Here is one scenario that happened in Bucharest.
As the Russians approached the city the Germans began pulling back valuable hardware while commiting the luftwaffe and infantry to the battle. Stukas supported by 109s were attacking the advancing columns but it was obvious that a tactical withdrawal was in order. The Germans left Rumanians in charge of the allied POWs and they grew more and more nervous as the Russians drew nearer. Finally they opened the gates and released all the prisoners who then scattered and hid any plance they could find. An American Colonel found a Rumanian officer and talked him into flying him to Italy for a reward and capture by Americans versus Russians. So they removed the radio gear and the American officer crammed himself into the available space of a Bf109. The sign of surrender in those days was to fly with your gear down and this got them to the airfield where the situation was explained.
The 15th A.F. then cut orders for every available bomber fighter and attack aircraft available to join in a joint mission the following day. Bombers (B24s and B17s) had their bomb bays covered over with wooden planks in two layers to passenger the men home. Approaching Bucharest at 22000 feet the P47s and A36s set about destroying any resistance in the area while P51s and P38s held air superiority. The luftwaffe and German infantry were quickly swept from the area and the bombers began a spiral descent in to land. More than 1100 men awaited rescue and they boarded the planes with all sorts of souvenirs and eagerly consumed any rations made available.
After landing in Italy and following the celebration anyone that had any part in the rescue or celebration was deloused due to contact with the prisoners.
Now thats something I would love to see on film! Oh and BTW... the 8th A.F. got credit for this in the press.
