to Kearny, Nebraska, and finally to England.
An image capturing Major John Egan wearing his iconic fleece-lined flight jacket, a garment he cherished and was frequently seen in throughout his service with the 100th Bomb Group.
May 1943 marked Major John Egan’s arrival in England with the advance party, tasked with preparing the base at Podington for the 100th Bomb Group’s arrival. Even before his group was fully operational, Egan was eager to engage in combat. He flew two missions in May 1943 with Lt. McDaniel from the 305th Bomb Group, gaining valuable combat experience. By June 1943, Major John Egan assumed command of the 418th Bomb Squadron, stepping into a critical leadership role within the “Bloody Hundredth” as they began their campaign against Nazi Germany.
Major Egan’s combat record with the 100th Bomb Group is characterized by both bravery and the grim realities of aerial warfare. He participated in numerous high-stakes missions, including raids on La Pallice, Le Bourget, Kiel, and Regensburg. On October 10, 1943, Major John Egan led the mission to Munster. This mission would prove to be a turning point in his war experience. Flying as a co-pilot with the John Brady crew in the B-17 “M’lle Zig Zig,” Egan’s aircraft was struck by flak near the Initial Point. Sgt. Harold E. Clanton, a waist gunner, was killed, and bombardier Howard Hamilton and ball turret gunner Roland Gangwer were seriously wounded. Despite the damage and casualties, the surviving crew managed to bail out, only to be captured by German forces. This mission resulted in Major John Egan becoming a prisoner of war at Stalag Luft III, a notorious POW camp for captured Allied airmen.
A photograph of John “Buck” Cleven and John “Bucky” Egan during their flight training days, highlighting the beginning of their enduring friendship that lasted through war and beyond.
The capture of Major John Egan occurred just two days after his close friend, Buck Cleven, was shot down over Bremen. As Cleven recounted, upon Egan’s arrival at Stalag Luft III, Cleven greeted him with, “What the Hell took you so long?” to which Egan famously replied, “That’s what I get for being sentimental!” This exchange encapsulates the dark humor and resilient camaraderie that helped these men endure their captivity. Egan and Cleven’s bond, forged in flight training where Egan playfully nicknamed Cleven “Buck,” deepened throughout the war and their shared POW experience. Cleven described Major John Egan as a “quite person who was quick witted and a good drinker — a very likeable individual,” revealing a personality that endeared him to his fellow airmen. Anecdotes from their time as POWs, such as the story of the bug-infested mattresses and Egan’s humorous observation of “strange things going on,” further illustrate their ability to find levity in dire circumstances.
Even in captivity, Major John Egan’s leadership qualities shone through. He and Cleven remained roommates at Stalag Luft III, supporting each other through the hardships of imprisonment. Their shared experiences, from the skies over Germany to the confines of a POW camp, solidified a friendship that transcended the war.
Following his release from Stalag Luft III in April 1945, Major John Egan initially volunteered for service in the Pacific theater, demonstrating his continued commitment to the war effort. However, he remained stateside and married Josephine Pitz in December 1945. His wedding was attended by Buck and Marjorie Cleven, and Bernard DeMarco, signifying the enduring bonds formed within the 100th Bomb Group. Josephine herself was a pilot, serving as a WASP during WWII, further cementing their shared dedication to aviation and service.
Annie Egan, daughter of Major John Egan, pictured with Austin Butler, the actor portraying Buck Cleven in “Masters of the Air,” connecting the legacy of the WWII airmen to the contemporary retelling of their stories.
Major John Egan continued his military career after the war, graduating from Georgetown University in 1948 and being promoted to Colonel in 1951. He served in the Korean War as commander of the 67th Reconnaissance Group, flying B-26 bombers in support missions. Later, he became director of operations for the Pacific Air Force in Hawaii. His final assignment was at the Pentagon, working on classified projects. Tragically, Colonel John C. Egan passed away from a heart attack on April 16, 1961, at the young age of 45, while still on active duty. He is buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
Major John Egan’s legacy extends beyond his distinguished military career. His story, now prominently featured in “Masters of the Air,” introduces his heroism and the sacrifices of the 100th Bomb Group to a new generation. His daughters, Annie Egan and Katy Park, have actively engaged with historians and the production of “Masters of the Air,” ensuring the accuracy and honoring the memory of their father and his comrades. Through their efforts, and the powerful portrayal in “Masters of the Air,” Major John Egan’s story of courage, leadership, and friendship continues to inspire and remind us of the extraordinary individuals who served in WWII.
