Original cadre 1943 to set up 4th SAD (I was there 1943-1945) had 300 mechanics who repaired battle damaged P47 & P51 Aircraft. Pilots returning to their squadron and could not land at their base (due to damaged aircraft) would be told to land at 4th AD. We would repair them and return them to their squadrons. Earned Gen. Goodrich's Trophy (for 2 years) for superior maintenance work