321st Bombardment Group Squadron War Diaries

Transcription

12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group
History: January 1944
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For my dad,
Colonel John “Jack” Fitzgerald, U.S. Army (deceased)
“Lil Butch”
John T. Fitzgerald, SMSgt, U.S. Air Force (retired)
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12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group
History: January 1944
The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s Headquarters and individual
Squadron War Diaries. They have been transcribed word for word, from the Squadron
Histories provided by the Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA), Maxwell Air
Force Base Alabama. At the end of each Squadron’s daily entry, the individuals cited in
the entry are identified by full name, rank and duty, in alphabetical order. The day’s
entry begins with the Tactical Operations Statement, from the United States Army Air
Forces (USAAF) Chronology, for the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO). The
history also includes mission reports, mission crew rosters, Missing Air Crew Reports
(MACR), personal mission logs, journals, and diaries made available by various sources.
Invitation
Anyone who has documentation pertaining to the 321st Bomb Group or its members, and
would like to have it included in this history, is welcome to participate. Copies of:
photos (official or personal); orders (promotion, decoration, travel, etc.); Mission
Reports; Missing Air Crew Reports; personal diaries, logs, journals, etc; other
documentation; or information that will help identify hi-lited individuals will be greatly
appreciated, as one of my goals is to correctly identify every man and plane assigned to
the 321st Bomb Group.
My only interest in this project is to honor those who served by perpetuating their story,
and making it available for future generations, particularly the families and friends of
our Great Heroes. If you are interested in helping, or if I may be of assistance in finding
information about your 321st BG Hero, please contact me at: Lil-Butch@nc.rr.com
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks
Agostino Alberti: Professor - historian (Soncino, Italy)
Michele Becchi: aviation history - archaeologist (Reggio Emilia, Italy)
Jack Brellenthin, great nephew of: Harold Ray Brellenthin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Cecile Burandt, daughter of: Charles Lawson “Chuck” Burandt, Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Sally Brown, daughter of: Barnard H. Seegmiller, Sgt, armament, 445th BS
Dave Charville, grandson of: Leighton Daniel “Danny” Charville, 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Barbara Connolly, daughter of: Edward Charles “Salvo” Ennis, T/Sgt, radar-radiogunner, 447th BS
1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS
Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner
Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG
Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)
Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS
John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS
Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia,
T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS
Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th BS
John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th BS
Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th BS
st
1 Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448th BS and friend of: Vernon Curtis Dossey, Capt,
pilot, 448th BS
Vince Mango, son of: Vincent A. “Vince” Mango, S/Sgt, aerial gunner, 447th BS
John J. McCarthy: Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier, 447th BS
Lorraine McRae, daughter of: James Arrington McRae, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS
T/Sgt Rocco F. “Rocky” Milano & daughter Peggy Chatham: Crew Chief of Peg O' My
Heart, Lil Butch, and Haulin' Ass, 446th BS
Bob Ritger, nephew of: Frederic Charles Ritger, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Irving J. Schaffer: T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer, 448th BS
1st Lt Frederick H. Smith: pilot, 447th BS
Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner,
448thBS
Dominique Taddei: author, U.S.S. Corsica (Corsica)
S/Sgt George B. Underwood: gunner, 381st BS
David Waldrip, nephew of: Robert Laseter Waldrip, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
Vinny J. White, son of: Joseph P. White, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 381st BS
S/Sgt, Harry (NMI) Yoa: engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Crew lists
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
CL
O
Aircraft information - serial #, name, etc
Pilot
Co-pilot
Navigator
Bombardier
Engineer-gunner
Radio-gunner
Gunner
Photographer
Cannon Loader (on B-25G)
Observer
Sometimes used
Bomb/Nav Bombardier-Navigator
BN Bombardier-Navigator
EG Engineer-gunner
RG Radio-gunner
TG Turret gunner
AG Aerial gunner
PH Photographer
AP Aerial photographer
CC Crew Chief
Acronyms & Abbreviations
A/C: Aircraft
A/D: Aerodrome
AE: Aerial Engineer
A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak
AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery)
abs: absent
AGL: Above Ground Level
ALO: Allied Liaison Officer
ALW: Alive and Well
AMGOT: Allied Military Government for
Occupied Territories
A.R.C.: American Red Cross
ASC: Air Support Command
ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel)
Assg: Assigned
ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar)
ATA: Actual Time of Arrival
ATC: Air Transportation Command
ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army
Telegraph Service
Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb)
BC: Bomber Command
BIC: Bruised in Crash
Bmb: Bombardier
Bn: Battalion
B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory
BSM: Bomb System Maintenance
CA: Heavy Cruiser
CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited
C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater
C/D: Coastal Defense
CE: Circular Error
CEP: Circular Error Probable
Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure:
tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass
fiber, or plastic. See Window
CL: Cannon Loader
CO: Commanding Officer
CG: Commanding General
CP: Command Post
M/G: Machine Gun
MIA: Missing In Action
M/T: Motor Transport (Truck)
MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat
M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel
M/Y: Marshalling Yards
MC: Maintenance Crew
NARA: National Archives and Records
Administration
NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air
Force
NATC - Northwest African Training
Command
NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of
Operations USA
Nav: Navigator
N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards
NC: Nurse Corps.
NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer
Nickels: propaganda Leaflets
(NMI): No Middle Initial
NOK: Next Of Kin
NRO: National Reconnaissance Office
OAF: Occupation Air Forces
OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab
OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster
OTU: Operational Training Unit
PAX: Passengers
PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator
POE: Point of Embarkation
POW: Prisoner of War (also PW)
PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical
Prophylactic packet
PW: Prisoner of War (also POW)
PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch
PX: Post Exchange
QBB: Base of cloud
QDM: Course to steer
QM: Quarter Master
R/B: Road Bridge
RC: Red Cross
CQ: Charge of Quarters
C/S: Call Sign
CWS: Chemical Warfare Service
D/H: Direct Hit
DD: Destroyer
DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains
found
Demo: Demolition
DL: Dead List
DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle
DOW: Died Of Wounds.
DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in
Action
DS: Detached Service
E/A: Enemy Aircraft
E/F: Enemy Fighter
EM or E/M: Enlisted Men
ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival
ETIR: Estimated Time In Route
EUS: Evacuated to the United States
E/V: Enemy Vessel
F Boat: Flying Boat
F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader
FO or F/O: Flying Officer
FOD: Finding Of Death
Frag: Fragmentation
F.S.: Flight Section
GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK)
GO: General Order
GP: General Purpose/Gun Position
GTC: General Time Convention (railroad)
HE: High Explosive
IAS: Indicated Air Speed
I & E: Information & Education
I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe
(i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name)
IP: Initial Point
KNB: Killed Not Battle
KIA: Killed In Action
L/A: Landing Area
LC: Landing Craft
L/G: Landing Ground
Lox: Liquid Oxygen
L/S: Landing Strip
R/J: Road Junction
R/Y: Railroad Yards
Repl: Replacement
RMC: Returned to Military Control
RON: Remain OverNight
RR/B: Railroad Bridge
RR/J: Railroad Junction
RR: Railroad
RTD: Returned To Duty
R/V: Rendezvous
S-1: Administration
S-2: Intelligence
S-3: Operations
S-4: Supply
SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing
SD: Special Duty
S/E: Single Engine (plane)
S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran)
S/F: Siebel Ferry
sk: sick
S/M: Submarine
SO: Special Order
SOI: Standard Operating Instructions?
S/P: Sea Plane
Sq: Squadron
Sqdn: Squadron
SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action
T/A: Target Area
T/C: Troop Concentration
T/E: Twin Engine (plane)
TAC: Theater Allied Command
TBF: Tactical Bomber Force
TD: Temporary Duty
TDY: Temporary Duty
TLC: Tactical Landing Craft
TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical
Order, and Transportation Officer
T/O: Table of Organization
TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target
Trfd: Transferred
TWX: Teletypewriter Message
u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue
UNRRA: United Nations Relief and
Rehabilitation Administration
L/V: Large Vehicle
LST: Landing Ship Tank
Ltr: Letter
LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action
MACR: Missing Air Crew Report
MATS: Military Air Transport Service
Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun
VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding
Officer
WC: Water closet
W.O.: Warrant Officer
WIA: Wounded In Action
Window (British term): Radar
countermeasure: tiny strips of aluminum,
metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Chaff
WP: White Phosphorus (bombs)
WT, W/T: Watch Tower
XC: Cross Country
ZI: Zone of Interior (U.S.A.)
Saturday, 1 January 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): ARMY AIR FORCES,
MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (AAFMTO): A complete
reorganization of USAAF units in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO) takes
place: US Army Air Forces, North African Theater of Operations (USAAFNATO) is
redesignated AAF Mediterranean Theater of Operations (AAFMTO); XII Air Force
Services Command becomes AAF Services Command Mediterranean Theater of
Operations (AAFSCMTO); III Air Services Area Command (Special) becomes XII Air
Force Services Command; II Air Services Area Command becomes XV Air Force
Services Command; XII Air Force Engineer Command (Provisional) becomes AAF
Engineer Command, Mediterranean Theater of Operations (Provisional); and XII Air
Force Training Command is changed to XII Air Force Training and Replacement
Command. The XII Bomber Command, Twelfth Air Force is reorganized as a medium
bomber organization, 3 B-25 groups and the 3 B-26 groups of the 42d Bombardment
Wing (Medium), under Brigadier General Robert D Knapp. HQ 33d Fighter Group
transfers from Santa Maria to Cercola, Italy.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission today.
445th BS War Diary: The New Year was ushered in very violently in the form of strong
winds and a driving rain which started almost immediately after the celebrations had
ceased. The baby cyclone leveled the Intelligence-Operations, Medical, Supply, Motor
Pool and Communications tents. Other tents in the area also suffered damage. Despite
the inclement weather, the men enjoyed the big New Year’s meal served at 2:00 P.M. It
consisted of roast turkey with all the trimmings, practically the same meal that was
served on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Immediately after the meal, a liquor raffle was
held at the orderly room and many of the men had “liquid refreshment” that night.
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
01/01/44:
“The day is one of the worst we have had. A terrific cold wind blew all
night and at dawn a heavy rain began. We remained in the tent all forenoon, expecting
any moment to have it fall on us, but as yet it hasn’t, though many others in the area have
come down. We ventured out at two o’clock for a lavish meal of turkey and cranberries,
but it was so cold no one could enjoy it. I returned yesterday from Naples where I spent
three days on pass, but I will write about that later on account of we have no light in the
tent today.”
446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Rain and windstorm blew down several tents during
the morning. The ground was drenched and the big feast was postponed.
Saturday, 1 January 1944 (continued)
446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 2Lt, bombardier:
“8th day at Casa. Doesn’t seem like New Year’s Day, Xmas didn’t seem like Xmas either.
Everything closed here; I suppose back in the States they’re working the boys full blast.
Funny set-up. Went into town but soon got disgusted with it, really a crummy town.
Beggars here are very annoying – persistent, try anything to get money. Smart enough
not to bother the Frogs.
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: Letter Home: “I received your
letter yesterday in which you sent the clipping of me and my crew. It turned out pretty
good for the paper, especially for one being taken off those pictures. The boys thought it
was o.k. Dickson has been sick with yellow jaundice so has spent the last week in rest
camp. I guess he is feeling o.k. now and will return back here soon.
Well, we seen the old year out and the new one in last night. We all did a fair job
of it, but not too much celebrating. Sure hope we don’t have to celebrate the next one
over here.
It’s been very cold here lately and quite nasty weather. Some tents were blown
down last night, but luckily ours stayed up. The top blew off and our stove fell down but
we fixed that today.”
Dickson, Gale Monroe, 2Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: Happy Hangover Day. No mission scheduled. 1944 started off by
bringing headaches in the form of hell and high-water. A rain storm, the like of which
few of us have ever witnessed, settled down on this area early this morning and lasted
until evening. About half a dozen of our area tents were completely blown down and
many ended up in a crippled condition. To see small groups of men drenched to the very
marrow of their bones, battling wind, rain and mud in order to restore their tents to a
somewhat upright position, would have won praise and admiration from the most
hardened navel officer. 1st Lt. H.J. Fallone transferred to United States as of Dec. 29 by
letter from XII Air Force. Morning Report for week ending Jan, 1: Officers—56;
Enlisted men—254.
Fallone, Henry J., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS War Diary: No Entry
Sunday, 2 January 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, B-25's bomb the Terni marshalling yard and iron works and
nearby barracks; P-40's and Spitfires from the AAF, Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF),
Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), South African Air Force (SAAF), and Royal Air
Force (RAF) blast snowbound vehicles in the Avezzano-Popoli area, warehouses at San
Benedetto de Marsi and gun positions and defended areas around Chieti; A-36's hit
Civitavecchia harbor and marshalling yard to the S of town, the Anagni marshalling yard
and nearby pun positions, and other targets of opportunity; B-26's bomb bridges at Riva
Santo Stefano and Ventimiglia, the marshalling yard at Arma di Taggia, and bridge over
the Var River. HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and its 488th Bombardment
Squadron (Medium) transfer from Foggia to Pompeii, Italy with B-25's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Lt. Salvatore P. Casarella arrived in the Group and was
assigned to the S-2 section of the 446th Bombardment Squadron.
Casarella, Salvatore P., Jr., 2Lt, intelligence
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 177/mission 176) Group Mission # 178:
Today’s target: Terni M/Y’s. Photos show two groups of bombs west of the M/Y. One
cluster hit the main line near the bottle-neck at the west end of the yard.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mission Report # 178, 2 January 1944
1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).
2. At 1100 – 24 B-25’s took off to bomb M/Yds at Terni. 2 returned early. At 1230 hrs
22 dropped 116 x 500 lb bombs with 1/10 and .025 fusing on target from
10,000/11,500 feet. 22 returned at 1340. Axis of attack 230°.
3. RESULTS: Ref: T.C. No. 3 – 118 NA. Most bobs reported falling S. of M/Yds, near
Terni ironworks and Brignone barracks, with a few hits observed at W. choke point.
Smoke and dust from bombing by previous group obscured target. Bombs fell in area
0-11 to 5 with two rd. junctions reported hit, one at 0-5 – other 0-7. One building
near M/Y seen to explode and a fire seen W of Ironworks.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air-------2 ME-109’s over target, did not attack.
Ground—4 unidentified planes on Terni L/G. 2 trains 20 cars each at Porto S.
Giorgie. Light traffic heading S near Cupra Marittima and also a train at
that point. 60 car freight train at point about 2 miles S of Tortoreto.
Marine---4/5 ships observed at San Benedetto, 3 about 300 feet. One report these
seen on way to target and not observed on return. 2 medium M/V’s
reported at Giulianova.
Flak------Few bursts over formation reported at target.
Sunday, 2 January 1944 (continued)
5. WEATHER:
En route – Clouds: 3/10 stratocumulus at 3,000 ft. 3/10 alto cumulus at 15,000 ft.
Visibility: Unlimited.
Over Target – CAVU
Return – Same as weather enroute.
6. None
Flight leaders Lt. Latremore and Capt. Beeson.
Number of sorties – 22
Photos taken.
Planes by Squadron: 445th - 6; 446th – 6; 447th – 6; 448th - 5
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
Intelligence Officer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The day was ideal with a warm sun shining most of the day.
There was plenty of work to do, repairing collapsed tents. All tents which went down
yesterday were set up today and most of the men rebuilt their tents with an eye towards
sturdy construction to withstand other assaults from the weather. The Squadron was
restricted for five days because of the “fireworks” on New Year’s Eve. The men enjoyed
the move “Juke Girl” with Ann Sheridan at the granary after supper.
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 177/mission 176) Group Mission # 178:
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
P Wetherbee, Dana A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Crider, Claude M., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B O’Toole, Francis X., 2Lt
E Cross, Vassil W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Stein, Louis (NMI), T/Sgt
G Beaudware, Leo J., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64667 “Wet Dreams”
P Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
CP Walker, Robert S., 2Lt
N None
B Stokes, Oliver O., Cpl
E Henrich, James G., Sgt
R Maddox, Richard L., Sgt
G Schaviak, Willis M., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30354
House, Robert M., 2Lt
Waterman, LeRoy R., 2Lt
None
Miller, Robert J., Jr., S/Sgt
Dillon, James A., Sgt
DiPietrantonio, Joseph N., T/Sgt
Herrman, Byard G., Sgt
Cheosky, Alexander A., Cpl
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
Vallery, Dean B., F/O
Noel, William Honoree, 2Lt
None
Monk, William (NMI)., 2Lt
Vance, Chester L., Sgt
Johnson, John E., S/Sgt
Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64659
P Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E., 2Lt
N Paduana, Joseph A., 2Lt
B Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy”, 2Lt
E Orr, William J., S/Sgt
R Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), Cpl
G Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64575
Strenger, Marshall C., 1Lt
Knapp, Charles R., 2Lt
None
Souders, Walter E., 2Lt
Donegon John B., S/Sgt
Stone, Donald R., S/Sgt
Forbes, Robert W., Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Successful three hour mission today. Big meal originally for New
Years served at one o’clock. The morale of the squadron jumped ten points as we put
away turkey and all the trimmin’s.
Squadron Mission 143
TARGET: Terni M/Yds., Italy
DATE: 2 Jan 1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb.
446th Planes: 5
th
Lt. Latremore, 445 Sqdn, led the formation. Most of the bombs were reported to have
fallen south of the marshalling yards, with a few hits observed at the west choke points.
However, two road junctions were hit; one building was seen to explode, and a fire was
seen west of the iron works. Two ME-109’s seen at target but did not attack. Slight flak
over target. Lt. Brady could not take off because of damaged elevator. Lt. Davison
returned early due to low oil pressure.
Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”
P Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt
CP Bsharah, Phillip (NMI), 2Lt
N None
B Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt
E Motika, John F., Sgt
R Fontenot, V. L. (i.o.), T/Sgt
G Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo”
Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt
Clark, Robert A., 2Lt
None
Rice, Sumner W., 2Lt
Franc, John A., S/Sgt
Barber, Otis C., T/Sgt
Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
St. Joe”
P McClelland, Alva L., 1Lt
CP Holt, Robert L., 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt
B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt
E Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt
R Haasch, George F., T/Sgt
G DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-30293
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Topham, Arthur H., 2Lt
Ryder, David (NMI), 2Lt
None
Parrish, William W., Cpl
Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt
Smith, Roy W., T/Sgt
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, Cpl
None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”
Elliott, Roger L., 1Lt
Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt
None
Nicklaus, George Edward “Nick”, 2Lt
Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
Kendall, Charles C. “Spike”, T/Sgt
Mitchell, John C., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13200 (returned early: Low
oil pressure/out 0:50)
Davison, William R., 2Lt
Brellenthin, Harold Ray, 2Lt
None
Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
Wuotila, Benjamin R., S/Sgt
Leary, Edward M., S/Sgt
Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt
Tissier, Rene G., Cpl
446th BS: Pilot Log: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 2Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot)
Pilot: Cooper
A/C B-26B-50-MA Marauder: 42-95880
USCG Air Station, Borinquen, Puerto Rico to Waller Filed, Trinidad: Ferry
Flying Time: 4:30
Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot
“9th day at Casa. Nothing to do. Had a little change left over so went down to Finance
& spent $150 on War Bonds. Wrote a letter to Ma so she’d know abut it. Went into town
with ‘Little John’ Haymik & A.J. Boggie – visited the Sultan’s Palace, quite a show place
with tennis courts, pool, etc. & a beautiful tea house. We ate in town, went to show.
Same old grind.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: (1-2 Jan) “We have had bad
weather again the last two days, so nothing new. Have visited a little town on the hill
near by & drank a good share of their wine.
447th BS War Diary: The following completed their fiftieth mission today: Capt. E.H.
Beeson, Lt. Paiton, Lt Hanlon, and S/Sgt. Funk. Our New Years Day turkey was served
today which helped considerable to remove the gloom that had settled over the moral on
New Years Day.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, operations
Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt, gunner
Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., Lt, pilot
Paiton, Harold K., Lt, navigator
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 177/mission 176) Group Mission # 178: 6
of our ships were scheduled to participate in a raid over Terni, Italy. 1 ship piloted by Lt.
Jahrhaus returned early due to a malfunction of the nose wheel.
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
Lady”
P Broyles, Porter A., 1Lt
CP Vincent, Frederick W., III, 1Lt
N None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 1Lt
E Czabaj, Matthew W., S/Sgt
R Myers, William W., T/Sgt
G Schrader, Harold F., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Knodle, Robert A., 2Lt
Davies, Robert G., 1Lt
None
Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt
Monroe, Delore E., S/Sgt
Kastelic, Frank M., T/Sgt
Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30557
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Joiner, Harold W., 1Lt
Langston, Everett D., 2Lt
None
Tudor, Matthew S., S/Sgt
Henry, William R., S/Sgt
Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt
Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 1Lt
Trevor, Graham J., 1Lt
None
Nowakowski, Joseph J., 1Lt
Jeffery, James H., PFC
Tracy, Boyd F., T/Sgt
Manning, Hillard J., S/Sgt
Lamoureau, Archille D., Sgt
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon
Ball”
Beeson, Elwood H., Capt
Haeberle, John H., 1Lt
Paiton, Harold K., 1Lt
Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt
Early, Frank X., S/Sgt
Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt
Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon)
(Not completed – nose wheel door failed
to close :30)
Jahraus, Alfred B., 1Lt
Ryherd, Fred E., 2Lt
None
Harter, James E., S/Sgt
McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
Kaufold, Adolph (NMI), S/Sgt
Reilly, James M., Sgt
None
448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
Mission 140 (178): At 11:00 24 planes off to bomb Terni M/Y, 2 returned early. At
12:30 dropped 116 x 500 bombs from 10,000 feet and returned at 13:40. Most bombs S
of M/Y near Terni iron works and Brignone Barracks with a few hits at W choke point.
Smoke and dust from bombing by previous group obscured target. 1 building near M/Y
seen to explode and 1 fire seen near iron works. 2 ME-109’s over target but did not
attack. Flak: slight. Weather: CAVU at target.
A/C No. 41-30327
Eddy, Willard B., Jr., 2Lt
Sandlin, Raymond H., F/O
None
Braun, Joseph M., T/Sgt
Currie James L., S/Sgt
Robertshaw, David F., S/Sgt
Holguin, Renato (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck”
P Barton, Thomas M., F/O
CP Fleming, George B., F/O
N None
B Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 2Lt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., T/Sgt
R Riss, Royal C., S/Sgt
G Griffin, Pink C., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30355
P Doyle, Edward J., 2Lt
CP Moss, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None
B Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Pvt
E Spencer, John S., T/Sgt
R Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt
G Gately, Joseph A., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd”
Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt
Sowder, Tony R., Jr., F/O
None
Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt
Ritter, Robert E., S/Sgt
Penhale, Walter B., Pvt
Alexander, Phillip D., Pvt
None
A/C No. 42-64552
Coffee, Robert D., 2Lt
Cooper, James W., 2Lt
None
Bird, Robert G., Cpl
Lord, Wilson E., S/Sgt
Pitts, Donald W., S/Sgt
Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30548
Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt
Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt
McEntee, Peter M., Cpl
Tudor, Owen M., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64519 (not completed –
Pilot became sick 1:10)
P McEvoy, John C., 2Lt
CP Jones, Truman R., 2Lt
N None
B Carr, Randal C., Cpl
E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
R Doss, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt
G Wilkerson, John J., Cpl
F None
Monday, 3 January 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Brigadier General Edward
M Morris assumes command of the XII Fighter Command.
In Yugoslavia, B-25's bomb a troop concentration area at Prijedor,
and hit Split and Sibenik.
In Italy, P-40's and A-36's bomb gun positions near Cassino, the
Anagni railroad station, a village near Vicenza, the railway and trains between Ceccano
and Segni, and the harbor at Civitavecchia; P-40's, with SAAF and RCAF Spitfires, hit
100+ vehicles in the Avezzano-Sulmona area; other P-40's, with AAF, RAF, SAAF, and
RAAF fighters, hit targets in the Filetto-Tollo areas in support of ground troops.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Lt. D.G. Dobbins left his duties here as Historian and
Assistant S-2 to work at the 12th Air Force Headquarters. Lt. S.P. Neprash assumes his
assignments.
Dobbins, Daniel G., 2Lt, intelligence
Neprash, Sergius P., 2Lt, intelligence
HQ 321st BG Communications Log:
0835 A/C # 41-29775 “Double Trouble” (Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, Capt, 447th
BS)) to Grottaglia, 0915 take off.
0915 A/C # 41-30001 (Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 1Lt, 447th BS) to Algiers, 0945
take off.
1300 26 A/C off--1st plane at 0951, last at 1007. One spare returned at 1055. 2nd Spare
returned at 1057. 24 A/C returned from 1245 to 1306. JET.
1355 41-30293 (Russell, Burton E., 2Lt, 446th BS), 41-29962 (McClelland, Alva L., 1Lt,
446th BS) take off 1415 for Dry Runs. 41-13203 (Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt, 446th BS)
for slow time.
1610 Bailey to Larson. “Crews available, 445th 7, 446th 11, 447th 7, 448th 6”.
1710 TBF to Asbury. “Have 24 A/C in readiness for tomorrow--no bomb load until
tomorrow”.
1715 Asbury to Jamison. “Suggested spotting 500’s, 1000’s and Frags--no practice
bombs”.
2245 TBF to Sheppard. “Primary: DODOJ, aiming point M230800, sheet #64
Yugoslavia 1/200000. Make run general direction from South to North.
Monday, 3 January 1944 (continued)
1st Alternate: TRAVNIK, barracks and troops, aiming point L915220, sheet #80
Yugoslavia 1/100000, Make run from East to West.
2nd Alternate: V552718, sheet 93, Yugoslavia”.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 178/mission 177) Group Mission # 179:
Excellent coverage was reported by crews returned from today’s mission, which was to
bomb troop concentrations in the Yugoslavian town of Prijedor. Bombs started at the
river southeast of town and went through town with concentration of hits in center of
town.
2. At 0950 – 24 B-25’s took off to bomb City of Prijedor, Yugoslavia. None returned
early. At 1135 hours 24 dropped 140 x 500 lb bombs with 1/10 and .025 fusing on
target from 10,000/11,000 feet. 24 returned at 1245. Axis of attack 28°.
3. RESULTS: Excellent coverage of target. Bombs started at river SE of town and
went through town with concentration of hits in center of town. Two strings over to
the NE. Several small fires started.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------One report of 8/10 unidentified S/E A/C above formation W of target at
1130 hours, which made no attack.
Ground—2 – 25 car freight trains or two strings of freight cars in yards at Prijedor. 1
train N of Prijedor halted under trees along tracks. 50/100 freight cars and
two active locomotives on four tracks in M/Yds at Knin. A large
unexplained explosion seen on ground over Vis Island at 1055 hours.
Marine---1 medium M/V in harbor at Sibenik at 49 – ZK (Chart No. S/39(1)).
Several small ships in channel outside Sibenik harbor. 1 unidentified ship
burning in Split harbor.
Flak------Slight, inaccurate, heavy from Sibenik. Slight inaccurate, light from L/G at
Knin.
5. WEATHER: CAVU for entire route.
6. None.
Flight leaders: Lt. Tapper and Capt. Culp
Planes by Squadron: 445th - 5; 446th – 6; 447th – 7; 448th – 6
ROBERT W. MANLY,
Capt., Air Corps,
Intelligence Officer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: A beautiful, balmy day today very reminiscent of spring. 2 nd Lts.
Farrell, a pilot; Walsh, bombardier; and Humphrey, Supply Officer, were promoted to 1st
Lt. A delicious meat loaf was enjoyed by all for supper. The movie “Mrs. Miniver”
was shown at the granary after supper. The men enjoyed this excellent show very much.
Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 1Lt, pilot
Humphrey, Malcolm R., 1Lt, supply
Walsh, Frank J., 1Lt, bombardier
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 178/mission 177) Group Mission # 179: The
mission today which went to bomb the town of Prijedor in Yugoslavia was very
successful.
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II” (returned early)
CP Walker, R.S, 2Lt
N None
B Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt
E Woogerd, W.G., T/Sgt
R Henrich, J.G., Sgt
G Hetland, A.M., Cpl
F Saegniten, Capt, (R.A.) (observer)
A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½
Judy”
P Crider, Claude M., Jr., 2Lt
CP Wetherbee, Dan A. 2Lt
N None
B O’Toole, Francis X. 2Lt.
E Dillon, James A., Sgt
R DiPietrantonio, Joseph N. S/Sgt
G Herrman, Byard G. Sgt
F Cotter, Jack M. Sgt
A/C No. 42-64575
P Strenger, Marshall C. 1Lt
CP Knapp, Charles R. 2Lt
N None
B Souders, Walter E. 2Lt
E Rose, J. W. S/Sgt
R Stone, Donald R. S/Sgt
G Reddy, John E. S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64529
House, Robert M. 2Lt
Waterman, LeRoy R. 2Lt
None.
Miller, Robert J, Jr., S/Sgt
Schaviak, Willis M. Sgt
Carner, Donald E. Cpl
Tarr, Charles F., Jr., Sgt
Tolmie, J. S. Capt, (R.A.) (observer)
A/C No. 42-64651
Williamson, Loyd V. F/O
Noel, William Honoree 2Lt
None.
Monk, William (NMI), 2Lt
Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), Cpl
Clark, Thomas J. T/Sgt
Carson, Cecil F. Cpl
None
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
Vallery, Dean B. F/O
Lorton, Harold E. 2Lt.
Paduana, Joseph A. 2Lt
Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy” 2Lt
Vance, Chester L. S/Sgt
Johnson, John E. S/Sgt
Andrews, Lamar C. S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Another three hour mission—successful. Sergeants Pilcher and
Underwood reached that big fiftieth mission. Mail call late in the afternoon.
Pilcher, Byron E., Sgt, gunner
Underwood, Ferrel E., Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Prijedor, Yugoslavia.
DATE: 3 Jan1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo.
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Tapper led the formation. Excellent coverage of target. Several fires started. Slight,
inaccurate, heavy and light flak encountered. 8/10 unidentified S/E a/c reported above
formation W of target, but did not attack. Lt. Davison was a spare, and returned early.
A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches”
P Brady, Joseph J., 1Lt
CP Abraham, Frank W., 2nd
N None
B Mastroianni, Henry L., 2Lt
E Brawn, Jean H., Cpl
R Spoerl, Harry C., Sgt
G Thomas, Patrick (NMI), Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt
Underwood, Ferrel E. T/Sgt
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, Cpl
Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), Cpl
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt
Bsharah, Phillip (NMI), 2Lt
None
Anderson, Edward J., Sgt
Motika, John F., Sgt
Cohen, George (NMI), S/Sgt
Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt
None
Riordan, Ronald C., 2Lt
Storm, Ernest M., 2Lt
None.
Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt
None
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas
Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No
Peekin’”)
Elliott, Roger L., 1Lt
None.
Pappas, William J., 2Lt
Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
Higgins, Thomas T., T/Sgt
None
St. Joe”
Tapper, George C., 1Lt
Springer, Luther B,, Jr., 1Lt
Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13200 (Spare –returned
early)
P Davison, William R., 2Lt
N None
B Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
E Wuotila, Benjamin R., S/Sgt
R Orechia, James Raymond “Raymond”,
Cpl
G Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt
F None
None
“10th day at Casa. Nothing to do in camp so went into town. Walked around the park,
met a little boy from Syria, been here in Casa with his parents for 2 yrs waiting to go to
N.Y. Was a smart, intelligent kid, spoke English fairly well, also 3 other languages.
Plenty disgusted w/Casa, seems that everyone is a beggar, really taking the Americans
over the hurdles. At least they try to. Get a big laugh out of the American nurses here,
go big for rank back in the states, no one would date them, but here they’re queens.
C’est La Guerre.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: “This is the day of our big event
back home; if the baby was born today, sure hope both the wife & it are O.K. Sure would
like to know what it is. I’ll have to wait.”
447th BS War Diary: A meeting of all section-heads was called by Maj. Sampson in
order to discuss plans for another move. The date for this next move was temporarily set
for Jan. 10. S/Sgt. L.B. Iverson taken to hospital to be operated on for appendicitis.
Iverson, Lewis B., S/Sgt, gunner
Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, pilot, Commander
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 178/mission 177) Group Mission # 179: 7 of
our ships participated in a raid over Prijedor, Yugoslavia. Results: very good.
Lady”
P Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Langston, Everett D., 2Lt
N None
B Sattenspiel, Stanley J., 1Lt
E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt
G Reilly, James M., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Bell”
Briskey, John F., Jr., 1Lt
None
Tudor, Marshall S., S/Sgt
Baringer, Paul S., S/Sgt
Moomaw, Otis W., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64695 (spare)
P McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 1Lt
CP Haeberle, John H., 1Lt
N None
B Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI)., S/Sgt
G Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30557
P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt
CP Davies, Robert G., 1Lt
N None
B McCormick, Donald Patrick, 1Lt
E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt
R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt
G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
P Jahraus, Alfred B., 1Lt
N None
B Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt
E O’Loughlin, William M., S/Sgt
R O’Mara, Robert M., S/Sgt
G Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30638
Thomas, David W., 1Lt
Halloran, Robert F., 1Lt
Blumenfeld, Philip I., 1Lt
Jeffrey, James H., S/Sgt
Kellner, Joseph H., S/Sgt
Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13176 “Alley Cat”
Gill, Paul W., 1Lt
None
Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
Roberts, Herman (NMI)., Sgt
Stratham, Alvin F., Cpl
A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 1Lt
None
Deane, George J., 1Lt
Czabaj, Matthew W., S/Sgt
Kaufold, Adolf (NMI)., S/Sgt
Schrader, Harold F., S/Sgt
None
Mission 141 (179): At 09:50 24 planes off to bomb Prijedor, Yugoslavia. All dropped
bombs 140 x 500 on target from 10,000 feet and returned at 12:45. Excellent coverage of
target, bombs started at River SW of town and went through town with concentration of
hits on center. Several small fires seen. 8 to 10 E/A above formation at target but did not
attack. Slight, heavy inaccurate flak at target. Weather: CAVU at target. F/L Culp.
A/C No. 41-30548
P Culp, Merle H., Capt
CP Crowell, Weymouth (NMI)., 2Lt
N Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
B Matkins, Marvin F., 2Lt
E Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt
R Watrous, Roger T., S/Sgt
G Tudor, Owen M., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64519
P Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
CP Eddy, Willard B., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Robert, Maurice L., Cpl
E Currie, James L., Sgt
R Gately, Joseph A., Sgt
G Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30355
P Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt
CP Hicks, John T., 2Lt
N None
B Ally, George B., S/Sgt
E Daniels, John (NMI), Sgt
R Robertshaw, David F., S/Sgt
G Ritter, Robert E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
None
Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt
Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
Griffin, Pink C., S/Sgt
Buckles, Kenneth L., Sgt
A/C No. 41-30327
McEvoy, John C., 2Lt
Jones, Truman R., 2Lt
None
Carr, Randal C., Cpl
Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
Doss, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt
VanCura, Edward W., Sgt
None
Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt
Moss, Raymond W., 2Lt
None
McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt
Johnson, Joe Morris, S/Sgt
Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI)., S/Sgt
None
Tuesday, 4 January 1944
In Yugoslavia, B-25's bomb the Brodac town area and marshalling
yard, and the town of Travnik. P-40's hit a bridge and trains and fly patrols over the
battleline in Italy.
Transfers in Italy: HQ XII Bomber Command and HQ 57th
Bombardment Wing from Bari and Foggia respectively to Trocchia. HQ 3rd Photographic
Group (Reconnaissance) and 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron from San
Severo to Pomigliano with F-4's and F-5's.380th and 428th Bombardment Squadrons
(Medium), 310th Bombardment Group (Medium), from Philippeville, Algeria to
Ghisonaccia, Corsica with B-25's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
Primary target: Doboj not attacked due to an overcast so the formation bombed a bridge
and barracks 64 miles further east. Photos show heavy concentrations of bursts on
railroad and canal south of the barracks.
2. At 1306 – 24 B-25’s took off to bomb Doboj, Yugoslavia. None returned early. At
1450 hours 24 dropped 144 x 500 lb bombs with .1 and .025 fusing from
3. RESULTS: BARRACKS AND ROAD, 3 MILES NE OF D. BRODAC BOMBED.
Hits seen in E end of barracks; 5 direct hits on RR, also hits on road SE of barracks;
last 6 dropped in open areas, 2 miles south of target; one report of center of barracks
hit.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------None.
Ground—Center span of road bridge over river cut clean out.
Marine---None.
Flak------3 bursts from Mostar, 2 of them red, to rear and below formation.
5. WEATHER: Enroute: Clouds 8/10 cumulus over Yugoslavia, tops at 8,000 breaking
about 30 miles from target – with 7/10 at 18,000 throughout. Visibility
– unlimited.
Target: Clouds 5/10 at 18,000. Visibility – unlimited.
Return: Same as enroute.
Tuesday, 4 January 1944 (continued)
6. None.
Flight leaders: Capt. Beeson, Lt. Latremore.
S.P. NEPRASH,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t Intelligence Officer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The warm weather continues to prevail and the men are “eating it
up”. There was a training flight and some new gunners went up on a practice gunnery
mission. Luxury rations were distributed from 11:00 to 15:00.
A/C No. 42-64529
None
Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
Hannon, R P., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30354
N None
E Jones, Robert C., Cpl
R Maddox, Richard L., S/Sgt
G Irvin, Ralph D.., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
Fitzgerald, Daniel J., Sgt
Donegon, John B., S/Sgt
Orr, William J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64659
Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
Lorton, Harold E., 2Lt
Paduana, Joseph A., 2Lt
Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy”, 2Lt
Rose, J. W., S/Sgt
Woogerd, Warren G., T/Sgt
Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Cpl
None
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
Wetherbee, Dana A., Jr., 2Lt
Crider, Claude M., Jr., 2Lt
None
O’Toole, Francis X., 2Lt
Schaviak, Willis M., Sgt
Stein, Louis (NMI), T/Sgt
Beaudware, Leo J., Sgt
Gambler II”
None
Vance, Chester L., S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Lt. McClelland finishes his last mission. Lt. Casarella joins the
squadron as assistant S-2 officer.
Casarella, Salvatore P., Jr., Lt, intelligence
McClelland, Alva L., 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Doboj, Yugoslavia.
DATE: 4 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Capt. Beeson, 447th Sqdn, led the formation. The primary target was not reached.
Barracks and road three miles NE of D Brodac bombed. Numerous hits reported on
barracks. Five direct hits on RR. No fighters, no flak. Lt. Topham was a spare, and
returned early.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, operations, 447th BS
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (Spare)
None
Underwood, Ferrel E., T/Sgt
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, PFC
None
Riordan,
Roland C., 2Lt
P
CP Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt
N None
B Anderson, Edward J., Sgt
E Franc, John A., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., T/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., S/Sgt
F None
Peekin’”)
N Schad, H C., 2Lt
B Brown, Harlan C., 2Lt
G Samsel, John C., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-13200
Brellenthin, Harold H., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 41-30293
Cornell, Earl K., F/O
Walker, Dale F., 2Lt
None
Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt
DeBari, Dominick R., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty”
Brady, Joseph J., 1Lt
Abraham, Frank W., 2Lt
None
Mastroianni, Henry L., 2Lt
Brawn, Jean H., Cpl
Spoerl, Harry C., Sgt
Thomas, Patrick (NMI), Sgt
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt
None
None
Pilot: Cooper
Waller Filed, Trinidad to Zandery Field, Surinam: Ferry
Flying Time: 4:00
“11th day at Casa. Cleaned out B-4 bag today & found that the mice had built a home in
it. Also ate a few of my O.S. caps & shirts. Down to ATC office – filled out form for my
lost bags. Quite a black market in town – offers $45.00 for a good pen, watches go bit
too. Butter goes for $4.00 a lb. Rationing system here is a lot of baloney, I think. GI
clothes a lot cheaper here than in States. Luckily we have a good barracks orderly –
really on the ball.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot (mission?)
“We finally got in another mission today, we went to Yugoslavia & bombed a town full of
German troops, I haven’t found out, but don’t believe it was too much of a success. Its
really cold again today, sure will be glad when warm weather gets here again. I’m sure
waiting now to here from home. Would like to here how the Wife & Baby are, suppose
I’ll have to wait for a couple of weeks.”
Letter Home: “We are all hoping we don’t have to spend much more time over
here. We haven’t seen a place that we dislike as much as we do Italy. Everything here is
so dirty and torn up. What towns I have visited here are very dirty and have been torn up
by bombs. There is hardly anything you can buy that amounts to anything. Perhaps they
were all different in peacetime and were beautiful cities. They at least have a few
buildings and some signs of beautiful things or at least they used to be that way. From
the air the country farms look good and they really have lots of good land, but gosh
they’re using it only to do their form work with. Anyway, what I’m trying to say is that
this Italy would be a beautiful place if the Italians weren’t here. I’ll sure be glad to get
back to the good U.S.A.
Well, we have been doing all we can here to help finish this thing up. Wish we
could tell you all we are doing, but you can probably find a lot out by reading the papers
and reading about the B-25 Mitchell bombers from Italy and remember we’re the 321st
Bomb Group. We have been quite busy here and also today.”
447th BS War Diary: Cpl Stonewall J. Williams trans. to organization unknown. Cp.
Williams entered the hospital while we were stationed at Grottaglie. At the critique it
developed that the wrong town was bombed on today’s mission. The town hit was about
65 miles Northeast of Doboj.
Williams, Stonewall J., Cpl, intelligence
of our planes and one spare were scheduled in a raid over Doboj, Yugo. The spare
returned early. Results: Fair. Flak: light.
A/C No. 42-64695
McFadden, Kenneth L., 1Lt
None
McCormick, Donald Patrick, 1Lt
Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt
Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt
Hassett, Leo P., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James”
P Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Davies, Robert G., 1Lt
N None
E Jeffery, James H., PFC
R Kaufold, Adolph (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
Ball”
P Beeson, Elwood H., Capt
CP Trevor, Graham J., 1Lt
N Halloran, Robert F., 1Lt
B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 1Lt
R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt
G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Jahraus, Alfred B., 1Lt
Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
None
Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt
O’Loughlin, William M., Sgt
Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30557
None
None
Lady”
None
Wadlow, Verlin L., S/Sgt
Roberts, Herman (NMI), Sgt
None
(Spare)
P DeMay, Kenneth C., 1Lt
N None
R Boyd, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Reilly, James M., Sgt
F None
Mission 142 (180): At 13:06 24 planes off to bomb Doboj, Yugoslavia. All dropped 144
x 500 bombs at 14:50 from 10,000 feet, all returned at 16:05. Hits in E. end of barracks,
5 direct hits on RR and roads SE of barracks, center of barracks hit. Flak: Moderate,
very inaccurate. Weather: 5/10th cover at target, visibility unlimited.
A/C No. 41-30355
P Hicks, John T., 2Lt
N None
B Carr, Randall C., Cpl
G Tudor, Owen M., S/Sgt
F None
P Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
N None
B Kreutz, Alfred W., 2Lt
R Allen, Clifford N., S/Sgt
G Holguin, Renato (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64521
None
Ritter, Robert E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64519
Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
Doyle, Edward J., 2Lt
None
Currie, James L., Sgt
Johnson, Joe Morris, Sgt
Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt
France, Charles E., Jr., Sgt
A/C No. 41-30352
P Driver, William J., F/O
CP Coffee, Robert D., 2Lt
N None
E Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
G Lord, Wilson E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30548
Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt
Freeland, Levi B., Jr., 1Lt
Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
Bell, Robert C., 2Lt
Daniels, John (NMI), Sgt
VanCura, Paul S., Sgt
None
Wednesday, 5 January 1944
In Italy, A-36's hit gun positions N of Mignano and on the S slope of
Monte Porchia. Weather cancels other operations. 489th Bombardment Squadron
(Medium), 340th Bombardment Group (Medium), transfers from Foggia to Pompeii, Italy
with B-25's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Missions Today.
445th BS War Diary: Hard rains and cold breezes broke the spell of good weather and
turned the area into a muddy, wet lot. Captain Richard P. Tipton, our Commanding
Officer, was promoted to Major today. The whole Squadron hailed his promotion. It was
well-deserved. Aircraft 762, which was used for many ferrying trips, was transferred to
the 57th Fighter Group. The snow-covered mountains around San Giovanni and San
Angelo presented a beautiful sight in the distance.
Tipton, Richard Pike, Maj, pilot, 445th BS Commander
446th BS War Diary: No mission—bad weather. Lucky seven go to rest camp at Capri:
Lt. Brady, Lt. Clark, Lt. McCabe, S/Sgt. Helisek, and Sgts. Anderson, Bedwell, and
Velarde.
Anderson, Edward J., Sgt, gunner
Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt, gunner
Brady, Joseph J., Lt, pilot
Clark, Robert A., Lt, pilot
Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt, gunner
McCabe, Peter T., Lt, bombardier/navigator
Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Sgt, gunner
Pilot: Cooper
Zandery Field, Surinam to Val de Caens Field, Belem, Brazil: Ferry
Flying Time: 3:25
“12th day at Casa. Down on line for awhile. Back in barracks listening to radio. Good
programs here with no commercials. Would like to get some mail but guess have to wait
awhile. In town met a French-Jew refuge, about 10 yrs old – smart kid. Father was
killed by the Nazis. Said real French aren’t like the Frogs here. Glad to hear that. Went
to show.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: “Weather has turned for the worse,
stormy & raining, also cold. No mission couldn’t even see the runway. We have stayed
here in the tent most all day. I’m going to write a few letters tonight, because I spent
most all day reading & sleeping. I’m still walking the floor, wondering if it’s a boy or
girl & how the wife and baby are, so till tomorrow.”
Wednesday, 5 January 1944 (continued)
Letter Home: “It’s kinda cold here now and we’re keeping pretty busy…We’re
just sitting here tonight having a bull session. I haven’t received much mail lately, but
we’re eating nuts one of the fellows got today.”
447th BS War Diary: Mission cancelled due to bad weather.
transferred to 7 Station Hospital as of Dec. 19.
Holland, Patrick H., Cpl, engineering
Cpl. Pat. Holland
Thursday, 6 January 1944
In Italy, B-26's bomb Pontedera hitting the marshalling yard and
Piaggio aircraft factory there, the Lucca marshalling yard, and the railway N of Follonica;
P-40 and A-36 fighter-bombers attack gun positions in the Cervaro-Monte Trocchio area
and near Aquino, the town of Cervaro, the railway at Civitavecchia, trains N and E of
Rome, the Velletri train station, and the town of Fondi.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Missions Today. Lt. Kneisle appointed Group Exchange
Officer in addition to his other duties.
Kneisle, Herman N., 2Lt, communications
445th BS War Diary: There were snow flurries in early morning but they didn’t last. A
number of the Officers and enlisted men went to rest camp by truck today. There were
practice gunnery and bombing missions and a new crew and plane arrived today. The
plane has a large number of guns in the nose and it is designed for strafing.
446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Another day of bad weather. Captain Hixson,
engineering officer, returns from rest camp, along with Lieutenants Braswell, Fetterly and
Clark plus enlisted men Carstens, Langan, Ramirez, Valenti and Neiman.
Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt, pilot
Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt, gunner
Clark, Samuel E., Jr., bombardier
Fetterly, Orville D., Lt, pilot
Hixson, Sherman, Capt, engineering
Langan, Charles H., Sgt, gunner
Neiman, John W., Sgt, gunner
Ramirez, Zenon, Jr., Sgt, gunner
Valenti, Alfio P., Sgt, gunner
Pilot: Cooper
Val de Caens Fld, Belem, Brazil to Parnamirim Air Fld, Natal, Rio Do Sul, Brazil: Ferry
Flying Time: 5:20
“13th day at Casa. “Little John” & Boggie & crew leaving today. Sorry to see them go,
no one left here now. Can’t find a thing to do, not even a book to read. Down on the line
watching the ships take off & land. These “Spits” are real good ships. No sign of
Burandt. The usual card games going on in the barracks – getting to be continuous.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 2Lt, pilot
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: “Today was another slow day for
us; we tried for a mission but just couldn’t make it, bad weather. There isn’t much news
for the day today. As soon as I here from Enid, I’ll sure have some good news – so until
tomorrow.”
Thursday, 6 January 1944 (continued)
447th BS War Diary: Mission cancelled.
Friday, 7 January 1944
In Italy, B-25's strike Perugia Airfield; A-20's hit defenses in close
support of the US Fifth Army; B-26's hit the marshalling yards at Foligno and Arezzo and
attack a bridge at Roccasecca; A-36's hit gun positions, trucks, and trains in the CervaroAquino-Cassino area, bomb the Aquino station, and hit the Velletri railway yards; P-40's
give close support in the Monte Maio, Monte La Chiaia, Monte Porchia, and Cedro Hill
areas as the US Fifth Army drives toward the Rapido River. Air echelon of the 417th
Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, transfers from Tafaraoui to La Senia, Algeria
with Beaufighters; ground echelon is at Ghisonaccia, Corsica.
0815 Knapp to Asbury. “Unable to make trip, want CP for 0915 take off”.
0850 448th A/C (Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt, pilot) to Naples at 1100. Will return today”.
0920 TBF to Blake. “Weather no buono. South target - fighter area”.
0955 TBF to Elliott. “Target # 4, Primary H plus 0410. Attack SW dispersal and W
side of A/D. We will not attack the Hangar. 12th BG will attack SE dispersal and
E side of A/D at H plus 0400. Fighter sweep of Rome A/D. B-26’s will attack
#22 at H plus 0400”.
Cumulus clouds to B/L--clear beyond.
1030 Asbury to TBF. “12th B. G. attack plan. 12 A/C on Dispersal area 240°
12 A/C on E
200°
10,000 feet left turn off.
No alternate target.
1107 Tower--41-29995 “Pistol Packin’ Mama” (446th BS) off at 1055. Mission off at
1144.
1250 41-30548 (Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt, 448th BS)), 41-12926 (“Hawkeye”) (Wilt,
Richard H., 1Lt, 448th BS) take off 1330 for Dry Runs. JET.
1325 445th A/C # 42-64508 (Haegele, Frederick G., 2Lt) test hop. 41-12924 (Farrell,
Robert A. “Baldy”, 1Lt) P.D.I. runs.
1408 From Tower. 41-12924 (445th BS) off at 1401
41-12926 (“Hawkeye” 448th BS) off at 1400
Friday, 7 January 1944 (continued)
1535 Asbury to TBF. “Early mission results”.
1640 Bailey to Griffing. “Crews available: 445th, 7; 446th, 7; 447th, 8; 448th, 9”.
1730 TBF to Asbury. “Lead 24 A/C with 500’s .1 and .025 fuzing. Have one A/C and
crew available for 0800 take off as weather craft”. Squadrons have been notified.
1835 TBF to ODO. “Target on other page”.
1900 Wing Com. Rose to Asbury. “Beginning Monday the 321st will drop nickels 12
A/C per week. Contact 12th Bomb Gp”.
2045 TBF to ODO. “Check all A/C for star painted on under surface of One Wing
only. If there are any with star on both wings--report them to TBF.
2240 446th (Lt. Dickson) OD to ODO. “Guards O.K.”.
A/C lost after crossing over target: # 41-30352. (448th BS)
P.
CP.
N.
B.
E.
R.
G.
1st Lt. ANDERSON. (Andrew H. L.)
Capt. M. H. CULP. (Merle H.)
2nd Lt. PERRY. (Lawrence A.)
2nd Lt. Matkins. (Marvin F.)
T/Sgt. J. S. SPENCER. (John S.)
S/Sgt. C. N. ALLEN. (Clifford N.)
S/Sgt. R. HOLGUIN. (Renato (NMI)
Crew Chief: J. POLCAWICK. (John (NMI), Sgt)
Mission to Perugia airdrome where 27 enemy aircraft were based. Bombs fell trough the
southwest dispersal area as well as through the hangar and administration building area.
Two, possibly 3 aircraft were destroyed on the ground. We lost one aircraft due to flak—
Lt. Anderson (pilot) and Captain Culp (co-pilot) of the 448th Bombardment Squadron.
Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Culp, Merle H., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
2. At 1142 – 24 B-25’s took off to bomb Perugia A/D, Italy. None returned early. At
1312 hours 24 dropped 1566x20 lb. frags from 10,500/11,000 feet. 23 returned at
1420 hours. Axis of attack 225°. One aircraft lost over target.
3. RESULTS: Strings of bombs covered field just east of hangars and went into
hangars. South dispersal area also well covered. Explosion in hangar on S/W corner
of field. Two hangars observed burning. One fire in hangar was observed before
bombing. 10 A/C seen in area east of hangars, with 1 direct hit observed and 3 planes
burning. Also 1 plane observed on fire in south dispersal area. Scattered fires east of
hangars and in south dispersal area, some appearing to be oil fires.
One B-25 observed, just after target, with right engine smoking, going down
under control. 5 persons seen bailing out. One report that plane made a
controlled landing 10 miles south of target on level ground. Another report that
plane nosed in and crashed.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------1 T/E plane took off from field but spun in and crashed at 200 feet. 10 A/A
seen dispersed in area east of hangars and 5 to 7 in SW dispersal area. 5
JU-52’s believed to have been in front of hangars.
Ground—None.
Marine---None.
Flak------Heavy, intense, accurate from vicinity of target. 3 heavy batteries about 1
mile south of field. 2 heavy batteries at 30-K. 3 heavy batteries scattered
in area north of field between N-25 and L-25. 3 batteries in SE dispersal
area. 4 west of field behind hangars.
WEATHER: Enroute: Clouds 4/10 cumulus base at 3,000 feet tops 5,000 ft.
Visibility – unlimited.
At target: CAVU.
Return: Same as en route.
5. None.
Flight leaders: Lts. Anderson and Tapper.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Captain, Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Some of the Officers and enlisted men who have completed the
required number of missions learned that they would leave shortly for the United States.
There was a practice bombing flight and also a transition flight. The mission today was
“hot” and one of the Group’s planes was lost. After successfully “sweating out” the
intense flak barrage, one of the engineer-gunners fell off the truck taking the crews from
the planes to interrogation and suffered a crushed foot. The victim, Cpl. Robert C. Jones,
explained that he was “too eager” to get in the doughnut line. A number of men returned
from rest camp today.
Jones, Robert C., Cpl, engineer-gunner
Pamp,
Arvid A., 2Lt
P
None
Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt
Maddox, Richard L., S/Sgt
Irvin, Ralph D.., Sgt
None
Gambler II”
P Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
CP Tarmichael, Arthur J., 2Lt
N None
E Schaviak, Willis M., Sgt
R Woogerd, Warren G., T/Sgt
G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), T/Sgt
F None
Judy”
P Strenger, Marshall C., 1Lt
CP Knapp, Charles R., 2Lt
N None
B Fitzgerald, David J., Sgt
E Donegon, John B., S/Sgt
R Bixby, Jack H., T/Sgt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt
F Cotter, Jack M., Sgt
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64508
Jackson, John I., 2Lt
Charville, Leighton Daniel “Danny”,
2Lt
None
Jones, Robert C., Cpl
Carson, Cecil F., Cpl
None
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
None
Forbes, Robert W., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear”
(Bear - no lettering)
None
Monk, William (NMI), S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Lt. Tapper squadron operations officer finished his fiftieth today,
along with Sgt. South and Sgt. Knapp of the original gang.
Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
South, William R., Sgt, gunner
Tapper, George C., 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Perugia A/D, Italy.
DATE: 7 Jan1944
Type of Bombs: Frags.
446th Planes: 6
th
Lt. Anderson, 448 Sqdn, led the formation. Target well covered. Explosions in hangers
on SW corner of field. Two hangers observed burning. One fire in hanger seen before
bombing. Numerous scattered fires observed. Some from burning a/c hit on the ground,
and some from burning oil. One B-25 observed just after target going down, under
control, with right engine smoking. Five persons seen bailing out. Flak at target was
heavy, intense, accurate. Our flight however, received very little flak.
A/C No. 41-13200 (spare – not
completed)
P Davison, William R., 2Lt
CP Brellenthin, Harold Ray, 2Lt
N None
R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt
G Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania
Polka”
Topham,
Arthur
H.,
2Lt
P
CP Ryder, David (NMI), 2Lt
N None
B Nicklaus, George Edward “Nick”, 2Lt
Cpl
G Holtzclaw, James Ralph, PFC
F Tissier, Rene G., Cpl
A/C No. 41-13208
P Elliott, Roger L., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt
N None
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
R Fontenot, V. L. (i.o), T/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt
F None
Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt
None
France, John A., S/Sgt
Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
Skill, Donald H., Sgt
None
St. Joe”
Holt, Robert L., 2Ltt
Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt
Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
Hanley, James M., Jr., S/Sgt
Higgins, Thomas T., T/Sgt
Schultheis, Thomas R., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
None
Milner, Walter C., Sgt
Kaney, Oscar John, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64557
P Bettinger, Howard P., 1Lt
CP Abraham, Frank W., 2Lt
N None
B Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt
E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt
R Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt
G South, William R., S/Sgt
F None
446th BS: War Diary of: Kaney, Oscar John, Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner (mission 47)
“# 47 Jan. 7, 1944
Time 3:05 Sqdn Mission # 146 Gr. Mission # 181
Frag bombs
Perugia A/D, Italy
Formation Leader - Lt. Anderson
Results - String of bombs covered field just E of hangar & into hangar - explosion in
hangar. 10 A/C seen in area E of hangar which 1 direct hit# 3 A/C burning. Scattered
fires E of hangar. One B-25 went down just after target with right engine smoking. 5
seen to bail out - plane made a crash landing under control.
Remarks - 1 T/E plane took off from field but spun in at 200 ft. 10 A/C seen dispersed in
area E of hangars & 5/7 in SW dispersal area. Flak heavy, intense, accurate.
Ship number - 41-30293
Formation
2-3
P- Cornell, CP - Walker, B- Milner, E - Kaney, RG- Smith, RW, G -DeBari”
Cornell, Earl K., F/O, pilot
DeBari, Dominick R., Sgt, gunner
Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot
Kaney, Oscar John, Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Milner, Walter C., Sgt, bombardier
Smith, Roy W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
“14th Day at Casa. Capt Birmingham & crew arrived. Same old routine today. “Birm”
& crew drunk as hell at the Bar bolly. He passed out & had to be carried by Ashmore &
Hawkes. Still wild as heck, pouring drinks down everyone’s back. They came back to
barracks & kept everyone awake by raising hell all nite. The damn frogs, driving U.S.
equipment, have the nerve to charge the boys 15 francs, to drive them back to camp.
Ashmore, Gerald U., 2Lt, pilot, 310th BG
Birmingham, George G., Jr., Capt, 487th BS
Hawkes, Leon R., 2Lt, pilot
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot:
“We had fairly clear weather today so we went on another mission today – Northern
Italy, had a bad time from flak & fighters but got home O.K. We sure blew hell out of our
target, a German rest camp. 4000 troops.”
447th BS War Diary: Sophisticated Lady (ship #41-13181) returned from a combat
mission today for the hundredth time. She is the only one of our planes to hold such a
record to date. Lt. Jahrhaus brought her in on the 100th. (Note: according to the mission
crew lists, 1st Lt. R.C. Olson piloted 41-13181 on this mission)
Jahraus, Alfred B., 1Lt, pilot
Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 1Lt, pilot
our ships and one spare took off to participate in a raid on Perugia, Italy. The spare was
not needed and returned early.
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
DeMay, Kenneth C., 1Lt
None
Boyd, Robert J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint-Myrtle
II”
P Knodle Robert A., 2Lt
CP Ryherd, Fred E., 1Lt
N None
B Nowakowski, Joseph J., 1Lt
E Monroe, Delore E., S/Sgt
R Wadlow, Verlin L., S/Sgt
G Roberts, Herman (NMI), Sgt
F None
Ball”
P Thomas, David W., 1Lt
N Halloran, Robert F., 1Lt
E Jeffrey, James H., PFC
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Vincent, Frederick W., III, 1Lt
Briskey, John F., Jr., 1Lt
None
Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt
Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt
Mays, Jack C., S/Sgt
Reilly, James M., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-30557
None
Manning Hillard J., S/Sgt
None
Lady”
Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 1Lt
None
Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
Kastelic, Frank M., T/Sgt
Smith, Argyle H., Cpl
None
N Holloway, Arthur M., 1Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., T/Sgt
G Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt
F None
Mission 143 (181): At 11:42 24 planes off to bomb Perugia A/D, Italy. All dropped
1566 frags from 10,500 feet. 23 planes back 14:20. 1 plane lost over target (448) Strings
of bombs covered field just E of hangars and in hangars, S dispersal area well covered,
explosion in hangar in SW corner of field, 2 hangars burning and scattered fires in
hangars of S dispersal area. B-25 hit just after target R engine smoking but going down
under control, 5-6 persons seen bailing out, 1 report stated that plane nosed in and
crashed, another report that plane made controlled landing 10 miles S of target on level
ground. Crew members: Capt. Culp, Lieuts’ Anderson, Perry, Matkins, Sgt: Spencer,
Holguin and Allen. Flak: Heavy, intense and accurate. Weather: CAVU at target. F/L:
Anderson. (Culp)
A/C No. 41-30352 (MACR-1818 - shot
down)
P Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt
CP Culp, Merle H., Capt
N Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
B Matkins, Marvin F., 2Lt
R Allen, Clifford N., S/Sgt
G Holguin, Renato (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64519
Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
None
Polinsky, Marvin J., T/Sgt
None
P Sowder, Tony R., Jr., F/O
CP Hoffman Albert J., 2Lt
N None
B Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt
E Ritter, Robert E., S/Sgt
R Alexander, Phillip D., Pvt
G Penhale, Walter B., Pvt
F None
A/C No. 42-64521
P Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Jr., Jr., 2Lt
CP Doyle, Edward J., 2Lt
N None
B Bird, Robert G., Cpl
E Johnson, Joe Morris, Sgt
G Wilkerson, John J., Cpl
F Buckles, Kenneth L., Sgt
A/C No. 41-30355
None
Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt
Jeffrey, Louis J., Cpl
None
A/C No. 42-64552
Freeland, Levi B., 1Lt
None
Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Pvt (B & G)
Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Pvt (G & B)
None
448th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 1818:
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30352 (MACR-1818 - shot down)
Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt - POW, liberated and RTD
Culp, Merle H., Capt - POW, liberated and RTD 3 Jun 45
Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt - POW, liberated and RTD
Matkins, Marvin F., 2Lt - KIA
Spencer, John S., T/Sgt - POW, liberated and RTD
Allen, Clifford N., S/Sgt - POW, liberated and RTD
Holguin, Renato (NMI), S/Sgt - WIA, POW, liberated and RTD
None
Eyewitness Account: Strenger, Marshall C., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Operations Office
448th Bombardment Squadron (M)
321st Bombardment Group (M)
A. P. O. # 520
AG 360.33-Anderson, Andrew H. L. (O) and crew.
January 14, 1944
SUBJECT: Eyewitness Account of Battle Casualty by 1st Lt. Marshall C. Strenger, 445th
Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), A.P.O. # 520.
TO
:
1. On January 7, 1944 I was on the mission that 2nd Lt. Andrew H. L. Anderson
led over Perugia Airdrome, Italy. Lieutenant Anderson led the first flight of 12 planes
over the target at 1310. I would say at about that time he was hit by enemy anti-aircraft
fire, however I was not close enough to say for certain.
2. Coming off the target I saw several parachutes which I counted and I am
positive of five of them. I would say that the fifth man bailed out at about 9000 feet.
3. The two wing men of Lieutenant Anderson made a turn to the left as briefed.
Lieutenant Anderson’s plane continued on straight with his wheels half down. The last I
saw of the airplane it was on one engine with its wheels still half way down and under
good flying control.
MARSHALL C. STRENGER,
(Attachment to MAC Report, Anderson,
1st Lt., Air Corps
Andrew H. L. (O) and crew, dated 7
Pilot
January 1944.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Vallery, Dean B., F/O, pilot, 445th BS
Operations Office
A. P. O. # 520
January 14, 1944
TO
:
led over Perugia Airdrome, Italy. Lieutenant Anderson led the first flight of 12 planes
over the target at 1310. I would say at about that time he was hit by enemy anti-aircraft
fire, however I was not close enough to say for certain.
2. Coming off the target I saw several parachutes which I counted and I am
certain of five of them.
3. The two wing men of Lieutenant Anderson made a turn to the left as briefed.
Lieutenant Anderson’s plane continued on straight with his wheels half down. The last I
saw of the airplane it was on one engine with its wheels still half way down. I appeared
to me that the feathered engine was on fire. The airplane was under good flying control.
DEAN B. VALLERY
F/O., Air Corps
Pilot
January 1944.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Woogerd, Warren G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS
Operations Office
A. P. O. # 520
January 14, 1944
TO
:
led over Perugia Airdrome, Italy.
2. Coming off the target I noticed five parachutes and observed one ship
missing from the lead formation.
3. The last I saw of the plane it was under good flying control, it had one
engine feathered and the wheels were dropped half way down.
WARREN G. WOOGERD
T/Sgt., Air Corps
Radio Operator
January 1944.)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual Casualty Questionnaire: Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
“German Source - One officers chute failed to open - Tail Gunner T/Sgt now Mr.
John S. Spencer, 150 E Prospect, Shreveport, LA. thinks Makin’s chute was hit by shell
fire. Spencer saw chute open and later collapse.”
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): B-25's bomb the harbor,
warehouses, and railway at Metkovic, Yugoslavia.
In Italy, A-20's hit railway stations at Frosinone and in the ColleferroSegni area; B-26's bomb marshalling yards at Grosseto and Lucca; P-40's support the US
Fifth Army in the mountains E and SE of Cassino, and, with A-36's, hit railway targets S
of Rome at Aquino, Frosinone, Palestrina and Castelforte; other P-40's hit Avezzano, and
A-36's blast trains and vessels in the vicinity of Tarquinia.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Lt. Bruce Lowery, a Headquarters veteran, transferred to the
448th Bombardment Squadron.
Lowery, Bruce (NMI), 2Lt, armament
0930 A/C 42-64526 “Patches” (Hinderer, Robert H., 1Lt), slow time.
1135 446th. A/C Nos. 42-64526 “Patches” (Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt) and 41-13203
(Knapp, Robert Theodore A., 1Lt) for Dry Runs, take off 1330. Also gunnery.
TAS.
1200 Bradley to TBF. “Gunnery Range from 1400 to 1500 today. Coordinates:
41°38’N, 16° E; 41°30’N, 16°E; 41°25’N, 16°10’E; 41°30’N, 16°30’E.
1230 41-30001 (447th BS) up for instrument check.
1500 In case of trouble call 323 Wing and ask for Ground Controller.
1700 From TBF. “Lead 24 A/C with 500’s same fuzing as today”.
1730 445th needs CP to complete their 7 crews for tomorrow’s line-up--called 446th and
they will furnish CP for them.
1635 Bailey to Asbury. “Crews available: 445th 7, 446th 6, 447th 6, 448th 6”.
TREVOR (Graham J., 1Lt) A/C 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” (447th BS) shot
down presumably by Enemy Fighters. Last seen at 1233 to 1235 at 42°05’N,
16°35’E. Approximately 65 miles off the coast from Manfredonia, heading 55°.
Fighters evidentially picked the formation up near the target and followed it
nearly all the way back to the home base--resulting in the loss of said A/C.
Capt. Beeson (Elwood H.) in A/C 42-64600 “Lady Luck” (447th BS) went out
over the spot where the A/C was last seen (with 2 Spits as escort) after the
formation had landed. None of the crew were spotted.
Back to Yugoslavian targets in defense of the Partisans, the important German-held
marshalling yards at Metkovic was bombed. Concentrations of bursts covered the
warehouses and tracks at the end, cratering the yards and setting fire to the warehouses.
Two or three hits observed at the southwest chokepoints. After turning off the target the
formation was attacked by 12 or 13 enemy aircraft which engaged them all the way back
to the Italian mainland. Three enemy aircraft were shot down to one of ours—Lieut.
Trevor of the 447th Bombardment Squadron.
2. At 1059 – 24 B-25’s took off to bomb Metkovic M/Yds. and docks. None returned
early. 24 dropped 135 x 500 lb bombs with .01 and .02 fusing at 1210 hours on target
from 9500/11,500 feet. 23 returned at 1250. Axis of attack 100°. 1 A/C lost.
3. RESULTS: Good pattern on M/Y. At least ¾ of M/Y hit, although smoke obscured
vision of target before and after bombing. At least 3 fires, 1 of which was a large fire
and several explosions, including one reported direct hit on fuel storage tank at SW
tip of M/Y. R.R. tracks cut at E end of M/Y. Building area near station well covered
along N side of M/Y.
1 B-25 shot down at 41°50’, and from 16°40’ to 17°10’
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------Attacked by four enemy A/C believed to be FW-190’s. Attacked at the
target. E/A followed formation back to Italian Coast, attacking all the way
from 7 and 11 o’clock from high and low, also diving through the formation
in head-on attacks. Enemy pilots seemed very experienced, apparently
knowing the fields of fire of a B-25 and avoiding it. Formation also
attacked by 6/9 ME 109’s, thirteen minutes after target staying with
formation until the Italian Coast was reached. Very aggressive tactics
consisting of head-on passes in groups of threes and from the rear in groups
of twos passing underneath.
Ground—Warehouses across river observed burning before our formation reached
target. Signals or smoke pots in marshes or meadows at 43°00’, 17°32’.
Marine---None.
Flak------ Heavy, slight intensity, inaccurate. Mostly from the vicinity of Gabela, 2
miles NE of target.
5. WEATHER: CAVU ENTIRE ROUTE.
6. 3 E/A claimed destroyed, 1 ME-109 and 2 FW-190’s, 2 probable ME-109’s
Flight leaders: Lt Latremore, Capt. Beeson.
Photos taken.
FRED W. LICHTWARD,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Eight Officers and 10 enlisted men combat crews officially
received their orders to return to the United States. They will probably leave tomorrow.
Major Tipton, Commanding Officer, was transferred to 12th Bomber Command and is to
be succeeded by Captain Ellwood H. Beeson, formerly of the 447th Squadron. The Group
lost another ship today when enemy fighters destroyed a bomber from the 448th Squadron
not far from Manfredonia. There was a large mail call in the afternoon. The men
enjoyed the doughnuts distributed by the Red Cross girl at supper. For further
entertainment, there was an Italian accordionist serenading the enlisted men in the mess
tent
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, commander
Tipton, Richard Pike, Maj, pilot, Commander
A/C No. 42-64529
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Walker, Robert S., 2Lt
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
Marcoulier, William A., Sgt
Henrich, James G., Sgt
None
None
None
A/C No. 42-64575
N None
B Miller, Edward A., 2Lt
R Forbes, Robert W., Sgt
G Stone, Donald R., S/Sgt
F Cheosky, Alexander A., Cpl
A/C No. 41-12924
CP Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None
E Carner, Donald E., Cpl
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64508
P Jackson, John I., 2Lt
CP Charville, Leighton Daniel “Danny”,
2Lt
N None
B Souders, Walter E., 2Lt
E Hickey, William R., Sgt
R Wilson, John P. “Phil”, T/Sgt
G Imbastaro, Alexander J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64659
Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
Tarmichael, Arthur J., 2Lt
Dickerson, Samuel M., 2Lt
Reddy, John E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30354 (spare)
Lathrop, Gerald T., 2Lt
None
Ehler, Leon J. H., S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Fighter opposition met on mission today against Metkovic,
Yugoslavia. Lt. Riordan reached that happy “50” and Lt. Wright put on his silver bars.
Captain Ford and Lt. Russell left for new assignments at the XII Bomber Command.
Mail call with a few late Xmas packages.
Ford, George L., Capt, intelligence
Riordan, Roland C., Lt, pilot
Russell, Burton E., Lt, pilot
Wright, Theodore O., 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Metkovic M/Y, Yugoslavia.
DATE: 8 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Latremore, 445th Sqdn, led the formation. Good pattern on M/Yds, at least ¾ or
M/Yds hit. Building area near station well covered along N side. Fires and several
explosions observed. One B-25 shot down at 40º 50’, 16º 41’ and to 17º 10’. Flak was
heavy, slight, intense, inaccurate. Formation attacked by 4 e/a believed to be FW 190’s,
at target, Enemy a/c followed the formation back to the Italian coast, attacking all the
way. Enemy pilots seemed very experienced and seemed to know the fields of fire from
the B-25’s. Formation also attacked by 6/9 ME-109’s, 13 minutes after target, staying
with the formation until the Italian coast was reached. These were very aggressive.
Three e/a claimed destroyed. Lt. Topham was a spare, and returned early. Lt. Dickerson
flew lead navigator with Lt. Latremore of the 445th Sqdn.
Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt, bombardier
Latremore, Fred S., Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt
None
Parrish, William W., Sgt
Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, S/Sgt
Fontenot, V. L. (i.o.), T/Sgt
Schultheis, Thomas R., Pvt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
P Cornell, Earl K., F/O
N None
R Smith, Roy W., T/Sgt
G DeBari, Dominick R., Sgt
F None
Peekin’”)
N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Riordan, Ronald C., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 41-13008
None
Rockafellow, Alfred A., S/Sgt
Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt
None
None
Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt
Brooks, Gaylen BG., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13000 (spare – returned
early)
P Topham, Arthur H., 2Lt
N None
E Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Nieman, John W., Cpl
G Holtzclaw, James Ralph, S/Sgt
F None
“15th Day at Casa. Rainy & dreary day. Hung around barracks all a.m. listening to
hangar flyers. Went with Ferraro & Boatright to get there pay. O.K. Got a haircut,
shave, shampoo, etc. for 25 francs. Not bad. Got mad down at PX. Tried to by a knife
but no transients can buy them. What a base. Transient officer isn’t ever an ally here.
Ashmore came in drunk, kept barracks in stitches telling how he got tossed out of club by
an infantry officer. No love lost between the “Paddle feet” and the Air Corps.”
Boatright, Benjamin, Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
Ferraro, Joseph L. "Moe", Sgt, gunner
“I flew to the upper NE coast of Italy today, we bombed a bridge & marshalling yards,
did a good job, guess we won’t have to go back there. Sure am waiting for that telegram
from my Wife – maybe tomorrow.”
447th BS War Diary: 7 of our ships took part in a raid on the railroad junction and yards
at Metkovic, Yugoslavia. The target was well covered and the flak was practically nil.
As the formation was on the route home, it was attacked by 9 German fighters. The
attackers were very aggressive and persistent and concentrated on one of our ships which
was being flown by Lt. Trevor. His plane had dropped behind due to a mechanical
failure of the left engine and the fighters succeeded in knocking it down. The fighters
tagged the formation almost to the Italian coast. Members of this crew were: Lt. G.J.
Trevor, pilot, Lt. J.E. Briskey, Jr., Co-pilot, Lt. A.L. Kingsley, bombardier, Cpl J.H.
Jeffrey, engineer, S/Sgt. J.C. Mays, radio-gunner, and Sgt. J.M. Reilly, turret-gunner.
According to those who witnessed this ship go down there is little hope of any of the
crew escaping. Morning report for week ending Jan. 8: officers—5; Enlisted men—252.
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt
None
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt
Crowell, James M., Jr., S/Sgt
None
P Joiner, Harold W., 1Lt
N None
E Baringer, Paul S., S/Sgt
R Moomaw, Otis W., S/Sgt
G Manning, Hillard J., S/Sgt
F Hassett, Leo P., Sgt
A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon”
(MACR-1825 - shot down)
P Trevor, Graham J., 1Lt
CP Briskey, John F., Jr., 1Lt
N None
E Jeffrey, James H., Cpl
R Mays, Jack C., S/Sgt
G Reilly, James M., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Ball”
Beebe, Harwood (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
Saiers, Edward L., 1Lt
Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 1Lt
Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Vincent, Frederic W., 1Lt
None
O’Loughlin, William M., S/Sgt
None
447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: On January 8, 1944 seven planes of this
squadron participated in a raid on the railroad junction and yards at Metkovic,
Yugoslavia. A successful bombing run was made with little opposition from flak.
Several bursts were seen but they were not close enough to do any damage.
Thirteen minutes after the bombing run the formation was attacked by nine
German fighters. Just prior to the attack the left engine of the plane piloted by Lt. Trevor
had been feathered, presumably because of some mechanical failure, and this ship lost
altitude and straggled from the formation. When the fighters came in to attack they
singled out the straggler and made a concentrated attack upon it. The plane continued to
lose altitude and was finally seen to hit the water. The crew of the ship which was shot
down was as follows: 1st Lt. Graham J. Trevor, pilot; 1st Lt. John E. Briskey, Jr., co-pilot;
1st Lt. Andrew L. Kingsley, bombardier; Cpl. James H. Jeffrey, engineer; S/Sgt. Jack C.
Mays, radio-gunner; S/Sgt. James M. Reilly, turret gunner.
Briskey, John F., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Jeffrey, James H., Cpl, engineer-gunner
Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt, bombardier
Mays, Jack C., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Reilly, James M., S/Sgt, turret gunner
Trevor, Graham J., 1Lt, pilot
The fighters were very aggressive in their attack upon the formation. In twos and
fours they made pass after pass at various elements of the formation from the front, sides
and rear and the attacks continued until the formation reached the coast of Italy. Three of
the fighters were shot down, two by 448th gunners and one by Sgt. Robert Boyd of this
squadron. Lt. Trevor’s plane was the only B-25 lost. The plane piloted by Lt. Knodle
received a hit in the right engine but the engine continued to function until he was taxiing
off the runway after landing. Lts. Nowakowski, Anderson and Vincent all reported
observing Lt. Trevor’s plane as it was attacked. When Lt. Nowakowski saw the plane it
was flying straight and level at about 1500 feet. The formation at that time was at about
4000 feet or 2500 feet above Lt. Trevor’s plane. Four German fighters were diving on
the straggling plane and firing at it when Lt. Nowakowski lost sight of it. Lt. Anderson
saw three fighters attacking Lt. Trevor’s plane from the rear. The fighters were flying
along parallel to the formation and the waist gunner on Lt. Anderson’s plane, Sgt. Robert
Boyd, got a good shot at one of the fighters. He shot about a hundred rounds into it, most
of them into the enemy aircraft’s tail section. The tail of the fighter fell apart and it went
down into the sea. The other two fighters continued to press their attack on Lt. Trevor’s
plane. All during the running fight with the fighters the formation was diving down to
get on the deck. Lt. Vincent reported seeing Lt. Trevor’s plane hit the water and at that
time the altitude of the formation was about 400 feet. He was looking back and saw a
tremendous spray of water as the plane hit. He did not see the plane after that.
According to his estimate Lt. Trevor’s plane went in about twenty miles from the Italian
coast.
Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt, pilot
Boyd, Robert J., M/Sgt, gunner
Knodle, Robert A., 2Lt, pilot
Nowakowski, Joseph J., 2Lt, bombardier
Vincent, Frederick W., III, 2Lt, pilot
Capt. Beeson took a plane out to the area shortly afterwards and searched
thoroughly for some trace of the plane which went down but could find nothing.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” (MACR-1825 - shot down)
Trevor, Graham J., 1Lt - KIA / DED
Briskey, John F., Jr., 1Lt - KIA / DED
None
Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt - KIA / DED
Jeffrey, James H., Cpl - KIA / DED
Mays, Jack C., S/Sgt - KIA / DED
Reilly, James M., Sgt - KIA / DED
None
Eyewitness Account: Vincent, Frederick W., III, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
447th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
A. P. O. # 520
AG 360.33-Trevor, Graham J. (O) and crew.
January 10, 1944
SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report.
TO
: Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)
1. On January 8, 1944, I was flying in the second ship, second element, and
second flight. Lt. Trevor was pilot of the ship in the third position, first element, and
second flight.
2. Previous to making our bomb-run, two fighters were observed following our
formation. After making our bomb-run no fighters were observed up until the time Lt.
Trevor feathered his right engine. Our location at that time was just off the Yugoslavian
coast. Lt. Trevor’s plane started falling behind the rest of the formation. Before the
communication had been received by the lead ship, enemy fighters had proceeded to
attack Lt. Trevor’s ship, evidentially coming out of the sun. It would be my estimate that
there were ten enemy fighters attacking, the ones of which I saw being FW 190s.
3. After receiving the first attack, Lt. Trevor unfeathered his bad engine and
undoubtedly pushed all controls forward as he could be seen catching up with the
formation. It was observed that Lt. Trevor was handling his ship in a most skillful and
advantageous manner with regard to the safety of his crew.
4. After having crippled Lt. Trevor’s ship, the enemy proceeded to attack the
weakened first element of the flight, making both frontal and side attacks as in breaking
away they were able to strafe the entire flight. Immediately after these attacks Lt. Trevor
made a water landing at a high rate of speed. Upon hitting the water, the ship spread a
long, wide, high spray which lasted for so long a time that it was impossible to observe
other pertinent facts.
FREDERICK W. VINCENT,
1st Lt., Air Corps.
(This is an attachment to Missing Air Crew Report concerning aircraft missing since
January 8, 1944, and concerning the missing crew which is as follows: 1st Lt. Trevor,
Graham J., 1st Lt. Briskey, John F., Jr., 1st Lt. Kingsley, Andrew L., S/Sgt. Mays, Jack C.,
S/Sgt. Reilly, James M., and Cpl. Jeffrey, James H.)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 52)
TARGET: Metkovic M/Y
1:50 500 lb bombs
Plane 498: Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Langston, Lt. Deane, S/Sgt Czabaj, S/Sgt, Ennis, S/Sgt
Crowell
Crowell, James M., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
Czabaj, Matthew W., S/Sgt, gunner
Deane, George J., 2Lt, bombardier
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt, radar radio-gunner
Langston, Everett D., 1Lt, pilot
Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot
“Lt. Trevor and crew which included Lt. Trevor Lt. Briskey, Lt. Kingsley, Pfc.
Jeffery, S/Sgt Mays and Sgt. Reilly in plane 450 were attacked by several fighters and
shot down in the Adriatic Sea. Sgt. Crowell shot down one E/A. ¾ of M/Y although
smoke obscured visions of targets. At least three fires and several fires observed after
explosions caused by direct hits on fuel tanks.”
Briskey, John F., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt, bombardier
Mays, Jack C., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Mission 144 (182): At 10:59 24 planes off to bomb Metkovic, Yugoslavia, M/Y and
docks. All dropped bombs 135 x 500 at 12:10 from 9,500 feet. 23 planes returned at
12:50, 1 B-25 lost. Good pattern on M/Y at least ¾ of yard hit although smoke obscured
observation, 3 fires 1 very large and several explosions resulted from direct hits on fuel
storage tanks on SW tip of M/Y. RR tracks cut at E end of M/Y and building area near
station well covered. 13 E/A attacked formation (FW-190’s) at target and followed it
back to Italian coast, enemy apparently experienced and avoided B-25’s fields of fire by
attacking high, low, and head on thru formation. 1 B-25 shot down by fighters at 41º 50’
N and 16º 40’ E. 3 E/A destroyed and 2 probables. Flak: Slight, inaccurate and heavy.
Weather: CAVU.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64521
None
Robert, Maurice L., Cpl
Coleman, Seaton L., Sgt
VanCura, Edward W., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-29967
Boatright, John S., 1Lt
Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt
None
Kreutz, Alfred W., 2Lt
Burr, Harry C., S/Sgt
Wilkerson, John J., Cpl
None
A/C No. 42-64514
P Freeland, Levi B., Jr., 1Lt
CP VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), 2Lt
N None
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt
F Kepford, Francis R., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64655
CP Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None
E Sharpsteen, Robert E., Sgt
G Tudor, Owen M., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30327
None
Bennett, Ross F., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30548
Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt
Chosta, Louis (NMI), Sgt
Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt
Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt
None
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Prime Minister Winston S
Churchill and General Charles A De Gaulle meet at Marrakesh, French Morocco. They
discuss cooperation of a French expeditionary force in invasion of Europe and the degree
of authority of the French inside France after the invasion.
In Italy, B-25's attack the marshalling yard and docks at Ancona; P40's hit tanks and trucks at Palena and S of Sulmona, and positions and vehicles near
Cervaro; and A-36's hit positions in the same area. 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 63rd
Fighter Wing, based at Elmas, Sardinia with Beaufighters, sends a detachment to operate
from Ghisonaccia, Corsica.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: An advance echelon was sent to our new field which is to be
only 18 miles away from our present base and seven miles southwest of Foggia. The B17’s are crowding us out of our present spot which necessitates this short haul to an
empty field. All Squadrons this date were on alert for possible strafing attack by fighters
based in Yugoslavia. This warning was given by the anti-aircraft intelligence.
TBF to CWO. “Target for 10/1/44: Railroad. 47 th B. G. will move planes 11th or
12th. We must notify TBF (ADW) that Vincenzo A/D is ready for us, then Group
Capt. Huntley will get us transportation.
1123 From tower: 41-12926 (“Hawkeye” 448th BS) landed at 1121.
41-29998 (448th BS) landed at 1122.
1135 From tower: 1st A/C (Mission) landed at 1349
Last “
“
“ “ 1412
2000 Col Ferrell to Larson. Provisional TOT for 10/1/44. H minus 0335. 12th B. G.
has further details. Area # 1.”
When weather Recce lands give 12th info. If area # 1 our TOT is H minus 0335.
Mission sent to the port of Ancona. Photos show a concentration of bursts in the
warehouse area south of the shipbuilding facilities. Also his on an overturned vessel and
on the breakwater.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Report # 183, 9 January 1944
2. At 1130 – 24 B-25’s took off to bomb North and East Quays and dock facilities at
Ancona. 3 A/C returned early. 21 A/C dropped 123x500 lb. bombs with .1 and .025
fusing from 10,000/11,500 feet at 1250 hrs. 21 A/C returned at 1350.
3. RESULTS: (Ref. TC. 3-162-NA) Bombs seen to hit along quay (north quay) from F
to N-30. Also among buildings M to N 31-32 and along E. dock side from L to 0-28
and 29. Dock hit at J-30 with some bombs in water near L-28. Five bombs reported
hitting in town abut Q-24.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------3 S/E A/C seen near target. One E/A observed heading S. at 7000 ft. and
another seen following formation S. at about 500 ft. off coast.
Marine---M/V heading S from Falconara made 180° turn on seeing bombers. 3
medium M/Vs off Sari Gallia heading S about 5 miles apart. In harbor
three 400’ M/Vs at 27-N and 4 small boats in S. harbor near M/Ys about K21. Ship about 6000 tons reported 10 miles S. of Ancona heading N.
Flak------ Large amount of light flak reported from around dock area. Two heavy
batteries at I-30, another at N-27. Heavy, light, moderate, inaccurate.
Some flak from Falconara and between Ancona and Isola Sirolo—heavy
and inaccurate.
5. WEATHER: CAVU entire mission.
6. None
Flight leaders: Lts. Tapper and Sowder.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
Gp. Intelligence Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The Officers and enlisted men who are to return to the United
States left this morning by truck for Foggia main where they will board a transport for
Algiers. There were many handshakes and many envious glances were cast at the
departing men. Two of the enlisted men did not leave today. One was at rest camp while
the other hadn’t packed in time. The former sounded plausible but the men were
scratching their heads all day over the latter. Among the Officers to leave was Lt.
Haegele, Operations Officer and Flight Officer Vallery is rumored to be the new
Operations Officer. Lt. Stanley J. Malek was relieved of his duties as Mess Officer and
was succeeded by Lt. Sam Gregory, the Adjutant. Major Tipton awarded Air Medals to
flying personnel in a short ceremony in the afternoon. The men enjoyed the fresh stead
for supper.
Gregory, Samuel J., 1Lt, Adjutant
Haegele, Frederick G., 2Lt, pilot
Malek, Stanley J., 2Lt, intelligence
Tipton, Richard Pike, Maj, pilot, Commander
Vallery, Dean B., F/O, pilot
A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and
Joy”
P House, Robert M., 2Lt
N None
B Miller, Edward A., 2Lt
E Dillon, James A., Sgt
R DiPietrantonio, Joseph N., T/Sgt
G Herrman, Byard G., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12924
P Lathrop, Gerald T., 2Lt
None
Maddox, Richard L., T/Sgt
Henrich, James G., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64575
P Knapp, Charles R., 2Lt
CP Strenger, Marshall C., 1Lt
N None
B Castle, Roy V., Cpl
E Ehler, Leon J. H., S/Sgt
R Schaviak, Willis M., Sgt
G Carson, Cecil F., Cpl
N
B
E
R
G
F
Judy”
None
None
2Lt
None
Hickey, William R., Sgt
Wilson, John P. “Phil”, T/Sgt
Imbastaro, Alexander J., S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Six men put aside their parachutes and started sweating out orders
for home today: F/O Cornell, Lt. Davison, Sgts. Beach, Neiman, Rockafellow, and J.C.
Mitchell.
Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Cornell, Earl K., 2Lt, pilot
Davison, William R., 2Lt, pilot
Mitchell, John C., Sgt, gunner
Neiman, John W., Sgt, gunner
Rockafellow, Alfred A., Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Ancona M/Y, Italy.
DATE: 9 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Tapper led the formation. Hits were observed along the north quay, among buildings
and along the east dock side, the dock itself and part of the town. E/A seen but did not
attack. Flak was heavy, light, mod., inacc
P Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt
N None
B Pestalozzi, Rudolph H. “Rudy”, 2Lt
E Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., Sgt
F None
St. Joe”
P Tapper, George C., 1Lt
CP Davison, William R., 2Lt
N Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
B Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt
E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30293
P Cornell, Earl K., F/O
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady”
Holt, Robert L., 2Lt
None
Green Harry M., Sgt
Rockafellow, Alfred A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13008
None
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
None
Neiman, John W., Cpl
Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
None
“16th day at Casa. Still cannot find a place to go to Mass. Raining when I got up. Had
breakfast – clearing up. Took a trip to the flight line in hopes Burandt would show up.
Nice chicken dinner today. Went into town, walked around the parks, saw Army-Navy
baseball game. Visited the Rustique, Bar bolly, & select Bars. Still get a kick out of
watching these $20.00 w---- operate. Ate at officer’s mess in town – went to show. Back
to camp.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot
“Boy, we sure did get another marshalling yard today, here in Northern Italy again –
pardon me in Yugoslavia. We did a good job but got lots of flak, & were jumped by
fighters & they followed us all the way home, made lots of passes at us & caused us lots
of trouble. We lost one ship & crew; another ship got an engine shot out but finally got
home OK. One ship got his landing gear shot out & had to make a belly landing, he did
a good job. I picked up several holes but no one was hurt – all for now.”
447th BS War Diary: Lt. Anderson and S/Sgt. Cook completed their fiftieth combat
mission today. A formal presentation of Air Medals was made at the squadron area
today. The formation was called together by Capt. Gale after which Major Sampson
presented the medals.
Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt, pilot
Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt, gunner
Gale, Myron, Capt, Executive
our ships participated in a raid on the marshalling yards at Ancona, Italy. Results—good.
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt
Holloway, Arthur M., 1Lt
Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 1Lt
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You
Done Crapped” (returned early)
None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
N None
G Manning, Hillard J., S/Sgt
F None
P Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N None
B Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt
E O’Loughlin, William M., S/Sgt
F None
Broyles, Porter A., 1Lt
None
Franklin, Willie P., S/Sgt
Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64695
McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 1Lt
None
Nowakowski, Joseph J., S/Sgt
None
TARGET: North and East quays at Ancona
2:20
500 lbs bombs
Plane 498: Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Langston, Lt. Holloway, Lt. Mayben, S/Sgt Czabaj, S/Sgt,
Ennis, S/Sgt Crowell
Czabaj, Matthew W., S/Sgt, gunner
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Holloway, Arthur M., 1Lt, navigator
Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
“This is my first experience at landing the flight. Bombs seem to hit on N quay
and among buildings, on E side. Docks also hit.”
Mission 145 (183): At 11:30 24 planes off to bomb N and E Quays and dock facilities at
Ancona. 3 returned early and 21 dropped 123 x 500 bombs from 10,000 feet at 12:50, all
returned at 13:50, bombs hit along quay and among building on E dock side. 3 E/A seen
near target but did not attack. Flak: Moderate, inaccurate, heavy. Weather: CAVU.
F/L: Sowder.
A/C No. 41-30327
N None
B Bird, Robert G., S/Sgt
E Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt
R Lord, Wilson E., S/Sgt
G Coleman, Seaton L., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30343
CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt
N None
B Braun, Joseph M., T/Sgt
G Griffin, E. I., S/Sgt
F Buckles, Kenneth L., Sgt
A/C No. 41-30538
N Kreutz, Alfred W., 2Lt
E Johnson, Joe Morris, Sgt
G Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64655
Crowell, Weymouth (NMI)., 2Lt
None
Riss, Royal C., S/Sgt
Tudor, Owen M., S/Sgt
None
None
Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 2Lt
Gately, Joseph A., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64552 (returned early)
Gouge, David J., 2Lt
VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), 2Lt
None
Sharpsteen, Robert E., Sgt
Mauder, Charles J., Cpl
None
In Italy, B-25's hit San Benedetto de Marsi; P-40's, with RAF, SAAF,
and RAAF airplanes, hit communications, gun positions, trucks, and tanks at numerous
points in and NW of the battle area; other P-40's give close support to ground forces in
the Chieti area; and A-36's hit trucks, tanks, trains, and other targets of opportunity N of
Rome. Transfers: HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) from Vincenzo Airfield to
Vesuvius Airfield, Italy. Air echelon of the 417th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air
Force (attached to RAF 337 Wing) from Tafaraoui to La Senia, Algeria with
Beaufighters; ground echelon is at Ghisonaccia, Corsica.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: With casualties and men going home upon completion of
their tour of combat duty, 24 planes and crews represents pretty close to maximum effort.
A far cry from that invasion day at Salerno when the Group put up a total of 72 aircraft
for two missions in direct support to the 5th Army.
0320 From 12th B. G. “Area # 2, 12th will contact us and arrange TOT. Area #1.
Delouser will be laid for us. On Area #2 12th will arrange escort.
Recce should be in by 0900.”
A/C to Naples from 448th. Cleared for morning take off. # 41-29765 (Shutt,
Ervin F., 2Lt).
12th to Larson. “Yugoslavia target cancelled. Italy doubtful--another Recce going
out. 1000 Stand-By”.
1005 Williams to Asbury. “24 A/C, #23 is the Primary; alternate #83. TOT H minus
0136. Delousers. No Aiming points. 12th B. G. Primary is inland.
1025 Squadrons notified of Briefing at 1200.
1110 Elliott to 323 Wing. A/C 41-29765 (448th BS) cleared to Naples, 1200 take off.
1145 Allen to Larson. “Coming over to pick up Tow Target equipment after lunch”.
1230 445th has A/C available for trip to Foggia Main.
1430 Same Bomb load for tomorrow, 24 A/C. Squadrons have been notified.
1500 Olmsted to FAS. “800lbs lime available. Contact 306th S. G. with conveyance
and they will see that you get it. To be used for Bombing Range. Jaenicke
notified”.
1550 Williams to Asbury. “Load 24 A/C with 500’s .1 and .025. Area #1 #67 column
11, Alternate #77. Area # 2 #8, Alternate # 64. If area 1 TOT will be H plus
0110, 12th BG H plus 0125. If Area # 2 we will set our own time H plus 0140.
12th B. G. if area # 2 will arrange delousers; over there at 1000, Flight Section on
North side of field will meet any B-25’s.
1650 Bailey to Larson. “Crew status: 445th, 6; 446th, 5; 447th, 6; 448th, 6.”
1700 Williams to Asbury. “12th Bomb Group will furnish Courier on Odd days, we
will furnish Courier on Even days. Courier must arrive at “Cercola” A/C at 1000every morning.
1830 Asbury to TBF. “Unable to carry out Nickeling program”.
23 planes took off to bomb the marshalling yards at Falconara but due to 10/10’s
coverage over the primary target, the alternate target of San Benedetto was attacked. No
bombs hit the railroad tracks but photos show bursts on the breakwater and buildings
along the shore line.
2. At 1300 – 23 B-25’s took off to bomb M/Y at Falconara. None returned early. 23
planes dropped 129 x 500 lb bombs with .1 and .025 fusing at 1440 hours from
10,500/11,500 feet on alternate target of S. Benedetto. 23 planes bat at 1530 hours.
Axis of attack 180°.
3. RESULTS: Falconara found to be 10/10 covered by clouds. Bombs observed
concentrated starting at bases of both the North and South moles, then across tracks
and into town. Both choke points of M/Y reported hit. Large, red-topped building
between shore and M/Y reported as having suffered direct hits. 6 ships dropped
bombs just off shore.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------No E/A reported.
Ground---One report M/Yds are filled with rolling stock.
Marine---One M/V observed enveloped in heavy black smoke, burning,
approximately 300 to 400 yds. Off shore and about one mile S of Porto
Civitanova. Size of ship indistinguishable due to smoke. No other ships
sighted.
Flak------Both heavy and light flak reported in moderate intensity, generally trailing,
flak batteries pinpointed at highway and RR junction, 4 to 5 miles SW of San
Benedetto. (In area 9079).
5. WEATHER:
Enroute. Clouds: 4/10 at 20,000. Visibility: Slight haze – 15 miles.
Weather at primary target: Clouds: 8/10 stratocumulus, base at 5,000
tops 7,000. Visibility: Slight haze – 15 miles.
Weather at secondary target: Clouds: 4/10 at 20,000 feet. Visibility: Slight haze
– 15 miles.
6. None
Flight leaders: Lts. Fraser and Lathrop.
STANLEY J. MALEK,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t Intelligence Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Another touch of balmy weather delights the men today. Major
Tipton, our former C.O. left today and as a parting shot, left a letter for all to read on the
bulletin board. It was a very friendly letter and was signed, “Your buddy –Dick Tipton”.
It was regarded as one of the finest gestures from a C.O. Major Tipton will long be
remembered by the men under his command. S/Sgt. Edward F. Klunke, a bombardier
who completed 25 combat missions, was chosen to be considered for a radio interview
from Algiers concerning his combat experiences. A public relations representative from
Algiers is expected to come here to choose a man from the Group for the interview. A
rumor was circulated to the effect that our Group would move within five days to a place
near Foggia. There was a test hop today and flights to Naples and Bari. The movie “Big
Shot” with Humphrey Bogart was shown at the granary at night.
Tipton, Richard Pike, Maj, pilot, 12th Bomber Command
Klunke, Edward F., S/Sgt, bombardier
A/C No. 42-64575
N None
E Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
R Carson, Cecil F., Cpl
G Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 42-64508
None
None
A/C No. 41-30354
P Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
N None
B Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
F None
A/C No. 41-12924
P Lathrop, Gerald T., 2Lt
N Miller, Edward A., 2Lt
E Hetland, Arthur M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64529
None
Fitzgerald, Daniel J., S/Sgt
Carner, Donald E., Cpl
None
446th BS War Diary: Captain Chappell assumes command of the squadron in the
absence of Lt. Col. Schwane. Lt. Wright and Lt. Topham fly their “50”.
Chappell, Howard L., Capt, pilot
Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col, pilot, Commander
Topham, Arthur H., 2Lt, pilot
Wright, Theodore O., 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: San Benedetto M/Y, Italy. (alt)
DATE: 10 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
th
Lt. Fraser, 447 Sqdn, led the formation. Falconara, the primary target, was found to
have a 0/10 cloud coverage. At the alternate, both choke points of M/Y reported hit.
Direct hit reported on large red-topped building. Six ships dropped bombs just off shore.
Flak was both heavy and light, immoderate, intensely, generally trailing. Lt. Wright was
hit on the side of the face by flak after coming off the target, and required medical
attention.
Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Polka”
P Wright, Theodore O., 1Lt
None
N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
None
F None
A/C No. 41-13005
None
None
P Holt, Robert L., 2Lt
N None
B Bahm, Linston A., PFC
R Cohen, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Dickson, Gale Monroe, 2Lt
None
None
None
Pestalozzi, Rudolph H. “Rudy”, 2Lt
None
“17th day at Casa. Met Bill Farney who just arrived from the states, said Burandt was at
Dakar awaiting parts. Be there indefinitely. Wish he was wrong. Took Farney into
town, visited bars, etc. Two Scots at the Select Bar putting on an impromptu show, Real
good. Went to show at the Vox. Errol Flynn in “Northern Pursuit”. It was lousy. Back
to camp – usual card game going on all nite – kept everyone awake.”
“Well, what a rough day today. Please, please, don’t give me another tough one like I
had today. I really believe everyone was shooting at me. This was at a marshalling yard
& docks in Italy, San Benedetto. I never did use so much evasive action but it had to be
done. I picked up 3 flak holes, one in the top of the Bombardiers nose, in the right wing,
and one near the tail. They were large holes but none of us were hit. I sure think the
Good Lord was with me today. Hope I never have another mission like that. They’re
getting close to me. So until tomorrow – Good Bye now.”
447th BS War Diary: Capt. Bugbee, Capt. Spikes, 1st Lt. Spingler, 2nd Lt. Werner, and
S/Sgt. Mercer transferred to U.S. per letter of Jan. 6, 1944, 12th A.F. Hq. 1st Lt. Wm M.
Johnston transferred to Hqs. 12th A.F. by Special Order #9 dated Jan. 9, 1944. Capt.
E.H. Beeson transferred to 445th Squadron. The following promotions came through as
of Jan. 9: Sgt. J.M. Reilly to S/Sgt. P.F.C. J.H. Jeffrey to Cpl, P.F.C David O. Erickson to
Cpl., and Cpl. Foster R. Ludtke to Sgt. A new combat crew is assigned to this squadron
as of today. They are:
2nd Lt. G.D. Seavey, 2nd Lt. H.D. Tompkins, 2nd Lt. J.W. McDermott, T/Sgt. R.W.
Harman, Sgt. J.H. Grant, and Sgt. A. Schwartz.
Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, Capt, pilot
Erickson, David O., Cpl, engineering
Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr, 1Lt, pilot
Grant, James H., Sgt, gunner
Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt, gunner
Johnston, William M., 1Lt, bombardier
Ludtke, Foster R., Sgt, gunner
Mercer, William R., S/Sgt, gunner
McDermott, James W., 2Lt, bombardier
Schwartz, Arthur, Sgt, gunner
Seavey, George D., 2Lt, pilot
Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, Capt, pilot
Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 1Lt, pilot
Tompkins, Howard D., 2Lt, pilot
Werner, Robert G., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
our ships led by Lt. Fraser participated in a raid over San Benedetto, Italy. Our flight was
first in the formation. Results of bombing—poor.
Done Crapped Again”
CP Tompkins, Howard D., 2Lt
N None
E Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), Sgt
R Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt
G Grant, James H., Sgt
F None
P Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Sampson, Raymond D., Maj,
Commander
E Tudor, Mathew S., S/Sgt
F None
Seavey, George D., 2Lt
None
Statham, Alvin F., Cpl
Ball”
None
None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
P Davies, Robert G., 1Lt
N None
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt
G Crowell, James M., Jr., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
None
Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt
None
Mission 146 (184): At 13:00 23 planes off to bomb M/Y at Falconara, all dropped 129 x
500 bombs at 14:40 from 10,500 feet on alternate target of San Benedetto, all back at
15:30. Falconara covered by overcast. At alternate bombs were concentrated starting at
bases of both N and S moles, thence across tracks and into town, both choke points of
M/Y hit, large red top buildings between shore and M/Y suffered direct hit. Six planes
dropped bombs just off shore. Flak: Heavy, moderate and trailing. Weather: 4/10th
cover.
A/C No. 41-30355
Crowell,
Weymouth
(NMI), Jr., 2Lt
P
N None
E Coleman, Seaton L., S/Sgt
R Lord, Wilson E., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer)
A/C No. 42-64552
P Gouge, David J., 2Lt
N None
B Roberts, Maurice L., Cpl
E Johnson, R , Cpl
R Riss, Roy C., S/Sgt
G VanCura, Edward W., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64655
None
None
A/C No. 41-30548
Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
None
Carnathan, J D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
House, Harry H., S/Sgt
Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30327
CP Doyle, Edward J., 2Lt
N None
E Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30343
Bates, Willie L., F/O
None
Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt
Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
None
In Italy, B-26's attack the iron and steel works at Piombino during the
night of 10/11 Jan; during the day, B-25's bomb Falconara (hitting the railroad junction)
and railroad yards at Fabriano; P-40's and A-36's blast defenses and gun positions in
Cervaro-Monte Trocchio, a gun position N of Minturno, the towns of Sora and Isola del
Liri, road traffic in the Macerata-Aquila-Popoli area, and railroad facilities at San Giorgio
del Sannio. Transfers: HQ 87th Fighter Wing to Nouvion, Algeria from the US. 84th and
85th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), from Vincenzo
Airfield to Vesuvius Airfield, Italy with A-20's.
From Capt Henry. “Both areas are hopeless.
Squadrons notified”.
Immediate stand-by at 1000.
Alternate: Area # 4. Railway bridge at B977 592, on photo NA 7654044.
0940 12th on different target with same alternate.
Primary: TOT, 1330. They are to arrange Delousers. Will call later on alternate,
do not strike at road Bridge, it is Blocked.
1015 57th Fighter going to Yugoslavia. Want Pin-Point where Bomber A/C (447th BS
42-32450 “Lumber Wagon”, Trevor, Graham J., 1Lt, pilot) went down
coordinates: 42°05’N, 16°35’E. T.O. 1045 and return at 1200. Asked if
Bombers would like to search area at same time--none available”.
1200 Elliott to 323. “2 Squadrons to T.O. from Amendola at 1205, Termoli at 1240,
Termoli at 1420, Amendola at 1435.
1215 Tower to Blake. “22 B-25’s took off from 1205 to 1214. A/C nos. 41-13200
(446th BS) and 41-13179 “Booger” (445th BS) did not take off”.
1230 (445th BS) A/C 41-13179 “Booger” took off at 1229.
1310 (445th BS) A/C 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ Judy” returned at 1300.
1312 (448th BS “Hawkeye”) A/C 41-12926 took of at 1300.
1335 (446th BS) A/C 42-29760 (Bettinger, Howard P., 1Lt) local test hop, takeoff at
1400.
1345 Asbury to 323 Wing. A/C (Sampson) cleared for Gunnery.
1415 A/C 42-64659, 445th, cleared for local flight (Young, William G., 2Lt).
This date, 23 successfully bombed Falconara marshalling yard, cutting the railroad lines
at three places including the choke point. They also hit a twenty wagon train and a
locomotive repair shed.
2. At 1205 – 23 B-25’s took off to bomb M/Y at Falconara. One returned early. 22
dropped 71 x 500 lb bombs with .1 and .025 fusing at 1330 hours from 10,500/11,500
feet. 22 returned at 1425. Axis of attack 160°.
3. RESULTS: Strings of bombs observed falling across RR tracks – at NW end of
M/Yds – near junction – in front of RR station and SE choke point. Some bombs
over near barracks, some just off shore – Coordinates of bomb fall J to M 23-25, J-28
to K-28 and G-22. One fire in yards reported.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------One report of one E/A near San Benedetto.
Ground---None.
Marine---Two medium M/V, estimated (300’ – 400’) in Porto Civitanova harbor.
Submarine observed while formation was heading north – sub was heading
south then miles S of Porto Civitanova – crash dived turning 180°. Large
vessel reported as cruiser headed N., 10 miles off coast at 43° N. One large
M/V (500’) heading S. 5 miles N of Sari Gallia
Flak------Target – slight, light, inaccurate – two guns reported at 33-F. 10/12 bursts
from Ancona.
5. WEATHER: Clouds: 4/10 stratocumulus at 6,000’. Visibility 15 miles Slight haze.
At Target: Clouds: 4/10 stratocumulus at 6,000’: Clear over target. Visibility:
15 miles, slight haze.
Return: Clouds: 5/10 stratocumulus at 6,000’. Visibility: 15 miles, slight haze.
6. None
Flight leaders: Lts. Sowder and Fetterly.
Photos taken.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN
Capt., Air Corps,
FALCONARA: First Flight came up the coast of Italy opposite to the Port of Ancona.
Weather was hazy with 5/10 overcast of strato-cumulus clouds above Ancona and
appeared so over Falconara. This caused Group Flight Leader to fly closer to the coast
line, and for some reason turned shorter than briefed and approached target at
approximately 270° (as observed by 2nd Flight).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: There were several instrument training flights scheduled. There
was another flight to Bari and the plane which went to Naples yesterday returned today.
Lt. Melvin A. Anderson, a bombardier in the Squadron, is gaining quite a reputation for
his rare humor. Most of the men know him for his imaginary bombing of “broom
factories and ball bearing factories”. Lt. Anderson is a cigar addict and has never been
caught without at least a small stub in his mouth.
Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy”, 2Lt, bombardier
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
Vallery,
Dean B., F/O
P
CP Charville, Leighton Daniel "Danny", 2Lt
N None
E Belt, Hunter C., S/Sgt
G Irvin, Ralph D.., Sgt
F None
CP Noel, William Honoree, 2Lt
N None
B Fitzgerald, Daniel J., Sgt
E Schaviak, Willis, M., Sgt,
R Townsend, Charles A., T/Sgt
G Reddy, John E., Sgt
F None
None
Dillon, James A., S/Sgt
Asmus, G., D., S/Sgt
Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
None
Monk, William, 2Lt
Chambers, Jimmie, Cpl
Stein, Louis, T/Sgt
None
CP Tarmichael, Arthur J., 2Lt,
B Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E Hetland, Arthur M., Jr, Cpl
R Marcoulier, William A., Sgt
G Carson, Cecil F., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 41-29985
CP Waterman, LeRoy R., 2Lt
N None
B Miller, Robert J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., S/Sgt
G Forbes, Robert W., Sgt,
F None
A/C No. 41-12924
Lathrop, Gerald T., 2Lt
Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt (446th BS)
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
None
446th BS War Diary: Capt. Chappell relinquishes command of the squadron upon return
of Lt. Col. Schwane. PX today and we draw some beer on rations, something new for us.
Lt. Fetterly winds up his half-a-hundred missions.
Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt, pilot
TARGET: Falconera M/Y, Italy.
DATE: 11 Jan1944
446th Planes: 4
th
Lt. Sowder, 448 Sqdn, led the formation. Strings of bombs observed falling across RR
tracks at NW end of M/Y. Some bombs were over near barracks, and some were just off
shore. One fire reported in yards. Four planes in first flight failed to drop their bombs.
No fighters. Flak was slight, high, inaccurate. Lt. Strom did not take off, magneto
trouble.
Sowder, Tony R., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Strom, Ernest M., Lt, pilot
N None
B Bahm, Linston A, PFC
E Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt
R Smith, Roy W., Sgt
F None
P Topham, Arthur H., 2Lt
CP Ryder, David, 2Lt
N None
B Nicklaus, George Edward, 2Lt,
R Higgins, Thomas T., T/Sgt
G Holtzclaw, James Ralph, PFC
F None
A/C No. 41-13208
None
Bsharah, Phillip, 2Lt
Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt
Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
None
Pilot: Cooper
Parnamirim Air Field, Natal, Rio Do Sul, Brazil to Ascension Island Air Field: Ferry
Flying Time: 7:45
“18th day at Casablanca. No word from Burandt as yet. Wrote to Ma and A.M.B.
Getting very monotonous here, not a thing to do. After bunch went into town with Fill
Farney, went shopping, hung around town, and went to the show. Back to camp, then to
bed. Made up mind if Burandt isn’t here by Monday we’ll go on w/out him.”
“This was a swell mission today, just a little farther North in Italy from where we were
yesterday, we got another marshalling yard and we sure did blow it to Kingdom Come, it
will be a long time before they use that yard again. Sure should cut off supplies for the
Germans at the front line. We sure are flying a lot now, and are beginning to get darned
tired. I’m looking forward to a day off and waiting for that cablegram from my Wife,
sure would like to know how she is and the baby and if it’s a boy or girl. Well I’ll hit the
hay now, sot this is all for now, goodnight now.”
Letter Home: “Will you write to Manhattan, Kansas, to the Kansas State College
and try to get a record of my R.O.T.C. time there. Have them state the exact time a am
credited for so I can add it to my service time with the Army.”
of our ships participated in a raid on the Marshalling Yards at Falconara, Italy. Results—
fair. Choke point hit.
A/C No. 42-64-694 “Yankee Girl”
None
None
A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda”
P Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
CP Seavey, George D., 2Lt
N None
E Schwartz, Arthur, Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30557
N None
B Deane, George J., 1Lt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64695
Beebe, Harwood, Jr., 2Lt
None
McDermott, James W., 2Lt
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, T/Sgt
Crowell, James M., Jr., S/Sgt,
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind”
None
Myers, William W., T/Sgt
None
Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 1Lt
Tompkins, Howard D., 2Lt
None
Tudor, Mathew S., S/Sgt
None
Mission 147 (185): At 12:05 25 planes off to bomb Falconera M/Y, 1 returned early and
22 dropped 71 x 500 bombs at 13:30 from 10,500 feet. All returned at 14:25. Strings of
bombs observed falling across RR tracks at NW end of M/Y near junction, in front of RR
station and SE choke point. 1 fire in yards reported, 4 planes did not drop bombs. Flak:
Slight, light and inaccurate. Weather: 4/10th Strato-cumulus, slight haze. F/L: Sowder.
A/C No. 42-64655
Bell, Albert R., Capt, Commander
Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt
Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt
Carnathan, J D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64552
CP Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt
N None
R Tudor, Owen M., S/Sgt
G Coleman, Seaton L., Sgt
F France, Charles E., Jr., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64514
P Bates, Willie L., F/O
CP Jones, Truman R., 2Lt
N None
B Bell, Robert C., 2Lt
R Pitts, Donald W., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30355 (returned early – oil
leak)
None
None
A/C No. 41-30327
None
None
None
None
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Colonel Archibald Y
Smith assumes command of the XII Air Force Training and Replacement Command.
In Italy, B-25's and B-26's bomb the Giulianova railway bridge and
attack a dam and road bridge; A-20's hit San Donato; P-40's attack a vessel in the Krka
River of Yugoslavia, hit enemy defensive positions at San Biagio Saracinesa, Sant' Elia
Fiumerapido, Monte Trocchio, and Atina, and bomb Vallerotonda; A-36's attack the
Avezzano railroad yards, a village near Atina, railroad facilities at Cisterna di Latina, and
numerous trucks and train cars in the Rome area.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Lt. Thomas L. Blake, formerly of the 448th Bombardment
Squadron, was appointed Group Bombardier and assigned to Headquarters.
Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt, bombardier
Vincent, Frederick W., III, 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
A special target came in at the last minute—the Isoletta dam. We sent 18 planes to get
that dam but on return, crews reported their bombs all around the target but no hits
scored. We lost one plane to the heavy intense flak. We lost Lt. Fred Vincent of the
447th Bombardment Squadron. Two chutes were seen emerging from the plane.
2. At 1245 hrs. 18 B-25’s taken off to bomb Isoletta Dam. 18 dropped 54x1000 lb.
bombs with .1 and .025 fusing at 1400 hrs from 10/10,500 feet. 17 A/C returned at
1445. One A/C B-25 shot down by flak.
3. Bursts seen on all sides of target. No hits observed on dam. Two possible hits on
road bridge just S. of dam. Hits reported on E road, bridge approach, as well as road
junction ¼ mile W. of dam. 10 A/C holed; one shot down, seen to break in two at
navigator’s compartment. Seen to crash at 41° 32’ N, 13° 52’ E, after being hit one
minute past target. Two parachutes observed. One Spitfire seen to explode when hit
by flak over target area, no chute seen.
4. Air--------None.
Ground---None.
Marine---None.
Flak------Six heavy guns along coastal road at G-1505; heavy, intense, accurate from
coast to target; firing from single guns. Heavy, intense, accurate at
Priverno; gun position at 41° 33’ N, 13° 43’ E (G-8534). Four guns heavy
position 900 ft. S of target in W. Bank of river.
5. Enroute and Return:----5/10 strato-cumulus at 6000 ft.; 7/10 altostratus at estimated
20,000 ft. Visibility 15 miles.
Target---------------------Clouds, clear over target. Visibility—Hazy, 15 miles.
6. None.
Flight leaders: Capt. Beeson, and Lt. Thomas.
Photos taken.
SERGIUS P. NEPRASH,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t Group S-2 Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The Medics had a big day today as typhoid, typhus and small pox
“shots” were administered to all Squadron personnel. The mild weather hangs on and
none of the men are complaining about it. Another instrument training flight was
scheduled. It was this Squadron’s turn to send a courier plane to Naples. A new
replacement crew arrived today. They were formerly of the 309th Group in Columbia, a
familiar outfit to a number of the men in this Squadron. The movie “Bachelor Mother”
with Ginger Rogers made quite a hit with the men. It was shown at night in the granary.
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 185/mission 184) Group Mission # 186
Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
None
Miller, Edward A., 2Lt
Wilson, John P. “Phil”, T/Sgt
Cotter, Jack M., S/Sgt
N None
E Dillon, James A., S/Sgt
R Carner, Donald E., Sgt
G Hermann, Byard G., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
Dickerson, C M., 2Lt, 446th BS
Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-53373
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
None
Hetland, Arthur M., Jr., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
P Vallery, Dean B., F/O
2Lt
N None
R Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
F None
None
Stein, Louis (NMI), Sgt
Cross, Vassil W., Jr., S/Sgt
Beaudware, Leo J., S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Sergeant Barber finishes his missions.
Barber, Otis C., Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Isoletta Dam, Italy.
DATE: 12 Jan1944
446th Planes: 3
th
Capt. Beeson, 445 Sqdn, led the formation. Bursts seen on all sides of target, but none
on the dam though. Two possible his on road bridge just S of dam. Ten a/c holed, one
shot down, seen to break in two at navigator’s compartment. Seen to crash at 21º 32’ N,
13º 52’ E, after being hit one minute past target. Two parachutes observed. Flak was
heavy, intense, and accurate from coast to target, firing on single guns. No fighters. Lt.
Rigling and Lt. Brellenthin were spares, and returned early.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, commander, 445th BS
A/C No. 41-13008
P Knapp, Theodore A., 1Lt
N None
E Kaney, Oscar John, S/Sgt
Cpl
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-13208
None
Green, Harry Marshall, Sgt
Blake, Charles H., S/Sgt
P Walker, Dale F., 2Lt
CP Dickson, Gale Monroe, 2Lt
N None
B Parrish, William W., Cpl
R Barber, Otis C., T/Sgt
F None
(spare)
P Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None
R Walsh, Thaddeus J., T/Sgt
G Edwards, David R., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” (spare)
None
Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt
Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), S/Sgt
None
Pilot: Cooper
Ascension Island Air Field to Roberts Field, Liberia: Ferry
Flying Time: 5:20
“# 48 Jan. 12, 1944
1000# demo
Isoletta Dam, Italy
Formation Leader - Capt. Beeson
Results - String of bombs covered field just E of hangar & into hangar - explosion in
hangar. 10 A/C seen in area E of hangar which 1 direct hit# 3 A/C burning. Scattered
fires E of hangar. One B-25 went down just after target with right engine smoking. 5
seen to bail out - plane made a crash landing under control.
Remarks - 1 T/E plane took off from field but spun in at 200 ft. 10 A/C seen dispersed in
area E of hangars & 5/7 in SW dispersal area. Flak heavy, intense, accurate.
Formation
1-1
P- Knapp, CP - Bsharah, B- Pestalozzi, E - Kaney, RG- Orechia, G -Skill”
Beeson, Elwood H., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
Bsharah, Phillip (NMI), 2Lt, pilot
Knapp, Theodore A., 1Lt, pilot
Orechia, James Raymond “Raymond”, Cpl, radio-gunner
Pestalozzi, Rudolph H. “Rudy”, 2Lt, bombardier Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner
“19th day at Casa. Hung around barracks all a.m. and played solitaire. Read & slept
most of the afternoon. P-47 cracked up on take-off – pilot killed. Went into town with
“Birm”, Shuler & Lewis. Had a good time. Met Bond in town – he was feeling good –
funny. Went to show – saw C. Gable & Lana Turner in “Somewhere I’ll Find You”.
Excellent show. The usual blackjack game going on in the barracks.”
Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 2Lt, pilot
“We lost another ship today, not from our Sqd. but from the 447 from this gp. This was
by far the worse of all missions; we were under fire for about 15 minutes. Is the hardest
days work I believe I’ll ever do. I honestly believe a few more like this and my hair will
turn gray. So here is hoping we have a few or all the rest – milk runs from now on. Still
haven’t heard from Enid telling if I’m a father or not – maybe tomorrow.”
447th BS War Diary: P.F.C. Anthony Bellonia transferred to hospital. S/Sgt. R.E.
Armstrong completed his fiftieth combat mission today.
Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt, gunner
Bellonia, Anthony (NMI), PFC, mess
our ships took part in a raid on the Isoletta Dam, Italy. Flak was very heavy with results
that the formation was broken up and bombing very poor. Ship #210 piloted by Lt.
Vincent went down over the target when a direct hit was made on the right wing which
caused the gas tank to explode thereby knocking off the right wing and pieces of the tail.
Two parachutes were seen to open. Members of the crew were: 1st Lt. F.W. Vincent,
pilot; 1st Lt. J.E. Haeberle, co-pilot; S/Sgt. W.P. Franklin, bombardier; Sgt Wm.
O’Loughlin, engineer; S/Sgt D.A. Davis, radio-operator; S/Sgt. Harold F. Schrader,
turret-gunner; and Sgt. L.P. Hassett, photographer. This was the second ship of this
squadron to be lost this far during January.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), Sgt
Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt
Grant, James H., Sgt
None
Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt
None
Ball” (MACR-1837 - shot down by flak
after target)
P Vincent, Frederick W., III, 2Lt
N None
B Franklin, Willie P., S/Sgt
E O’Loughlin, William M., Sgt
R Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt
G Schrader, Harold F., S/Sgt
F Hassett, Leo P., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64695
N None
F None
None
None
A/C No. 41-30557
None
Marcoulier, William A., S/Sgt, 445th BS
None
447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: Six of our planes took part Jan. 12 in a raid,
the objective being a dam near Isoletta, Italy. The target was a few miles behind the
enemy lines and within range of their heavy anti-aircraft guns near the front. One minute
before the target was reached intense, heavy and accurate flak was encountered by the
formation and the flak continued until the formation was about four minutes away from
the target.
The plane piloted by Lt. Vincent received a direct hit in the outer wing gas tank of
the right wing. The wing collapsed and fell off when the tank exploded and the entire
plane was engulfed in flames. The plane spiraled to the right, spun down and crashed to
the ground. Two parachutes were seen floating down after the wreckage. The crew was
as follows: 1st Lt Fred W. Vincent, pilot; 1st Lt. John H. Haeberle, co-pilot; S/Sgt W.P.
Franklin, bombardier; S/Sgt D.A. Davis, radio-gunner; Sgt. William O’Loughlin,
engineer; S/Sgt. Harold F. Schrader, turret gunner; Sgt. Leo P. Hassett, photographer.
Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Franklin, Willie P., S/Sgt, bombardier
Haeberle, John H., 1Lt, pilot
Hassett, Leo P., Sgt, photographer
O'Loughlin, William M., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Schrader, Harold F., S/Sgt, turret gunner
The intensity and accuracy of the flak caused the formation to scatter somewhat
and the bombing results as shown by the available photographs were poor. The camera
in the third flight went down with Lt. Vincent’s plane so the photographic coverage was
not complete but no hits on the dame were observed by the crews participating in the
raid.
Lt. E.D. Langston who was in the same flight with Lt. Vincent and in the element
behind his got a good view of the plane when it was hit. He reported that parts of the tail
of the ship fell off also when it started down. He saw the two chutes open but was unable
to tell what part of the plane they came from.
The flak was of the tracking variety rather than barrage. Apparently the enemy
gunners were singling out elements and concentrating their fire on the selected element,
following it all the way into and away from the target. Lt. Vincent’s plane was about two
minutes away from the target when it was hit. The loss is the second for the squadron in
this first month of 1944.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon Ball” (MACR-1837 - shot down by
flak after target)
Vincent, Frederick W., III, 2Lt - MIA, POW
Haeberle, John H., 1Lt - MIA, POW
None
Franklin, Willie P., S/Sgt - MIA, POW for 16 days, escaped and RTD 25 Jun 44
O’Loughlin, William M., Sgt - MIA, KIA
Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt - MIA, KIA
Schrader, Harold F., S/Sgt - MIA, KIA
Hassett, Leo P., Sgt - MIA, KIA
Eyewitness Account: Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), Sgt, engineer-gunner, 447th BS
Office of the Operations Officer
A.P.O. 520
360.33-Vincent, Frederick W. III (O) and crew.
January 17, 1944
TO
1. On January 12, 1944, I was flying as tail gunner in plane no. 930 (42-53371
“Death Wind”) with Lt. Anderson as pilot. We were plane #3, 2nd element, 2nd flight.
Lt. Vincent was pilot of the plane which occupied the second position, 1st element and the
second flight.
2. I did not see the plane get hit, catch fire or explode, as I was lying in the tail
and it was impossible to see it. When I first saw the plane it was spinning downward and
we had pulled ahead of it. I saw four parachutes already open and dropping normally.
ARTHUR SCHWARTZ,
13152522,
Sergeant.
(Attachment to MAC Report, Vincent,
Frederick W., III, (O) and crew,
Dated January 12, 1944)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
447th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)
A.P.O. 520
360.33-Vincent, Frederick W. III (O) and crew.
January 17, 1944
TO
1. On January 12, 1944, I was flying as Radio Operator-Gunner in Airplane
No. 538 (A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You Done Crapped Again”) with Lt. Thomas,
David W. as pilot. Our plane was #1 in the first element and the second flight. Lt.
Vincent in plane no. 210 (41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon Ball”) was in the second position,
first element, and second flight.
2. Immediately after dropping our bombs and after a little evasive action, I
happened to be looking out the right waist gun port and saw Lt. Vincent’s plane on fire.
The fire was centered in the left hand side about where the bomb-bay begins.
Immediately after seeing the fire, I saw an explosion in the locality of the fire.
3. After the explosion, the plane nosed up just a little and then banked off
behind us therefore disappearing from my view. I did not see the plane again.
ERNEST F. BARTKUS,
31142674,
Staff Sergeant.
(Attachment to MAC Report, Vincent,
Frederick W., III, (O) and crew,
Dated January 12, 1944)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Franklin, Willie P., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner, 447th BS
25 June 1944
Aircraft was hit by intense flak. FRANKLIN and VINCENT were blown out of
the craft by an explosion and the ship immediately burst into flames. VINCENT’S chute
was only other seen during Source’s (Sgt Franklin) descent. He saw the plane crash into
the earth. Jerries informed that VINCENT, who had been badly wounded, had been
picked up immediately by Germans and had been taken to a German hospital.
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
It is impossible to give exact detail on all crew members. The ship was hit directly in the
center by flak and blew up in the air. All of us in the front of the ship, Franklin,
Bombardier: Haeberle, Co-Pilot: and Myself (Sgt Franklin) are all alive. One of the men
from the back of the ship, probably Davis or Hassett (It was easiest for them to leave)
jumped and I saw his chute break into flames on the way down. One of the others bailed
out successfully to die next to my co-pilot on the ground full of shrapnel. The latter I
presume to be Hassett as his folks write that they have located his grave in Italy.
Schrader, Harold F. I am presuming that he went down with the ship as it is difficult to
get out of the upper turret which he was operating.
O’Loughlin, William M. He too I am presuming went down with the ship as the tail of
the B-25 is too small to maneuver in.
I have written to all of my men’s families and the Hassett family were the only ones to
answer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission 148 (186): at 12:45 18 planes off to bomb Isoletta dam, 55 x 1000 bombs
dropped at 14:00 from 10,000 feet. 17 returned at 14:45. 1 plane shot down by flak
(446), bursts seen on all sides of targets, no hits observed on the dam, 2 possible hits on
road bridge S of dam, also hits on E road bridge approach and road bridge junction 1 mile
W of dam. Flak: Heavy, intense and accurate along coastal road. 11 A/C holed 1 B-25
broken in two, 1 Spit Fire exploded. Weather: 5/10th Strato Cumulus at 6000 feet,
visibility 15 miles.
A/C No. 42-64655
P Freeland, Levi B., Jr., 1Lt
N None
B McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt
E Mauder, Charles J., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt
N None
E Daniels, John (NMI), Sgt
R Robertshaw, David F., Sgt
G Buckles, Kenneth L., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30548 (spare)
P Jones, Truman R., 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-30343
None
Polinsky, Marvin J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-29967
None
Johnson, Joe Morris, Sgt
Tudor, Owen M., Sgt
None
In Italy, B-25's and B-26's bomb Guidonia, Centocelle, and Ciampino
airfields; A-20's strike the town of Atina. AAF, RAF, SAAF, and RAAF fighter-bombers
hit shipping along the Dalmatian coast at Sibenik and in the Krka River of Yugoslavia.
A-36's hit the town and railway yards at Isola del Liri, a factory at Colleferro, docks at
Formia, railroad yards at Valmontone, and a railway station SE of Frosinone. P-40's hit
Sant' Elia Fiumerapido, San Biagio, Saracinesa, and a rail and road junction near Villa
Latina. 86th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light),
transfer from Vincenzo Airfield to Vesuvius Airfield, Italy with A-20's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Intelligence reports previous day’s bombings weakened the
Isoletta dam and it may be cracked. Today’s efforts of the 12th and 15th Air Forces were
to be directed against the fighter activity of the Hun---with their airfields around Rome as
the objective.
Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
1145 Toohey to 323 Wing. “2 Formations of 12 A/C Mitchells, Penna Point 1235,
Castel Volturno 1410, Foggia 1441. Gunnery mission at medium altitude S of
spur of Italy, Now enroute”.
1157 21 A/C off
447th A/C 42-32498 “Dumbo” returned at 1255.
446th A/C 42-64526 “Patches” C/L at Naples.
448th A/C 42-64655 returned at 1250
446th A/C 41-13208 down near Target.
448th A/C 42-64514 returned at 1252
446th A/C 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka” returned late.
15 A/C returned at 1445.
1355 Larson to 323 Wing. “Cleared A/C for Gunnery mission”.
1540 12th BG (Maj. Abernathy) to Larson. “Wanted to know if we have any A/C that
have not been to Bizerte for modification. Stated that we are to transfer one A/C
to 12th A.F.”
1552 12th B. G. (Maj. Williams) to Larson. “Bomb load for tomorrow is 1000’s .1 and
.025 fuzing. Observed 5 parachutes from our formation and was under the
impression that we had lost 2 A/C”.
1600 Col. Olmsted to TBF. “Requested that we have “Stand-Down” for 14 January
1944--no soap”.
1700 Larson to Maj. Abernathy. “Informed him that we do not have any A/C to send to
Bizerte for modification. Also that B-25 # 41-29775 (“Double Trouble” 447th
BS) will be transferred to 12th AF--they will cut orders and send them to us”.
1945 12th BG to Asbury. “Primary: FOLIGNO.
Alternate: FALCONARA.
340th T.O.T. 1230.
12th T.O.T. 1235.
321st T.O.T. 1240.”
1925 Asbury to TBF. “18 A/C in place of 24. We will receive a teletype”.
2015 Ford to Haven. “Raid 10/15 ME-109’s with cannon and rockets, no flak at
primary.”
Asbury to Ford. “Check on R. R. Junction”.
Our target was Guidonia airdrome. We sent 18 aircraft who reported strings of frags
through the Quarters and revetment area with one aircraft destroyed on the ground. The
flak was intense and we lost one aircraft destroyed on the ground. The flak was intense
and we lost one plane---Lt. Elliott of the 446th Bombardment Squadron who had been
acting as the Group Assistant Operations Officer. The 12th Bombardment Group later
reported five, maybe six chutes seen coming out of that plane.
2. At 1155 hours 18 B-25’s took off to bomb Guidonia A/D. None returned early. 17
A/C dropped 1020 x20 lb fragmentation bombs on target at 1310 hours from
11,000/12,000 feet. 16 returned at 1445 hours. One plane lost, one at friendly field.
Axis of attack 290°.
3. Strings of bombs covered area from center of field to revetments on west extending
up to hangars. Barracks at GH - 28-29 (Chart No. 3-30A-NA) and administration
buildings at I-J – 27-28 hit and two fires observed. Some strings of bombs hit NE and
some NW of target. Fire from previous bombing reported at west end of hangars.
One B-25 hit by flak and crashed 1 mile NW of target, just west of cement factory.
Four parachutes seen to leave plane, two opened.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------5 s/e a/c ON w SIDE OF Tarquinia L/G and one multi-motored A/C on
same field. 6/7 S/E A/C on ramp in front of hangars at Guidonia A/D..
Ground---40/50 car train in M/Y West of Tarquinia.
Marine---1 medium M/V, 10 miles N of Tarquinia, heading N. 1 medium M/V at
Civitavecchia.
Flak------Heavy, intense, accurate from target area, and heavy, moderate and fairly
accurate. 4 gun batteries observed NW of Guidonia A/D, and just N of
experimental station, and 2 x 4 gun batteries near SW corner of A/D.
5. Enroute: 3/10 stratocumulus at 5,000 over mountain and 4/10 cirrus at 20,000.
6.
Visibility, Hazy – 15 miles.
Over Target: CAVU with slight haze.
Return: Clouds: 4/10 cirrus at 20,000. Visibility Hazy – 15 miles.
7. Flight leaders: Lts. McClelland and Shutt.
Photos taken.
ROBERT W. MANLY,
Capt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Preparations are being made for a move. The other Squadrons are
already starting the move to the new base. The mission today cost the Squadron one of
its oldest ships, “Oh-7” (41-13207). F/O Vallery was forced to make a crash landing at
this base after his hydraulic system had been shot up by flak. The landing was practically
perfect but it was the last flight for this famous ship which had over 80 combat missions
to its credit. Lt. Neumann was made Operations Officer and F/O Vallery was made
Assistant Operations Officer. Orders came in for a number of the Officers and enlisted
men combat crews to return to the United States. In the evening there were classes held
in the intelligence office for cadet applicants.
Neumann, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot, Operations Officer
Vallery, Dean B., F/O, pilot
A/C No. 41-12924
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
None
None
Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), Sgt
Bixby, Jack H., T/Sgt
Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-29985
P Carney, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” (belly
landing)
2Lt
N None
G Irvin, Ralph D., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-53373
None
None
None
Herrman, Byard G., S/Sgt
446th BS War Diary: The squadron lost six men on a raid against an airdrome north of
Rome today. It was reported that six chutes were seen leaving the ship. Lt. Elliott was
pilot, with Lt. Farrell as co-pilot. Sgts. Brooks, Plaine, Valenti, and Wuotila were others
on the plane. Radioman Haasch reaches his fiftieth.
Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt, gunner
Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt, pilot
Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt, pilot
Haasch, George F., Sgt, radio-gunner
Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt, gunner
Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt, gunner
Wuotila, Benjamin R., S/Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Guidonia A/D, Italy.
DATE: 13 Jan1944
Type of Bombs: Frags.
446th Planes: 6
Lt. McClelland led the formation. String of bombs covered area from center of field to
revetment on W, extending up to hangars. Barracks and Administration Buildings were
hit and two fires observed. Some strings ob bombs hit NW of target. Fires from previous
bombings reported at W hangar. Flak was heavy, accurate, intense from target. Lt.
Elliott’s plane was hit, and crashed in flames two miles NW of the target. XII Bomb Gp
reported seeing five parachutes on the ground. Lt. Boulton’s plane was also hit by flak,
causing him to make a forced landing at Naples.
Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt, pilot
A/C No. 41-13208 (MACR-1836 - shot
down)
P Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt
N None
R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt
G Brooks, Galen B., S/Sgt
F None
Peekin’”)
CP Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, Hq 321st BG
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
Samsel, John C., Sgt
None
Polka”
Topham,
Arthur
H.,
2Lt
P
N None
R Holtzclaw, James Ralph, PFC
G Spoerl, Harry C., Sgt
F Blake, Charles H., S/Sgt
G
F
None
Milner, Walter C., S/Sgt
None
Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt
None
Orechia, James Raymond “Raymond”,
Cpl
None
None
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-13208 (MACR-1836 - shot down)
Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt - KIA
None
Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt - DED
Wuotila, Benjamin R., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
Brooks, Galen B., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
None
Eyewitness Account: Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
446th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF
321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
A.P.O. 520
January 13, 1944
360.33-Elliott, Rodger L. (O) and crew.
1. Airplane No. 41-13208, Lt. Elliott, pilot, was flying on the left wing of
airplane No. 42-64509. I was pilot of airplane No. 41-12963 and was flying behind and
slightly to the right of Lt. Elliott’s ship. Right over the target I saw flames coming out of
the bottom of his ship while he was still in formation. Immediately his plane went into a
steep climb to get away from the formation. His bomb bay doors were open and it looked
as though he dropped his bombs. The last I saw of him, his airplane was in a steep dive
and went behind my wing out of my vision. I saw no men leave the plane or chutes open
ORVILLE D. FETTERLY,
2nd Lt., Air Corps.
(Attachment to MAC Report, Elliott,
Rodger L. (O) and crew, dated 13
January 1944.)
Incl 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 446th BS
A.P.O. 520
January 13, 1944
1. I was flying as Engineer-Gunner in airplane No. 42-64509. Airplane No. 4113208, Lt. Elliott, pilot, was on our left wing. Flak hit the right nacelle and the airplane
burst into flames. It immediately went into a climb to get away from the formation.
Flame seemed to spread over the entire fuselage. While the airplane was in a climb I saw
two of the crew jump and their chutes open. This was just a few seconds after the target.
The ship then nosed over and went straight down all in one piece but in flames. It
crashed about two (2) miles north of the target.
LOUIS A. RAFFLOER, Jr.,
S/Sgt., 32323865.
January 1944.)
Incl 5
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Samsel, John C., Sgt, gunner, 446th BS
A.P.O. 520
January 13, 1944
1. I was the gunner in airplane No. 42-64509. Airplane No. 41-13208, Lt.
Elliott, pilot, was on our left wing. The airplane was hit and burst into flames. It
immediately went into a climb, then straightened out, started down once and pulled out
seemingly under control. Then it went straight down and crashed at the foot of the
mountain northwest of target. A fuel tank was probably hit for the airplane was a burning
inferno before it reached the ground.
2. I saw four persons leave the ship and two chutes open. I don’t know whether
the other two opened or not.
JOHN C. SAMSEL,
Sgt., 32494470.
January 1944.)
Incl 6
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------AG 201-P-Farrell, Joseph R. (O)
HQ MTOUSA, APO 512, US Army, 17 September 1945
To: CG, Army Air Forces, Washington 25, D. C.
1. Additional information as is available in the records of this headquarters
follows:
a. On 13 Jan 44 in GUIDONIA, Italy, the remains of an American aviator
was discovered by two members of the Italian forces.
b. This airman was shot down during that days’ raid and near the charred
remains of the body was found an identification listing the name of JOSEPH R.
FARRELL, O-677694 t-42, Hubert Farrell 331 Waine St., Archibald, Pa. Based upon
this information the status of this officer was changed from MIA to KIA and so reported
to the War Department.
2. Remains have been reinterred in an established US Military Cemetery. MACR
in this casualty was forwarded the War Department 29 Jan 44.
FOR THE THEATER COMMANDER:
JACK K. ROBERTS
Captain, AGD
Asst Adjutant General
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Brooks, Galen B., S/Sgt, gunner, 446th BS
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
23 Oct 45
Valenti was out first in the rear of ship. Brooks was out next with Wuotila coming out
last in the back. Elliott coming out through the tip ditching hatch burned very badly.
Joseph R. Farrell (0-677694) Plaine, Plaine, Robert J. 11055995, was never seen to get
out of the ship.
Wuotila, Benjamin R. injured, left ankle broke. Last seen Stalag-Luft 4 Germany,
February 1945 was believed to have been sent to Officers Camp. Last seen, was walking
and in good shape.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
23 Oct 45
Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt, bombardier:
KNOWN INFORMATION: I (the pilot) know the ship was hit by flak (direct hit) on the
forward side of my instrument panel, blowing the instruments toward me. The
bombardier’s compartment is directly forward of the instrument panel.
HEARSAY INFORMATION: The Germans told me that there were two dead men in the
wreckage of the ship (fairly reliable). The Germans showed the wreckage of the ship to a
P-38 pilot (shot down that morning); he saw a pair of G.I. shoes in the wreckage but he
was not allowed to go closer (reliable), I talked to him myself.
Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt, co-pilot:
KNOWN INFORMATION: Our ship received a direct flak hit in the Bombardiers
compartment, blowing up the pilots instrument panel and setting ship on fire. Lt. Farrell
made his way to the Navigators compartment and stood on the escape hatch fastening his
parachute straps. That is the last I saw of him; he disappeared in smoke and flame. I (the
pilot) went out the escape hatch above my seat. I saw only 3 chutes besides my own on
the way to the ground. Those chutes were the 3 gunners whom I saw on the ground
shortly after I landed. The Germans told me that there were two men dead in the
wreckage. These two dead men would have to be: Lt. Joe Farrell and Sgt. Plaine,
Bombardier. None of the crew men saw the wreckage or the bodies. I have been in
contact with the three gunners and neither they nor I have ever heard of those two men
since the accident.
I have written this many times but perhaps the next of kin would be interested:
The weather was fine as we went up the Adriatic Sea, and “broken” on the East coast of
Italy. Inaccurate flak put two holes in our left wing - ships crew was ok. So continued on
across Italy turned NW on I.P. and from here on flak was heavy and accurate. I kept
checking with crew to see if all was all right. All this time we were taking evasive action.
We had several close hits and I was checking with Sgt Plaine when we received a direct
hit in between his compartment and the nose wheel compartment setting the ship on fire.
The crew was told to bale out (no report from Plaine). Lt. Farrell pushed his seat back
and his parachute stuck between his seat & mine - I cleared it for him. He was standing
on the escape hatch when smoke & flame blocked my view. I held control of the ship
until my eyes started to swell closed and I could no longer breathe. My last chance of
escape was through the top hatch (normally to be used in water or crash landing only) I
later met Sgt Valenti, R. G., Sgt Brooks, T. G., Sgt Wuotila E. G.
“# 49 Jan. 13, 1944
Frags
Guidonia A/D, Italy
Formation Leader - Lt. McClelland
Results - Barracks hit & 2 fires observed. String of bombs covered area from center of
field to revetment on W extending to hangars.
Remarks - No fighters, flak heavy, intense accurate.
Ship # 41-13208 (Lt Elliot) crashed two miles NW of target. Plane hi in right nacelle &
set on fire. It pulled out of formation, leveled off & went straight down in flames. 3 men
seen to bail out of rear of plane. (Lt Boulton) # 42-64526 was hit by flak causing oil leak
in left engine. The autosyn instruments were shot out & a rudder cable shot away. The
pro was feathered part way back but a two engine forced landing was made at Naples.
XII Bomb Group reported seeing five parachutes on ground at target. G.B. Brooks on
plane 208 seen to bail out.
Ship number - 42-64526 “Patches”
Formation
1-2
P- Boulton, CP - Strom, B- Green, E - Kaney, RG- Orechia (hit by flak in leg), G -Skill”
Brooks, Galen B., S/Sgt, gunner
Green, Harry Marshall, Sgt, bombardier
Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner
Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt, pilot
“20th day at Casa. Got up again too late for breakfast. Went down to Special Service
Office on the line & read old papers & magazines. Saw one of the boys from the
parachute dept. make a jump from 10,000’. Ate dinner then came back to the sack & fell
asleep. After supper went into town, met Farney, Malec & a few of the boys at the Bar
bolly. Saw an excellent show – “Thank Your Lucky Stars”. Rumor has it we’re going to
Telergma instead of Sardinia for training. Hope not.”
of our ships took part in a raid on Guidonia A/D, Italy. Results—good. Center of field,
barracks and administration buildings hit. 446th Squadron lost a ship over the target. 4
parachutes left the plane but only 2 were seen to open. Advance echelon moved to new
location at Vincenzo L/G.
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
N None
B McDermott, James W., 2Lt
R Harmon, Robert W., T/Sgt
F None
P Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 1Lt
N None
R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
F None
None
None
TARGET: Guidonia A/D
2:50
Frags
Plane 512: Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Langston, Lt Nowakowski, S/Sgt. Monroe, S/Sgt. Czaja,
S/Sgt. Harmer
“Strings of bombs covered area from center of field to revetments up to hangars.
Barracks and administration buildings hit and two fires seen. One B-25 (446th) hit and
crashed.”
Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt, gunner
Monroe, Delore E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Nowakowski, Joseph J., 1Lt, bombardier
Mission 149 (187): At 11:55 18 planes off to bomb Guidonia A/D. None returned early,
17 dropped 1020 frags at 13:10 from 11,000 feet. 16 returned at 14:45. 1 plane lost, 1 at
friendly field and 1 crash landed at our field. Strings of bombs covered area from center
of field to revetments on W extending up to hangars. Barracks and Administration
buildings hit and 2 fires observed, some strings of bombs NE and NW of target. 1 B-25
hit by flak and crashed 1 mile W of target just W of cement factory, 2 parachutes seen to
open although 4 left plane. Flak: Heavy, intense and accurate. Weather: CAVU at
target. F/L: Shutt.
A/C No. 42-64552
N None
E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G, S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye”
P Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
N McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., S/Sgt
R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64655 (spare)
P Coffee, Robert D., 2Lt
N None
E Maurer, Charles J., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 41-30343
None
Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Pvt
None
A/C No. 42-64514 (spare)
None
None
In Italy, B-25's strike the Pontecorvo bridge; A-20's offer close
support to US Fifth Army forces in the Monte Trocchio area; P-40's blast Loreto tank
repair shops; P-40's and A-36's hit defenses in the San Giuseppe, Sant' Elia Fiumerapido,
and Monte Trocchio areas; A-36's also attack road and buildings E of Minturno, the town
of Isoladel Liri, and the harbor at Anzio. Transfers in Italy: HQ 321st Bombardment
Group (Medium) and 445th, 446th, 447th and 448th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium)
from Amendola to Vincenzo Airfield with B-25's and 308th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter
Group, from Pomigliano to Castel Volturno with P-51's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Moving day for Intelligence and Operations of Group
Headquarters – ready for operations on the morrow.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: No Missions:
445th BS War Diary: Moving day for the Squadron. All the sectional tents came down
and were transported to the new base by truck. The new base is located about 17 miles
away, about 4 miles south of Foggia. The bivouac area is located on a farm a good
distance off the main road. The Orderly room, Operations-Intelligence and a number of
the pyramidals went up today in beautiful spring like weather. All available vehicles wee
used all day to effect the move. Eight B-25’s were sent to the new base, enough to fill in
a possible mission tomorrow. Also the scheduled combat crews and a small number of
ground crew personnel were sent to the new base.
82nd BS, 12th BG: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 2224: (Ship previously
assigned to the 445th then transferred to the 82nd BS, 12th BG in Sep 43. Later repaired
and flown by 446th in Mar 44)
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30387 “Kay Girl” (MACR-2224 - severely damaged - landed at
Cercola Airdrome)
Arnold, Alfred L., 2Lt - landed with plane
Albright, Clarence Stanley, 2Lt - bailed out, MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
None
McManus, John D, 2Lt - bailed out, MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
(referenced in MACR, but not identified) - landed with plane
Ohrberg, Lee T., S/Sgt - WIA, bailed out, rescued by British patrol, and RTD
Kruger, Karl R., Jr., Sgt - bailed out, MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
None
Eyewitness Accounts: Labasky, Albert J., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator, 82nd BS, 12th BG
82nd BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON
12th BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
APO 650, c/o PM, NYC, NY
16 January 944
STATEMENT
I, Albert J. Labasky, 0-733203, Bombardier-Navigator, flying the lead B-25
Airplane of a formation on a bombing mission against a bridge at Pontecorvo, Italy, on
Jan 14, 1944, made the following observations in regard to the left wing airplane of same
element. Said left-wing airplane, Squadron No 30, A. C. No. 41-30387, being piloted by
2nd Lieut. Alfred L. Arnold. Immediately after the bombay was clear, at 1410 hrs., A/C #
30 was observed to be blanketed by bursts of Enemy A/A fire. A short time later this
A/C was observed to pull away from the formation. A short time later, at approximately
1412 hrs., three parachutes were observed to open at a distance of two-hundred yards.
A/C # 30 then turned back toward the formation and at a distance of about fifty yards a
fourth parachute was observed to open. A/C # 30 then continued on past the formation
and was last seen on a heading in the direction of assigned emergency landing field,
Cercola A/D.
ALBERT J. LABASKY
2nd Lieut., Air Corps.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: Arnold, Alfred L., 2Lt, pilot, 82nd BS, 12th BG
16 January 944
STATEMENT
At an estimated distance of five (5) miles from the bomb line the Bomb-Nav.
Jumped from the aircraft and the tail gunner later reported that he saw his chute open.
After a lapse of approximately one minute or less the Radio Gunner and Turret Gunner
jumped each after the other, but who went first is unknown. Within the next three (3)
minutes the Co-Pilot jumped but as far as the Tail gunner and Pilot know, the C-Pilot
should have gotten clear. The pilot got control of the ship and made a successful
emergency landing.
Estimated position of jumping members, in order of their leaving the ship:
1. Bomb-Nav.
on German side of the lines.
2. Rad-Gun.
reported to have landed between the lines.
3. Arm-Gun.
depending on whether the Arm-Gun left the ship before or
after the Rad-Gun., the Arm-Gun. landed either on our side,
or the German side of the lines.
4. Co-Pilot
on the allied side of the line.
ALFRED L. ARNOLD,
2nd Lieut., Air Corps.
Pilot.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: Ohrberg, Lee T., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 82nd BS, 12th BG
16 January 944
STATEMENT
I, Lee T. Ohrberg, 16052430, Radio-Gunner, followed Sgt. Kruger, ArmorerGunner out of the rear hatch. When the chute opened I was not far from the target, and
looking back to my left, saw two chutes about a mile away. When I last looked I saw the
chutes go between two hills that were to the left of the target. Upon landing, I found that
I was across the Corigiala River, separating me from the German lines. I was picked up
by a British patrol which had an American Captain with them as an observer. This
Officer stated that he had observed the other two chutes through field glasses, and
reported that German patrols were already out after them. He also stated that they were
being machine gunned as they descended. I remained with the British until dark and they
then sent me with a patrol, to a First Air Station. From there I was sent to an Evacuation
Hospital. The next morning I was sent to a small town and interviewed by a British
Intelligence Officer. The Officer stated that the other three who parachuted from my
plane had definitely been captured by German patrols and also said that our airplane had
reached a base. That afternoon I was sent to Caserta where I had a piece of A/A shrapnel
removed from my cheek. I remained in Caserta that night and returned to my Base,
Foggia Main, the following day.
LEE T. OHRBERG,
S/Sgt., Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
446th BS War Diary: No Missions. The squadron moved from Amendola, Italy, to
Vincenzo A/D, a distance of 18 miles by motor transport. Official confirmation
regarding the air crash of one of our ships while in North Africa came in today. The
accident was blamed on poor visibility and took place at Lion Mountain on December 24.
Lt. Klang was pilot with Lt. Henson as co-pilot. Lt. Graham of our Tech Supply, along
with Sgts. Bonacich and Carnes perished. More pleasant news was travel orders to the
good old U.S.A. for Captain Caldwell, Lt. Anzalone, and S/Sgts. Corthell and McNair.
Anzalone, Benjamin W., 1Lt, bombardier
Bonacich, Matthew G., Sgt, gunner
Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., Capt, navigator
Carnes, James B., Sgt, engineering
Corthell, Richard J., S/Sgt, gunner
Graham, Robert W., 2Lt, engineering
Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt, pilot
Klang, Irving E., 2Lt, pilot
McNair, Luddie L., S/Sgt, gunner
Pilot: Cooper
Roberts Filed, Liberia to Dakar, Senegal: Ferry
Flying Time: 3:40
“21st day at Casa. Finally made a.m. chow. Hung around flight line for awhile. Latest
rumor has us going to Telergma instead of Sardinia for training. I hope not. After being
3 weeks I find myself acquiring a great dislike for the French & natives. Ungrateful as
heck, I only hope the real French aren’t like the ones here. Also irks us to see the Frogs
using all American equipment while we do w/out, also they’re getting overcoats while the
GI’s have to do w/out. Also found out there is a whole whse. Full of “cokes” in town.
Wonder why we don’t get any? To town. Met a nurse at the show, from Wisconsin, a lot
of fun. Saw ‘Santa Fe Trail’.”
447th BS War Diary: No mission. Entire squadron moved to Vincenzo Landing Ground
which is one of the Foggia satellites. 35 Q.M. trucks were available for the move. Tents
were erected and all personnel settled by night fall at the new location. P.F.C. A.S.
Landa transferred to hospital. 1st Lt. B.B. Miller, Jr and S/Sgt. R.D. Penson, transferred
to U.S. as per letter Jan 12, 1944, 12th A.F. Hq.
Landa, Arthur S., PFC, supply
Miller, Benjamin Bartow, 1Lt, pilot
Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt, gunner
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Lieutenant General Ira C
Eaker, USAAF, assumes command of MAAF and Army Air Forces, MTO (AAFMTO),
replacing Air Chief Marshall Sir Arthur Tedder, RAF, and General Carl Spaatz, who
along with Air Vice Marshall Sir Arthur Coningham, RAF, and numerous other
American and British officers have departed for the UK. In Italy, B-25's attack the
Foligno railway junction; B-26's bomb bridges at Orvieto. P-40's of the 79th Fighter
Group and RAF 239 Wing hit the San Valentino station in a joint attack; A-36's and other
P-40's, in support of US Fifth Army forces, hit gun positions and strongpoints, especially
at Picinisco and Atina; P-40's on armed reconnaissance hit the railroad W of Frosinone
station and strafe the Ceccano station and railway cars.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The remainder of Headquarters moved into this new base, the
Vincenzo landing ground. Co-inhabitants of this airfield are our old friends the 82nd
Fighter Group, who are now operating with the 15th Air Force heavies.
Eighteen planes this date assigned to bomb the Foligno railroad junction. Bombs were
seen walking through the marshalling yard and town and cutting the road heading south
from the town. The junction was not hit.
2. At 1320 – 18 B-25’s took off to bomb Railroad Junction at Foligno. One returned
early. 17 planes dropped 47 x 1000 lb bombs with instantaneous fusing at 1450 hours
from 11,000/12,000 feet. 17 planes returned at 1610. Axis of attack 220°.
3. RESULTS: Ref TC 3-40-NA: Although smoke and dust from previous groups
bombing obscured results, strings were observed across M/Y and into barracks at K26, over the barracks and across road at 27-I and 26-H. Other bombs reported to have
cut railroad lines N of junction running both E and W, and junction itself believed hit.
Building at J-32 reported hit as were locomotive shed and power station. Fire at K31.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------None.
Ground---50 car train heading S at Trevi, just S of Foligno. Heavy smoke over
Foligno yards at L-24. M/C North of Macerata – S-5513, and much activity
S of town around buildings, just E of highway.
Marine---3/4 small boats in S. Benedetto.
Flak------None.
5. WEATHER: Enroute Heavy haze. Clouds: 6/10 stratocumulus at 3,000, tops at
5,000 for first third of route. 10/10 altostratus at 18,000 becoming 5/10
after leaving coast. Visibility: One mile improving to ten miles after
leaving coast.
At Target: Weather: Hazy, Clouds: 5/10 altostratus at 18,000 Visibility 10 miles.
Return: Weather: Heavy haze: Clouds: 5/10 altostratus at 18,000 becoming 10/10
as formation approached base: 7/10 stratocumulus last third of route.
Visibility: 10 miles decreasing to ¾ mile as formation returned to base.
6. None.
Flight leaders: Lts. DeMay and Vallery.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The weather today is cloudy, cold and windy. Personnel and
equipment continue to arrive at the new base. The remainder of the planes were ferried
to the new base and by the end of the day, all the remaining personnel had arrived at the
new location. Lt. Strenger’s plane dropped a 1000 lb. bomb on the runway after
returning from the mission of the day. The accident was apparently due to faulty bomb
racks. Poor visibility made landings difficult today.
Strenger, Marshall C., 1Lt, pilot
A/C No. 42-53373
2Lt
N None
B Souders, Walter E, 2Lt
R Boyd, Ewell V., TS/Sgt
G Forbes, Robert W., S/Sgt
F None
CP Smith, Alfred B., 2Lt
N None
E Knight, Arnold K., Sgt
G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12924
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
Hawkins, Vernon L., Sgt
Ravesi, Thomas G., Pvt
Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64508
None
Cotter, Jack M., Sgt
CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 2Lt
F None
446th BS War Diary: More travel orders—this time for Captain Bradley, Captain
Chappell, Lt. Coe, plus Higgins, Chamberlain, Hershberger, Lovell, and J.A. Smith. Mail
call.
Bradley, James L. “Jungle Jim”, Jr., Capt, pilot
Chamberlain, Don C., Sgt, gunner
Coe, George A., 2Lt, bombardier
Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., Sgt, gunner
Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt, gunner
Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt, turret gunner
Smith, James A., Sgt, gunner
TARGET: RR Junction at Foligno, Italy.
DATE: 15 Jan1944
446th Planes: 3
Lt. DeMay, 447th Sqdn, led the formation. Strings of bombs observed to cross M/Yds
and hit barracks, also crossing road. RR lines N of junction reported cut. Buildings,
locomotive shed, and power station hit. No flak or fighters.
DeMay, Kenneth C., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
(returned early – low oil pressure)
N None
B Milner, Walter C., Sgt
R Haughom, Milferd O., T/Sgt
F None
Brady, Joseph J., pilot, 1Lt
None
Brawn, Jean H., Cpl
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt
None
A/C No. 41-13200
None
Bahm, Linston A., PFC
Pilot: Cooper
Dakar, Senegal to Casablanca, Morocco: Ferry
Flying Time: 7:30
“22nd day at Casa. Made a.m. chow. Went down to flight line all a.m., saw Hawkes &
Birmingham take off for Algiers. The whole town of Casablanca placed “off limits”. A
lot of rumors why but nothing definite. Oranges here are better than the ones from
California. Finding it difficult to write letters, nothing to say here. Felt plenty tired right
after lunch so slept all afternoon. After supper took in a show on the base, “Coney Isle”
with Betty Grable, a good show. Wrote letters to Ma and Alice, a hard job to do, on acct.
there’s nothing to write about here.”
Hawkes, Leon R., 2Lt, pilot
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: “I have had the last 3 days off. I
mean all of us have – the reason for this is that we have moved again – not far from our
last place but its just a much warmer weather its 20 or 200 miles. We were North & east
of Foggia now we’re West & south of Foggia. We have a field that is just about all mud,
also the runway – just a place cleared off with scrapers & that is all. Your loading &
take offs are just a continuous bounce until you’re stopped or off the ground. Well, I’m
scheduled for another mission tomorrow, carrying 1000 lb. bombs. Don’t know where
we’re going yet, sure hope it’s a milk run. We’re having bad weather now, especially to
fly in – OK for now.”
Letter Home: “We have just finished moving again and that is always a job. I
sure would like to pitch the old tent and stay in one spot for a while.”
447th BS War Diary: S/Sgt. L.B. Iverson transferred to hospital. Morning report for
week ending Jan. 15: Officers—46; Enlisted Men—232.
Iverson, Lewis B., S/Sgt, gunner
of our ships took part in a raid on the railroad yards at Foligno, Italy. Results—good.
Hits on Marshalling Yards, barracks, shed and power station. Our flight was first in the
formation, being led by Major Sampson.
A/C No. 41-30557
CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj,
Commander
B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 1Lt
F None
P Beebe, Harwood (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
CP Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt
N None
B Adcock, Leonard E., 2Lt
R O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Werner, George P., S/Sgt
F None
(returned early - engine trouble)
P Davis, Robert G., 1Lt
N None
R Bartram, Roy H., Sgt
G Davis, Delbert D., Pvt
F None
None
Zachary, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64695
None
None
Mission 150 (188): At 13:30 18 planes off to bomb Foligno RR Junction. 1 returned
early, 17 planes dropped 47 x 1000 bombs at 14:50 from 11,000 feet, all returned at
16:10. Strings observed across M/Y and into barracks and across road, other bombs cut
RR lines N of junction, E and W junction believed hit, locomotive shed and power
station. Weather: Hazy with 6/10th Strato Cumulus cover.
(The page containing the full 448th BS crew lists was missing from the report. The report
contained only A/C No. and Pilot names.)
A/C No. 41-29967
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 41-30327
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 42-64514
Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
None
None
A/C No. 42-64655
Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
None
None
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25's bomb the
marshalling yard and choke points at Terni; B-26's attack the marshalling yard and bridge
at Orte; A-20's bomb the town of Atina; P-40's attack bridges in the San Giorgio del
Sannio area and gun emplacements near Cassino; Sant' Angelo in Theodice and
Picinisco; A-36's hit the railway junction at Cecina, road and railway S of Siena, and the
town areas of Avezzano and Formia. Transfers in Italy: HQ 79th Fighter Group and 85th
and 86th Fighter Squadrons from Madna Airfield to Capodichino with P-40's; and 99th
Fighter Squadron, XII Air Support Command (attached to 79th Fighter Group), from
Madna Airfield to Capodichino with P-40's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Captain M.D. Haven appointed the Group Intelligence
Officer. Lt. S.P. Neprash, Group Photo Officer.
Haven, Malcolm D., Capt, S-2 Officer
Neprash, Sergius P., 2Lt, intelligence
At 11:30 eighteen aircraft took off to bomb the Terni marshalling yards. Photos show a
successful mission with a heavy concentration of bombs on the choke point and a large
explosion, presumably the gas works. All planes returned safely.
2. At 1130 - 18 B-25’s took off to bomb Terni Marshalling Yards. One returned early.
17 dropped 48 x 1000 lb bombs with .1 and .025 fusing on target at 1250 from
3. RESULTS: Good coverage. Hits either on, or near to, both choke points. Strings
reported also across middle of yards. Fires and 2 or 3 explosions seen. Some bombs
were short, and others were over to the southwest of the marshalling yards.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------1 – B26 observed going down and hitting ground, after having been shot at
by flak, in the vicinity of Orte, probably about 5 miles South of that town.
One report, unconfirmed, that another B-26 was seen going down, same
place.
Ground---One report that there were 2 long strings of cars in marshalling yards at
Terni.
Marine---6 merchant vessels reported in San Benedetto Harbor, one of which
appeared to be just docking.
Flak------No flak as to this flight. However, flak was reported coming from vicinity
of Orte firing at B-26’s. One report that there were 3-gun batteries instead
of 4-gun batteries.
5. WEATHER: En route: Clouds: 7/10 stratocumulus at 4,000 ft., tops at 7,000 ft.
Visibility: Slight haze, 15 miles.
Target: Clouds: 3/10 stratocumulus, base at 4,000 feet, tops 7,000 ft. Visibility:
Slight haze, 15 miles.
6. None.
Flight leaders: Lts. Ryan and Brady.
Photos taken.
JAMES E. NICKERSON,
Capt., Air Corps,
Assistant Intelligence Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The weather is very cool and appetites are sharp these days. The
new area is located right in the midst of farmland and there are cows, chickens, turkeys,
pigs, sheep and plenty of dogs roaming about. The mess tent is already set up, much to
the joy of the various “chowhounds”. Several training flights were scheduled today and a
new replacement crew arrived. The fuel situation is very poor and there are no lights in
the area yet – two reasons for some of the “bitching” going on in the Squadron. S/Sgt.
Thomas H. Flynn, bombardier in our Squadron, returned today after a harrowing
experience following the October 8th mission over Athens-Eleusis airdrome in Greece.
His plane was shot down by fighters, three of the crew members being killed. He
survived and after several months spent through Greece and Turkey, hi finally made it
back. He had some vivid stories to relate to his open-mouthed buddies.
Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner
A/C No. 42-32333
None
(spare)
2Lt
N None
E Hawkins, Vernon L., Sgt
R Ravesi, Thomas G., Pvt
G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Stokes, Oliver O., Cpl
None
(Bear - no lettering) (spare)
Smith, Alfred B., 2Lt
Rose, J. W., S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Lt. Brady finished his fiftieth today.
Brady, Joseph J., 2Lt, pilot
TARGET: Terni M/Y, Italy.
DATE: 16 Jan1944
446th Planes: 4
th
Lt. Ryan, 448 Sqdn, led the formation. Good coverage. Hits on or near both choke
points. Strings reported across middle of yards. Fires and two or three fires seen. Some
bombs short, and some over to SW of M/Yds. Two B-26’s see to go down near Orte. No
fighters, no flak.
Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
LeClair, Edward R., 2Lt
None
Haughom, Milferd O., T/Sgt
Polka”
Brady,
Joseph
J.,
1Lt
P
CP Clark, Robert A., 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Parrish, William H., Cpl
Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Sgt
None
None
None
“23rd day at Casa. Went to chow, then went to Mass at the French Chapel across the
field. Very foggy this a.m., the field completely closed in. Quite a chapel we have here, it
is a combination church, beer parlor, movie & day room. The sign reads: Chapel,
Services – 0800 a.m. – 0900 a.m., Beer – 5f – (bring you own cup). Town of Casa still
“off limits”. Wrote to Alice all afternoon. Ate & then went to show –“More the
Merrier”. Very good show. Played double solitaire with Ben Boatright most of the
evening, also fooled around with “Moe” Ferraro.”
Boatright, Benjamin, Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
“We went to Terni Italy today & bombed a marshalling yard; did a good job & it was an
easy mission. Still no word from the Wife & Baby.”
447th BS War Diary: A new crew was assigned to this squadron as of Jan 13. The crew
consists of: 2nd Lt. Eugene E. Stocking, 2nd Lt. Eldon R. Haynes, 2nd Lt. Leonard E.
Adcock, Sgt. Roy H. Bartram, Pvt. Delbert D. Davis, and Sgt. Sidney Orloff.
Adcock, Leonard E., 1Lt, bombardier
Bartram, Roy H., Sgt, gunner
Davis, Delbert D., Pvt, gunner
Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt, pilot
Orloff, Sidney, T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Stocking, Eugene, E., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 188/mission 187) Group Mission # 189: Six
of our ships participated in a raid on the Marshalling Yards at Terni, Italy. Hits on or
near both Choke points.
A/C No. 42-64694
Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 1Lt
Stocking, Eugene E., 2Lt
None
Orloff, Sidney (NMI), S/Sgt
Ludtke, Foster R., Sgt
None
N None
R Bartram, Roy H., S/Sgt
G Davis, Delbert D., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30557
P Seavey, George D., 2Lt
N None
F Lamoureau, Archille D., Sgt
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt
None
None
None
Adcock, Leonard E., 2Lt
Henry, William R., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
None
Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
None
Mission 151 (189): At 11:30 18 planes off to bomb Terni M/Y. 1 returned early, 17
dropped 48 x 1000 bombs at 12:50 from 11,000 feet, all returned at 14:25. Good
coverage, hits on or near both choke points, strings reported across middle of yards, fires
and 3 explosions noted, some bombs fell short and others over to SW of yards. 1 B-26
observed going down and hitting ground in vicinity of Orte. Weather: 7/10th Strato
Cumulus at 4000 feet. F/L: Ryan.
Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt, pilot
A/C No. 42-64655
Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt
None
A/C No. 41-30548
P Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
CP Bates, Willie L., F/O
N None
E Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt
R Alexander, Phillip D., Cpl
G Penhale, Walter B., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 41-29967
N None
B Braun, Joseph M., S/Sgt
E Chosta, Louis (NMI), S/Sgt
R Burr, Harry C., S/Sgt
G Sharpsteen, Robert E., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Greene, William A., 2Lt
None
Robert, Maurice L., S/Sgt
Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64552
None
Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt
Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
Buckles, Kenneth L., S/Sgt
In Italy, B-25's attack marshalling yards at Terni, Chiaravalle, and
Montemarciano; B-26's strike the Orte railway bridge and Viterbo marshalling yard; P40's hit the Sibenik, Yugoslavia harbor, the bridge at San Giorgio del Sannio, gun
positions at San Giuseppe and Formia and docks at Anzio; A-36's bomb Anzio, the
Avezzano town area and road junction, and Tarquinia town and factory buildings.
Transfers in Italy: 87th Fighter Squadron, 79th Fighter Group, from Madna Airfield to
Capodichino with P-40's; 92nd Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group, from Castelvetrano,
Sicily to Capodichino with P-39's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Terni marshalling yards was the target but neither that nor the
alternate was bombed due to a heavy overcast.
2. At 1200 - 18 B-25’s took off to bomb Terni Marshalling Yards. None returned early.
None dropped on either primary or alternate target due to heavy overcast from
4000/10,000 feet over coast. 18 planes down at 1355 hours.
3. RESULTS: None.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------None.
Ground---None.
Marine---None.
Flak------Heavy, moderate and accurate flak was experienced over overcast – on or
near coast reported fro San Benedetto to Giulianova. However, lead navigator and
another say flak came from a ship off San Benedetto since they believe they were too
far from coast to get flak from shore. Their opinion is the most logical upon
analyzing the course taken. Two reports that flak was of rocket type – coming up and
bursting in a corkscrew motion – emitting whirling streamers upon explosion.
5. WEATHER:
6. None.
Flight leaders: Lts. Neuman and Fetterly.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: S/Sgt. Charley Larkin returned to the squadron today after having
spent several months in a hospital in North Africa. He was suffering from malaria and
yellow jaundice. The men were very glad to see their old buddy back. Charley, a
mechanic on the line, is very well liked in the Squadron. Lt. Underwood was name the
Squadron Bombing Officer and Lt. Anderson was designated as his assistant. There was
a big mail call this afternoon and nearly everyone got a good quota of letters. Lt.
Underwood held a meeting for all bombardiers in his tent today. A Red Cross girl
distributed doughnuts and coffee to the men in the afternoon. The men enjoyed the steak
supper.
Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy”, 2Lt, bombardier
Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier, bombing officer
A/C No. 42-64575
CP Hinsley, Maxwell D., 2Lt
N None
G Beaudware, Leo J., S/Sgt
F None
N None
E Connolly, Frank N., Sgt
R Heinbaugh, James C., S/Sgt
G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Sgt
F None
CP Vallery, Dean B., F/O
N None
B Paduana, Joseph A., 2Lt
E Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
R Belt, Hunter C., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-29985
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
Schlott, Abraham W. “Abbie”, S/Sgt
Lewis, Harold E., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64529
None
Maugham, George W., 2Lt
Forbes, Robert W., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64508
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
Thomas, John J., 2Lt
None
Marcoulier, William A., S/Sgt
446th BS War Diary: Bad weather kept our planes from reaching the target and Kaney
got his 50 in. Promotions came out for ten combat men and they are happy. Twelve new
combat personnel arrived from you-know-where.
Kaney, Oscar John, Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Terni M/Y, Italy
DATE: 17 Jan 1944
446th Planes: 6
th
Lt. Neumann, 445 Sqdn, led the formation. No bombs dropped. Both primary and
alternate targets had heavy overcast of 4000/10000 ft. Heavy, moderate accurate flak
over the overcast.
Neumann, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
A/C No. 41-30293
Church, Edwin Adem, 2Lt
None
Cpl
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None
P Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
CP Othick, Rolland R., 2Lt
N None
B Milner, Walter C., S/Sgt
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Sgt
F None
P Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt
CP Hurley, John R., 2Lt
N None
R Kendall, Charles C. “Spike”, T/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
A/C No. 41-13008
Boulton, Richard E., 1Lt
Herbert, John James, Jr., 2Lt
None
None
Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
Walsh, George F., 2Lt
None
Haughom, Milferd O., T/Sgt
Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt
None
“# 50 Jan. 17, 1944
1000# demo
Terni M/Y, Italy
Formation Leader - Lt. Neumann
Results - Targets covered with heavy overcast 4000/10000 ft.
Remarks - Heavy moderate, accurate flak over overcast.
Formation
2-2
P- Cornell, CP - Church, B- Green, E - Kaney, RG- Orechia, G -Skill”
Church, Edwin Adem, 2Lt, pilot
Cornell, Earl K., F/O, pilot
Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
“24th day @ Casa. Missed chow. Went down to PX and got weekly ration. After chow
played solitaire with Moe kibitzing. Still no Burandt. Down to flight line. Went into PX,
had quite an argument with one of the French Salesgirls. The 2nd time she has espoused
her opinion about Americans, not favorably. Treating her like “a dog” she says. I think
she is Pro-Nazi. After supper came back to the barracks & played double solitaire with
“Moe” Ferraro. A lot of fun fooling around. No show to-nite, town still “off limits”,
not a thing to do. Finished a letter to Alice, then read an Ellery Queen mystery.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: “No mission today, so this morning
I washed a shirt & pr of pants in gasoline, & fixed things up around the tent. This
afternoon Slim & I went to Rignano & bought some eggs – So until tomorrow.”
447th BS War Diary: Everyone busy getting settled once more at the new site,
rebuilding the mess halls (the EM were able to get a Nissen Hut for their mess), officers
setting up their former one; bargaining with Italians for the digging of Fox-holes, latrines
etc.
Three of our ships and two others acting as spares participated in a raid over Terni M/Y,
Italy. The spares returned early. Target not reached due to faulty navigation.
N None
B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 1Lt
R Boyd, Robert J., M/Sgt
F None
Lady (spare)
N None
E Tudor, Mathew W., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), S/Sgt
G Roberts, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
P Langston, Everett D., 2Lt
CP Beebe, Harwood (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
None
(spare)
None
None
TARGET: Terni M/Y
1:55
No bombs dropped
Plane 512: Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Haynes, Lt. Mayben, S/Sgt. Monroe, S/Sgt. Boyd, S/Sgt.
Harmer
Boyd, Robert J., M/Sgt, gunner
Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt, armor-gunner
Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt, pilot
Monroe, Delore E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot
“No bombs dropped due to heavy overcast on both primary and alternate target”
Mission 152 (190): At 12:00 18 planes off to bomb Terni M/Y. No bombs dropped due
to heavy overcast, all returned at 13:45. Heavy, moderate and accurate flak experienced
over overcast.
P Eddy, Willard B., Jr., 2Lt
CP Annear, Warren Raymond, 2Lt
N None
B Waller, Colver K., 2Lt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., S/Sgt
G VanCura, Edward W., S/Sgt
F France, Charles E., Jr., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64655
P Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt
N None
B McCree, Malcolm B., 2Lt
G Jeffrey, Louis J., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
None
None
A/C No. 41-30355
Hales, Ermine L, 2Lt
None
Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Cpl
Currie, James L., S/Sgt
None
In Italy, B-26's hit the harbor, tin mills, steel works, power house, and
blast furnaces at Piombino, and bomb the Montalto di Castro railroad and bridge; B-25's
hit the town and railway viaduct at Terni, and A-20's blast gun positions in the Minturno
area; P-40's hit trains, wharves and vessels in the Ploca and Metkovic, Yugoslavia areas;
A-36's and P-40's pound troops, trucks, and gun positions in the Minturno area and near
Pontecorvo and Atina, hit a gasoline dump at Pignataro Interamna, a warehouse at
Fontana Liri, a factory at Ceprano, the rail and road junction at Avezzano, and railway at
Santa Marinella. Transfers in Italy: 81st and 434th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium),
12th Bombardment Group (Medium), from Foggia to Gaudo Airfield with B-25's; 307th
Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, from Pomigliano to Castel Volturno with P-51's;
344th, 345th and 415th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group
(Heavy), from Manduria to Lecce with B-24's.
0825 Asbury to Williams. “Alternate: RR Bridge GUILUANOVA”. 225° & 15°.
0855 Jamieson to Asbury. “Delayed fuzes can be used by putting in nose fuzes”.
0916 A/C cleared for Gunnery off Manfredonia between 1000 and 1100. WA.
0920 12th B. G. to Larson. “We are not to carry any long delays. Over land route.
Axis 25° to 35°. Cover will come back with us to our alternate. 1 hour plus 5.
P-47’s will join us at field. Leader will fire a Green Flare when 47’s show up in
the area. 12th B. G. will fire a Red Flare.
P-47 call sign “KOLA LEADER” channel “C”.
1133 Hoffman to 82nd Opns. “Notified 82nd of 1248 take off time on Mission--O.K.”
1205 Sampson (447th) would like to contact Col. Cook within the hour.
1300 448th BS A/C 41-30548 on local hop.
1303 Tower to Hoffman. “1st A/C off at 1251, 21st off at 1303”.
1329 Tower to Hoffman. “448th A/C 355 returned at 1329”.
Tower to Blake.
“448th BS 41-30343 landed at 1359
448th BS 42-64552 landed at 1400
448th BS 41-12926 “Hawkeye” landed at 1400
445th BS 42-64575 landed at 1403
448th BS 41-30327 landed at 1405.
445th BS 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ Judy” took off at 1414
1543 Tower to Blake. “1st Mission A/C landed at 1543 last at 1603”.
2130 Asbury to TBF. “Inquired if we will be following anyone tomorrow. Yes, a
teletype is on the way.”
Eighteen B-25’s bombed the Terni viaduct. No hits were scored but hits were seen on the
buildings in the target area.
2. At 1250 - 18 B-25’s took off to bomb Terni Viaduct. 3 returned early. 15 planes
dropped 37 x 1,000 lb bombs with instantaneous and delayed fusing on target at 1415
hours from 10,500/11,000 feet. 15 returned at 1545. Axis of attack 135°. 5 A/C
holed.
3. RESULTS: Smoke obscured target area but bursts were seen among buildings in
vicinity of viaduct. Bombs fell on incline just N of target. Hits seen in Southeast part
of Terni in vicinity of Royal Arms factory. One report of hit on viaduct. One B-25
crash landed at home base.
4. OBSERVATIONS:
Air--------None.
Ground---15/20 Motor truck convoy between Terni and Strettura.
Marine---None.
Flak------Heavy, intense and accurate from Orte.
5. WEATHER: Enroute: Clouds: 7/10 coverage, tops at 8.000 ft. to 50 miles from
target – then clear. Visibility: Hazy, 10 miles.
Target: Clouds: None. Visibility: Hazy, 10 miles.
Return: Clouds: Clear, becoming 7/10 overcast at 8,000 ft. when
formation reached the eastern coast of Italy back to base. Visibility: Hazy,
10 miles.
6. None.
Flight leaders: Lts. Brady and DeMay.
Photos taken.
S. P. NEPRASH,
1st lt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Luxury rations were distributed to the men from 09:00 to 15:00.
It was a very good ration this week. Four pilots, three bombardiers and a radio operator
were assigned from the 310th Bomb. Group. Three of the planes held a practice bombing
mission in which they simulated actual combat conditions. A plane went up to dropcheck a parachute. The Italian K.P.’s became very excited when they saw the parachute
floating down and were dismayed quite a bit when they saw the dummy on the ground.
A/C No. 42-64529
2Lt
N None
B Yepez, Oscar W., 2Lt
F None
N None
R Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt
G Reddy, John E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64575 (spare)
Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 2Lt
None
Rose, J. W., S/Sgt
Carson, Cecil F., Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Ship #3008 (41-13008), one of the oldest ships of the outfit, made
a crash landing with Lt. Ryder at the controls. The hydraulics had been ruptured by flak
on a successful raid. PX today—badly needed cigarettes finally acquired. Lt. Brown got
to that well known 50.
Brown, Aud W., 1Lt, pilot
Ryder, David, 2Lt, pilot
TARGET: Terni Viaduct, Italy.
DATE: 18 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Brady led the formation. Bursts seen among buildings in the vicinity of viaduct.
Bombs fell on incline just N of target. Hits seen in SW part of Terni. One report of a hit
on the viaduct. No fighters. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate from Orte. Lt.
Ryder’s plane crash landed at home base. No casualties.
P Brellenthin, Harold Ray, 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-13008 (crash landed)
P Ryder, David (NMI), 2Lt
N None
B Pestalozzi, Rudolph H. “Rudy”
E Brawn, Jean H., Sgt
F None
N None
None
Haughom, Milford O., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
None
None
Brady, Joseph J., 1Lt
Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
Martin, Edward F., S/Sgt
None
“25th day at Casa. Made chow, then went down to flight line, hung around, had a shave,
and bought stuff in the PX. Found Casa was “off limits” due to Nazis agents from
Spanish Morocco were in the Medina spreading rumors among the Arabs that the U.S.
were pulling out, as a result of decrease in wages, no work and no “lend-lease” material
that the “Frogs” were holing out on them. Scared of trouble between Frogs & Arabs.
Afternoon-down to flight line then back to barracks & sacked. After supper read “Death
in a White Tie”, fair. Had a lot of fun kidding “Moe” Ferraro while he was playing
cards. Says I jinx him.”
“Back we went to Terni Italy today. Only this time it was no milk run but they gave us a
good welcome. It was plenty rough. Every ship we had on this mission is grounded for
tomorrow, every ship picked up flak. Ranged from 3 to 30 holes per ship. So until
tomorrow.”
447th BS War Diary: P.F.C. Herman G. Kettler, Jr. assigned and transferred from
Replacement battalion as of Jan. 16.
Kettler, Herman G., Jr., PFC, armament
of our ships participated in a raid over a viaduct near Terni. Hits seen near the viaduct
but extent of damage not observed.
Lady”
F None
CP Stocking, Eugene E., 2Lt
N None
B Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-13175 “The Saint Myrtle
II”
Dusek, Ernest Peter “Duke”, 1Lt
None
None
Beebe, Harwood (NMI), 2Lt
None
Bartram, Roy H., S/Sgt
Davis, Delbert D., Pvt
N None
F None
Mission 153 (191): At 12:50 18 planes off to bomb Terni viaduct, 3 returned early and
15 dropped 37 x 1000 bombs on target at 14:50 from 10,500 feet, all back at 15:45, 5 A/C
holed by flak. Smoke obscured target area but bursts seen among buildings in vicinity of
viaduct, bombs fell on incline just N of target, hits on SE part of Terni in vicinity of
Royal Arms factory. 1 hit on viaduct. 1 B-25 crashed landed at home base. Flak:
Heavy, intense and accurate from Orte. Weather: CAVU.
A/C No. 42-64655
Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
None
Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30327
P Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N None
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-29967
None
Gately, Joseph A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30355 (spare)
Hales, Ermine L., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 42-64552 (returned early – lost
formation)
P Moss, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
F Buckles, Kenneth L., S/Sgt
(returned early – lost formation)
N None
B Petit, Rene P., 2Lt
E Johnson, Joe Morris, S/Sgt
R Everhart, Clifford R., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30343 (returned early – lost
formation)
None
Alexander, Phillip D., Cpl
Penhale, Walter B., Cpl
None
In Italy, B-25's bomb Rieti Airfield; B-26's hit the airfield at Viterbo;
A-20's attack the marshalling yard at Colleferro; P-40's bomb and strafe 2 schooners at
Makarska, Yugoslavia; A-36's hit guns, trucks, and trains N of Rome and fly 70+ sorties
against rail, communications and troop positions in the US Fifth Army battle area as the
Garigliano bridgehead expands; P-40's also hit defended positions in the battle area and
near Scauri, Tremensuoli, and Alvito. Transfers in Italy: HQ 12th Bombardment Group
(Medium) and 82nd and 83rd Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) from Foggia to Gaudo
Airfield with B-25's; HQ 27th Fighter-Bomber Group and 522nd, 523rd and 524th FighterBomber Squadrons from Paestum to Pomigliano with A-36's; HQ 31st Fighter Group and
309th Fighter Squadron from Pomigliano to Castel Volturno with P-51's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary:
Lt. Harry K. Slaughter this date appointed Ass’t Group
Statistical Officer.
Slaughter, Harry K., 2Lt, statistical officer
0900 Asbury to 12th BC. “Checked target of REITI--no alternate target”.
0900 Take off Training Flying Formation: (446th BS)
42-53377
“Flag Ship”
Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col,
Commander
42-32317
“Pennsylvania Polka”
Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
41-30551
“Pink Lady”
42-64511
“The Madam 2 of St. Joe”
42-32429
“Flamingo”
42-64526
“Patches”
A/C cleared for 1330 take off: (446th BS)
42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka”, Dry Runs (Ryder, David (NMI), 2Lt)--3 B’s.
41-29760, Dry Runs (Abraham, Frank W., 2Lt)--3 B’s.
42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe”, Dry Runs (Kerr, John C., 1Lt)--3 B’s.
42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later Enid II”, “No Peekin’”), Test Hop
(McClelland, Alva L., 1Lt).
43-3483, Test Hop (Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt).
0910 12th BC to Asbury. “No delay fuzes”.
0915 Asbury to Ordnance. “Put in regular fuze at 1030 unless notified otherwise.”
0935 Asbury to Tipton. “Asked about sending us a new Code. P-40’s close escort.
What about Bombing range”.
Capt. Asbury to issue a Memo to Squadrons in regards to Personnel not connected
officially with briefing not to be present in area.
1410 AA to Asbury. “Hostile A/C 25 miles N of here, 12 miles NE. Sound Red Alert.
1415 Red Alert Off.
1515 Wing Commander RHOADES states that Range has been approved. We are to
send pictures of target. Also details such as routes, altitudes and restrictions to be
used in connection with orders that will be sent to other Groups that will use it.
1553 Capt. Henry 12th B. G. to Hoffman. “1000’s with usual fuzing .1 and .025 -- no
delays to be used. Rest of order coming by Teletype”.
1610 Ordnance informed of Loadings.
1633 759 landed at 1632.
12th BC to Hoffman. “Use 1000’s with mixed long delays (longest delay
possible). The remainder .1 and .45 fuzing. TBF would like to know longest
delays available.” Delays available: 1, 6, and 12 hour.
1720 12th B. G. to Asbury. “Use 500’s, 75% with .1 delay, and 25% with long delay, to
be fuzed in the morning.”
Rieti airdrome provided the site for one of our most successful missions. Eighteen
aircraft literally post-holed the field with excellent coverage. The main road to Terni was
also cut in several places.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mission Report # 192, 19 January 1944: Not Available
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: A number of training flights were scheduled for the day. There
was a test hop and another parachute was drop-checked. Lt. Lowman contributed a
number of fine photographs of movie stars and the Intelligence section turned it into a
pin-up gallery in the office. It caught the eye of one and all – a vision of breath-taking
beauty. The oldest ship in the Squadron, old “Idaho Lassie”, was photographed today for
a public relations story. She is the veteran of over 100 combat missions.
Lowman, Robert S., 2Lt, intelligence
A/C No. 42-64529
Hinsley, Maxwell D., 2Lt
None
Poranda, Michael A., Cpl
Beaudware, Leo J. S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-29985
N None
B Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), Sgt
G Orr, William J., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
None
Joy”
None
Ehler, Leon J., H., S/Sgt
None
None
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
Shiloh, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
None
Judy”
None
A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” (spare)
None
Cpl
F None
A/C No. 41-13200 (spare)
N None
B Green, Harry Marshall, S/Sgt
R Kendall, Charles C. “Spike”
G Martin, Edward F., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
(spare)
None
Turner, Allen B. S/Sgt
Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
None
“26th day @ Casa. 49th day overseas. After breakfast went to flight line as G. Raft &
Louise Albritton were expected in. Met John Lee just in from Dakar, said Burandt should
be in today or tomorrow. False Alarm on Raft, didn’t show up at noon, had gone to
Algiers. Sleep all afternoon. Expected C.L.B. in but he didn’t show up. Met Dossey &
McCabe in the barracks, said CLB should be in tomorrow. Was to leave today but
Huntoon was acting up. Think it will be a good idea to get rid of him. Had a bull session
with Moe, also swapped photos, etc. Played double solitaire with Moe and got licked.
Cold out to-nite.
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 2Lt, pilot Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 2Lt, pilot
Huntoon, Stuart L., S/Sgt, turret gunner
McCabe, Norman M., 2Lt, pilot
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot (mission?)
“Today was a very easy day; just 3 shops from our Squadron were scheduled for the
mission & were as spares. I was flying one of them but since no one dropped out of
formation we turned back at the bomb line there in Italy. I just got back and found I had
some mail, the best I have ever had telling me I’m a Dad to a 7¼ lb boy. I’m sure happy
& proud – Hope Enid & Baby are O.K. Sure hope so and I’ll be waiting for more letters
to follow explaining it all. So that is all.”
target today was the Airdrome at Rieti, Italy. 6 of our planes were on the mission. The
L/G was completely covered and a power line Hit north of the Field.
II”
N None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Pvt
G Davis, Delbert D., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64695
CP Davis, Robert G., 2Lt
N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt
G Payne, Leonard T., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64694
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Davidson, James C., 2Lt
None
None
Bounds, Thomas C., 1Lt
Toltzman, William J., 1Lt
None
Windler, John H., 1Lt
Isaacs, Dwight D., PFC
Altobello, Joseph J., T/Sgt
Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt
None
None
None
None
Roberts, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1lt, pilot (mission 56)
TARGET: Rieti A/D
2:35
500 lb bombs
Plane 695: Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Davies, Lt. Paiton, Lt. Nowakowski, S/Sgt Monroe, S/Sgt.
Ennis, Sgt. Payne
Davies, Robert G., 2Lt, pilot
Monroe, Delore E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Nowakowski, Joseph J., 2Lt, bombardier
Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt, navigator
Payne, Leonard T., Sgt, gunner
“Field well covered, road junction N of hangars also hit with power lines knock
out.”
Mission 154 (192): At 12:05 18 planes off to bomb Rieti A/D. All dropped 105 x 500
bombs at 13:20 from 11,000 feet and returned at 14:40. Field well covered with bombs
across center, in front of hangars and along NW side and across road running along N
side of field, power line hit and cut. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Freeland.
A/C No. 41-30548
Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
None
A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt”
CP Lewis, Quentin M., 2Lt
N None
E Johnson, Joe Morris, S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64655
None
None
A/C No. 41-30327
CP Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-29967
Annear, Warren Raymond, 2Lt
None
Daniels, John (NMI), S/Sgt
In Italy, B-26's bomb the Viterbo marshalling yard and attack a
bridge at Pontecorvo; B-25's attack railroads in the Carsoli area; A-20's give close
support to the US 5th Infantry Division in the Minturno area; British and US P-40's
follow RAF light bombers in a raid on the Popoli station; A-36's pound a rail and road
crossing at Viterbo and P-40's hit communications at Frosinone, Palestrina, and Carsoli,
where a traffic block is created; A-36's and P-40's fly nearly 200 sorties in support of the
US Fifth Army ground forces as the 36th Infantry Division begins an assault across the
Rapido River in the Theodice area; and P-40's hit targets along the British Eighth Army
front.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The target today (railroad bridges two miles east of Carsoli)
not bombed due to navigational difficulties.
0800 Larson to 12th B.G. “12th does not have times as yet”.
0849 Tower to Larson. “Tower now uses “B” Channel”.
0915 321st Time over Target: column 6, H plus 50. 12th T.O.T. 10 minutes later.
Alternate: Column 6 #32, San Benedetto. There will be Thunderbolt cover.
340th to attack Sulmona (Alternative).
1020 12 B. G. to Larson. “We are to call Capt. Cann at TBF in regards to taking photos
of bombing range. 16 Thunderbolts for escort, 8 will come home with us and 8
with the 12th.
447th A/C 41-13175 “The Saint-Myrtle II” (Broyles, Porter A., 1Lt) slow time.
1500 Lt. Martin (12th B. G.) to Hoffman. “2 Crews scheduled to report this Office still
unreported. Lt. Martin will call this Office upon receipt of further info”.
2000 Received by Griffing. “Get Foggia and ask for Moru then to Bomber Control
(Capt. Drugmore) or (Ampler).”
“Rendezvous with 24 A/C of 340th over Termoli at 0950 at 8,000 feet. We are to
call Forward Bomber Control to arrange for Fighters over Termoli who will
follow us to Target and back.
1st Formation to fire Red Flares.
2nd Formation to fire Green Flares.
1st Formation of 340th to fire Yellow Flare.
2nd Formation of 340th--none.
Fighter call -- “KOLA”, channel “A”.
1055 Hoffman to Maj. Gary (82nd Ops). “Informed him our mission to take off 1200.
The 38’s will take off at 1105.”
1145 Tipton to Hoffman. “Lt. Hatcher (Leon F., Jr., 2Lt, 445th BS) & Crew and Lt
Wren (Frank J., 2Lt, 445th BS) and Crew originally assigned to the 12th B. G. are
to report here. Their original assignment orders have been rescinded and will be
held for assignment to the 321st Gp.”
1217 1st Mission Plane off at 1204, last at 1216. 21 total.
1322 445th 42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II” (Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 1Lt) W of
Foggia for local transition-cleared.
1325 TBF to Asbury. “Courier will be in at 0940 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday”.
2. Mission # 193
Squadrons: 445 – 6; 446 – 6; 448 – 6.
Target: G-277889
Time Up: 1205
T.O.T.
Time Down: 1350
Axis of attack:
Height:
Planes lost: None
Planes holed: 8
Bomb load: 6 x 1,000
Weather: Enroute 5/10 cumulus, base at 4,000, tops at 6,000 for 50 miles, then clear.
Target: Did not reach.
Return: 3/10 stratocumulus, base at 4,000. Visibility: Slight haze, 15 miles
Flak: Heavy, slight to moderate to intense – reported from Sora, Isola, Cassino,
Roccasecca, Arpino and Frosione.
Enemy Air: None
Claims: None
Results: None. Bombs dropped in an unidentified location. 1st flight made a 360°
turn before crossing lines in order to avoid a collision course with another
group. Proceeding on course they were mistaken in their position, and though
they were N of correct course. Turned W and then S to avoid flak
concentration. 2nd Flight were sure of their position and not wanting to
proceed towards target alone, they made right turn back to original home
course.
Observations: 2 reports of B-25 going down in flames S of target area – plane not
identified.
Flight leaders: Lts. Boatwright and Vallery.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary:
The food situation isn’t quite as good as it used to be.
Consequently, the men have acquired the habit of taking slices of bread to their tents and
toasting them at night. This takes the “edge” off their appetites.
planes were badly shot up today. After bombing the primary target, they were led over
Roccasecca and Terracina where they received an intense flak barrage. Most of the ships
had at least 15-20 flak holes.
A/C No. 42-64529
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
None
N None
Kauric, William J., 2Lt
B Yepez, Oscar W., 2Lt
Knight, Arnold K., Sgt
R Lysowski, Raymond A., S/Sgt
None
F
A/C No. 42-64659
Auchter, Robert L., 2Lt
CP Wilson, Victor H., 1Lt
None
Maughan, George W., 2Lt
Connolly, Frank N., Sgt
Heinbaugh, James C., S/Sgt
R Miller, Robert J., Jr., S/Sgt
None
F None
A/C No. 41-12924
A/C No. 42-64508
Newkirt, Renford Raymond, 2Lt
CP Crider, Claude M., Jr., 2Lt
None
N None
Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
B Monk, William (NMI), 2Lt
None
F None
A/C No. 42-64575 (spare)
N None
B O’Toole, Francis X., 2Lt
E Cross, Vassil W., Jr., T/Sgt
F None
446th BS War Diary: Bad weather kept our ships from reaching the target again. Capt.
Warren joins us as our new “Doc”. More new combat men come in and Lt. Shepard gets
his “going home” papers. Lots of V-Mail today and morale is high. Haughom end 50.
Haughom, Milferd O., Sgt, gunner
Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt, bombardier
Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer
TARGET: G-277889
DATE: 20 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Boatwright, 448th Sqdn, led the formation. Bombs dropped on unidentified location.
First flight made a 360º turn before crossing lines in order to avoid a collision course with
another group. Flak was slight, to moderate to intense, and heavy. Eight ships holed. Lt.
Dickson was a spare, and returned early.
Boatwright, John S., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Dickson, Gale Monroe, 2Lt, pilot
Polka”
N None
R Holtzclaw, James Ralph, Cpl
G Kendall, Charles C. “Spike”, T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30293
P Kerr, John C., 1Lt
CP Morris, Meade L., Jr., 2Lt
N None
E Franc, John A.,, S/Sgt
R McArdle, Harry E., S/Sgt
G Ciach, Stanislaus (NMI), Sgt
None
Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
Brawn, Jean H., Sgt
None
None
Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), Sgt
N None
E Motika, John F., 2Lt
R Haughom, Milferd O., T/Sgt
F None
P Dickson, Gale Monroe, 2Lt
N None
E Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt
F None
None
Mottley, John F., 2Lt
Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), S/Sgt
None
Pilot: Cooper
Casablanca, Morocco to Telergma, Algeria: Ferry
Flying Time: 4:40 - The plane was assigned to the 328th BS, 319th BG, and the crew
assigned to the 446th BS, 321st BG.
A/C No. B-26B-50-MA 42-65880
P Cooper, Paul T., Capt
CP Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 2Lt
N None
B Mayo, Jack D., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., S/Sgt
G Sharen, Robert L., S/Sgt
F None
Note:
328 BS, 319 BG B-26B-50-MA
42-65880, piloted by 2Lt Ralph W.
Walker was shot down, in the Viterbo
A/D, Italy area, by AAA on 29 Feb 44
(MACR-2830)
th
th
“27th day @ Casa. Expected Charlie in this a.m. so hung around the flight line most of
the morning. No news yet. Sat. nite Pro-Fascist French tried to take the BB Jean Bart to
a Vichy port but was stopped also planned to take over P.O., telephone exchange etc.
Start trouble with the Jews, but failed. Have to watch these Frogs all the time. Down to
flight line. Got haircut, shave, etc. At 1600 Burandt landed. Showed them to barracks
had Moe go on guard. After chow, Chudars, Burandt, & myself relieve Moe. Bull
session in the barracks.”
Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 2Lt, pilot
“I had another rough mission today, just above the lines here in Italy, lots of flak & Gee,
are theses boys getting good up there, we sure have to watch our step. We have another
mission tomorrow, so I’d better hit the hay, especially after that big celebration the boys
gave last night in Honor of my Baby boy. So until tomorrow.” (This was the last diary
entry made by Lt Walker; however, he did continue the letters home.)
Letter Home: “I have been awfully busy lately and I guess will continue to be
busy for a long time. Sure hope it’s all over soon.”
447th BS War Diary: Our squadron had practice bombing today. The other squadrons
flew a mission. The officers’ mess hall is once more open for business. Last evening the
first meal in the building at this field was consumed. Starting last evening a truck from
the motor pool will carry men to the movies in Foggia every night.
(447th did not participate)
Mission 155 (193): At 12:05 18 planes off to bomb bridge (T-6-277889). Bombs not
dropped because formation forced off course by another group, all planes returned at
13:50. Flak: Heavy, moderate and inaccurate. F/L: Boatwright.
N None
R Alexander, Phillip D., Cpl
G Penhale, Walter B., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 42-64514
None
Lord, Wilson, E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30355
CP Greene, William A., 2Lt
N None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Currie, James L., S/Sgt
G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30343
P Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
CP Bell, Albert R., Capt, Commander
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt
R McEntee, Peter M., Sgt
F None
(spare)
N None
B Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Cpl
E Mauder, Charles J., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
None
Luton, Howard W., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30548
Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
None
Morris, Raymond J., T/Sgt
In Italy, B-26's hit railroad bridges N and S of Orvieto; B-25's bomb
chokepoints around Rome and unsuccessfully attack the Pontecorvo bridge; A-20's attack
communications at Atina; P-40's hit shipping at Povlje, Yugoslavia; other P-40's and A36's attack strongpoints, trucks, a command post, a HQ building, and radar station in the
battle area; P-40's also give close support to US Fifth Army troops which are hardpressed
at both Garigliano and the Rapido River bridgeheads; and A-36's bomb Veletri, a
concentration at Minturno, and the area S of Viterbo. "B" and "C" Flights of the 15th
Combat Mapping Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, depart Colorado
Springs, Colorado to join "A" Flight. The 15th, based at Bari, Italy with F-5's and B-25's,
has been in the MTO since Dec 42. 381st Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 310th
Bombardment Group (Medium), transfers from Philippeville, Algeria to Ghisonaccia,
Corsica with B-25's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Colonel Olmsted returned from a conference at Tactical
Bomber Force Headquarters and immediately called a meeting for the entire Group. The
talks concerned the news of the new 5th Army bridgehead which was to be made south of
Rome on the morning of the 22nd of January. Colonel Olmsted showed how the
systematic bombing of certain communication centers had practically isolated the Rome
area making this new invasion possible. Since our targets for the past month had
consisted mainly of communication centers we felt that our bombing had helped in this
latest Allied planning. Two missions scheduled for the morrow.
Olmstead, Charles T., Col, pilot, Commander
0925 Col. Terrell to Hoffman. “Wanted to know if we could change Bomb Load to
1000’s”.
0931 Larson to Terrell. “Informed him that we could change Bomb Load and that our
4:20 time for “on course” on the second mission was from target time”.
0930 Tower to Ops. “1st Mission plane off at 0913, last at 0923.”
0957 Maj. Duncan (12th AF) to Larson. “He may want A/C for Naples trip at
approximately 1330 -- will call at noon to make sure”.
Road Bridge SW of #65 column 21. T.O.T. H plus 15. Area cover of Spits to
cover withdrawal. Army long range AA will engage Flak defenses at T.O.T.
Bomb Load 1000’s with .1 and .025--no long delays to be used. Pass along attack
details. 12th will attack #98 at H minus 15 in conjunction with the 340th.”
We are to send one B-25 to Foggia Main at 1300 for 12th AF Flight (Secrecy) to
report to S/L Schaff and Col Ramsey”.
1110 Hoffman to Olson (447th). “447th will furnish A/C 41-29775 “Double Trouble”
(Broyles, Porter A., 1Lt) for Col. Ramsey on ferry mission. A/C took off at
1232”.
1150 Asbury to TBF. “Mission did not drop bombs due to cloud cover”.
1310 Capt Grimm to Hoffman. “Request transportation to 12th BC tomorrow. If
available call him at Ozone 132 (Judge Advocates Office).”
1335Cann to Asbury. “Wanted to know if any of our A/C were flying around Caserta
this morning at 1030.”
42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later Enid II”, “No Peekin’”), off at 1335.
1615 FAS to Maj. Gary (82nd). “Major Gary called in regards to removing Bomb that
one of our A/C had dropped on the R/W. Informed him that Ordnance had been
notified and that they were on the way”.
1615 Asbury to Ordnance. “Informed them of Bomb Load for tomorrow”.
1724 Capt. Graham (12th AF) to Larson. “Capt. Graham is to ride the Courier plane
tomorrow, he will be here at 0930”.
1830 TBF to Asbury. “Crews to be Briefed by 0830 (Col 21, H minus 0630). TOT for
Primary 1000 (H minus 0500). Set course for # 2 Mission 1430 (H minus 0030)
return to base by 1600 (H plus 0100).
2100 Asbury to TBF. “TOT of Mission #1 confirmed as 1025. 12th will be there at
1010. TOT for Mission #2 as 1515. 12th will be there at 1500”.
“12th will attack from 300° at 10,000 ft, their call sign is “Big Boy”. They will
make a left turn coming off the target”.
“Permission granted for UP representative to go on Mission”.
Eighteen aircraft took off to bomb the Foligno marshalling yards in another attempt to
disrupt the enemy lines of communication. Ground fog obscured the target so no damage
was done and all planes returned.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Report # 194, 21 January 1944
No. A/C 18 Squadrons: 445th 6 A/C
447th 6 A/C 448th 6 A/C
Target: Foligno M/Y’s.
Time Off: 0905
T.O.T.
Time Down: 1130
Axis of attack:
Height: 11,000 ft.
Planes lost: None
Bomb load: 48 x 1,000
Fusing: .1 & .025
6 x 1,000
12 hr delayed
Weather: Enroute & Return: CAVU
Target: Ground Fog plus low stratus.
Flak: None
Enemy Air: None
Results: Formation returned after reaching IP and observing that the valley in which
Foligno is located was filled with ground fog. One plane dropped two bombs,
one with delayed action fuse S. of Porto Civitanova about 500’ short of RR
bridge --- 5 other planes with delayed bombs dropped in Adriatic.
Observations: Truck convoy headed NE --- about 25 vehicles in convoy – between
Muccia (43° 05’ N, 13° 03’ E) and Tolentino. Convoy of four medium
sized M/Vs—about 500 tons—15 miles off coast near Pedaso---headed N.
Flight leaders: Lts. Neumann and Frazer.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
On the second mission this date, Pontecorvo was attacked and missed. Photos showed a
heavy concentration of bombs just west of the bridge cratering two roads.
(2nd Mission, January 21, 1944)
Squadrons: 445th - 1; 446th - 6; 447th - 5; 448th - 6
Target: Pontecorvo road bridge
Time Up: 1410
T.O.T. 1516
Time Down: 1540
Axis of attack: 80 degrees Height: 11,000 ft.
Planes lost: None
Planes holed: 18
Bomb load: 51x 1000
Weather: Enroute: CAVU with slight haze
Target: Clouds: None, Visibility: Very hazy – 7 miles.
Return: CAVU with slight haze.
Flak: Heavy, moderate, accurate from G5605; G5109; 2 heavy guns at G4405, moderate
to intense, heavy accurate at target.
Enemy Air: 1 FW190 at target engaged by Spit. Claims: None
Results: Most of bombs west of target from 300 feet to 300 yards. West approach and
road junction believed hit. One crew reports last element’s bombs walked
across bridge. Some bombs in town.
Observations: 20/25 M/T’s on Pico-Pontecorvo road 2/3 miles west of Pontecorvo.
Flight leaders: Lts. Tapper and Freeland.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Two missions were flown today and there are rumors rampant
about another invasion. A beer ration was distributed to the men at noon chow. Captain
Gaffney was named the Mess Officer and Lt. Lower is his assistant. It was officially
learned that Lt. Fisher, pilot who went down on the October 8th mission, is a German
prisoner of war. Lt. House accidentally dropped a 1000 lb. bomb on returning from the
mission. The Squadron members attended a Group meeting after chow at which time Lt.
Col. Olmsted pointed out the great work done by the Group in paralyzing rail traffic to
Rome and then made the stunning announcement that landings would be made just south
of Rome early tomorrow morning. He gave out all details and this policy was criticized
in the Squadron.
Fisher, James B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Gaffney, Charles, H., Capt, Executive Officer
House, Robert M., 1Lt, pilot
Lower, William C., Lt, personal equipment
Olmstead, Charles T., Lt Col, pilot
A/C No. 42-64575
None
None
A/C No. 41-30550
N Sharp, Kenneth R., 1Lt,
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64659
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
None
A/C No. 42-32333
Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
None
Stein, Lewis (NMI), T/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64508
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
Carson, Donald (NMI), T/Sgt
None
Wilson, Victor H., 1Lt
Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, Commander
A/C No. 41-13179
CP Auchter, Robert L., 1Lt
N None
G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30354 (spare)
None
None
446th BS War Diary: Mission today. Our squadron sent six planes. Group meeting this
afternoon, where we had a “preview” of the invasion plans to take place early the
following morning. Lt. Col. Olmstead, the Commanding Officer of the group, and
Captain Abbott, A.L.O. of the T.B.F. outlined the phases of the operation to us. Very
interesting.
Abbott, J. Roscoe, Capt, Royal Artillery, Allied Liaison Officer
Olmstead, Charles T., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander
TARGET: PonteCorvo Road Bridge, Italy.
DATE: 21 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Tapper led the formation. Most bombs fell W of target. W approach and road
junctions believed hit. One crew reports hits on bridge. Some bombs fell in town. Flak
was heavy, moderate to intense, accurate. No fighters. Eighteen planes holed.
P Brellenthin, Harold L., 2Lt
N None
G
F
Schultheis, Thomas R., Sgt.
Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), Sgt.
A/C No. 42-64557
Morris, Meade L., Jr., 2Lt
None
None
St. Joe”
CP LeClair, Edward R., 2Lt
N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30393
Othick, Rolland R., 2Lt
None
Cpl
None
Polka”
None
Mastrioanni, Henry L., 2Lt
Motika, John F., S/Sgt
None
None
Green, Harry Marshall, S/Sgt
Haasch, George F., T/Sgt
Skill, Donald H., S/Sgt
None
“# 51 Jan. 21, 1944
1000# demo
Terni M/Y, Italy
Formation Leader - Lt. Tapper
Results - Most bombs fell west of target. Last element bombs possibly hit target.
Remarks - Flak heavy, moderate to intense, accurate: No fighters seen. 18 planes
received holes.
Ship number - 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”
Formation
2-3
P- Ryder, CP - Clark, B- Green, E - Kaney, RG- Haasch, G -Skill”
Tapper, George C., 1Lt, pilot
Clark, Robert A., 2Lt, pilot
Haasch, George F., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Kaney, Oscar John, Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Ryder, David (NMI), 2Lt, pilot
“28th day at Casa. Up early & eat chow. Down to ship w/crew, removed guns, put-put,
etc. Down & got ration cards for the boys. After dinner went into town with Burandt and
Chudars. Walked around town sightseeing. Chudars got lost & took a lot of kidding.
Spent most of the evening at the Bar bolly, Chudars got feeling good, afterwards went to
the Vox Theatre, saw “Sherlock Holmes in Washington”, Lousy. Back to camp then to
bed. Heard that Snead & crew got it, but it doesn’t seem possible as they only left here
10 days ago.”
447th BS War Diary: Two missions scheduled today. The following new men are
assigned to this squadron: 1st Lt. Thomas C. Bounds, pilot, 1st Lt. Ernest P. Dusek, pilot,
1st Lt. W.J. Toltzman, co-pilot, 1st Lt. G.G. Baker, co-pilot, 1st Lt. J.H. Windler,
bombardier, 2nd Lt. J.C. Davidson, pilot, T/Sgt. J.J. Altobello, radio-gunner, Sgt. H.E.
Orzynski, gunner, PFC D.D. Isaacs, turret-gunner, S/Sgt. W.B. Mayhew, Jr., gunner, Cpl.
W.W. Stewart, bombardier, S/Sgt. H.M. Glass, turret-gunner, Sgt. L. Cangillieri, turretgunner, S/Sgt. H. Konchinsky, bombardier, PFC L.L. Huddleson, turret-gunner, Pvt. H.E.
Drew, turret- gunner and Sgt. A. Evans, bombardier. As of S.O. #6, Hq. AAFSC, Med.
Theatre of Operations dated Jan 6, 1944, Sgt. Andrew R. Richard is assigd 447 Bomb Sq.
Altobello, Joseph J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt, pilot
Bounds, Thomas C., 1Lt, pilot
Cangillieri, Liobnick, Sgt, turret gunner
Davidson, James C., 2Lt, pilot
Davies, Robert G., 1Lt, pilot
Drew, Horace E., Pvt, turret gunner
Dusek, Ernest Peter “Duke”, 1Lt, pilot
Evans, Allen, Sgt, bombardier
Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt, turret gunner
Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC, turret gunner
Isaacs, Dwight D., PFC, turret gunner
Konchinsky, Herman, S/Sgt, bombardier
Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
McFadden, Kenneth L., 1Lt, pilot
Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt, gunner
Richard, Andrew R., Sgt, engineering
Stewart, William W., Cpl, bombardier
Toltzman, William J., 1Lt, pilot
Windler, John H., 1Lt, bombardier
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 193/mission 192) Group Mission #194: On
the morning mission 6 of our ships participated on a raid on the Foligno M/Y, Italy. The
target was closed due to fog and all ships returned with their bombs. However, the ship
piloted by Lt. Davies salvoed two bombs in the ocean.
P Bounds, Thomas C., 1Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 1Lt
N None
B Stewart, William W., Cpl
E Isaacs, Clayton O., PFC
R Altobello, Joseph J., T/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12997
None
Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt
Bartram, Roy H., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-12930
N None
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Becker, Edward B., 1Lt
Payne, Leonard T., Sgt
Drew, Horace E., Pvt
None
None
Werner, George P., T/Sgt
None
None
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 194/mission 193) Group Mission # 195: In
the afternoon mission 5 of our ships participated. The target was a road bridge near
PonteCorvo, Italy. 1 ship flow by Lt. McFadden returned early due to a leak in the gas
tank. Results of raid—good. As per special order #12 Hqs 321st Bomb Gp (M) AAF
dated 19 January 1944
A/C No. 42-64546
None
Iverson, Lewis B., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13181
N None
E Huddleson, LeeRoy R., Sgt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30557
P Davidson, James C., 2Lt
N None
B Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64696 (returned early: gas
leaking from left wing)
None
Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-13175
None
Isaacs, Dwight D., PFC, turret gunner
Altobello, J.J., T/Sgt
Orzynski, H.E., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-32498
None
Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Sgt
Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Sgt
Kaufold, Adolph (NMI), T/Sgt
Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt
Lamoureau, Archille D, Sgt
Mission 156 (194): At 09:05 18 planes off to bomb Foligno M/Y. All returned at 11:30.
Weather: CAVU at enroute, solid overcast at target. No alternate given and instructions
not to bomb target of opportunity.
A/C No. 41-30548
CP Sandlin, Raymond H., F/O
N None
R McEntee, Peter M., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
P Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
CP Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-30355
N None
E Daniels, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Morris, Raymond J., T/Sgt
None
Hinton, Zane R., PFC
Marshburn, James T., T/Sgt
None
Stokes, Louis S., 1Lt
None
Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt
Jackson, Jewel D., PFC
Gilpatrick, Jack H., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64514
None
Robert, Maurice L., Sgt
Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
Neview, Frederick J.
Mission 157 (195): 18 planes off to bomb PonteCorvo; road bridge. All dropped 51 x
1000 bombs at 15:15 from 11,000 feet and returned at 15:40. 18 A/C holed by flak.
Most of bombs W of target by 300 – 900 feet, W approach and road junction hit, 1
elements bombs across bridge and some bombs in town. Flak: Heavy, moderate,
accurate. Weather: CAVU, slight haze. F/L: Freeland.
A/C No. 41-30343
CP Hales, Ermine L., 2Lt
N None
E Nesbit, Andrew L., Sgt
G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-87455
N None
E Chosta, Louis (NMI), Sgt
F None
N None
B Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt
E Bennett, Ross F., S/Sgt
G Carr, Randal C., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 41-30327
None
Petit, Rene P., 2Lt
Luton, Howard W., S/Sgt
Coleman, Seaton L., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64655
Gebhardt, Ralph J., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-29967
Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
Hicks, John T., 2Lt
None
Davey, Joseph (NMI), S/Sgt
None
321st Bomb Group Headlines:
In Italy, maximum support is given to Allied landings at Anzio,
which are begun by the US Fifth Army's VI Corps at 0200; fighter-bombers, light and
medium bombers direct efforts toward isolating the landing area by cutting roads,
bridges, and railroads and obstructing towns in the surrounding region, at Valetri,
Valmontone, Colleferro, Ceprano, and Fondi and hitting traffic and communications
throughout the area; fighters maintain a patrol over shipping and beachhead and
successfully intercept several enemy fighter-bomber missions directed against the
landings.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Group lost a Medical and an Armament Officer when
Major Pinger and Captain Jaenicke left for the 12th Bomber Command. They were
replaced in Group Headquarters by Captain A. Silver, III, and Lt. Bruce Lowery of the
448th Bombardment Squadron.
Jaenicke, Reinhart W., Capt, engineering Lowery, Bruce (NMI), 2Lt, armament
Pinger, Robert R., Maj, medical
Silver, George A., III, Capt, medical
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 195/mission 194) Group Mission # 196:
An early briefing sent the crews of eighteen aircraft off to bomb the Valmontone road
junction in almost direct support of the ground forces who had just landed on the coast
south of Rome. The best news of that attack was the ALO who said that sixty motor
trucks had to turn back because of the road block created by our bombs.
No. A/C – 18
Squadrons: 445th - 6; 446th - 4; 447th - 8
TARGET: Valmontone Road Junction G.100528, as identified on Photo 3067.
TIME UP: 0910
T.O.T. 1025 TIME DOWN: 17 down at 1120. 1 at friendly field
AXIS OF ATTACK: 34°
HEIGHT: 10,000/10,500
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: BOMBS DROPPED: 51x 1000
WEATHER: Enroute: CAVU with slight haze
Target: CAVU with slight haze.
Return: 3/10 cumulus at 4,000 ft. Visibility: Slight haze, 15 miles.
FLAK: Target: Heavy, moderate, accurate – one report of “Pinwheel flak” which burst
into spinners and lasted longer than ordinary flak.
Other: Scattered heavy flak on approach from coast to target from Littoria and
Cisterna. Also scattered heavy flak on route out from Paliano, Fiuggi and
Ferentino.
ENEMY AIR: 8 ME-109’s strafing beaches Southeast of Anzio.
RESULTS: Road junction referred to at G.100528 is that identified on Photograph 3067,
furnished to this group by higher headquarters. Road about 1000 feet West
of junction cut. Hits Northeast of junction in town. Some bombs short abut
1000 feet Southwest of junction. Engineer in ship # 181 was killed by flak
just before reaching target.
OBSERVATIONS: 2 truck convoys, one of 50 and other of 12 at Civitella Roveta (41°
55’ N and 13° 26’ E.)
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. McFadden and Strenger
JAMES E. NICKERSON,
Capt., Air Corps,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 196/mission 195) Group Mission # 197:
On the second mission today against the same target, the lead ship did not pick up the
town soon enough and the formation bombed the road and railroad at Palestrina which
was well hit.
No. A/C – 18
TARGET: Valmontone Road Junction (S)
TIME UP: 1400
T.O.T. 1515
TIME DOWN: 1612
AXIS OF ATTACK: 38 degrees
HEIGHT: 11/12,000
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: One BOMBS DROPPED: 54x 1000
ROUTE: From base to Castel Volturno. Hit coast at 41 degrees 35’N – 12 degrees 48’E,
N to just E of Cisterna; thence to target; to Filettino; to Villa Castel di Sangro;
thence to Base.
WEATHER: Entire route – Cavu with slight haze.
FLAK: Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate. Flak also from vicinity of Artena – Heavy,
moderate, accurate; possibly flak tower.
ENEMY AIR: 2 S/E A/C believed to be enemy just before target. High above. No attack.
RESULTS: Strings of bombs, starting just SW of target, walked through R.R. close to
target road. Area just E of target also covered. Believed target road cut near
R.R. Some hits over and into town. Others to the right of target, about 90 ft.
OBSERVATIONS: 20 M/T moving on road from Avezzano to Cassino observed at S
Vincenzo. 20 M/T at Opi probably moving N.
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Brosnan and Ryder
PHOTOS TAKEN
NOTE: Photographs disclosed that town Palestrina was mistaken for Valmontone. Out
of 18 crews interrogated only 1 person indicated he had some doubt that wrong
road junction was bombed.
JAMES E. NICKERSON,
Capt., Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Two missions were flown again today. There was a practice
bombing mission held today and Lt. Farrell flew to Naples as Group courier ferrying
some P-40 pilots.
Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 1Lt, pilot
Our Squadron participated in the early mission this morning to bomb an important road
junction near the point where landings were made south of Rome. Later that day it was
learned that our mission was successful in blocking an important road between Rome and
the 5th Army front. This blockage caused a German motor convoy to clog and turn
around, making them easy prey for P-38 fighter bombers.
A/C No. 42-64659
CP Auchter, Robert L., 1Lt
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
None
A/C No. 42-32333
P Walker, Robert S., 2Lt
CP Newkirt, Renford Raymond, 2Lt
N None
B Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
A/C No. 41-29985
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Jones, W. A., Sgt, Public Relations, 12th
Air Force (observer)
A/C No. 41-30354
2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 42-64508
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
Kalb, W.W., S/Sgt
None
None
A/C No. 42-64575
Yepez, Oscar W., 2Lt
Maddox, Richard L., T/Sgt
Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30550
P Noel, William Honoree, 2Lt
N None
B Maughan, George W., 2Lt
R Lysowski, Raymond A., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64529
None
446th BS War Diary: Two missions today, ten of our ships participating. Supported
invasion forces south of Rome, by hitting Valmontone road junction.
TARGET: Valmontone Road Junction, Italy.
DATE: 22 Jan1944
446th Planes: 4
Lt. McFadden, 447th Sqdn, led the formation. Road about 1000 ft W of junction cut.
Road about 1000 ft SE of junction believed cut. Hits NE of jct. in town. Some bombs
short, about 1000 ft SW of jct. Flak was heavy, moderate accurate. Lt. Abraham was a
spare, and returned early. Italy was invaded thirty miles S of Rome at 0200 this morning.
McFadden, Kenneth L., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Clay, Donald W., Sgt
Cpl
None
Kerr, John C., 1Lt
None
McArdle, Harry E., S/Sgt
Ciach, Stanislaus (NMI), Sgt
Hurley, John R., 2Lt
None
Cohen, George (NMI), T/Sgt
None
P Abraham, Frank W., 2Lt
CP Walsh, George F., 2Lt
N None
E Brawn, Jean H., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64509 “Enid II (previously
“Arkansas Traveler II”; later “No
Peekin’”)
None
None
TARGET: Valmontone Road Junction, Italy.
DATE: 22 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
th
Lt. Brosnan, 448 Sqdn, led the formation. This was the second mission for this date.
Palestrina, about six miles NNW of Valmontone was hit. Hits observed through RR
close to road. Area just E also covered. Believed road cut near RR. Some hits over and
into town. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate. Also heavy flak from Artena.
Brosnan, Cornelius C., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
CP Herbert, John James, Jr., 2Lt
N None
E Motika, John F., S/Sgt
F None
Brellenthin, Harold L., 2Lt
None
None
None
Cpl
F None
P Dickson, Gale .M., 2Lt
N None
F Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), Sgt
P
CP
N
B
E
R
Polka”
Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt
Mastrioanni, Henry L., 2Lt
Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt
Howe, Frank M., Jr., S/Sgt
South, William R., S/Sgt
None
None
Brawn, Jean H., Sgt
None
“29th day @ Casa. After breakfast went out to ship. While there an A-31 (French) on
take-off was pulled to one side by torque (guess) missed the tail of ship, sideswiped a tail
of a B-36, then crashed into 2 B-26’s. By some miracle the pilot got out of the ship some
mechanic working really got the other fellow out, with Burandt helping. Didn’t seem
badly hurt. A-31, 2 B-26’s were a total loss. Hope no guard was asleep on the B-26, if
there was he never got out. Slept a few hours in the afternoon, hung around the
barracks, then ate. After supper went to show (The Iron Major). A good show. Had a
bull session in the barracks with Charlie & Moe, load adjusting the big subject.”
447th BS War Diary: The group flew two missions again today. The squadron was
called together in a formation at 1620 last evening and marched to Hq. There Lt. Col.
Olmstead enlightened the boys with a short talk as to the purpose behind our bombing
and the strategy used. He also let us in on the “secret”—that another invasion just south
of Rome was scheduled to take place at 0200 last night. As of Special Order #12 dated
Jan. 19, 1944 321 Bomb Group Hqs. The following men of this squadron are promoted to
T/Sgts: S/Sgts. M.L. Czaja, A. Kaufold, R.A. Lotitio, H.H. Dexter, J.J. Kordzi, Jr., E.C.
Ennis, and R. Mellado. S/Sgt. Delore E. Monroe killed in action. Morning report for
week ending Jan 22: Officers---50; E.M. ---255.
Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt, gunner
Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt, gunner
Kaufold, Adolph, S/Sgt, gunner
Knodle, Robert A., 2Lt, pilot
Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt, communication
Lotitio, Rocco A., S/Sgt, gunner
Mellado, Ricardo, S/Sgt, gunner
Olmstead, Charles T., Col, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 195/mission 194) Group Mission # 196: On
the first mission the target was the road junction at Valmontone, Italy. 8 of our ships
participated. Our squadron was 1st in formation, being led by Maj. Sampson. 1 ship, Lt.
Knodle pilot, returned early due to generator trouble. Results of bombing—poor. The
flak was extremely heavy and several of our ships were shot up rather badly.
“Sophisticated Lady” piloted by Lt. Olson returned with a fatal injury to her engineergunner, S/Sgt. Delore E. Monroe, in all probability he was killed instantly over the target,
having received two severe flak wounds about the head.
A/C No. 41-13181
CP Beebe, Harwood (NMI), 2Lt
None
Monroe, Delore E. (KIA)
Lotito, Rocco A., T/Sgt
Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt
Vermillion, Robert “Bob” (United Press
Correspondent)
P Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 1Lt
CP Davidson, James C., 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-12930
P Dusek, Ernest Peter “Duke”, 1Lt
N None
E Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Sgt
R Kaufold, Adolph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt
F Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64695
Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj,
Commander
Drew, Horace E., Pvt
None
A/C No. 41-30638
None
None
A/C No. 41-12997
None
Orloff, Sidney (NMI)., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30557
P Joiner, Harold W., 1Lt
N None
B Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
G Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death
Wind)(returned early: generator trouble)
P Knodle, Robert A., 2Lt
N None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt
E Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC
F None
None
Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
On the second mission of the day 2 ships from our squadron flew as spares but both
returned early. The target was Valmontone, Italy. Results—very poor.
A/C No. 41-12930 (spare)
N Paiton, Harold K., 1Lt (Bmb/Nav)
B N/A
E Isaacs, Dwight D., PFC
G Ludtke, Foster R.., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30638 (spare)
None
Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt
O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt
Dunlap, Woodrow W., S/Sgt
None
447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: S/Sgt. Delore E. Monroe was hit fatally by
flak over the target the morning of Jan. 22, 1944. An engineer gunner on the plane
piloted by Lt. R.C. Olson, S/Sgt. Monroe was on his 27th mission when he received the
fatal wound in the head.
Olson, Robert C., 1Lt, pilot
The target for mission was the road junction at Valmontone, Italy and nine of the
squadron planes participated in the raid. These nine planes made up the lead flight and
Lt. Olson was leading the third element of this flight.
At the target moderate, heavy flak was encountered and as the third element came
in on the bombing run there was a heavy burst of flak very near the tail on the left side.
Many large holes were cut in the tail section by the fragments and there were two holes in
the left wing when the plane landed. One large fragment entered S/Sgt. Monroe’s skull
and the crew members believe that he was killed instantly. His position at the tail gun
place him nearest the burst of flak and no other members of the crew were injured.
Lt. Olson dropped out of the formation as soon as the bomb line was passed on
the way home and flew to Foggia Main as quickly as possible so that immediate medical
care would be available for the injured man. When he landed, however, and the
ambulances came to the plane, S/Sgt. Monroe was dead.
The deceased gunner joined the squadron in October while we were at Grottaglie
and had participated in raids over the Balkans and northern Italy.
448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 195/mission 194) Group Mission #
196:
Mission 158 (197): At 14:00 18 planes off to bomb Valmontone road junction. All
dropped 54 x 1000 bombs at 15:15 from 11,000 feet, all planes returned at 16:12. Strings
of bombs started SW of target walked thru RR close to road; area E of target well
covered. Target road cut near RR, some hits over and into town. Flak: Heavy,
moderate, accurate. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Brosnan.
A/C No. 42-64655
A/C No. 42-64514
P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Bell, Albert R., Capt, Commander
None
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt
Neview, Frederick J., Sgt
G Jeffrey, Louis J. Cpl
None
F None
A/C No. 41-30327
A/C No. 41-30355
None
N None
Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt
G Bennett, Ross F., S/Sgt
Franc, Charles E., Jr., S/Sgt
N None
E Hinton, Zane R., PFC
R Marshburn, James T., T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64552
N None
G Gately, Joseph A., S/Sgt
F None
N None
B Robert, Maurice L., Sgt
E Daniels, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Morris, Raymond J., T/Sgt
G VanCura, Paul S., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30548
None
McEntee, Peter M., S/Sgt
None
None
Waller, Colver K., 2Lt
None
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Colonel William S
Gravely takes command of XII Air Force Training and Replacement Command.B-26's
bomb the area S of Avezzano while B-25's hit the town of Avezzano and road junction at
Monte Cornacchia; A-20's bomb Vallecorsa with good results; A-36's attack Vallecorsa,
road junctions at Fondi and in the Priverno area, the town of Ceccano, and railroad at
Sezze; P-47's bomb the bridge at Skradin, Yugoslavia; RAF Desert Air Force (DAF)
fighters strafe tanks and trucks on the British Eighth Army front, and XII Air Support
Command fighters cover the US Fifth Army's Anzio beachhead during the day.
The railroad junction at Avezzano was bombed as an alternate to the railroad junction at
Colli di Monti, was covered by an overcast. No hits were scored on the junction but
roads to Roccasecca and Sulmona were cut.
No. A/C – 18 1 returned early
TARGET: Primary—Colli de Monte G-303888—RR Jct.
Alternate--RR Junction—Avezzano.
TIME UP: 0900
T.O.T. 1005
TIME DOWN: 1048
HEIGHT: 11/11,500
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: None
BOMBS DROPPED: 38x1000 with .1 & .025
5x1000 delayed
ROUTE: From base to Castel—WNW—Filettino—(41° 54’ N, 13° 19’ E) NWN to
CARSOLI, NE to BORGOCOLLETEGATO (I.P.) SE to CASTEL ESE to
base.
WEATHER: Enroute & Return---CAVU.
Primary target—Low strato cumulus on mountain to south causing
difficulty in picking in observation.
Alternate: CAVU with slight haze.
FLAK: Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from town of Carsoli.
ENEMY AIR: 2 ME-109’s S of Avezzano at 3000 ft. No attack. 4 unidentified (2 black)
at target, and 3 ME- strafing troops at bomb line.
RESULTS: (Ref. TC. CP-25) A few bombs reported hitting near road and rail junction
(J-14). Others observed across road just W. of target area leading W from
road to Rome. Other bombs widely scattered; and observed north of city,
just N of main M/Yds on line to Sulmona (L-15), near center of city and
along easterly edge of town as far south as beyond main road running SW
and nearly a mile W of Roccasecca line which was reported cut
approximately 1200 ft. SE of target area (H-12).
OBSERVATIONS: 15/20 MT proceeding S on road from Arce to Cassino being strafed
by 4 Spits.
PHOTOS TAKEN
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Neuman and DeMay
RAY L. DROTIS,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t S-2 Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HQ 321st G Mission Summary: (Ops Order 198/mission 197) Group Mission # 199:
The second mission right back to Avezzano was abortive due to weather.
No. A/C – 18
Squadrons: 445th – 1; 446th - 6; 447th - 2; 448th - 9
TARGET: AVEZZANO—Hairpin turn west of town.
TIME UP: 1350
T.O.T. ---TIME DOWN: 1550 hrs.
AXIS OF ATTACK: ---HEIGHT: ---PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: None BOMBS DROPPED: None
ROUTE: Base direct to Avezzano—thence NE-15 miles to Ovindoli, thence SE to hill
2208 on to base.
WEATHER: Enroute and return—Clear until 25 miles from target then 8/10 stratocumulus—tops at 7000 ft. Visibility unlimited.
Target: -- Complete overcast—tops at 7000 ft. Visibility unlimited.
FLAK: None
ENEMY AIR: None
RESULTS: None
OBSERVATIONS: 2/3 M/T on road between Sulmona and Avezzano. 20/30 M/T at
Roccaraso (SE of Sulmona) stationary. 35/40 M/T pulling guns at
Vivia de Marsi (near Ortona) heading north. 13 M/T on road 2 miles
S of Roccaraso (S of Sulmona) heading N.
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Tapper and Freeland.
No Photos taken.
RAY L. DROTIS,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t S-2 Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: There was pilots’ meeting at 13:00 ordered by Capt. Beeson.
Three planes went on a practice bombing mission to test bomb racks. There was also a
flight to swing the compass. The supper tonight was especially delicious. It consisted of
fresh pork chops fresh potatoes, apple pie, fresh butter and coffee.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, Commander
Two missions flown again today. On the morning mission this squadron formed the
entire first flight in an attack on another vital target near the invasion area.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
A/C No. 42-64508
None
None
Hickey, William R., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64659
None
None
A/C No. 42-64575
Sharp, Kenneth R., 1Lt
Belt, Hunter C., S/Sgt
Irvin, Ralph D., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64529
None
Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt
A/C No. 41-30354
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-29985
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
Stein, Louis (NMI), S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
Carner, Donald E., Sgt
Ellison, Clyde (NMI), C., Sgt
None
Judy”
CP Charville, Leighton Daniel “Danny, 2Lt
N None
F None
446th BS War Diary: Another doubleheader mission today, 9 ships taking part.
TARGET: RR Junction Avezzano, Italy.
DATE: 23 Jan1944
446th Planes: 3
Lt. Neumann, 445th Sqdn, led the formation. A few bombs hit road and rail junction.
Others observed across road just W of target area, leading W from road to Rome. Other
bombs widely scattered. Flak was heavy, moderate, inaccurate.
Neumann, Robert H., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
N None
E Clay, Donald W., Sgt
A/C No. 41-12923
None
None
Polka”
N None
E Fontenot, V. L. (i.o.), T/Sgt
R Schultheis, Thomas R., Sgt
G Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, Sgt
F None
TARGET: RR Junction Avezzano, Italy.
DATE: 23 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt Tapper led the formation. This was the second mission for this date. No results.
Complete overcast tops to 7000 ft, visibility unlimited. No flak or fighters.
Bolt, Robert L., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 41-30293
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., S/Sgt
G Holtzclaw, James Ralph, Cpl
F Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, 321st BG
Commander
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
None
Abraham, Frank W.,
None
Brawn, Jean H., Sgt
P LeClair, Edward R., 2Lt
CP Morris, Meade L., Jr., 2Lt
N None
F None
Peekin’”) (spare)
N None
B Green, Harry Marshall, S/Sgt
Cpl
F None
Kerr, John C., 1Lt
Matzinger, Keith Robinson, 2Lt
None
None
Pilot: unknown
A/C B-25
Local: Training – 3 landings
Flying Time: 1:40 (1st mission in MTO)
“30th day @ Casa. After chow went down to the ship. Nothing to do so went over & got
our parachutes. Expect to test hop this afternoon & leave tomorrow. After dinner, down
to line, test hopped the ship. O.K. Did a little buzzing, chased a “Spit”, a lot of fun. After
landing got briefed for tomorrow’s take-off. After supper went down to the ship and
stood guard all nite. Plenty of quiet and had a snack of K-rations.” Flying time: 01:10.”
447th BS War Diary: Two missions scheduled for today. As per letter dated Jan. 22,
XII Air Force Headquarters, the following men were transferred to the U.S: T/Sgt W.W.
Myers., S/Sgt R.J. McGrail and S/Sgt. R.W. Sheets.
Bounds, Thomas C., 1Lt, pilot
McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt, gunner
Myers, William W., T/Sgt, gunner
Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt, gunner
of our ships completed the mission with the morning formation. Two others returned
early. One, flown by Lt. Dusek returned early when the left engine cut out. The other,
flown by Lt. Bounds, was sent out as a spare but was not needed. The target was the RR
junction at Avezzano, Italy. The flak was extremely heavy and the results of the
bombing poor.
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
N None
F None
N None
G Iverson, Lewis B., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30557
None
Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC
None
A/C No. 42-64694
II”
P Beebe, Harwood (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None
F None
(spare)
None
None
None
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” (returned
early – engine trouble)
N None
R Kaufold, Adolph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt
F None
the 2nd mission of the day 3 of our ships were scheduled to participate. However, one
ship flown by Lt. Langston, after taxiing out of parking area discovered that an oil cover
was loose. He returned to the ships hardstand where a hasty repair was made. He then
took off in an attempt to overtake the formation but a spare had already filled in. The
target was a road bridge at Avezzano, Italy but due to a complete overcast, no bombs
were dropped. Upon returning from the mission Lt. Fraser crash landed his plane on our
home field. After circling the field twice he, although blinded by the sun, attempted to
land. (He decided to judge the runway by the dust of the ship ahead of him). In doing so
he landed on the left side of the runway and has left landing gear hit a barrel placed at the
runways edge. The plane had in it the original bomb load with which it started out.
None
O’Mara, Robert M., S/Sgt
Ludtke, Foster R., Sgt
CP Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
N None
R Dunlap, Woodrow W., S/Sgt
G Kaufold, Adolph (NMI), T/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
(returned early)
None
None
447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: The squadron’s third plane of the month was
lost January 23, 1944 when a landing accident occurred as the planes were returning from
an afternoon mission. The plane, 42-64600, was piloted by Lt. Harry A. Fraser and his
report of the accident was as follows.
“I approached the field in loose formation. I was leading the third element in a
box of 9 planes. After leading my wingman into the traffic pattern I pulled out to go to
sea to drop one 1000 lb. delayed action bomb. These orders were countermanded by
instructions from the tower so I entered traffic but due to the sun I could not see the
runway and so went around. By this time the second nine ships were in the pattern and I
became number 10 in traffic. Again the sun and other airplanes in my predicament
prohibited a safe approach so again I went around. This time I was number 6. Five other
ships before me had also gone around.”
“I dropped my wheels and attempted to follow the ships before me. On the final
approach I could fairly accurately judge the position of the runway from the dust of the
ship which had already landed on the left of the runway and from the approach of the
ship ahead of me although I still could not see the outline of the runway. I spaced myself
behind the other ship and slightly above and to the left of him, dumped full flaps and
slowed for a landing. As my airplane dropped I caught the outline of the runway. At this
time I was possibly 50 ft. back of the runway and 6 to 8 ft. in the air. My airspeed was
between 105 and 110 mph indicated and my flare out for landing was about complete. At
this time my left wing was caught in a mild prop was and dropped. I kicked full right
rudder to pick up the wing. Ailerons were useless. The rudder action was sufficient to
pick up the wing but would not skid the plane to the right. At this moment both my copilot and I saw the white barrels marking the end of the runway. It was too late to use
throttle to skid right. Had I attempted to balloon the aircraft over the barrels I would have
stalled at 20-30 ft. above the runway and would have fallen straight down. In
consideration of 3000 lbs. of bombs aboard I elected to take no chance of stall out.
Consequently my left landing gear hit the barrel and was torn from the nacelle. A normal
landing position was assumed and I landed on my right wheel. As soon as we were on
the ground Lt. Seavey cut all switches and mixture controls. I was able to hold the left
wing off the ground by rudder until approximately 60 miles per hour at which speed the
wing hit the ground and we slowed to a stop to the left of the runway. The entire left side
of the plane was demolished. The bombs in the Bombay remained safe in the shackles.
None of the crew were injured in any way.”
Seavey, George D., 2Lt, pilot
(spare)
N None
B Ream, Elmer (NMI), Cpl
R Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
F None
Mission 159 (199): At 13:50 18 planes off to bomb Avezzano hairpin turn W of town.
Target completed covered by overcast, all planes returned at 15:50, no bombs dropped.
2-3 MT on road between Sulmona and Avezzano, 20 to 23 M/T at Roccaraso, 35-40 M/T
pulling guns at Vivia de Marsi. F/L: Freeland.
A/C No. 42-64655
Hicks, John T., 2Lt
None
N None
G Frank, Donald L., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt
Acey, Marvin E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30355
None
Stackman, Walter C., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64552
None
None
N None
E Luton, Howard W., Sgt
R Neview, Frederick J., Sgt
G Coleman, Seaton L., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30327
CP Cooper, James W., 2Lt
N None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64514
None
Mauder, Charles J., Sgt
Clark, Gwyn E., S/Sgt
Wolf, Elmer A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30548
None
Nesbit, Andrew L., Sgt
None
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather cancels all
medium and light bomber operations. In Italy, fighters maintain cover over the Anzio
beachhead (Anzio and Nettuno are captured during the day) and encounter increased air
attacks; 3 fighters are claimed destroyed in aerial combat, while 1 Allied fighter is lost. P40 fighter-bombers hit road at Penne, while A-36's bomb Velletri and the road junction E
of town, and hit other communications targets.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission today, due to weather.
445th BS War Diary: The top meal for today was a fried chicken supper. The Red
Cross girl distributed doughnuts and coffee immediately after supper. An unusual squall
swept up just after supper and some rain fell driven by strong winds. It lasted for about
one hour. There were two navigational training flights today and another to test bomb
racks.
01/24/44: Five miles west of Foggia
“We came from Amendola landing ground January 14th. According to plan our
next move would have been to a new field near Naples and we were all rather eager for
it, but on account our field being overcrowded with B-17s we were shoved over here until
the field in Naples is prepared. We have a good location, a new tent and a dependable
source of electricity so we are quite content. We have done much painting around the
tent and it is quite homey. Weather has been very good and scarcely a night has passed
that we haven’t loaded bombs. Our plane losses have been nil, though on two occasions
1000 pound bombs have fallen through the bomb bay when the planes landed. As yet the
cause is unexplained. In all, life has gone pretty well so far this year. Christmas brought
with it the assurance of many friends, expressed by boxes and cards. Christmas Eve
many of our drinking friends came in with Louie and George for a session with their
bottles and the evening ended by Rucker and I and the Dutchman cleaning up after them
and putting them in bed. Most of the camp indulged in revelry throughout the season.
Bell, Louis E. "Lew", Sgt, armament
Cavalenes, George P., S/Sgt, armament
Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament
Weidler, Clifford L. "The Dutchman", Sgt, engineering
December 27th I left in a truck with 14 others for three days at rest camp in
Naples. Those three days were the richest of all my experiences overseas and the
successive happenings are indelibly enough impressed on my mind that I need not write
them. On the way to Naples we came upon many bridges that had been blown up by the
retreating Germans and it became clear to me why progress on that front had suddenly
become so slow, when I saw the congestion of traffic one single destroyed bridge is
capable of causing. Most of the bridges were being rebuilt by civilian and British
workers and usually a British MP was directing traffic. We arrived in Naples at the
apartment house taken over by our Group at about two o’clock, tired and hungry, but
pleased with the prospect of seeing famous Naples. On our first foray to find something
to eat, we discovered the people to be very friendly. I went alone that afternoon to Via
Roma and saw a movie. My major purpose was to obtain information pertaining to the
city of Pompeii.
We went to Pompeii early the next morning on the “Circumvesuviana” railway (a
tourist line that circles Mt. Vesuvius). Had a good ride out to the city, and on the train, I
became acquainted with an Italian woman and her very attractive daughter. The
daughter spoke German and we conversed in that language. I spent part of the next day
at their home where I met the father, who was chief physician of the municipal medical
setup, and the others of the family. I was greatly amused by the old gentleman’s carefully
explaining to me an Italian proverb to the effect that a man’s wife and his ox should come
from his own country. We spent the entire forenoon perambulating the ruins of Pompeii.
Our guide was intelligent and obliging and that made our tour very complete and
interesting. After visiting the ruins we stopped at a shop that specialized in cameos and
coral jewelry and we all indulged lavishly in purchases. From there we went to a
restaurant for dinner. The food was nothing exceptional and the price was exorbitant,
but I shall never forget the musicians who played and sang while we ate. The violinist
and vocalist would come to our table and perform his talent with an enthusiasm I have
never seen before.
At a town near the ruin is a most exquisitely and richly adorned Catholic
cathedral. In one corner was a very realistic miniature of the life and crucifixion of the
Savior, even the boats could be seen sailing in the bay that provided a background for
one of the scenes. Drifting back to the less romantic and more real aspects, one of the
alarming situations to me was the unabashed approach of various pimps and even young
girls rustling their own business. One could not more than enter the Piazza de Dante
before he was accosted by a half dozen such characters vying in keen competition. I am
yet mournful at the recollection of a waif of 13 or 14 years of age who took hold of my
arm and, opening her coat to reveal a bottle of wine repeated, “Room, room.”
I spent part of a day at the Red Cross talking with a woman from Indiana who had lived
in Italy 21 years with her Italian husband and was very influential in organizing against
the Fascists before the invasion. Her picture and that of her family and another woman
whom I met appeared in Life magazine. While in Naples I attended a genuine Italian
grand opera entitled “Andrea Chenier.” I enjoyed it greatly.”
446th BS War Diary: 43 enlisted men received promotions today. Seventeen men get
their travel orders this morning—lucky fellows. Five more men come in on combat
status. A mail call this afternoon with quite a few letters. Everyone happy.
446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions
Pilot: unknown
A/C B-25
Local: Training – 6 landings
Flying Time: 2:50 (2nd mission in MTO)
“31st day at Casa. Got relieved from Guard by Ben @ 0900. Ate, expected to leave but
found our form 41-B wasn’t ready, so Charlie decided to stay another day. Guess we’ll
never get out of here. After dinner, got a shave, got clothes out of the ship and went to
town with Chudars. Did some shopping, hung around the Select and the bolly, quiet in
town. Went to show, “H. Aldrich Haunts a House”. Very good.
Boatright, Benjamin, Jr. "Ben", S/Sgt, gunner
447th BS War Diary: Mission cancelled. The following new men were assigned to this
squadron today: 2nd Lt. M. K. Matthewson, from the 310th, 1st Lt. H. J. Banks, 2nd Lt. L.
L. Edwards, 2nd Lt. C. F. Jones, Cpl. Walter F. K. Tollefson, S/Sgt. E. P. Harriman and
S/Sgt. W. E. Matthews. 2nd Lt. R. P. Dunn transferred from this squadron. Sgt. L. J.
Steves transferred to hospital. The officers had as their guests last evening none other
than Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey Bogart.
Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt, pilot
Dunn, Robert P., 2Lt, pilot
Edwards, Lyle L., Lt, pilot
Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt, gunner
Jones, Claude F, 2Lt, bombardier
Mathews, William E., S/Sgt, gunner
Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 2Lt, navigator
Steves, Louis G., Sgt, engineering
Tollefson, Walter F. K., Cpl, gunner
In Italy, B-25's bomb Valmontone; B-26's hit the Sezze
marshalling yard, the Sezze-Bassiano road, Amelia, and Rieti marshalling yard; A-20's
attack Terelle; A-36's hit Civita Castellana, Itri, Velletri, and railroad rolling stock in the
area; P-40's hit Velletri and Belmonte in Sabina and strafe trucks E of Fondi; P-40's and
P-47's hit shipping in Dubrovnik, Yugoslavia, and nearby road and rail traffic. British
fighters of the RAF DAF hit bridge approaches at Popoli, near the British Eighth Army
front. Detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force (attached to
RAF No. 286 Wing) at Rerhaia, Algeria returns to base at Grottaglie, Italy with
Beaufighters.
0755 Tipton to Asbury. “Weather is O.K. Will not conflict with the 12th”.
0805 Asbury to TBF. “What altitude is the 12th going in at? We are going in at from
10000 to 10500”.
0825 TBF to Hoffman. “The 12th is going in at from 9500 to 10000. They have been
notified of our altitude”.
0827 Hoffman to 82nd Ops. “No conflict in T.O. times”.
0906 Asbury to Hoffman. “Obtain Courier to land at Pompeii at 1100”.
0910 Hoffman to Bell (448th). Requested Courier--A/C 41-29765 (Wik, John R., Jr.,
2Lt, 448th BS).
1035 Hoffman to S/L “’Toole (TBF). “Gave T.O. time”.
0930 TBF to Griffing. “Bomb load is 1000’s, .1 and .025--no long delays to be used.
Target: VELLETRI. Map reference PinPoint #F985440”.
1050 Tipton to Hoffman. “Wanted bombing altitude for 2nd Mission. Informed him
that we would call back when the morning mission returned”.
1110 Vallery to Hoffman. “Reason for early return: Bomb-Sight telescope cable
broken. Lts. Noel (William H., 2Lt, 445th BS) and Pamp (Arvid A., 2Lt, 445th BS)
turned back after making 5 minute circle, because of the absence of Lead A/C”.
1115 Hoffman to 82nd Ops. “No conflict in T.O. times for the aft”.
1145 Hoffman to Duncan (TBF). “Informed him of our Bombing altitude for aft
Mission, 10,000 to 10,500. If he does not call back this will be O.K.”
1150 Hoffman to TBF (Duncan). “Time down for morning Mission 11:18”.
1330 Duncan to Larson. “Afternoon job cancelled”.
1335 Tipton to Hoffman. “Wanted to know results of morning mission. Gave info
from S-2 report”.
1625 Hoffman to Capt. Anderson (82nd). “Suggested that barrels at end of R/W be
removed unless they serve a practical purpose. He agreed, and will take action”.
Mission to Ceprano road bridge. No hits scored, most of the bombs to the north and east
of the target. One string scored hits on the Ceprano-Rome road.
No. A/C – 15
Squadrons: 445th – 3; 446th - 3; 447th - 2; 448th - 9
TARGET: CEPRANO ROAD BRIDGE. (G-599279)
TIME UP: 0915
T.O.T. 1020 TIME DOWN: 1110 hrs.
HEIGHT: 10/10,500 Ft.
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: 14
BOMBS DROPPED: 5x1000 delayed &
37x1000--.1 & .025 fusing
ROUTE: Base to Castel Volturno—recrossing coast 5 miles E. of Terracina—to Ceprano
then NW to hill 1992—due E for 30 miles to hill 2014—then home.
WEATHER: CAVU entire route, slight haze.
FLAK: Target Area—Heavy intense accurate, with guns reported from N side of lake at
Isoletta; 3 guns 1 mile SW of Ceprano. Other flak reported from around Isola
with intense firing from valley E of Isola and from high land N of target.
ENEMY AIR: None
CLAIMS: None
RESULTS: One report of bridge being hit. Greatest concentration of bombs east of
target with some across road bend. Other bombs short and a few fell to N
and W of bridge.
OBSERVATIONS: At 1025, 20 trucks heading S near Isola and NW at same time
convoy heading N from Veroli (NW of target) (could be same convoy)
MARINE: At 1013 vessel, 400’ M/V, in Gaeta going NW along coast—shooting flak.
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Stephenson and Wetherbee.
No Photos taken.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
Gp. Intelligence Officer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: The weather was very cold today and most of the men stayed in
their tents around the warmth of the good old stoves. Seven new gunners were assigned
to the Squadron today. Captain Beeson flew to Gioia. It is rumored that he will be sent
home and many of the men are wondering just who his successor will be.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, Commander
A/C No. 41-29985
None
Maughan, George W., 2Lt,
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
None
Gambler II”
P Auchter, Robert L., 1Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 42-64508 (early return)
CP Thomas, John J., 2Lt
N None
B Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
E Schaviak, Willis M., Sgt
R Carson, Donald (NMI), T/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Judy”
A/C No. 41-30354 (returned early)
Wilson, Charles B., 1Lt
Jones, Robert C., Sgt
None
None
None
446th BS War Diary: Three of the squadron’s ships go on a mission against a road
bridge at Ceprano. Four EM for combat join us from 47th Bomb Group. Carstens gets
his missions in.
Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Ceprano Road Bridge, Italy.
DATE: 25 Jan1944
446th Planes: 3
Lt Stephenson, 447th Sqdn, led the formation. One report of bridge being hit. Greatest
concentration of bombs E of target with some across road. Flak was heavy, intense,
accurate. Fourteen a/c were holed. Lt Morris was a spare, and returned early.
Stephenson, Henry W., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
N None
B Turner, Allen B., Sgt
R Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt
N None
B Parrish, William W., S/Sgt
F None
G
F
A/C No. 41-30293
None
T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” (spare)
None
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, S/Sgt
None
“32nd day @ Casa. 45th day O.S. Had chow, got equipment together, expect to leave for
Algiers @ 1000. Left Casablanca at 1125 for Algiers. Had my head way up and locked
today, landed at Oran instead of Algiers. Never hear the end of it either. Left Oran @
14:25 and arrived in Algiers @ 15:45. Had supper, then went to the Post theatre with
Chudars. A good show, “Hi Diddle, Diddle”. Sleeping in tents here, w/rope mattresses,
not to bad. Flying time: 03:00; 01:30.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: Letter Home: “Have been awfully
busy lately flying a lot. Hope this is over soon.”
447th BS War Diary: As per letter dated 24 Jan. 1944, XII A.F. Hqts., the following
men are asgd to this squadron: 2nd Lt. W. A. Bryant, 2nd Lt. LeRoy Alger, 2nd Lt. H. G.
McCaleb, Sgt. C. R. Collins, Sgt. J. T. Blalock and S/Sgt. A. W. Chatters. The following
men came to us from 47th Bomb. GP: S/Sgt. D. H. Craig, PFC R. E. Morrissey, and Pvt.
R. H. Gillies.
Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot
Blalock, Joe T., Sgt, gunner
Bryant, William A., 2Lt, pilot
Chatters Aubrey W., S/Sgt, gunner
Collins, Clint R., Sgt, gunner
Craig, Dana H., Sgt, gunner
Gillies, Robert H., Pvt, gunner
McCaleb, Harold G., 2Lt, bombardier
Morrisey, Raphael E., PFC, engineer-gunner
Nine of our ships participated on a raid on the Ceprano road bridge, Italy. The bridge
itself was missed but several roads hit.
A/C No. 42-64695
CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj,
Commander
N Paiton, Harold K., 1Lt
E Schwartz, Arthur, Sgt
G Smith, Argyle H., Cpl
F None
N None
F None
P Stocking, Eugene E., 2Lt
N None
E Drew, Horace E., Pvt
F None
None
Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
None
None
None
A/C No. 41-30557
None
Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt
Austin, James W., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
CP Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 2Lt
N None
G Payne, Leonard T., Sgt
F None
II”
N None
E Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC
R Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt
G Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64694
Edwards, Lyle L., 2Lt
None
Tollefson, Walter F. K., Cpl
Mathews, William E., Sgt
Harriman, Elmon P., Sgt
TARGET: Ceprano Road Bridge
1:50
1000 lb bombs
Plane 695: Lt. Stephenson, Major Sampson, Lt. Paiton, Lt. Boyle, S/Sgt Schwartz, T/Sgt.
Ennis, Sgt. Smith
Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Paiton, Harold K., 1Lt, navigator
Schwartz, Arthur, Sgt, gunner
Smith, Argyle H., Cpl
“One report of Road bridge hit. Greatest concentration of bombs east of target
with some across road bend.”
(spare)
CP Sandlin, Raymond H., F/O
N None
B Bennett, Ross F., S/Sgt
F None
In Italy, A-20's attack Cisterna di Latina, toward which the US Fifth
Army's VI Corps is moving; A-36's and P-40's fly harassing attacks against roads and
railroads, bombing at Belmonte in Sabina, Cisterna, Itri, Ceccano, Frosinone, Poggio
Mirteto and at points around these towns; A-36's destroy a fuel dump and several trucks
and artillery caissons in the Ceprano-Priverno area.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission today. Lt. Colonel Bailey C. Cook appointed
445th Bombardment Squadron’s Commanding Officer, vice Captain Elwood H. Beeson,
relieved.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS
Cook, Bailey C., Lt. Col, pilot, 448th BS Commander
445th BS War Diary: Today the Squadron flew its 166th combat mission helping the
Group register its 200th combat mission (mission actually flown on 25 Jan 44). “Patricia”
one of the Squadron’s oldest ships was tested for combat today and grounded. The boys
claim she is just getting too old. The entire Squadron was delightfully surprised to learn
that Lt. Col Bailey C. Cook had succeeded Captain Beeson as Squadron Commander.
Col. Cook was the former Commanding Officer in this Squadron and is respected and
well-liked by all.
Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, Capt, pilot
Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, pilot, Commander
446th BS War Diary: No mission-bad weather. PX late in the afternoon, cigarettes and
candy.
446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions
“Expected to leave for Elmas, Sardinia this a.m. but it looks doubtful as Burandt and
Chudars have the GI Runs. Decided not to leave today. Went into Algiers w/Charlie,
Jim, Moe, & Ben. Walked around town sightseeing. Had a hard time getting supper, but
finally found a place. Found these French girls have no conception of morality
whatsoever, even to using the men’s room. At 0900 p.m. went to a vaudeville show at the
Casino, the world’s worse Limey soldiers made a lot of noise. Finally got back to
camp.”
Boatright, Benjamin, Jr. "Ben", S/Sgt, gunner
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: Letter Home: “We’re working
hard these days. Hope we all get home soon. I have 37 missions in now. Some have
been pretty rough missions and we have had a few so-called milk runs. So we’re o.k.
John Sweeney was missing in November about the 28th but I think he will get back soon
now. I have that feeling. McDonough and Cobbett are o.k. and feeling good.”
Cobbett, Stanley W., Sgt, engineer-gunner, 486thBS, 340th BG
McDonough, John F., Sgt, gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG
Sweeney, John Patrick., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG
447th BS War Diary: Mission cancelled. Cpl D.E. Strait asgd from 57 Ftr. Gp. As per
S.O. #12 Hq. XII ASC, dated 23 Jan. 1944. As per letter dated 26 Jan 1944, XII Bomber
Command the following crew is assigned to this squadron: 2nd Lt. Nathan Mims, 2nd Lt.
Harvey A. Dean, 2nd Lt. Svend P. Olsen, Sgt. L.W. Ford, Sgt. R.W. Bean and Cpl. W.H.
Pierce.
Bean, Robert W., Sgt, gunner
Dean, Harvey A., 2Lt, pilot
Ford, Leonard W., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Mims, Nathan, 2Lt, pilot
Olsen, Svend P., 2Lt, navigator
Pierce, William H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Strait, Daymond E., Cpl, gunner
In Italy, B-25's attack roads at Velletri, the railway at Colleferro and
marshalling yard at Orte; B-26's bomb bridges at Ceprano and marshalling yard at Terni;
A-20's give close support to the US Fifth Army attack near Terelle; A-36's bomb railways
and buildings at Poggio Mirteto, Ceccano, and Ciampino, hit rail and road traffic S of
Rome, and, with P-40's, hit the town of Piedimonte; 70+ P-40's provide close support to
Fifth Army forces in Cisterna di Latina and Atina, bombing gun positions; Allied fighters
over the Anzio beachhead successfully meet increased enemy air effort, claiming 28
aircraft downed in aerial combat.
open air.
Joe E. Brown (himself) put on a show for us today out in the
Flak was heavy, intense, and accurate over the target of Velletri and two of our eighteen
planes were shot down, another forced down at Naples. The 3rd Division reported two
parachutes from each plane, all four landing in enemy territory. The flak spread the
formation and the road junction was not hit.
No. A/C – 18
Squadrons: 445th – 4; 446th - 6; 448th - 9
TARGET: Velletri Road Junction
TIME UP: 0905
T.O.T. 1015 TIME DOWN: 15 A/C at 1115 hrs. One at Naples.
HEIGHT: 10,500/11,000
PLANES LOST: 2
PLANES HOLED: 11
BOMBS DROPPED: 12 x 1000 lb long delay
29 x 1000 lb .1 & .025 fusing
ROUTE: Lago di Patria heading west to 41° 05’ N, 13° 10’ E; then to Velletri on a
northwest heading; due west to 41° 42’ N, 12° 20’ E then south to 41° 12 E, 12° 25’ N; to
Lago di Patria; thence home.
WEATHER: Enroute – 5/10 cumulus, base at 4000 ft. tops at 7000. Visibility unlimited.
Target – CAVU
Return - same as enroute.
FLAK: Flak started at Cisterna di Roma continued to Velletri then due west to coast at
Lido di Roma. Heavy, Intense and Accurate.
ENEMY AIR: 2 ME-109’s followed formation until chased off by P-28’s. One report
that ME’s called off altitude and air speed to AA. Found to be merely an
opinion.
RESULTS: Previous bombing obscured observation but hits reported in Northeast and
middle parts of town. Road hit south of town (outskirts) leading to
CISTERNA DI ROMA. Some bombs on road east of junction at target.
OBSERVATIONS: 1 report of 2 B-25’s from formation on single engine – one near
Naples – other near Gaeta Point.
1 B-25 seen hit and exploding in air over target (pilot – Lt. Ryder)
1 B-25 seen to hit ground near target – 2 parachutes reported (pilot – Lt.
Eddy)
Flight leaders – F/O Sowder and Lt. Ryder.
Photos taken.
NOTE: Report from 3rd Div. to ALO, TBF – 2 chutes seen from each plane coming
down in enemy territory. One chute seen caught on fuselage.
FRED W. LICHTWARD
1st Lt. Air Corps. Ass’t S-2
The Orte marshalling yards were well hit by the 2nd mission’s planes, especially the
center and south choke point.
No. A/C – 17
Squadrons: 445th – 5; 446th - 4; 447th – 8; 448th - 1
TARGET: Orte Rail Junction
TIME UP: 1340
T.O.T. 1505 TIME DOWN: 1630
HEIGHT: 11/11,500 ft.
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: None
BOMBS DROPPED: 9 x 1000 lb delayed
51 x 1000 lb .1 & .025 fusing
ROUTE: Base to Porto S. Giorgio to Monteleone Di Spoleto to Tarano to target; then to
hill 880; to Porto S. Giorgio and home.
WEATHER: Enroute and Return---4/10 cumulus base at 5000 ft; tops at 7000 ft.
Visibility unlimited.
Target – CAVU
FLAK: None
ENEMY AIR: Two E/S painted black below formation—didn’t attack. Were engaged by
Spitfires at target.
RESULTS: Hits across M/Ys just south of north junction and from south choke point
north to middle of M/Ys. Some bombs started at river S of M/Yds and
walked along tracks northward. Dust from previous attack considerably
obscured north part of M/Ys. One very large crater seen at north jct.
OBSERVATIONS: 20 car train standing in station on railroad between Orte and
Stimigliano. Four trucks headed west from Orte.
Marine: Two small and one medium M/V at San Benedetto Harbor. The
vessels were tied closely together at end of north jetty.
Flight leaders – F/O Vallery and Lt. McFadden.
Photos taken.
ROBERT W. MANLY,
Capt., Air Corps,
Ass’t. S-2 Officer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The Squadron participated in two missions today as they lend air
support to invasion forces south of Rome. The second mission of the day which raided
Orte road junction was very successful. Captain Beeson left the Squadron today headed
for the United States and a well-earned rest. Two practice bombing missions were flown
today. A new crew arrived today, former B-26 fliers. A delayed action bomb which was
dropped in this vicinity by one of our returning bombers exploded in the evening. No
damage to anything as it was quite a ways off. The boys were talking far into the night
about the unusually fine show put on by Joe E. Brown who appeared in person down at
Group headquarters in the afternoon. Putting on a one-man show with cloudy, cold
weather prevailing, Brown left his entire audience with a wonderful feeling all over and
aching sides from the many laughs he gave them.
Walker,
Robert S., 2Lt
P
2Lt
N None
B Poranda, Michael A., Cpl
G Carson, Cecil F., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64659
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
None
Carner, Donald E., Sgt
None
Joy”
None
None
Maugham, George W., 2Lt
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
Burton, Bernard A., Cpl
A/C No. 42-64529
N None
G Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-30354
N Sharp, Kenneth R., 1Lt
B Kauric, William J., 2Lt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Joy”
Belt, Hunter C., S/Sgt
Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, Commander
A/C No. 41-29985
None
DePete, J., A., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64508 (spare)
Pamp, Arvid A., 2Lt
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
None
446th BS War Diary: We lost a ship on the first of two missions today. Lt. Ryder was
piloting #557 when it was hit over the target; Lt. Clark was co-pilot, with Lt. Schad, Sgt.
Delesdernier, Sgt. Holtzclaw and Sgt. Langan making up the remainder of the crew. In
the afternoon we were paid a visit by Joe E. Brown of the movies; he put on a swell show
with lots of laughs.
Delesdernier, Chester N., Sgt, gunner
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, Sgt, gunner
Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt, navigator
TARGET: Velletri Road Junction, Italy.
DATE: 27 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
th
F/O Sowder, 448 Sqdn, led the formation. Hits reported in NE and middle part of town.
Road hit S of town. Some bombs fell on the road E of road junction. Flak was heavy,
accurate, and intense. Two B-25’s lost over target. One of them was Lt Ryder’s, which
received a direct hit in either the cockpit or navigator’s compartment and burst into
flame. TBF reports that two parachute were seen from each of the ill-fated planes. Lt
Abraham’s plane was forced to use the emergency system to lower the landing gear at the
home base.
(MACR-2472 - shot down over target)
R Delesdernier, Chester N., T/Sgt
G Holtzclaw, James Ralph, S/Sgt
F None
None
DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), S/Sgt
Polka”
P Morris, Meade L., Jr., 2Lt
CP Church, Edwin Adem, 2Lt
N None
R Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt
G Heath, Thomas H., Jr., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Kerr, John C., 1Lt
None
Bahm, Linston A., Cpl
None
Peekin’”)
None
Parrish, William W., S/Sgt
Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt
Spoerl, Harry C., T/Sgt
Thomas, Patrick (NMI), S/Sgt
None
None
Kendall, Charles C. “Spike” T/Sgt
None
446th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 2472
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” (MACR-2472 - shot down over target)
Ryder, David (NMI), 2Lt - KIA
Clark, Robert A., 2Lt - KIA
Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt - KIA
Mastroianni, Henry L., 2Lt - KIA
Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
Delesdernier, Chester N., T/Sgt - KIA
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
None
Eyewitness Accounts: Walsh, George F., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
APO 520 New York, N. Y.
27 January 944
360.33-Ryder, David (O) and crew.
1. I was co-pilot in airplane # 42-64526 (“Patches”), which was flying in
number two position of the element behind Lt. Ryder’s element. We were approximately
two miles southwest of the target when I saw a burst of flak explode in either the
navigator’s compartment or the bomb bay of airplane # 42-64557 (“Lady Betty”) (Lt.
Ryder, pilot).
2. The airplane seemed to buckle and simultaneously burst into flames. I
watched it fall for approximately two thousand (2000) feet, during which time its forward
section seemed to generally disintegrate. The ship was then out of my vision.
3. I saw no men leave the ship or parachutes open.
GEORGE F. WALSH,
2nd Lieut., A. C.
(Attachment to MAC Report, Ryder,
David (O) and crew, dated 27
January 1944.)
Incl 4.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Accounts: Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
27 January 944
1. I was co-pilot in airplane # 41-30551 (“Pink Lady”) directly behind airplane
# 42-64557 (“Lady Betty”) (Lt. Ryder, pilot). Just as the ship had leveled off for its
bomb run a burst of flak hit it approximately between the navigators’s and pilot’s
compartments. Both sides of the airplane seemed to be blown out by the explosion and it
immediately burst into flames. Parts of the airplane and bodies of some of the crew
members hit our airplane. It went into a dive straight ahead of us and then banked off to
the right out of my vision. I saw no parachutes.
ERNEST M. STROM,
2nd Lieut., A. C.
January 1944.)
Incl 5.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: Abraham, Frank W., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
27 January 944
1. I was pilot in airplane # 42-64509 (“Enid II - previously “Arkansas Traveler
II”; later “No Peekin’”) on Lt. Ryder’s right wing. We had just begun our bomb run
when a burst of flak hit airplane # 42-64557 (“Lady Betty”) in the bombardier’s
compartment, went into the pilot’s compartment, and exploded, blowing the forward part
of the ship off. The right engine fell off at the same time and the airplane burst into
flames. It then slipped below me and I could not see it anymore. I saw no parachutes
open.
FRANK W. ABRAHAM,
2nd Lieut., A. C.
January 1944.)
Incl 6.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: Neprash, Sergius P., 1st Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG
Headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
Office of the Intelligence Officer
27 January 944
1. The following is the text of the telephone message received from the Army
Liaison Officer, TBF, concerning the two (2) aircraft of this Group shot down by antiaircraft fire over Velletri, Italy, on the 27th January 1944.
“Observers from the Third Division in action southwest of Velletri report
that two (2) parachutes emerged and opened from each of the B-25’s shot down by
enemy anti-aircraft fire in the Velletri area. An additional chute opened but became
attached to the fuselage and thus went down with the plane. The four (4) men (two from
each plane) landed in enemy controlled territory.”
S. P. NEPRASH,
1st Lieut., A. C.
Asst Intelligence Officer
January 1944.)
Incl 7.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TARGET: Orte Road Junction, Italy
DATE: 27 Jan1944
446th Planes: 4
F/O Vallery, 445th Sqdn, led the formation. Hits across M/Yds just S of N junction and
from S choke point N to middle of yards. Some bombs started at river S of M/Y and
walked along tracks northward. Dust considerably obscured N part of M/Y. Two E/A
seen, but did not attack. No flak. This was the second mission for this date.
Vallery, Dean B., F/O, pilot, 445th BS
N None
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt
G Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-13200
N None
B Bahm, Linston A., S/Sgt
R
G
F
Samsel, John C., S/Sgt
None
Vivas, Frank Paul, 2Lt
None
Noel, Ross K., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
None
T/Sgt
Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, Sgt
446th BS: Pilot Log: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 2Lt, pilot (passenger)
Pilot: unknown
A/C B-17
Telergma, Algeria-Pompeii, Italy: Ferry
Flying Time: 4:10
A/C No. Unknown
P Cooper, Paul T., Capt
CP Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 2Lt
B Mayo, Jack D., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., S/Sgt
G Sharen, Robert L., S/Sgt
During this period, numerous B-26
crews arriving in the MTO were
retrained on B-25s in N. Africa, and
assigned to the 57th BW. This crew was
assigned to the 446th BS, 321st BG
“Little sleep last nite-too cold. Down to line, got briefed, left for Elmas, Sardinia at
10:02 a.m. Ran into bad weather, had to let down over the coast, finally mad Elmas, had
dinner and took off for Vailleneaux, 19 miles up the line, landed, stripped the ship. Met
Magda Bennett, and few boys for BY. Learned we’re to go to B-25’s at Naples. To get
up at 6:00 tomorrow, got to Elmas and then to Naples. Naples appears to be a very nice
city a few bomb ruins here & there, Italians seem nice, girls are good looking and are
well dressed, even with silk stockings. The mess here is excellent, had my 1st steak here
in a long time.”
447th BS War Diary: Two missions today for the Group.
the first mission our squadron used only 1 ship, Lt. Dusek pilot, which flew as a spare but
was not needed and returned early.
A/C No. 42-64498 “Dumbo” (spare)
CP Bryant, William A., 2Lt
N None
R Kellner, Joseph H., S/Sgt
F None
of our ships participated in the 2nd or afternoon mission. The target was the road junction
at Orte, Italy. Results – fair. On this mission PFC Harriman was wounded while testfiring his guns when his ammunition belt jammed and an empty cartridge hit him at the
back of his head. Lt. Ryherd, his pilot, upon returning and not knowing the seriousness
of the wound landed at Foggia Main where hospital facilities could be reached without
delay. While the planes were assembling for the take-off, one ship, Lt. Stocking, pilot,
hit the wing of another and damaged it to the extent that the plane could not take off.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
None
Stewart, William W., Cpl
A/C No. 41-30557
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt
None
Chatters, Aubrey W., S/Sgt
Craig, Dana H., S/Sgt
None
(landed at Foggia Main)
None
Jones, Claude F., 2Lt
Mathews, William E., S/Sgt
Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
None
Lady”
N None
F None
II”
N None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), S/Sgt
E Baringer, Paul S.,, T/Sgt
G Mathews, D. B., S/Sgt
F None
(taxi collision - did not take off) only
ship and pilot identified
P Stocking, Eugene E., 2Lt
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 42-64695
Olsen, Svend P., 2Lt
None
None
Austin, James W., Jr., Pvt
Mission 160 (201): At 09:05 18 planes off to bomb Velletri road junction, all dropped 41
x 1000 bombs at 10:15 and 15 returned at 11:15, 1 landed at Naples and 2 were shot
down over target (448 – 446). Previous bombing obscured observations, but hit reported
in NE and middle of town. Road hit S of town leading to Cisterna di Roma. Some
bombs on road E of junction at target. Flak: Heavy, intense and very accurate. 1 B-25
seen hit and exploding in air over target. 1 B-25 seen to hit the ground with 2 parachutes
reported open. Weather: CAVU at target. 2 ME-109’s followed formation until chased
off by P-38’s. F/L: Sowder.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30355 (MACR-2474 - shot
down over target)
Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
None
Waller, Colver K., 2Lt
Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt
Stackman, Walter C., S/Sgt
None
Lewis, Quentin M., 2Lt
None
Anglin, Paul (NMI), Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30327
None
None
Ream, Elmer (NMI), Cpl
Hinton, Zane R., PFC
Clark, Gwyn E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64655
Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt
None
A/C No. 41-30548
None
McRee, Malcolm B., Jr., 2Lt
Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64519
None
None
A/C No. 42-64514
None
N None
B McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt
F None
448th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 2474
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30355 (MACR-2474 - shot down over target)
Eddy, Willard B., Jr., 2Lt - KIA
Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
None
Waller, Colver K., 2Lt - KIA
Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt - KIA
Marshburn, James T., T/Sgt - KIA
Stackman, Walter C., S/Sgt - KIA
None
Eyewitness Accounts: Coffee, Robert D., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
A. P.O. # 520
27 January 944
On the Group Combat Mission for 27 January 1944, target--Road junction at
Velletri, Italy, I was flying in the last element of three, just behind Lieutenant Eddy’s
element. Lieutenant Eddy was flying left wing (number three position), the same as I,
which placed him directly in front of me.
I did not see Lieutenant Eddy’s ship get hit, due to the fact that I was very busy
watching my engine instruments which were fluctuating from a flak hit in the left engine.
However, I did see his ship leave the formation with its wheels partially dropped, and
nose wheel pointed down, and fires in the right engine nacelle and nose wheel well.
From the violent actions the ship took on leaving the formation, I am under the
assumption that both pilot and c-pilot were either killed or unconscious, thus leaving the
plane uncontrolled.
ROBERT D. COFFEE,
2nd Lieut., Air Corps,
Pilot.
(Attachment to MAC report, Eddy,
Willard B. (O) and crew, dated 27,
January 1944.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: France, Charles E., Jr., Sgt, photographer, 448th BS
A. P.O. # 520
27 January 944
On 27 January 1944, I was photographer on Lieutenant Coffee’s ship, which was
flying directly behind Lieutenant Eddy’s aircraft. I did not see the ship get hit, but did
see it leave the formation, smoke trailing from right engine. The ship was out of control,
going into a series of slow rolls and spins. It appeared that the pilot and co-pilot were
both killed or unconscious. The ship crashed on its back.
CHARLES E. FRANCE,
Sergeant, Air Corps,
Photographer.
January 1944.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: Alexander, Phillip D., Cpl, radio-gunner, 448th BS
A. P.O. # 520
27 January 944
On our combat mission the 27th of January 1944, over the target--road junction at
Velletri, Italy, I was flying as radio-gunner for pilot Flight Officer Sowder, and observed
the following about Lieutenant Eddy’s ship which was lost.
Going in on our target two direct hits from flak hit the right engine nacelle and
Navigator’s compartment, in Lieutenant Eddy’s ship.
As soon as the plane was hit, it went out of control, slow rolled twice, and looped
before it hit the ground. I saw the plane crash upside down. No one could have possibly
survived the crash. The only one that could have survived that was flying in the ship was
the one man I saw parachute from the ship when it was hit.
PHILLIP D. ALEXANDER,
Corporal, Air Corps,
Radio-Opr-Gunner.
January 1944.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Accounts: Neprash, Sergius P., 1st Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG
Headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
Office of the Intelligence Officer
27 January 944
360.33-Eddy, Willard B. (O) and crew.
1. The following is the text of the telephone message received from the Army
Liaison Officer, TBF, concerning the two (2) aircraft of this Group shot down by antiaircraft fire over Velletri, Italy, on the 27th January 1944.
“Observers from the Third Division in action southwest of Velletri report
that two (2) parachutes emerged and opened from each of the B-25’s shot down by
enemy anti-aircraft fire in the Velletri area. An additional chute opened but became
attached to the fuselage and thus went down with the plane. The four (4) men (two from
each plane) landed in enemy controlled territory.”
S. P. NEPRASH,
1st Lieut., A. C.
Asst Intelligence Officer
January 1944.)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
(Sometime after return to the U.S.)
The airplane was hit by 88mm. flak just as we crossed into enemy territory from the
Anzio beach head. The fire started in the nose compartment and fanned due to our speed
(210-220) immediately filled the pilot’s compartment with flames. Because of this flame
I could not see to what extent the rest of the plane was damaged. I unbuckled my safety
belt and the first pilot, Lt. Eddy, was calling the crew and unbuckling his safety belt at the
same time. When we were both ready to leave, he released the top hatch and motioned
me out. I left immediately. When my chute opened, I could see nothing because my eyes
were burned. I was captured when I hit the ground. I tried to ask the Germans who
captured me about the crew. We could not understand each other, but they tried to tell
me something by holding up three fingers. This I took to mean either three men bailed
out or three planes were shot down. I hope this information is of value to you.
Norman J. Tiefel
(Co-pilot)
823 S. Walnut, Brazil, Ind.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission 161 (202): At 13:40 17 planes off to bomb Orte road junction, all dropped 9 x
1000 delayed and 51 x 1000 bombs at 15:05 from 10,000 feet and returned at 16:30. Hits
across M/Y just S of N junction and from S choke point N to middle of M/Y. Some
bombs started at river S of M/Y and walked across tracks northward. Dust from previous
raids obscured N part of M/Y, 1 very large crater seen in N junction. 2 E/A seen below
formation but did not attack, 20 car train standing in station on RR between Orte and
Stimigliano. 1 small and 1 medium M/V in San Benedetto harbor. Weather: CAVU at
target.
N None
F None
In Italy, B-25's attack the Orte marshalling yard; B-26's hit bridges at
Orvieto and Montalto di Castro; A-20's bomb Cisterna di Latina with good results; P-40's
and P-47's bomb the Popoli road junction, and A-36's hit railroad, road, and gun positions
in the Cassino-Vicenza-Velletri areas, the Colleferro marshalling yard, and Atina town
area; P-40's hit Terelle, Belmonte in Sabina, and Cisterna; Allied fighters over the Anzio
area claim 21 aircraft shot down. 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing,
transfers from Grottaglie to Pomigliano, Italy with Beaufighters.
The following are to report to Group Opns 29 January 1944 at 0800 with baggage:
Lt. Farrell (Robert A. “Baldy”, 1Lt, pilot), 445th.
Lt. Beebe (Harwood (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot), 447th.
Lt. Dickerson (Claude M., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator), 446th.
Lt. Pestalozzi (Rudolph H. “Rudy”, 2Lt, bombardier), 446th.
All have been notified and A/C 41-29760 (446th) has been set up to take personnel
and baggage to Pompeii A/D. Hoffman.
0845 Maj. Allensworth to Hoffman. “Suggested sending escort over target previous to
our T.O.T. and remaining in area until we arrive and to escort us home. We will
call back for confirmation”.
0915 Tipton to Asbury. “12th B. G. T.O.T. is the same as ours; their axis is 96° and
320°, turning to Right”.
0917 Hoffman to Allensworth. “Arrangements completed for fighter escort. Fighters
notified of our T.O.T. Altitude of Attack, on Primary and Alternate targets.
Fighter Bomber signals: Channel “C”, call sign “Kola Leader”.
0930 Olson to Hoffman. “Bombardier-Navigators for D.S.: Deane (George J., 1Lt),
Matthewson (Merton K., Jr., 2Lt), Olsen (Olsen, Svend P., 2Lt).
1015 Tower to Zip. “41-29765 departed at 1013”.
1105 Asbury to TBF. “Our take off is 1100”.
1115 Hoffman to 323 Wing. “Cleared formation on return”.
1400 Asbury to TBF. “All home--how about other Groups?”
1415 Capt. Gaffney to Hoffman. “Save room for Capt. Patterson (12th AF) on the
Courier plane tomorrow. He will be here at 0930”,
2215 TBF to Asbury. “Target: FOLIGNO, T.O.T. 1145. 12th B. G. on same Target 15
minutes later. Further details later”.
TBF to arrange Fighter Cover
Squadrons notified of 0800 briefing Stand-By.
Today’s mission directed at the Terni marshalling yard again. Twenty-four planes had a
good run set up until another group’s planes forced them into a dive at the target. Most
of the bombs landed south of the marshalling yard into the town.
No. A/C – 24
TARGET: Terni M/Y’s.
TIME UP: 1115
HEIGHT: 9000/11,000 ft.
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: None
BOMBS DROPPED: 13 x 1000 delayed
66 x 1000 lb .1 & .025 fusing
ROUTE: Base NW to 43° 14’ N, 13° 56’ E. Then SW to Hill 1417 near Triponzo, SW
again to Terni due S to 42° 56’ N, 13° 25’ E; then NW to 43° 14’ N, 13° 56’ E
and home.
WEATHER: CAVU.
FLAK: None
ENEMY AIR: One twin engine—unidentified aircraft near Giulianova. One unidentified
aircraft circling at 3000 ft. near Ancona.
RESULTS: Tracks to Topi and Narni believed cut about 200 ft. from west choke point.
Few hits near barracks at southwest corner of town. Hits in the NW corner
of town. Some bombs in fields north of M/Ys and southwest of town. Two
strings of bombs started in center of yards and walked into town areas.
OBSERVATIONS: Two “E” boats in harbor at Giulianova—one leaving harbor. One
small vessel in San Benedetto 42° 55’ N, 13° 52’ E. 60/70 freight
cars at Stimigliano 42° 15’ N, 12° 35’ E.
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Fetterly and Freeland.
PHOTOS TAKEN
JAMES O. JACKSON,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t. S-2 Officer
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TERNI marshalling yards bombed by the 321 Bomb Group. 28 January 1944
445th BS War Diary: The weather was not quite so cold today. A practice bombing
mission was flown today and another was flown to swing the compass. A new combat
crew arrived today. This Squadron is beginning to receive quite a few of replacements.
The men enjoyed a delicious steak supper tonight.
Col. Cook flew a mission today, acting as command pilot in F/O Vallery’s plane.
Gambler II”
CP Shyshka, Lubomir P. “Cross Country”,
2Lt
N None
E Jones, Robert C., Sgt
R Marcoulier, William A., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64575
None
F
None
A/C No. 42-64508
None
Lysowski, Raymond A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64659
P Newkirt, Renford Raymond, 2Lt
CP Coale, Julian R., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Poranda, Michael A., Cpl
E Filipiak, Theodore (NMI), S/Sgt
R Plunk, Charlie B., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt
F None
2Lt
N None
B Stokes, Oliver O., Cpl
E Hawkins, Vernon L., Sgt
R Ravesi, Thomas G., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
A/C No. 41-30354
A/C No. 42-64529
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
None
Joy” (spare)
None
None
01/28/44:
“Yesterday George and I flew to Naples. Returned in time for chow and
to hear Joe E. Brown. Good show. The Group lost two planes over a target near the 5th
Army beachhead. Cold and clear and windy.”
446th BS War Diary: A successful mission today.
446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 241/mission 240) Group Mission #203:
TARGET: Terni M/Y, Italy.
DATE: 28 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt Fetterly led the formation. Tracks to Topi and Narni believed cut about 100 ft from W
choke point. Few hit near barracks at SW corner of town. Other hits in town and some
in fields N of M/Y. No flak or fighters.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship”
None
Polka”
P Morris, Meade L., Jr., 1Lt
CP Church, Edwin Adem, 2Lt
N None
E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt
F None
Peekin’”)
N None
E Hanley, James (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
G
F
None
Milner, Walter C., S/Sgt
T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
None
None
None
Bahm, Linston A, S/Sgt
None
“Left Vailleneaux at 0600 a.m. after early chow. Rode back in a GI truck to Elmas, then
took off in a C-47 @ 0800 a.m. Arrived in Naples @ 11 a.m. Landed at Capodichino
A.P. had chow. Went into III ASAC to see where we were to report. SNAFU. They
didn’t know a thing. Got a room in the transit hotel. Hang around all afternoon. Had a
swell steak supper. Went back to A.P. to get the boys & baggage. Nothing doing here in
Naples – all blacked out. Had a nice room here in the hotel, people seem pretty well off
here, a good indication that the Germans are still in pretty good shape, i.e. the home
front.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: Letter Home: “We will all be glad
when it’s all over. I have been flying lots lately. We’re doing a good job over here and
working hard. This is one job we will all be glad when it’s over. I’m writing Marion
Sweeney soon about John. She has been notified about it. It was too bad. He was a
swell kid. I believe he got out of the plane o.k. His pilot has turned up o.k. so hope John
does.”
Sweeney, John Patrick., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG
447th BS War Diary: As per letter XII Hq. dated Jan. 27 the following officers and E/M
were assigned for transshipment to the U.S.: 1st Lts. R.F. Halloran, J.P. Lanza, E.P.
Mayben, D.W. Thomas, J.A. Hanlon, H.W. Joiner, A.M. Holloway, T/Sgt. R.A. Lotitio,
S/Sgts. M.J. Funk, G.P. Werner, E.F. Bartkus, W.R. Henry and F.X. Early.
Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt, gunner
Early, Frank X., S/Sgt, gunner
Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt, gunner
Halloran, Robert F., 1Lt, navigator
Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Henry, William R., S/Sgt, gunner
Holloway, Arthur M., 1Lt, navigator
Joiner, Harold W., 1Lt, pilot
Lanza, Joseph Peter., 1Lt, bombardier
Lotitio, Rocco A., T/Sgt, gunner
Thomas, David W., 1Lt, pilot
Werner, George P., S/Sgt, gunner
of our ships participated in a mission to bomb the Marshalling Yards at Terni, Italy.
Results – good.
A/C No. 42-64695
CP Dean, Harvey A., 1Lt
N None
F None
Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 41-30557
CP Bryant, William A., 2Lt
N Olsen, Svend P., 2Lt
E Ford, Leonard W., Sgt
R Chatters, Aubrey W., S/Sgt
G Gillies, Robert H., Pvt
F None
A/C No. 42-64694
N None
E Collins, Clint R., Sgt
R Kellner, Joseph H., S/Sgt
II”
CP Edwards, Lyle L., 2Lt
N None
B Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
E Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
R Harman, Robert W., S/Sgt
F None
Mims, Nathan (NMI), 2Lt
None
McCaleb, Harold G., 2Lt
Pierce, William H., Pvt
Morrissey, Raphael E., PFC
None
None
Jones, Claude F., 2Lt
Tollefson, Walter F. K., Sgt
Mathews, D. B., S/Sgt
None
Mission 162 (203): At 11:15 24 planes off to bomb Terni M/Y and dropped 13 by 1000
bombs from 9000 feet at 12:30. All returned at 13:45. Tracks Topi and Narni believed
hit about 200 feet from W choke point, few hits near barracks at SW corner of town, hits
in NW corner of town, some bombs in fields N of M/Y and SW of town. 2 strings of
bombs started in center of yard and walked into town area. Weather: CAVU. F/L:
Freeland.
A/C No. 42-64519
Hough, William S., 2Lt
None
A/C No. 42-29967
N None
B Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Cpl
E Hinton, Zane R., PFC
R Clark, Gwyn E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64655
CP Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
N None
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
(returned early)
None
Hicks, John T., 2Lt
None
Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt
Daniels, John (NMI), S/Sgt
None
None
None
In Italy, B-25's bomb San Benedetto de Marsi marshalling yard; B26's hit bridges N of Rome; P-47's bomb a munitions factory at Bussi sul Tirino; P-40's
and A-36's, in support of US Fifth Army forces, bomb positions in the Anzio beachhead
area and hit enemy forward road and rail communications; fighters on patrol over Anzio
meet little air opposition.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Humphrey Bogart and his troupe paid us an enjoyable visit
today.
San Benedetto was hit today as an alternate as Foligno the primary was closed in. Photos
show the southern end of the marshalling yard well hit plus hits on the north mole.
No. A/C – 24
TARGET: Foligno Marshalling Yards (Attacked alternate of San Benedetto M/Yards).
TIME UP: 1019
HEIGHT: 10,500/11,000
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: None
BOMBS DROPPED: 23 x 1000 long delay of which one was jettisoned.
66 x 1000 lb .1 & .025 fusing
ROUTE: From base north to S9606, due west to S2003 - 300° turn back over same route
to S2606, thence southerly with 180° run over target – left turn out over water
and thence home.
WEATHER: Enroute: 7/10 altostratus at 20,000. 8/10 stratocumulus tops at 4,000’
beginning 20 miles from primary causing formation to bomb
alternate. Visibility unlimited.
Target: 7/10 altostratus at 20,000’. Visibility unlimited.
Return: Same as over target.
FLAK: None from target. Some heavy, moderate flak observed from Giulianova firing at
another group.
ENEMY AIR: None
RESULTS: String of bombs in water east and southeast of target. South mole hit.
Railroad tracks believed cut south of marshalling yards. Some reports of a
few hits in marshalling yards.
OBSERVATIONS:
Ground: 25/30 cars reported moving into station in northerly direction at Porto
San Giorgio. A few cars, stationary, reported at Pedaso.
Marine: 3 M/V reported insane Benedetto harbor, estimated at from 3,000 to
4,000 tons. One large merchant vessel anchored off south end of quay at
Porto Civitanova.
Flight leaders - Lts. Fraser and Wetherbee
Photos taken.
JAMES O. JACKSON,
Capt., Air Corps,
Ass’t. Intelligence Officer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: A number of the 2nd Lts. made 1st Lieutenant today including Lt.
Neumann, Operations Officer and Lt. Underwood, Bombing Officer. There was a
practice bombing mission flown and two navigational flights were also flown. The latter
were to instruct bombardier-navigators to become navigators. There was a mail call
today and quite a few packages arrived. Humphrey Bogart and his wife, Mayo Methot
appeared in person down at Group headquarters in the afternoon. The men enjoyed the
show very much. The weather was fairly mild today. A new combat crew arrived
tonight.
Neumann, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot
Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
None
A/C No. 42-64659
P Newkirt, Renford Raymond, 2Lt
CP Coale, Julian R. “Cozy”, Jr., 2Lt
N
B
E
R
G
F
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Filipiak, Theodore (NMI), S/Sgt
Plunk, Charlie B., S/Sgt
Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt
None
Shyshka, Lubomir P. “Cross Country”,
2Lt
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
None
2Lt
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
None
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Humphrey Bogart dropped in this afternoon, along with his wife,
a comedian and an accordionist. The show was entertaining.
TARGET: San Benedetto M/Y, Italy (alt)
DATE: 29 Jan1944
446th Planes: 6
th
Lt Fraser, 447 Sqdn, led the formation. String of bombs fell in water E and SE of target.
S mole hit. RR tracks believed cut S of M/Y. Report of few hits in M/Y. No fighters no
flak. Lt Brellenthin was a spare.
Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
A/C No. 41-30293
LeClair,
Edward
R., 2Lt
P
CP Vivas, Frank Paul, 2Lt
N None
R Kendall, Charles C., “Spike”, T/Sgt
G DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
F None
Polka”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt
Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt,
None
Bahm, Linston A., S/Sgt
None
Peekin’”)
None
Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt
Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt
None
N None
R Spoerl, Harry C., T/Sgt
G Martin, Edward F., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (spare)
N None
B Rice, Sumner W., 2Lt
E Motika, John F., S/Sgt
T/Sgt
F None
Kerr, John C., 1Lt
None
None
“Ate chow, had my Natal boots repaired, Cost $5.00 but it was a good job. Got a shave
and a haircut – excellent barber. Beginning to like these Italians. Received word we
were to report to 12th B.G. – packed our stuff & took a Recon. Car out. Had dinner
there, found out we were to go to Foggia in B-25’s. None of us like the idea. Staying
here just at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius overnite. Billeted here in a house but have to sleep
on the floor. After supper came back to the house expecting a quiet evening. Captain
“Jack” came in, got drunk & had an argument with Charlie all evening. Fell asleep at
0200 a.m., he was still going.”
447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. P.I. Blumenfeld, T/Sgt. J.J. Kordzi and S/Sgt. R.C. Hoskins
were assigned for transshipment to U.S. as per letter dated 27 Jan. 1944, XII Bomber
Command. Sgt. L.G. Steves and S/Sgt. E.P. Harriman absent to hospital unknown. The
following men were assigned to us through 321 B.G. from XII Bomber Command, letter
dated 28 Jan. 1944: 2nd Lts. E.J. Button, J.E. Metzger, W.T. Rye, Jr., J.D. Snyder, Sgt.
R.W. Koecher, T/Sgt. L.G. Hubert, Sgt. J.L. Bushnell, S/Sgt. M.A. Wilson, Sgt. H.E.
Fowler and S/Sgt. M.H. Beckhart.
Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Blumenfeld, Philip I., 1Lt, bombardier
Bushnell, Jordan L., Sgt, gunner
Button, Ervine J., 2Lt, pilot
Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner
Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt, gunner
Hubert Leo G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt, communication
Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., T/Sgt, communication
Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Steves, Louis G., Sgt, engineering
Metzger, Joseph Earl., 2Lt, pilot
Snyder, John D., 2Lt, bombardier
Wilson, Max A., S/Sgt, communications
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 242/mission 242) Group Mission # 204: Six
of our ships participated in a mission to bomb the railroad at San Benedetto, Italy.
Results – good.
A/C No. 41-30557
None
Mathews, William E., S/Sgt
Lady”
CP Mims, Nathan (NMI), 2Lt
N None
B Jones, Claude F., 2Lt
E Gillies, Robert H., Pvt
R Chatters, Aubrey W., S/Sgt
G Craig, Dana H., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
N None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Snyder, John D., 2Lt
Carlson, Carl M., S/Sgt
Harmer, Harry B., T/Sgt
None
Metzger, Joseph Earl, 2Lt
None
Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 2Lt
Koecher, Robert W., Sgt
Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt
Bushnell, Jordan L., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64694
Button, Ervine J., 2Lt
Paiton, Harold K., 1Lt
Becker, Edward B., 1Lt
Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
Bean, Robert W., Sgt
None
(spare)
N None
F None
Mission 163 (204): At 10:19 24 planes off to bomb Foligno M/Y, all dropped 23 x 1000
delayed and 66 x 1000 from 10,500 feet at 12:00, all returned at 12:40. Strings of bombs
in water E and SE of target, S mole hit, RR tracks cut S of M/Y, few hits in M/Y. 3 large
M/V in San Benedetto harbor. Weather: 7/10th at 20,000 feet over alternate of Foligno.
A/C No. 41-30548
CP Sandlin, Raymond H. F/O
N Hough, William S., 2Lt
E Mauder, Charles J., Sgt
G Beal, Herman L., S/Sgt
F None
N None
E Jackson, Jewel D., PFC
R Anglin, Paul (NMI), Sgt
G Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
F None
VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI)
None
None
A/C No. 42-64655
None
Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 2Lt
None
A/C No. 41-29967
P Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
N None
E Doss, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt
G Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
(spare)
N None
F None
A/C No. 42-64519
None
None
In Italy, B-25's hit road junctions at Valmontone and Genzano di
Roma, and bomb the town of Monte Compatri; weather cancels all B-26 operations and
several B-25 missions. A-20's hit the town of and road junction near Cori, and XII Air
Support Command fighter-bombers hit Sora; US and RAF fighters hit barges and fishing
boats off Zara and Trojica, Yugoslavia; fighters on patrol over Anzio meet no air
opposition.
415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing, transfers from
Montecorvino to Marcianise, Italy with Beaufighters. The detachment operating from
Gaudo Airfield also transfers.
(No non-mission information)
In direct support of the beach-head at Anzio we flew two missions today---the first to the
Genzano road junction. It was fairly successful with at least one direct hit recorded.
Other bombs hit town and caused an explosion.
No. A/C – 33
TARGET: Genzano Rd. Junction---F-910454
TIME UP: 0800
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: 21
BOMBS DROPPED: 113 x 1000 lb. .1 & .025 fusing
ROUTE: Base to Castel Volturno to 41° 10’ N, 12° 35’ E due N on 10° course over
target—short break to left due to flak, then right break to Hill 1803 to base.
WEATHER: Enroute: 6/10 stratocumulus at 5000 ft. from west side of mountain to
coast. Visibility—slight haze—15miles.
Target: CAVU with slight haze.
Return: 4/10 strato cumulus at 4000 ft. Visibility: slight haze, 15 miles.
FLAK: Heavy, moderate to intense, accurate from all around Genzano. Guns reported
along RR south edge of town and between town and lake. Several large red
bursts which were larger than ordinary bursts and “hung” in air.
Elsewhere: Flak reported from Lanuvio to Rocca di Papa—heavy, moderate,
accurate. Also from Norma and heavy from Velletri. Plane low on one
engine experienced heavy, moderate flak from road Fiuggi—G-3555
to Trivigliano.
ENEMY AIR: One report of 1 unidentified S/E fighter followed formation from target
to within 40 miles of base.
RESULTS: Bombs reported scattered with hits observed on both sides of road jct. and in
town both N and S of main road. Hits observed on both N & S roads E of
Jct. and at junction of three roads on NE side of main road in center of town.
One report of direct hit on target area which was covered with smoke and
dust. One large explosion reported near target area.
OBSERVATIONS: Ground—Several M/T on main road from Rome about 1 mile NW
of target. Many M/T along road from Avezzano to S Vincenzo—stationary.
Flight leaders – F/O Sowder, Lts. House and Abraham.
Photos taken.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Capt., Air Corps,
Gp. S-2 Officer
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The second mission to the Marino road junction was abortive due to weather.
No. A/C – 30
TARGET: Marino Road Junction F-888529
TIME UP: 1330
T.O.T.
TIME DOWN: 1600
AXIS OF ATTACK:
PLANES LOST: None
PLANES HOLED: None
BOMBS DROPPED: None
ROUTE: Base to Castel Volturno then to 41° 11’ N, 12° 36’ E thence north northeast to
coast where solid overcast was observed so a left turn was made and ships came back to
base
WEATHER: Enroute: and return: Clouds: None, becoming 8/10 stratocumulus tops at
6,000 ft. as formation passed over west side of mountain.
At Target: Clouds: 10/10 stratocumulus, tops at 6,000 ft.
FLAK: None
ENEMY AIR: None
RESULTS: None. Solid overcast at target caused planes to return to base with bombs.
OBSERVATIONS: None
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Vallery, Stephenson and Abraham.
RAY L. DROTIS,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Ass’t Intelligence Officer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The Squadron participated in two missions today as ideal weather
prevailed for air operations. Taking advantage of the good weather, several training and
test flights were flown. Sgt. A. M. Hetland conducted a class for new combat crews
which consisted of familiarizing them with the B-25 aircraft. There was a meeting of all
enlisted men at noon today to discuss mess improvements. 2nd Lts. Gifford and Kauric
were promoted to 1st Lt.
Gifford, Frank, 1Lt, pilot
Hetland, Arthur M., Jr, Sgt, engineer-gunner
Kauric, William J., 1Lt, bombardier
A/C No. 41-30550
None
None
Judy”
N None
B Maughan, George W., 2Lt
F None
A/C No. 42-64527
CP Noel, William Honoree, 2Lt
B Kauric, William J., 2Lt
F None
A/C No. 41-13179
P Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
None
Dillon, James A., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64508
None
Marcoulier, William A.,
None
A/C No. 42-64529
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
Burton, Bernard A., Cpl
2Lt
None
Castle, Roy V., Cpl
None
A/C No. 41-29985
Coale, Julian R. “Cozy”, Jr., 2Lt
None
Lysowski, Raymond A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64529 (spare)
P Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
CP Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 2Lt
N None
F None
A/C No. 41-30354
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Kalb, W. W., S/Sgt
None
Judy”
P Walker, Robert S., 1Lt
CP Charville, Leighton L. “Danny”, 2Lt
N None
E Dillon, James A., S/Sgt
R DiPietrantonio, Joseph N., T/Sgt
G Herrmann, Byard G., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-30550 (spare)
Noel, William H, 2Lt
Carner, Donald E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64659 (spare)
None
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 42-32434
None
None
CP Shyshka, Lubomir P. “Cross Country”,
2Lt
N None
446th BS War Diary: Two missions with fifteen ships of our squadron taking part.
Heavy weather kept us off the target in the second raid. Lt. McGuire was relieved from
assignment with us, going to XII Air Force. He served as assistant operations officer
here. Three men got to that big fifty today—Ramirez, Smith, R.W., and Dick Leahy, one
of the original boys back at Ain M’Lila. Mail call.
Leahy, Richard P. “dick”, Sgt, gunner
McGuire, Charles W., 2Lt, operations
Ramirez, Zenon, Jr., Sgt, gunner
Smith, Roy W., Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Genzano Road Junction, Italy.
DATE: 30 Jan1944
446th Planes: 8
F/O Sowder, 448th Sqdn, led the formation. Bombs reported scattered. Hits on both sides
of road jnct. And town N and S of main road. One large explosion reported near town.
Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, and accurate. No fighters. Lt Abraham did not take
off because of “Mag” trouble. Lt Holt’s plane had engine trouble one minute from target,
and as a result his and two other planes in his element did not cross the target but brought
their bombs back. Twenty-one planes in the formation were hit by flak.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Brown, Jean H., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
None
None
None
None
N None
B Bahm, Linston A., S/Sgt
R Cohen, George (NMI), T/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13200
None
Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt
None
None
Stone, John R., Sgt
Sgt
G Samsel, John C., S/Sgt
None
Peekin’”)
Kerr, John C., 1Lt
None
None
N
B Milner, Walter C., S/Sgt
None
F Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), Sgt,
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
TARGET: Marino Road Junction, Italy.
DATE: 30 Jan1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb Demo.
446th Planes: 7
Lt Vallery, 445th Sqdn, led the formation. Target was reached but bombs were not
dropped. Solid overcast over target. No fighters, no flak, Lt Brellenthin was a spare, and
returned early.
A/C No. 41-13200
None
Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt
None
N None
F None
N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt
R Howe, Frank M., T/Sgt
F None
P Kerr, John C., 1Lt
CP Matzinger, Keith Robinson, 2Lt
N None
B Parrish, William W., S/Sgt
R McArdle, Harry E., S/Sgt
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
G
F
None
None
Bahm, Linston A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-29760
Hawkes, Leon R., 2Lt
None
Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt
Heath, Thomas H., Jr., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30293
None
None
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (spare)
None
Stone, John R., Sgt
T/Sgt
None
Pilot: unknown
A/C B-25
Vincenzo-local: Training – 1 landing
Flying Time: 1:20 (3rd mission in MTO)
“Up late-missed chow. Packed stuff on truck & left for Foggia @ 0900. Had a nice trip,
enjoyed the Italian countryside, the mts. & valleys are really beautiful. Arrived at
Foggia Narni @ 1330, got lost in town, which is in poor shape, really took quite a
bombing. Finally got out to the 321st B.G. and assigned to the 446th BS, APO # 520.
Had supper at the meeting right after the C.O. gave out 11 promotions & some Air
Medals. A swell bunch of fellows here, morale is excellent; boys have a different attitude
than those at Sardinia. Quite a few B-26 boys here. Slept on a litter on the floor of a
shack, which was fixed up swell. Boys were ok, had a snack before going to bed. Wrote
Alice, D.F., Ma, & Grandma.”
447th BS War Diary: Two missions were flown by the Group today. 2nd Lt. H. Beebe
transferred to North Africa on detached service. PFC A.S. Landa transferred to
organization unknown. The following men were assigned to this organization as per
letter dated 29 Jan. 1944, XII Bomber Command. 2nd Lts. M.L. Speer, N.J. Lundmark,
A.L. Schnoebelen, S/Sgts. C.S. Escher, C.M. Carlson and Sgt.
John Corkill.
Beebe, Harwood, Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Carlson Carl M., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Corkill, John, Sgt, gunner
Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt, gunner
Landa, Arthur S., PFC, supply
Lundmark, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier
McDermott, James W., 1Lt, bombardier
Schnoebelen, Orval L., 2Lt, pilot
Speer, Marvin L, 2Lt, pilot
Statham, Alvin F., Cpl, photographer
the first mission eleven of our ships were scheduled. Ten of these completed the mission.
One ship (Lt. Langston, pilot) returned early due to failure of turret. The target was
Genzano road junction, Italy. Results – poor. On this mission Lt. McDermott and Cpl
Statham were slightly wounded by flak.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Isaacs, Clayton O., PFC
None
None
Snyder, John D., 2Lt
Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
II” (early return)
Dean, Harvey A., 2Lt
None
Evans, Allen (NMI), S/Sgt
None
Lady”
Schnoebelen, Orval L., 2Lt
None
None
None
Tollefson, Walter K., Cpl
Mathews, William E., Sgt
Blalock, Joe T., Sgt
Austin, James W., Jr., Pvt
Metzger, Joseph Earl, 2Lt
None
Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 2Lt
Koecher, Robert W., Sgt
Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt
Bushnell, Jordan L., Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-64695
Speer, Marvin L., 2Lt
None
Collins, Clint R., Sgt
None
A/C No. 41-30557
Bryant, William A., 2Lt
None
Beckhart, Maurice H., Sgt
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
None
Stewart, William W., Cpl
None
Mims, Nathan (NMI), 2Lt
None
Huddleson, LeeRoy L, PFC
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 2Lt
None
None
the afternoon mission no bombs were dropped due to an overcast of the target. Our
squadron had 11 ships on the mission. The target was Marianna, Italy.
Lady”
CP Metzger, Joseph Earl, 2Lt
N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 2Lt
E Morrissey, Raphael E., PFC
R Wilson, Max A., S/Sgt
G Blalock, Joe T., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64694
N None
B Snyder, John D., 2Lt
E Gillies, Robert H., Pvt
G Craig, Dana H., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-3413
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Bryant, William A., 2Lt
None
Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, S/Sgt
Czaja, Marion L., T/Sgt
Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt
None
None
Ford, Leonard W., Sgt
Pierce, William H., Pvt
Corkill, John (NMI), Sgt
None
None
None
Schnoebelen, Orville L., 2Lt
None
None
II”
N None
F Austin, James W., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 42-64695
P Tompkins, Howard D., 2Lt
CP Speer, Marvin L., 2Lt
N None
B Lundmark, Norman J., 2Lt
E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt
R Carlson, Carl M., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-87459
P Toltzman, William J., 1Lt
CP Mims, Nathan (NMI), 2Lt
N None
E Wadlow, Vernon L., S/Sgt
R Payne, Leonard T., Sgt
G Huddleson, LeeRoy, L., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Alger, LeRoy INMI), 2Lt
None
Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
None
Stuart, William W., Cpl
None
447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", Capt, pilot (mission 58)
TARGET: Marino RJ
2:15
No bombs dropped
Plane 181 (41-13181 “The Sophisticated Lady”: Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Metzger, Lt.
Matthewson, Lt. Deane, Pfc. Morrissey, S/Sgt. Wilson, Sgt. Blalock
Blalock, Joe T., Sgt, gunner
Deane, George J., 2Lt, bombardier
Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 2Lt, navigator Metzger, Joseph E., 2Lt, pilot
Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", Capt, pilot Morrisey, Raphael E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Wilson, Leo W., S/Sgt, gunner
“Solid overcast over target caused planes to returned with bombs.”
Mission 164 (205): At 08:00 33 planes off to bomb Genzano R/J and dropped 113 x
1000 bombs at 09:20. All returned at 10:20, 21 planes holed. Bombs reported scattered
with hits observed on both sides of R/J and in town both N and S of main road. Hits
observed on both N and S of main road. Hits observed on both N and S roads N of
Junction and at Junction of three roads on NE side of main road and in center of town.
One report of direct hit on target area which was covered with smoke and dust and one
large explosion was seen. Several motor transports on main road from road about 1 mile
NW of target. Many motor transports along road from Avezzano to Vincenzo. Flak:
heavy, moderate and accurate from Genzano and Velletri. One E/A seen to follow
formation. Weather: CAVU over target. F/L: Sowder.
N None
B McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt
R Neview, Frederick J., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-87455
P Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None
F None
N None
E Jackson, Jewel D., PFC
R Clark, Gwyn E., S/Sgt
G Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 41-29967
Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt
None
Hicks, John T., 2Lt
None
McEntee, Peter M, Sgt
Wilkerson, John J., gunner
None
A/C No. 42-64514
Lyons, John B., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 41-30327
P Stokes, Louis S., 1Lt
CP Lewis, Quentin M, 2Lt
N None
G Deal, Herman L, S/Sgt
F None
N None
B Bell, Robert C., 2Lt
F None
A/C No. 41-30548
Bell, Albert R., Maj, Commander
Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt
None
448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 244/mission243) Group Mission # 206:
Mission 165 (204): At 13:30 30 planes off to bomb Marino R/J. All returned at 16:00 as
complete overcast over target prevented bombing.
A/C No. 42-64655
Hough, William S., 2Lt
McRee, Malcolm B, 2Lt
None
A/C No. 42-64552
CP Greene, William A., 2Lt
N None
R Acey, Marvin E., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 42-64514
Lyons, John B., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 42-87455
VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI),
None
None
N None
R McEntee, Peter M., Cpl
G Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt
Stewart Hugh W., 1Lt
None
None
In Italy, A-20's bomb Artena and road junction N of town; P-40's and
A-36's, operating E of the Anzio battle area, hit a road junction at Sezze, the town of
Fondi, and junction and town area at Priverno; P-47's bomb San Benedetto de Marsi; the
XII Air Support Command flies 250+ sorties over the Anzio beachhead; air opposition is
absent.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission today due to weather.
445th BS War Diary: Another ideal day today but the mission was cancelled. There
were several training flights, some formation flying and another flight went up to swing a
compass. Sgt. Hetland again conducted a class to better acquaint the new gunners with
the B-25. The men enjoyed the supper very much today. It consisted of fresh pork
chops, potatoes and butter.
Hetland, Arthur M., Jr, Sgt, engineer-gunner
446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Bad weather—no mission. Ten second lieutenants
got that silver bar: Boulton, Brown, Cooper, Davison, Fetterly, Hinderer, Rigling,
Riordan, Robertson, and Topham. Pay call at 3:30 plus a mail call later really made the
day complete.
Brown, Aud W., 1Lt, pilot
Cooper, Lester L., 1Lt, bombardier
Davison, William R., 1Lt, pilot
Fetterly, Orville D., 1Lt, pilot
Hinderer, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot
Rigling, Samuel, Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Riordan, Roland C., 1Lt, pilot
Robertson, Charles W., 1Lt, bombardier
Topham, Arthur H., 2Lt, pilot
Pilot: unknown
A/C B-25
Local: Training – 1 landing
Flying Time: 1:15 (4th mission in MTO)
“Up early this a.m., went scavenger hunting for awhile. 0915 turned my 201, & form 5
in. To dispensary, had records checked also rec’d a stimulating typhus shot. At 1000
attended a briefing at S-2. After eating, went to Hdqtrs. Got a tent & took it back to
area. Found I had a class on Racks @ 1330. Went. After class, Charlie, Jim & I put up
our tent and arranged our stuff as much as possible. Going to be cold to-nite, stove isn’t
set-up, no lites, & no cot. Not bad so far. Have to go to bed early I guess.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: Letter Home: “I have been busy
the last two days. So busy I didn’t get to write to you…We’re working hard and all
hoping to get home soon. Will be glad when this is all over with.”
447th BS War Diary: Mission cancelled—after setting up the briefing hour three times.
A physical inspection and pay call were the main events of the afternoon.
January 1944
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1944
This first month of the year 1944 was a busy one and also one of contrasts.
Twenty-seven combat missions were flown, surprising too since the first day of the
month indicated poor weather for the future. Just after midnight of January 1st things
began to pop in more ways than one. A wind hit the Group area with an intensity seldom
seen, at least not in the Foggia area. Center poles of many a tent began to bend and
otherwise secure occupants soon found themselves with no roof over their heads. Then
the rains came and continued, along with the winds, until late evening. The cooks had
trouble with their tentage but moved their stoves into the Group Theater in the granary
and proceeded to put out one of their best meals yet. Main course: Turkey. After that
the weather improved immeasurably.
After a month and twenty days at the Amendola landing ground, Foggia, again
our number was up and by the middle of this month we had completed another move, this
one only 18 miles away, to the Vincenzo landing ground, Foggia. The end of the month
saw ourselves and the 57th Fighter Group the only 12th Air Force units in the area,
surrounded by many units of the 15th. This new location does not have the facilities for
indoor offices and movie house so we’re back in tents again and the Squadrons are
showing movies individually in their own areas.
Hollywood stars are beginning to make their presence felt in this area and we
were privileged to have Joe E. Brown on the 27th and Humphrey Bogart and company
two days later. Joe E. is an excellent trouper and he has us all in stitches for a good forty
minutes. His baseball pitcher pantomime especially hit a responsive note in the audience.
Humphrey Bogart, his wife (Mayo Methot) and Don Cummings suffered from colds and
trouper-fatigue but their efforts were appreciated nonetheless.
For a Screw-ball
comedian, red-headed, Don Cummings tops the list of any we’ve seen.
Joe E. (Mushmouf’) Brown Personal Appearance, 321st BG, 27 Jan 44, Vincenzo, Foggia
January 1944 (continued)
HUMPHREY (Tough Guy) BOGART …….wasted no time in establishing who
was boss, Visited 321st Bomb Group on Jan 29, 1944 at Vincenzo L/G, Foggia.
The Group lost six planes this month, 12th Bomber Command took some more of
our key personnel, and with men going home steadily the man-power shortage began to
become critical. However, toward the end of the month, when higher headquarters
became cognizant of our shortage the crews began to pour in and by January 31st we had
more crews by far than we had had at the turn of the year.
Some of the crews had only B-26 time to their credit while most had no combat
time at all. Operations, to overcome this situation, immediately instigated a transition
and training program. As evidence to this program’s results our bombing on missions
showed improvement toward the end of the month.
The support of the new Allied bridgehead near Rome bright-lighted the operations
for the month. Our Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Olmstead, called the
Group together the night before the three division invasion and explained what our place
in the strategists’ overall planning had been and what our job was to be now that the
invasion party was on its way. The men kept their secret well and the operation of
landing hundreds of craft on the beach at Anzio was a complete surprise to the Germans.
A sheep-shed near the Headquarters tents was selected as the site for the
Officer’s Club and after it got a good dusting and swabbing it did not look bad at all.
With the addition of a bar, radio, tables, chairs and a heater the club became down-right
cozy and again the popular nightly rendezvous spot.
321st Bomb Group, headquarters assigned personnel only. Strength reports by month –
February, 1943, January 1944.
Month
February 1943
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January 1944
Officers
20
19
19
20
21
22
25
24
24
26
23
24
Enlisted Men
32
35
36
37
52
39
48
44
65
66
66
65
THE RAID OF THE MONTH
January, 1944
At the conclusion of each month’s operations the Group Commander will select
the one mission that has been outstanding during the month and present a picture of the
results of same herewith.
This month’s selection:
RIETI AIRDROME
(40 miles NE of Rome)
Attacked: 19-Jan-44
NUMBER OF PLANES OVER TARGET: 18
RESULTS:
1. Three elements covered the center of the landing ground with a heavy concentration
of bursts and a good pattern.
2. One element dropped its bombs on N/E part of landing ground carrying across road to
TERNI. One element dropped on the northern corner of landing ground and walked
its bombs across road to TERNI into open area. Several direct hits are observed on
the road to TERNI which forms the northern perimeter of the airdrome.
5 January, 1944.
SUBJECT: Commendation.
TO:
All Concerned.
1. Statistics from Tactical Bomber Force Headquarters show that for the month of
November 1943 the 321st Bombardment Group ranked first in maximum results obtained
with equipment on hand.
2. The combat photographers, lab technicians, camera technicians and photo
interpreters are to be commended for a job well done.
3. This letter will be posted on all Squadron bulletin boards for one week.
CHARLES T. OLMSTED
Lt. Colonel, Air Corps,
Commanding.
445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1944
1. As of January 31, 1944, the assigned personnel in the Squadron was:
Officers: 59
Enl. Men: 276
2. As of January 31, 1944, the Squadron Commander was Lt. Col Bailey C. Cook. On
January 8, Captain Ellwood H. Beeson was appointed Squadron Commander, Major
Richard P. Tipton being relieved for an assignment with the 12th Bomber command. On
January 26, Lt. Col. Cook was appointed Squadron Commander, Capt. Beeson being
relieved for return to the United States.
Cook, Bailey C., Col, pilot
Tipton, Richard Pike, Maj, pilot
3. On January 14, a number of the ground personnel and combat crews, which were
scheduled for a mission the next day proceeded to the new base. 8 B-25’s were ferried up
to fill in the possible mission next day. On January 15, the movement was completed for
both the ground and air echelons. The move was from the Amendola base near Foggia,
to the Vincenzo base near Foggia.
4. A recapitulation of the strength of the assigned personnel in the Squadron as of the
end of each month from February 1943 follows:
February, 1943
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January 1944
Officers
63
63
61
63
82
78
79
79
66
59
53
59
Enlisted Men
303
301
299
298
306
314
301
292
281
268
272
276
JAMES E. NICKERSON,
Captain, Air Corps,
Squadron Historian.
321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
1 February 1944
446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR JANUARY 1944
A. Original Unit
1. 446th Bomb Sqdn (M), 321st Bomb Gp (M) AAF
2. Organized August 1, 1942
3. Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, S.C.
4. Activated at Barksdale Field, La. June 23, 1942
5. Personnel obtained by transfer from other units, training schools and replacement
centers.
B. Strength, Commissioned and Enlisted:
1. 1 January 1944
62 Officers, 267 Enlisted Men
2. Net Increase
9 Officers
5 Enlisted Men
3. Net Decrease
5 Officers
None
4. 31 January 1944
71Officers, 272 Enlisted Men
C. Stations permanent or temporary of unit or parts thereof:
1. None
D. Commanding Officer in important engagements
1. None
E. Losses in action: None
1. 2nd Lt D Ryder
8. 2nd Lt R L Elliot
2. 2nd Lt R A Clark
9. 2nd Lt J R Farrell
Farrell, Joseph R., 2Lt, pilot
3. 2nd Lt H L Mastrioanni
10. S/Sgt R J Plaine
Mastrioanni, Henry L., 2Lt, bombardier
Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt, gunner
4. 2nd Lt H C Schad
11. S/Sgt B R Wuotila
Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt, navigator
Wuotila, Benjamin R., S/Sgt, gunner
5. S/Sgt C H Langan
12. S/Sgt A P Valenti
Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt, gunner
6. S/Sgt J R Holtzclaw
13. S/Sgt G B Brooks
Holtzclaw, James Ralph, S/Sgt, gunner
Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt, gunner
7. T/Sgt C N Delesdernier
Delesdernier, Chester N., T/Sgt, gunner
F. Former or present members of the Squadron who have distinguished themselves in
action:
1. None
G. Campaigns:
1. Complete data in attached mission summaries.
Missions Flown: 26
Sorties Flown: 153
Bombs dropped (weight): 372,460
Nickels dropped (packages): 8
Planes lost: 3 (2 due to enemy action, 1 due to landing accident)
Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: 1 confirmed
Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): 2
Squadron plane “Sophisticated Lady”, (181), completed 100th mission.
321st Bomb Group, 447th Bomb Squadron assigned personnel only.
Strength reports by month – February 1943, January 1944
Month
February 1943
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January 1944
Officers
63
63
63
61
78
79
94
88
66
62
57
59
Enlisted Men
299
297
296
294
307
316
315
292
269
260
254
265
The most welcome event of the month to our weary combat men was the arrival
of combat-crew replacements in numbers. They trickled in all during the month, come
coming over from the states—others being transferred in from other bomb groups in this
theater. A total of 30 officers and 40 enlisted men were received and most of them
promptly put to work. Some of the crews had been trained in B-26s and a little practice
was needed to prepare them for flying our B-25s.
Another move was made during the month from the east side of Foggia to the
west side. At our new location, Vincenzo, we are about five miles from the city. Half the
distance is over a very bad unpaved road. All buildings, flooring, etc., were brought to
the new area and within two or three days the squadron was settled once again.
The squadron lost three planes during the month. One was shot down by fighters
in the Adriatic January 8, one was shot down by flak January 12, one crashed in a landing
accident January 23. The crews on the first two were lost. The crew members on the
latter were unhurt. On January 22 one tail gunner was killed when a flak fragment hit
him in the head while over the target. This brought the number of casualties for January
up to 14---highest number for a single month since we were activated. Details appear in
the Special Accounts Section.
The exodus of combat-fatigued men hit a lively stride during the month with 14
officers and 13 enlisted men leaving for the states. There was no specific number of
missions that these men flew before being relieved from combat duty but most of them
flew over fifty missions. Two of the men, Capt. Bugbee and Capt. Spikes flew 65
missions establishing a record for the group.
Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, Capt, pilot
Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, Capt, pilot
Twenty-six missions were flown by the squadron this month---the largest number
tallied in one month since we have been in combat. On some days two missions were
flown, one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Not since the days of the
Tunisian campaign has this been done. Most of the targets during the month were road
and railroad junctions and marshalling yards. The squadron flew over the beach where
landings were being made south of Rome January 22.
448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1944:
Squadron Strength:
Date
February 28, 943
March 31, 1943
April 30, 1943
May 31, 1943
June 30, 1943
July 31, 1943
August 31, 1943
September 30, 1943
October 31, 1943
November 30, 1943
December 31, 1943
January 31, 1944
Officers
63
63
58
63
81
81
91
89
84
70
66
52
Enlisted Men
312
311
301
308
321
327
328
303
301
276
275
268
January 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of January 1, 1944, 66 Officers and 275
Enlisted Men. No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. Three
Officers and seven Enlisted Men went on DS to Casablanca, North Africa to pick up
baggage belonging to the squadron. Several Officers and Enlisted Men returned from a
weeks rest on the Isle of Capri and several more departed for that place. On January 7,
1944, while on a mission to Perugia, Italy, Captain. Culp; Lieuts’ Anderson, Matkins and
Perry; Sgt: Spencer, Allen and Holguin were shot down by enemy flak. The New Year
opened with the most violent windstorm yet experienced by the squadron since overseas
but little damage was done. Despite the handicap caused by the rain and wind to the
kitchen the cooks succeeded in turning out an excellent New Years meal. The New Year
was ushered in with much good cheer of the bottled variety. Usual squadron duties
performed during this period.
Allen, Clifford N., Sgt, gunner
Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt, pilot
Culp, Merle H., Capt, pilot
Holguin, Renato (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Matkins, Marvin F., 2Lt, bombardier
Spencer, John S., Sgt, gunner
Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt, navigator
January 8 – 14 – 44: The following Officers were assigned and joined. Lieuts’: Brown,
McCue, Van Raam, Lowery, Greene and Waller. Sgts: Burr, Chosta and Sharpsteen,
Strong, Luton, Cpl: Light, PFC. Blake, Langness and Pvt. Chappell. The following
Officers and Enlisted Men were transferred to the U.S.A., Boland, Sinclair, Gibbons,
Biener, Cassels, DeMuth, Haskell, Johnson, Kille, Edmonson, King, Barton, Blevins,
Cain, Hammerschmiedt, Lard, Larson, Morris, Papile, Pitts, Poynter, Roberts, StAubin,
Tanner, Lambert, Sipos, Watrous. Cpl. Carr and Pvt. Patterson received leg wounds in
action but remained on duty. Lt. Wm. M. Tobias transferred to Hdq, 12th Ftr Cm’d. Lt:
Blake transferred Hdq, 321st Bomb Gp. (M). S/Sgts: Orman, Reid, Robb, Robinson and
Rude transferred to U.S.A.
Barton, Thomas M., 2Lt, pilot
Biener, Martin B., 2Lt, pilot
Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt, bombardier
Blake, Thomas L., PFC, armament
Blevins, Amos M., Sgt, gunner
Boland, Chester H., 2Lt, navigator
Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot
Burr, Harry C., Sgt, gunner
Cain, George S., Sgt, gunner
Carr, Randal C., Cpl, gunner
Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt, pilot
Chappell, William C., Pvt, armament
Chosta, Louis, Sgt, gunner
DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt,
Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt, pilot
Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Greene, William A., 2Lt, pilot
Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt, gunner
Haskell, John D., 2Lt, pilot
Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt, bombardier
Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt, pilot
King, James L., 2Lt, pilot
Lambert, Robert P., Sgt, gunner
Langness, Irving (NMI), PFC, armament
Lard, Claude F., Sgt, gunner
Larson, Fred M., PFC, gunner
Light, Edward B., Cpl, armament
Luton, Howard, Sgt, tail-gunner
McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Morris, Raymond A., Sgt, gunner
Orman, Virgil N., S/Sgt, gunner
Papile, Frank M., Sgt, gunner
Patterson, L. J. (i.o.), Pvt, gunner
Pitts, Lawrence P., Sgt, gunner
Poynter, Robert A., Sgt, gunner
Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner
Robb, Earl K., S/Sgt, gunner
Roberts, Harold L., Sgt, gunner
Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, S/Sgt, gunner
Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt, gunner
Sharpsteen, Robert E., Sgt, gunner
Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Sipos, Paul A., Sgt, gunner
StAubin, Francis (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Strong, Douglas W., Sgt, gunner
Tanner, James T., Sgt, gunner
Tobias, William M., 2Lt, pilot
VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), 2Lt, pilot
Waller, Colver K., 2Lt, bombardier
Watrous, Roger T., Sgt, gunner
In accordance with Squadron Order # 2: Lt. Lichtward is appointed Squadron
Intelligence Officer, Lt. Brosnan is appointed Operations Officer, Lt. Crowell is
appointed Assistant Operations Officer, Lt. Scopp is appointed Squadron Navigation
Officer, Lt. Evans is appointed Bombardiering Officer, Lt. Stanley Greiff in addition to
his other duties is appointed Officer of the Guard, Lt. Marrich in addition to his other
duties is appointed Unit Exchange Officer. Six missions over Yugoslavian and Italian
targets were flown during this period. Weather was ideal during this period for flying.
Preparations were made for the move to a field just West of Foggia called Vincenzo.
Several Officers and Enlisted Men returned from a weeks rest at the Isle of Capri. A
epidemic of Typhus in the City of Naples caused the cancellation of all three day passes
and rests in this area.
Brosnan, Cornelius C., 2Lt, pilot
Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Evans, Ivor P., 1Lt, bombardier
Greiff, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt, intelligence
Lichtward, Frederick W., 1Lt, intelligence Marrich, Martin K., 1Lt, adjutant
Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt, navigator
January 15 – 21 – 44: The following Officers and Enlisted Men were assigned and
joined during this period. Lieuts: Petit, Annear, Hales, Stokes, Lewis, Stewart and
Tiefel. Sgts: Morris, Gilpatrick, Marshburn, Graham, Acey, Wolf, Frank, Stackman,
Neview, Nesbit, Holt, Cp’L. Ream, PFC. Hinton, Jackson, and Pvt. Dissen. In record
time all personnel and equipment were moved to the new camp site and work began
immediately on the Nissen Hut for Enlisted Men’s Mess and a smaller wood building
housed the Officer’s Mess. Once again tents were floored, doors built and walls erected
all for the comfort of the men; for winter was well upon us. In less than a week the
squadron had an area equal to and in many respects superior to their previous location.
Despite the many new faces and loss of old personnel, moral remained very high. When
the men considered their warm, well sheltered tents against the lot of the Infantry on the
Fifth Army front or the beaches near Rome they realized how little they had to complain
about.
Acey, Marvin E., Sgt, gunner
Annear, Warren Raymond, 2Lt, pilot
Dissen, Richard A., Pvt, armament
Frank, Donald L., Sgt, gunner
Gilpatrick, Jack H., Sgt, gunner
Graham, Herbert J., Sgt gunner
Hales, Ermine L., 2Lt, pilot
Hinton, Zane R., PFC, engineer-gunner
Holt, Charles M., Sgt, gunner
Jackson, Jewel D., Sgt, gunner
Lewis, Quentin M., 2Lt, pilot
Marshburn, James T., Sgt, gunner
Morris, Raymond J., Sgt, gunner
Nesbit, Andrew L., Sgt, gunner
Neview, Frederick J., Sgt, gunner
Petit, Rene P., 2Lt, bombardier
Ream, Elmer (NMI), Cpl, gunner
Stackman, Walter C., Sgt, gunner
Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt, pilot
Stokes, Louis S., 1Lt, pilot
Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt, pilot
Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt, gunner
January 22 – 31 – 44: The following Officers and Enlisted Men assigned and joined
during this period. Lieuts’ Hough, Lyons, Armstrong, Barbour, Bond, Dossey, Malek,
McCabe, Burday; Sgts: King, Dunbar, Humphress, Ryan, Jacobson, Hunt, Sullivan,
Parham, Davis, Thompson, Goodwin. The following Officers and Enlisted Men were
transferred to the U.S.A. Joli, Shutt, Thomas, Driver, Fleming, Cheetham, Ryan,
Skeahan, Elkins, Ennis, Gouge, Mayer; Polinsky, Barry, Davey, Kessler, Ritter, Altus,
Carnathan, Hilton, Hardy, Irby, Joubert, Oates Gurnee, Lyons, House, Vizzacco. Captain
Silver transferred to Headquarters 321st Bomb. Group (M). Lt. Joyce assigned and joined.
T/Sgt. Connors transferred to 33rd General Hospital, Lts: Hoffman and Lowry assigned to
Headquarters 321st Bomb Group (M). On January 27, 1944 while on a mission Velletri,
Italy, Lts: Eddy, Tiefel, Waller, S/Sgts: Marshburn, Strong, Stackman were shot down
by enemy flak. Sgt. Tomerlin received a flak wound but remained on duty. January 29,
1944, Captain. A.R. Bell was promoted to Major and Lieuts: Brosnan, McEvoy, Stewart,
Wik and Wilt were promoted to 1st Lieutenants. Missions continued to strike
communication lines in front of the Rome beach head and in the squadron area further
improvements were made on Mess and recreational facilities. Twice weekly movies
were shown in the Officers Mess. With Foggia five miles away showers and days off
took many personnel to town. Squadron strength as of January 31, 1944, was 52 Officers
and 268 Enlisted Men.
Altus, Irving (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Armstrong, Donald R., 2Lt, pilot
Barber, Marshall Hall “Red”, 2Lt, pilot
Barry, Robert A., Jr., Sgt, gunner
Bell, Albert R., Maj, pilot, Commander
Bond, Edward N., 2Lt, bombardier
Brosnan, Cornelius C., 1Lt, pilot
Burday, Harry (NMI), 2Lt, bombardier
Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), Sgt, gunner
Cheetham, McClain, 2Lt, navigator
Connors, Roy W., T/Sgt, engineering
Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., Sgt, gunner
Davis, Jimmie L., Sgt, gunner
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 2Lt, pilot
Driver, William J., 2Lt, pilot
Dunbar, Louis C. “Louey”, Sgt, radio-gunner
Eddy, Willard B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt, bombardier
Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Fleming, George B., 2Lt, pilot
Goodwin, Milford H., Sgt, armament
Gouge, David J., 2Lt, pilot
Gurnee, Clarence E., Sgt, gunner
Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt, gunner
Hilton, Daniel H., Sgt, gunner
Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt, pilot
Hough, William S., 2Lt, navigator
House, Harry H., Sgt, gunner
Humphress, James (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Hunt, Herbert C., Sgt, gunner
Irby, Marvin J., Sgt, gunner
Jacobson, Fred (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Joli, William H., 2Lt, pilot
Joubert, Ira W., Sgt, gunner
Joyce, Robert W., 2Lt, bombardier
Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt, gunner
King, Oliver A., Sgt, personnel
Lyons, Paul E., Sgt, gunner
Lyons, John B., 2Lt, pilot
Malec, Joseph A., 2Lt, bombardier
Marshburn, James T., S/Sgt, gunner
Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot
McCabe, Norman M., 2Lt, pilot
McEvoy, John C., 1Lt, pilot
Oates, Theodore R., Sgt, gunner
Parham, James E., T/Sgt, gunner
Polinsky, Marvin J., Sgt, gunner
Ritter, William C., Sgt, engineering
Ryan, Joseph C. “Joe”, Sgt, personnel
Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt, pilot
Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt, pilot
Silver, George A., III, Capt, medical officer
Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Stackman, Walter C., S/Sgt, gunner
Stewart, Hugh W., 1Lt, pilot
Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt, gunner
Sullivan, James G., Sgt, gunner
Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt, navigator
Thompson, Arthur R., Jr., Sgt, gunner
Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt, gunner
Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Wik, John R., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Wilt, Richard H., 1Lt, pilot
With great gusts of wind and rain the year 1944 was ushered in to being at the
squadron home in sunny Italy. As everyone except the few guards slept peacefully after a
full night of merrymaking at the Bars, a storm of great intensity broke at the early hour of
5 A.M. on the unsuspecting squadron. Tents that had been too hastily erected soon
departed leaving their inmates scurrying to more fortunate and secure abodes. Dawn
revealed that 7 or 8 tents were down but everyone was as dry as could be expected in a
rain torrent that sprayed into even the most water proof tents. Much to the surprise of
everyone the large Orderly Room tent remained standing but the personnel of the
Intelligence Section were not so fortunate, their tent took wings early that morning.
It was soon discovered that neither the Officer Mess, or the Enlisted Men’s Mess
or the Kitchen were water-proof, yet turkey, dressing, etc, etc were again on the menu.
After a miserable showing at breakfast in which rain water turned everything served into
soupy mush everyone had little hope for the afternoon mean. But the cooks not daunted
by the handicap of weather or the jibes of Pessimistic onlookers, set to work and by 2
o’clock turned out a meal that compared favorably with that of Xmas and Thanksgiving.
A unanimous vote of thanks was given the “bell robbers” for their efforts. Lt. Marrich
and Sgt. Kocsis could be justly proud of their staff. Most of the men and Officers
succeeded in enjoying their meal snugly housed in their own tents.
Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook
Marrich, Martin K., 1Lt, adjutant
For the next tow days the storm raged unabated but by January 3 the sun again
appeared and except for brief lapses shown every day for the remainder of the month
giving lie to the native testimony that January was the worst month of winter.
In the squadron the first real taste of winter found everyone with a dwindling coal
supply and little prospect of securing more. More and more men converted their stoves
to gas. On the Line the cold and rain hampered maintenance to a great degree but
Captain Wonnacott and his crews continued their good work and “Kept ‘em flying”, Lt.
Wallnau his able assistant departed early in the month for Sicily.
Wallnau, Carl N., Jr., 2Lt, engineering
Wonnacott, Robert C., Capt, engineering
The Group Special Service Officer continued his good work in furnishing
entertainment nightly in the granary. Ella Logan and her troupe provided an enjoyable
New Year’s eve show. Frequent trips were made to Foggia but Manfredonia became
increasingly popular due to the fact that meals, etc were obtainable.
On January 7 occurred a loss that was sorely felt by everyone in the squadron.
Captain Culp, Lts: Anderson, Perry, Matkins; Sgts: Spencer, Holguin and Allen were lost
when their ship received a direct flak hit in the Navigator’s compartment. The wheels
were seen to drop and immediately after Lt. Perry was seen to fall free and his parachute
open. Four or five more chutes were seen and the shop was also seen going down under
control. Some reports say that the plane made a controlled landing ten miles south of the
target on level ground, another report states that the plane nosed I and crashed. No
reports have yet been received about any of the crew members but all personnel of the
squadron are optimistic as to the crews fate. Lt. Brosnan who was in Africa at the time
was appointed the new Operations Officer.
Allen, Clifford N., Sgt, gunner
Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt, pilot
Culp, Merle H., Capt, pilot
Holguin, Renato (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Matkins, Marvin F., 2Lt, bombardier
Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt, navigator
Spencer, John S., Sgt, gunner
Missions continued to pound Yugoslav targets in support of the Partisans and
Italian communications. Fair but cold weather assured a mission almost daily and due to
the accuracy and intensity of German flak the Group reported planes missing after several
missions.
Many of the “Old Guard” departed for the U.S.A. towards the middle of the
month and other combat crew members continued their weekly rest tours on the Isle of
Capri. For a short time the ground crew members enjoyed 3 day passes at Naples but a
serious typhus epidemic cause the cancellation of this privilege and only a few men were
able to take advantage of it.
The inclement weather soon worked its havoc among the men and daily more and
more men reported to the Dispensary for “Sick Call”. One saving factor was the
improvement in the Bill of Fare. Fresh meat became an ordinary event rather than a rare
treat.
On January 12, preparations were started for another move. This time not to the
Naples area as everyone expected but to a small field seven miles west of Foggia on the
road to Naples. Due to the shortness of the move and the experience of all personnel in
such matters the event proceeded very smoothly. An advanced echelon set up camp for
the flight personnel and by January 15 everyone and everything had been moved to the
new base without a break in Operations. All lumber in both Mess Halls and the Kitchen
was moved to the new area which later became a very valuable asset in buildings for the
squadron’s new home.
Vincenzo A/D was the small field set on relative high ground just west of Foggia.
As the 82nd Fighter Group occupied the western half of the field, the 321st Group
bivouacked on the north and east. The 448th found its area perched on the side of a long
sloping hill prominently exposed to the cold north winds that blew consistently and
persistently from the snow covered mountains. A Nissen Hut was secured from the 21st
Engineers and converted into an Enlisted Men’s Mess Hall and Club. The Officers again
put up their even more abbreviated German Barracks for their Mess Hall and the Kitchen
was again made from the remains of the Officers Mess. Siding from the Enlisted Men’s
Mess soon became flooring in many tents.
The squadron was well housed an excellent Mess facilities were provided in the
shortest time that this was ever accomplished. Gasoline however became almost a
universal fuel. The 448th was the last in the long line of squadrons set upon the hill
overlooking the field, Group Headquarters was only a short distance away and the Line
was soon set up about a half mile from the bivouac area. The airplanes were dispersed in
a small area, Tech-Supply, Engineering and other Line maintenance tents were all
conveniently close.
With Foggia so close, weather permitting frequent trips were made into town to
the new Red Cross Clubs and the showers. Towards the close of the month a small
contingent of Wacs moved into Foggia to work for 12th Air Force and this created added
inducement for many to make the trip to Foggia.
As the month drew to a close the last of the “Old Guard” combat crew men
departed for the States and seemingly countless numbers of new men came into the
squadron. Few promotions were made and among them Captain. A.R. Bell received his
majority.
Bell, Albert R., Maj, pilot, Commander
On January 27 while on a mission to bomb Velletri Road Jct., two planes were
lost by the Group, one containing Lts: Eddy, Tiefel and Waller; S/Sgt: Marshburn,
Strong and Stackman. Lt. Eddy’s plane was observed to be hit by flak one engine start
smoking and the plane peeled off and headed for the ground. Two chutes opened but no
further observations were made. Squadron was greatly saddened by this loss.
Eddy, Willard B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Marshburn, James T., S/Sgt, gunner
Stackman, Walter C., S/Sgt, gunner
Strong, Douglas W., S/Sgt, gunner
On January 22 the Allies invaded the Italian coast just south of Rome, for many
days previous and after this event the 321st added its weight to the terrific air blows that
were delivered to the Germans in that area, a total of 28 missions were flown by the 448th
during the month of January.

321st Bombardment Group Squadron War Diaries

Transcription

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