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Hi everyone, I'm looking for some information on a historical curiosity about the 24th Squadron. I've heard that there was a specific letter (the "X" letter?), used for aircraft identification (the tail code), that was used but considered bad luck. Does anyone know what this letter was and if there's a specific story or event related to this superstition? Any details would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.

Mario

Hi everyone,

I’ve been reading about WWII aircrew superstitions in the RAF — for example, some thought the letter “F” (as in “F for Freddie”) was unlucky, and of course many avoided the number 13.
I’m curious: did SAAF pilots or crews have anything similar? Maybe certain letters, numbers, mascots, or pre-flight rituals they considered lucky or unlucky?
Would love to hear any stories or memories you might know!

Greetings from Molise, italy

Mario

Hello everyone,

I'd like to share a discovery I made during my research into military history. I recently learned about a specific superstition within the 24th Squadron concerning aircraft identification.

It turns out that the letter considered a bad omen and often avoided by pilots was 'X'. According to the memoirs I'm reading, this was because the letter resembled a target or a bullseye, making it an extremely bad omen for an aircraft and its crew.

It's a fascinating example of how superstitions played a role in military culture. I hope this is as interesting to you as it was to me!

Mario

Hi everyone,

I'd like to ask another question related to my research on the 24th Squadron's unlucky 'X' aircraft. I'm trying to understand more about their specific markings.

How were the individual aircraft letters (like the 'X') and squadron codes typically painted on the Bostons? I'm curious about the general font, color, and location on the fuselage or tail.

In my research on original documents on the 24th Squadron, I discovered that on the morning of the bombing (October 29, 1943), the aircraft hit was identified with the letter "X."
The top gunner who left the written record of the event believed that—and as the mission unfolded, he was right!—the letter X was not a good omen since it is associated with the target.
The top gunner had flown dozens of missions with different aircraft, and that morning the Boston had that infamous letter.

Interesting, thanks.

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