The group was activated by III Fighter Command as a fighter Operational Training Unit (OTU) during World War II with the 305th, 306th, and 312th Fighter Squadrons assigned as its operational elements. The group's mission was to train newly-trained pilots and provide combat training prior to their overseas deployment. Initially equipped with the P-39 Aircobra, later using P-47 Thunderbolts and P-51 Mustangs when they became available.