In a poignant tribute to their fallen comrades, officials and airmen from the US Air Force's 25th Fighter Squadron, nicknamed the "Assam Draggins," recently visited the Hump World War II Museum in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh.
The visit marked a solemn return to the region after 81 years, honoring the airmen who lost their lives flying perilous missions over the treacherous "Hump" route during World War II.
The "Hump" route, spanning Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tibet, Myanmar, and Yunnan (China), was a lifeline for Allied forces, transporting vital supplies like fuel, food, and ammunition.
The 25th Fighter Squadron played a pivotal role in these operations, their aircraft carrying nearly 650,000 tons of supplies. However, the challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions led to over 650 aircraft crashes, claiming the lives of hundreds of US airmen.
The squadron's visit to the museum, inaugurated in November 2023 by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and US Ambassador Eric Garcetti, served as a powerful reminder of these sacrifices. Lt. Col.
Justin "Riot" Davis and Capt. Nivruth Maramreddy expressed their deep gratitude for the opportunity to honor the fallen heroes and acknowledge the historical significance of the region.
The 25th Fighter Squadron, known as the 'Assam Draggins,' conducted its first combat mission over the 'Hump' on September 25, 1942. After relocating to Dinjan, Assam, the squadron's combat activity intensified, solidifying its nickname.
The Hump route remains infamous for its danger, with the remains of approximately 400 airmen still believed to be in the region. The US Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency has conducted several search missions in Arunachal Pradesh in recent years to locate and recover these remains.
John Tayeng, instrumental in coordinating the visit, expressed his honor in welcoming the squadron back after 81 years. This visit serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the "Hump" route and the brave airmen who flew its skies, their sacrifices forever etched in the annals of history.
