Pacific Profiles Vol. 15

Allied Bombers: B-26 Marauder Series Australia, New Guinea and the Solomons 1942-1945

by Michael Claringbould

Avonmore Books

Reviewed by David Couche

The Pacific Profiles series presents the most accurate WWII profiles of Allied and Japanese aircraft which served throughout Australia, New Guinea the South Pacific. This Volume 15 covers the B-26 and US Navy JM Marauder series which served in these theatres from their first delivery to Australia in April 1942 until the war's end. Marauders served with a total of six USAAF bomber squadrons, including the reformed 19th BS Silver Fleet, whilst US Navy JM-1 and JM-2 variants were operated by utility squadrons from March 1944 onwards.

Most profiles are presented for the first time, alongside markings derivations, including unit heraldry and codes. This volume bridges vast gaps in accurate Marauder markings profiles in these theatres, especially those which served with the Thirteenth Air Force and USN. Each profile is supported by photos and/or documentation, along with a brief history of each aircraft. Wide-ranging primary reference material is cited including assignment data, wreck reports, squadron records, colour photography, maintenance logs, diaries and factory markings specifications. A brief summary history of each unit and associated markings rationale accompanies the text.

Michael Claringbould, the author, presents this book in 13 chapters covering the Bombardment Squadrons of the USAAF and USN. These Squadrons had a variety of paint schemes from the basic olive drab to the all silver, paint stripped aircraft as well as the USN yellow/orange scheme which did fade quickly to a pale yellow.

Before getting into each of these Squadrons, he provides an overview, in 2 pages with maps, of the B-26 bomber locations the USAAF used, and which groups used what type of aircraft to set the scene for the rest of the book. He then provides technical notes on each of the aircraft types that were operated in this area. This is followed up by comprehensive notes and diagrams on the various markings used by these groups.

The book then consists of 13 chapters on each of the Squadrons and Bombardment Groups, listed below and closing chapters on US Navy Utility Squadrons, a chapter on the Squadron Commanders, a few unique Marauders and ends with a look at the 4 stages of life of one aircraft “40-1549”.

This book shows that the B-26’s have a range of very interesting schemes with some good nose art with plenty of matching photographs to complement the profiles.

Highly Recommended.

Thanks to Avonmore Books for the sample.

Review Copyright © 2026 by David Couche
This Page Created on 4 November, 2026
Last updated 4 November, 2026

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