Constituted as VIII Ground Air Support Command on 24 April 1942, activated 28 April 1942 at Bolling Field, DC under the command of Brig Gen Robert C. Candee. Assigned to the Eighth US Army Air Force. Moved to England, without tactical components, in June-August 1942 and stationed at Bushy Park; July 42; Membury, 21 August 42; Sunninghill, 19 October 1942). Redesignated VIII Air Support Command in September 1942. Engaged in training, with one reconnaissance and one troop carrier group assigned until July 1943. Afterward, carried out medium bombardment operations against the enemy until October 1943 when all personnel and components were withdrawn. Disbanded in England on 1 December 1943.