310th Bombardment Group History: October 194357thbombwing.com/310thHistory/310_BG_1943-10.pdf ·...
Transcript of 310th Bombardment Group History: October 194357thbombwing.com/310thHistory/310_BG_1943-10.pdf ·...
12th
Air Force, 57th
Bombardment Wing
310th
Bombardment Group
History: October 1943
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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
310th
Bombardment Group
History: October 1943
The following is a compilation of the 310th
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 310th
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 310th
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 310th
BG Hero, please contact me at: [email protected]
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-radio-
gunner, 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
1st Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448
th 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, 447
th BS
Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner,
448th
BS
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
Aircraft information - serial #, name, etc Sometimes used
P Pilot Bomb/Nav Bombardier-Navigator
CP Co-pilot BN Bombardier-Navigator
N Navigator EG Engineer-gunner
B Bombardier RG Radio-gunner
E Engineer-gunner TG Turret gunner
R Radio-gunner AG Aerial gunner
G Gunner PH Photographer
F Photographer AP Aerial photographer
CL Cannon Loader (on B-25G) CC Crew Chief
O Observer
Note: for 381st BS: The letter in ( ) following the A/C No. represents the position # of the
aircraft in the formation. For example: A/C No. 41-13052 (P) - the P is position 16.
A-1 B-2 C-3 D-4 E-5 F-6 G-7 H-8 I-9 J-10 K-11 L-12
M-13 N-14 O-15 P-16 Q-17 R-18 S-19 T-20 U-21 V-21 W-23 X-24
Y-25 Z-26
Acronyms & Abbreviations
A/C: Aircraft M/G: Machine Gun
A/D: Aerodrome MIA: Missing In Action
AE: Aerial Engineer M/T: Motor Transport (Truck)
A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat
AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery) M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel
abs: absent M/Y: Marshalling Yards
AGL: Above Ground Level MC: Maintenance Crew
ALO: Allied Liaison Officer NARA: National Archives and Records
Administration
ALW: Alive and Well NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air
Force
AMGOT: Allied Military Government for
Occupied Territories
NATC - Northwest African Training
Command
A.R.C.: American Red Cross NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of
Operations USA
ASC: Air Support Command Nav: Navigator
ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel) N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards
Assg: Assigned NC: Nurse Corps.
ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar) NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer
ATA: Actual Time of Arrival Nickels: propaganda Leaflets
ATC: Air Transportation Command (NMI): No Middle Initial
ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army
Telegraph Service
NOK: Next Of Kin
Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb) NRO: National Reconnaissance Office
BC: Bomber Command OAF: Occupation Air Forces
BIC: Bruised in Crash OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab
Bmb: Bombardier OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster
Bn: Battalion OTU: Operational Training Unit
B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory PAX: Passengers
BSM: Bomb System Maintenance PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator
CA: Heavy Cruiser POE: Point of Embarkation
CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited POW: Prisoner of War (also PW)
C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical
Prophylactic packet
C/D: Coastal Defense PW: Prisoner of War (also POW)
CE: Circular Error PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch
CEP: Circular Error Probable PX: Post Exchange
Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure:
tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass
fiber, or plastic. See Window
QBB: Base of cloud
CL: Cannon Loader QDM: Course to steer
CO: Commanding Officer QM: Quarter Master
CG: Commanding General R/B: Road Bridge
CP: Command Post RC: Red Cross
CQ: Charge of Quarters R/J: Road Junction
C/S: Call Sign R/Y: Railroad Yards
CWS: Chemical Warfare Service Repl: Replacement
D/H: Direct Hit RMC: Returned to Military Control
DD: Destroyer RON: Remain OverNight
DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains
found
RR/B: Railroad Bridge
Demo: Demolition RR/J: Railroad Junction
DL: Dead List RR: Railroad
DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle RTD: Returned To Duty
DOW: Died Of Wounds. R/V: Rendezvous
DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in
Action
S-1: Administration
DS: Detached Service S-2: Intelligence
E/A: Enemy Aircraft S-3: Operations
E/F: Enemy Fighter S-4: Supply
EM or E/M: Enlisted Men SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing
ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival SD: Special Duty
ETIR: Estimated Time In Route S/E: Single Engine (plane)
EUS: Evacuated to the United States S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran)
E/V: Enemy Vessel S/F: Siebel Ferry
F Boat: Flying Boat sk: sick
F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader S/M: Submarine
FO or F/O: Flying Officer SO: Special Order
FOD: Finding Of Death SOI: Standard Operating Instructions?
Frag: Fragmentation S/P: Sea Plane
F.S.: Flight Section SPERR BRECHER: German: mine
sweeper
GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK) Sq: Squadron
GO: General Order Sqdn: Squadron
GP: General Purpose/Gun Position SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action
GTC: General Time Convention (railroad) T/A: Target Area
HE: High Explosive T/C: Troop Concentration
IAS: Indicated Air Speed T/E: Twin Engine (plane)
I & E: Information & Education TAC: Theater Allied Command
I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe TBF: Tactical Bomber Force
(i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name) TD: Temporary Duty
IP: Initial Point TDY: Temporary Duty
KNB: Killed Not Battle TLC: Tactical Landing Craft
KIA: Killed In Action TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical
Order, and Transportation Officer
L/A: Landing Area T/O: Table of Organization
LC: Landing Craft TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target
L/G: Landing Ground Trfd: Transferred
Lox: Liquid Oxygen TWX: Teletypewriter Message
L/S: Landing Strip u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue
L/V: Large Vehicle UNRRA: United Nations Relief and
Rehabilitation Administration
LST: Landing Ship Tank Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun
Ltr: Letter VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding
Officer
LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action WC: Water closet
MACR: Missing Air Crew Report W.O.: Warrant Officer
MATS: Military Air Transport Service 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.)
Friday, 1 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (9th
AF): In the first half of October, HQ
Ninth Air Force and HQ IX Bomber Command begin a movement to England from
Egypt and Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (12th
AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-26's hit communications targets in
the Capua, Grazzanise, Arce, and Mignano areas. B-24's, including heavy bombers on
detached service from the Eighth Air Force, bomb Wiener-Neustadt, Austria; B-17's, sent
against an airplane factory at Augsburg, Germany, fail to locate the target, and bomb
several alternate targets and targets of opportunity in Austria, Italy, and off Corsica and
Elba Island, Italy.
In Italy, Northwest African Tactical Bomber Force (NATBF) and XII
Air Support Command medium and light bombers, and fighter-bombers hit the
Benevento town area and marshalling yard, the bridge at Capua, and motor transport,
trains, and railroads mainly in the Isernia area and N to Avezzano. The British King's
Dragoon Guards (with the US Fifth Army) occupy Naples. British Eighth Army troops
occupy Foggia airfields. HQ 57th
Fighter Group and its 66th
Fighter Squadron transfer
from Gioia Airfield to Foggia, Italy with P-40's. The 15th
Bombardment Squadron
(Light), and 311th
Bombardment Squadron (Dive), Twelfth Air Force, are disbanded at
Nouvion, Algeria and Gela, Sicily respectively. A detachment of the 515th
Bombardment
Squadron (Heavy), 376th
Bombardment Group (Heavy) based at Enfidaville, Tunisia with
B-24's, begins operating from Bengasi, Libya. During October, HQ 63rd
Fighter Wing
transfers from Rerhaia, Algeria to Bastia, Corsica; HQ 68th
Reconnaissance Group
transfers from Berteaux, Algeria to Massicault, Tunisia; the 37th
Troop Carrier Squadron,
316th
Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Egypt to El Aouina, Tunisia with C-47's.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: Operations today as everything else was completely at a standstill
for the entire base was blanketed by a sea of mud. The rainy season was now here to
stay.
Friday, 1 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS War Diary: Weather clear and warm. A welcome relief after yesterday’s very
hard rain. The runways, however, are still quite muddy.
The following 2nd
Lts. were promoted to 1st Lts: 2
nd Lts. Hanna, Kreuzkamp,
Opeka and Wolfe.
No mission.
Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt, pilot Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt, pilot
Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, navigator Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt, pilot
428th
BS War Diary: A rush call came from Finance to turn in all francs to be
exchanged for overseas currency. Over $15,000 was turned in . Rain made the runway
unusable.
Saturday, 2 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF): Brigadier General Gordon P Saville becomes
Commanding General, XII Fighter Command. Weather curtails operations.
In Italy, fighter-bombers of the XII Air Support Command attack
motor transport, roads, and bridges during armed reconnaissance missions from the
Volturno Valley N to Isernia and W to Benevento. The 64th
and 65th
Fighter Squadrons,
57th
Fighter Group, transfer from Rocco Bernardo to Foggia, Italy with P-40’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: In the wee hours of the morning another terrific rain and wind
storm struck the peninsula. A number of our tents were knocked down and mild
profanity could be heard coming from the lips of the poor unfortunates whose sacks were
bared to the heavens.
381st BS War Diary: It’s raining again
All departments have been ordered to pack their non-essential equipment for
immediate shipment.
Benevento was captured by the U.S. 5th
Army at 15:00 hours today.
No Mission.
428th
BS War Diary: A heavy down pour hit the camp about four in the morning. The
CO’s tent was knocked down as were the kitchen buildings. The ice box was turned over
and most of the tents caved in.
Epperson, Elmer H., Maj, pilot, Commander
Sunday, 3 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-26’s, B-25’s, and P-38’s bomb
railroad, highway, and pontoon bridges, an overpass, and road junction at Capua, Castel
Volturno, Piana, Arce, Mignano, and Isernia; P-38’s also hit shipping between Corsica
and Italy. XII Bomber Command fighter-bombers hit motor transport in the battle area as
US Fifth Army troops take Benevento. HQ 82nd
Fighter Group and its 95th
, 96th
and 97th
Fighter Squadrons transfer from Grombalia, Tunisia to San Pancrazio, Italy with P-38’s.
HQ 313th
Troop Carrier Group and its 29th
Troop Carrier Squadron transfer from Sciacca
to Trapani/Milo Airfield, Sicily with C-47’s. HQ 321st Bombardment Group (Medium)
and its 445th
, 446th
and 447th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer from Soliman,
Tunisia to Grottaglie, Italy with B-25’s. HQ 324th
Fighter Group and its 314th
, 315th
and
316th
Fighter Squadrons transfer from El Haouaria to Menzel Heurr, Tunisia with P-40’s.
These units have been regrouping since Jul 43. Detachments of the 512th
, 513th
and 514th
Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 376th
Bombardment Group (Heavy), based at
Enfidaville, Tunisia begin operating from Bengasi, Libya with B-24’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Report # 186, 3 October 1943
1. UNIT: 310th
Bomb Gp (M) AAF.
2. At 1130 36 _B-25’s_ took off to Bomb Isernia Road Junction. ___2___
Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C
returned early. 34 dropped 168 X 500 .1 & .01 sec delay bombs on target at
No. A/C No & Type
1415 from 9800-12,500 ft. 18 bombs returned to base. 24 bombs salvoed. ___31__
Time Altitude No. A/C
returned at 1645 and one at 1615. __ 1 _ _ Lost, __ 2_ missing, _ None at
Time No. A/C No. A/C No. A/C
friendly fields. One B-25 lost by flak or E/A, just after target. 3-4 chutes were seen
to open.
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
3. RESULTS: A number of direct hits were reported on and in the immediate vicinity
of the road intersection at the N end of town. Other hits were seen near a bridge NE
of town with possible damage to the approach. A high railroad bridge S of town was
believed by several crews to have received a direct hit. A few bombs hit in the town
causing one building to explode and a number of fires.
4. OBS: E/A--8-10 ME-109’s and FW-190’s made aggressive attacks on the first flight
of 18 ships, attacking from above and at all angles, while others attacked out of the
sun at 6 o’clock. Attacks were followed up for at least five minutes after the initial
encounter. E/A attacked formation immediately turn-off from target was made. The
FW-190’s were reported as having pink camouflage. Two ME-109’s and two FW-
190’s were claimed destroyed. Flak--At target--Intense accurate heavy. Positions:
Near railroad just SE of target; from wooded area 3/10 mi. N of target; from E side of
town near RR bridge. Elsewhere--Intense, heavy, fairly accurate flak was
experienced from along all roads in the target area, principally the road between
Isernia and Vinchiaturo, and between Guardia Sanframondi and Caserta. The
following positions noted: From near Boiano - 41 deg 29 min N, 14 deg 29 min E;
moderate heavy accurate from near Morcone 41 deg 31 min N, 14 deg 40 min E;
moderate heavy accurate from SE of Baia - 41 deg 18 min N, 14 deg 14 min E;
accurate heavy from vicinity of Circello, 41 deg 22 min N, 14 deg 48 min E. Ground-
-40-50 M/T in convoy one mile SW of target heading S. 50-100 M/T heading N on
road between Morcone and Vinchiaturo. 40-50 M/T with many hauling trailers on
road between Isernia and Vinchiaturo, no heading. Shipping--None.
Photos were taken.
5. WEATHER AT TARGET: 5/10 - 7/10 heavy cumulus, base at 9000 ft. Tops at
20,000 feet, visibility unlimited.
GORDON C. LOCKE,
Major, Air Corps,
Group S-2. -----------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Highway
Intersection, Isernia, Italy. 2 planes.
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: After several days of inactivity our bombers sought excitement
and flew northward over Italia to bomb a road intersection at Isernia. However, the
mission was costly as three of the attacking bombers did not return. Lt. Hament and his
crew are still missing. Our combat boys were pretty quiet tonight.
Hament, Carrol (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 134 Date- October 3 1943
Target- Isernia Road Junction Squadron airplanes- eleven
Between the intense accurate flak encountered and the aggressive attacks by eight
to ten enemy fighters, our group was kept plenty busy every minute over enemy territory.
There were a number of direct hits reported on and in the immediate vicinity of the road
intersection at the north end of town. A rail bridge south of town is believed to have been
hit directly. Several bombs that landed in the town caused one bldg to explode and a
number of fires.
Lieut. Haments’s aircraft was hit by either enemy aircraft or flak and although the
crews are not positive which of the three ships, that are missing, turned toward the
Foggias, it is believed that his aircraft was the one.
With the exception of these three B-25’s, all of the other bombers returned safely.
Photos of the bombing were taken.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Dent, James J., Jr., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Acey, Marvin E., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Stackman, Walter C., Sgt
F Wilder, Rodney R. “Hoss”, Lt Col,
Commander (observer)
None
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified (landed
at Foggia, due to battle damage)
A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Hament, Carrol (NMI), 2Lt Walton, Cecil Vernon, 2Lt
CP Arentson, Robert M., 2Lt Maxwell, Max W., 2Lt
N None Sharp, Kenneth R., 2Lt
B Weinstein, Robert S., S/Sgt Mizerski, Richard C. “Bronco”, 2Lt
E None None
R Wells, Donald Walter, S/Sgt Dinges, J.W., T/Sgt
G Cook, Keith L., Sgt Black, Jewell James “J.J.”, Sgt
F Land, Wilson E., Sgt None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., S/Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Benton, James H., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Halsey, James L., 1Lt Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
TG None Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), PFC
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt Wilson, Victor H., Jr., 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt Windler, John H., 2Ltt
E None None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified
(SPARE FILLED IN HERE)
A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Sowder, Tony R., Jr., F/O
CP Bates, Willie L., F/O
N None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt
E None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt
G Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
381st BS War Diary: From today’s mission to Isernia, Italy, the aircraft piloted by
Major Cometh failed to return. Flak was encountered over the target. The Major’s plane
was last seen out of formation but under control. It is hoped that he was able to land at a
friendly field. This was the Major’s 53rd
mission. Fifty missions were chalked up for
T/Sgt. Wilbur H. Budde and S/Sgt. Wade C. George.
Promotions for enlisted men created the following: 4 T/Sgts., 1 S/Sgt., 3 Sgts.,
and 1 Cpl.
Budde, Wilbur H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier
Cometh, Lawrence (NMI), Maj, pilot, Commander
George, Wade Clayton, S/Sgt, gunner
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
ROAD JUNCTION AT ISERNIA, ITALY
Menzel Temime, 3 October 43
Group Mission # 174 Sqdrn. Mission # 132
Flight 36 B-25’s 12 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 11:30 Bombs Dropped: 12(6 x 500), 36,000#
Target 14:15 Bombing Altitude: 10,050
Down 16:45 Sorties to Date: 1,001
Total Time: 5 Hrs. 15 Min.
Mileage: 824
Weather: Ceiling unlimited over target, and towering cumulus surrounding target area.
STRATEGY: To create bottlenecks in the German’s main avenues of retreat as they
withdraw from the Benevento area.
RESULTS: Bombs were well dispersed over the entire target area. A few bombs fell
in the area of the north road intersection, causing dust which obscured the results. A
direct hit was scored on an aqueduct at the northern end of the town.
Flak: Moderate heavy accurate flak from positions in the vicinity of the target.
No enemy aircraft.
Capt. Evans’ aircraft landed at Foggia A/D with motor trouble.
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (C) A/C No. 41-13052 “TABOO” (A) (landed at Foggia with motor trouble)
P Stagner, Howard C., F/O Evans, George N., Capt
CP Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt Cometh, Lawrence (NMI), Maj,
Commander
N None Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt
E None None
R Jereb, Vincent (NMI), S/Sgt Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt
G Moxey, Orville Earl, S/Sgt Mayronne, Clyde A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30341 (B) A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (F)
P Campbell, Martin H., Jr., F/O Williamson, Lloyd V., F/O
CP Ramsey, Thomas Upton, 2Lt Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Miller, Foster C., S/Sgt DeCastro, Emil J., PFC
E None None
R Standish, Beverly R., S/Sgt Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt
G Sigafoos, James F., Jr., Sgt Kim, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt None
A/C No. 41-29980 (D) A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (E)
P Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt
CP Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt
N Forbes, Robert L., 1Lt None
B Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Budde, Walter H., T/Sgt Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt
G White, John Edward, S/Sgt George, Wade Clayton, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30002 (J) A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(G)
P Jones, William E., F/O Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt
N None Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt
B Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt
E None None
R Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt Darling, Robert E., Pvt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt
TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI), Cpl None
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore”
(M)
A/C No. 41-30386 (R)
P Wolfe, Warren M., 2Lt Hanna, Malcolm C., 2Lt
CP Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O Kurtz, James A., 2Lt
N None None
B Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt
E None None
R Marshburn, James T., Sgt Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt
G Lyon, John R., Sgt Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt
TG Collom, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Frazier, Robert E., PFC
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (K) A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (R)
P Bitter, Irwin S., Capt Samson, George D., 2Lt
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt
N Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 2Lt None
B Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt
E None None
R Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt
G Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt
F Scott, Ivan D., Cpl TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt
428th
BS War Diary: Passes have been cancelled on account of the mission. On this
raid we lost Lt. Brennan and his crew.
Brennan, Samuel James, Jr., 1Lt, pilot
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission #: In
October the first operation of the month, on the third, was directed at the road junction at
Isernia close behind the enemy lines. It cost us Lt. Brennan and his crew. Lt. Keys, his
bombardier, made a successful parachute descent and eluded enemy patrols with the help
of the natives until the German defense line disintegrated around him.
Paul Keys brought back the story of the death of a hero. Shortly after target, flak
crippled the airplane and apparently injured Lt. Brennan. He ordered her crew to bail out
and was able to steer his aircraft in a straight and level attitude until they had a chance to
leave the aircraft safely. Just why he was unable to leave himself is not know. Suffice to
say that soon thereafter the plane assumed a diving attitude and that later Lt. Keys saw Lt.
Brennan’s grave beside his plane. It may well have been that he was too weak to leave
the aircraft himself.
It was another laurel to the wreath for which we shall always cherish his memory.
He was an exceptionally fine pilot, cool, courageous, intelligent and able. Chronic
misfortune was his inequitable lot. Ironically, his quiet, unostentatious courage
contributed to his passing. In the light of the numerous scrapes that he had been through,
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
he was offered relief from his combat responsibilities after his last close call with death.
It was not the path Brennan chose. Already recommended for the D.F.C. for previous
valor, in a host of 310th
heroes Sam Brennan stands out like a four-star general. A pilot’s
pilot and a man’s man.
S/Sgt. Don Storms, his gunner, was taken prisoner. T/Sgt Robert Smit, the last
member of this original crew (he also chose to continue) succeeded as did Lt. Keys, in
returning safely. Lt. Bob Berent, co-pilot, broke a leg in landing and is now a German
prisoner. Lt. Keys brought back many tales as evidence of the good will of the Italian
population.
A few hits were reported in the town and one flight is believed to have hit the area
of the intersection. On the return trip, four of eight to ten attacking ME-109’s and FW-
190’s were brought down. Intense, accurate, heavy flak after target brought Lt.
Brennan’s aircraft down.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Douglas, James D., 2Lt Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt
N Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt None
B Karvel, Roy L., 2Lt Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt
E None None
R Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt
G Sviantek, John L., Sgt Rankin, James V., S/Sgt
TG Mahan, John J., PFC None
A/C No. 3 41-13053 “Stormy
Weather”
A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Boswell, Harry R., 2Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Baraniuk, Jerry M., 2Lt Stewart, William W., Cpl
E None None
R Booth, Jack D., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Kelly, Andrew R., Cpl Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
F Schenk, James S., Sgt Frank, Donald A., Cpl
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Waugh, Carter H., 1Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Davidson, James C., 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N Wortman, Robert A., 2Lt None
B Snoddy, William G., 2Lt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R East, Charles D., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Agin, Clealon J., Sgt Ciampi, Francis (NMI), Sgt
F Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?) Williamson, Felton J., Pvt
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 7 42-32440 (MACR-797 - shot
down by AAA)
A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Brennan, Samuel James, Jr., 1Lt Tooles, William B., 1Lt
CP Berent, Raymond E., 2Lt Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt
N None None
B Keys, Paul R., 2Lt Herring, William S., S/Sgt
E None None
R Smit, Richard F., T/Sgt Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt
G Storms, Donald W., S/Sgt Sisson, John E., Sgt
F None Gilpatrick, Sgt (observer?)
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified
P Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None
B Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), Sgt
E None
R Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F Reed, Robert H., Sgt
428th
BS War Diary: Casualty Report: October 3, 1943
On the above date on a raid over Isernia, flak brought down one of our aircraft. Four
chutes were seen to open before the aircraft passed out of sight. The following were
reported missing:
************************************************************************
1st Lt Samuel J. Brennan Pilot
2nd
Lt. Raymond E. Berent Co-Pilot
2nd
Lt. Paul R. Keys Bombardier
T/Sgt. Richard F. Smit Radio Operator
S/Sgt. Donald W. Storms Aerial Gunner
************************************************************************
Additional information: When Lt. Keys and T/Sgt. Smit returned, they gave the
following story: All crew members with the exception of the pilot had time to bail out.
The pilot may have been injured. In any case Lt. Brennan went down with his plane. Lt.
Berent incurred a leg fracture in landing. S/Sgt. Storms was taken prisoner. The other
three were hidden by civilians until friendly forces drove the enemy out of the area. The
exact whereabouts of Lt. Berent is not known but he is thought to be in an Allied
hospital.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 797:
A/C No. 7 42-32440 (MACR-797 - shot down by AAA)
P Brennan, Samuel James, Jr., 1Lt - KIA
CP Berent, Raymond E., 2Lt - MIA, POW, EUS
N None
B Keys, Paul R., 2Lt - MIA, evaded enemy, and RTD
E None
R Smit, Richard F., T/Sgt - MIA, evaded enemy, and RTD
G Storms, Donald W., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, EUS
F None
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
Eyewitness Account: Tooles, William B., 1Lt, pilot, 428th
BS
After the bombs were dropped lt. Brennan made a sharp right turn and a steep
climb to get around a cumulous build up. Just before getting over this cloud Lt. Brennan
received a direct hit of heavy flak in his left nacelle causing fire to come out of his
nacelle. The gunner and radio operator jumped and the chutes did open. Lt. Brennan
kept the plane under control and next one out was the bombardier and his parachute did
open. The plane had slowed down to about 150 MPH by this time and the co-pilot
pushed his seat back and cleared the pilots compartment leaving Lt. Brennan still sitting
at this position at the controls with the plane starting a slow gliding turn to the right. He
passed in under my plane and when the ship next appeared on the right side of my plane
my co-pilot Lt. Jones said the plane was out of control and going straight down. It was
then lost in a cloud.
WILLIAM B. TOOLES
1st Lt., Air Corps
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 2Lt, pilot, 428th
BS
I was flying on Lt. Brennan’s left wing. Every thing was fine until after we had
dropped our bombs. We made a steep bank off the target and we got plenty of flak.
After we started the turn and dive off the target flak got Lt. Brennan in the left engine and
it caught on fire immediately. It looked to me like it was in the accessory section. The
flames were streaming from the rear of the engine nacelle. He held her alright for a few
minutes but then went into a steep dive off to the right. We saw three chutes get clear of
the plane and open. The last we saw of him he was going down about, or rather it looked
as though five or six thousand feet a minute. The ship wasn’t spinning and looked as if it
was still under control, but it was headed straight for the mountains.
THORNTON (NMI) FLEMING
1st Lt., Air Corps
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 3 October 1943 (continued)
Eyewitness Account: Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt, pilot, 428th
BS
We were in a steep right turn off the target when Lt. Brennan got hit. A burst of
flak broke directly under the left engine nacelle. Both of the main wheels dropped down
and fire came out of the left nacelle. No one in the crew appeared to be injured and Lt.
Brennan held the plane level and the crew was bailing out. Both the front and rear
hatches flew off. At this time the ship dropped down under ours where I could not see it.
It was still under control and our gunner reported three chutes opening. I saw it again as
it came out on my side. It went into a steep driving spin burning and definitely out of
control. It seemed that both the pilot and co-pilot had left the controls and were trying to
bail out. I did not see it crash because of clouds.
I was Lt. Tooles co-pilot and we were flying on Lt. Brennan’s left wing.
Gordon K. Jones 2nd
Lt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Storms, Donald W., S/Sgt, 428th
BS
(some time after EUS)
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
The radio operator had the back hatch off, and was thrown out, by the pitching
of the plane, before the order was given to bail out.
(The plane struck the ground) About 25 miles from the target.
(crew in the aircraft when it struck the ground) The man in the pilot’s seat, who I
assumed was the pilot… Dead.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, 4 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, 100+ XII Bomber Command B-17’s bomb the Pisa
marshalling yard and Bolzano bridges; B-25’s and B-26’s attack the airfield at Argos,
road defiles at Terracina and Isernia, a highway overpass at Mignano, and shipping at
Bastia; NATBF aircraft hit road and rail junctions on the main road N from Capua; XII
Air Support Command fighter-bombers hit trains, roads, railroads, and vehicles near
Isernia, Avezzano, Pescara, and Isolella. The Allies now have complete control of
Corsica. The 5th
Photographic Squadron (Light), Twelfth Air Force, based at La Marsa,
Tunisia begins operating from Pontecagnano, Italy with F-5’s. The 87th
Fighter
Squadron, 79th
Fighter Group, transfers from Crotone to Salsola, Italy with P-40’s. The
94th
Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group, based at Mateur, Tunisia sends a detachment to
Gambut, Libya with P-38’s. The 448th
Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 321st
Bombardment Group (Medium), transfers from Soliman, Tunisia to Grottaglie, Italy with
B-25’s. “A” Flight of the 15th
Photographic Squadron (Heavy), 3rd
Photographic
Reconnaissance and Mapping Group, based at La Marsa, Tunisia sends a detachment to
Grottaglie, Italy with B-17’s and F-5’s. “B” and “C” Flights are still in the US.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Report # 187, 4 October 1943
1. UNIT: 310th
Bomb Gp (M) AAF.
2. At 0720 36 _B-25’s_ took off to Bomb Bastia Harbor & Shipping. __One__
Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C
returned early. 35 dropped 210 X 500 .1 & .01 sec delay bombs on target at
No. A/C No & Type
1000 from 9800-12,500 ft. ___32__ returned at 1225. ___2__ with 3 crews returned
Time Altitude No. A/C Time No. A/C
at 1430. _ None Lost, _ None missing, ___1__ at Decimomannu .
Time No. A/C No. A/C No. A/C Friendly Fields.
Monday, 4 October 1943 (continued)
3. RESULTS: Two M/V’s in harbor and one M/V outside of harbor at K-10, 11; M-12,
13; and H-2, 3. The large M/V, 4-500 feet long, inside of harbor at K-10, 11 received
3 direct hits and was seen to explode with a huge column of black smoke. M/V at M-
12, 13 received many damaging near misses, but no direct hits were actually
observed. Strings of bombs went across quay and into dock area and warehouses,
causing many fires in these areas. One string walked up R.R. tracks on quay into fuel
tanks at IM-14 resulting in a big explosion. R.R. tracks and switch yards at IJ-13
were hit and many bombs covered the N part of the town. One crew reported bombs
hitting near a hill just outside of town causing an explosion that appeared to be from
either a fuel or ammunition dump.
4. OBS: E/A--None. S/P in N part of Bastia Harbor. Flak--None. Ground--None.
Shipping--1 craft, believed to be a S/F, heading into Gulf of St. Florent at 42 degrees
45 minutes N - 9 degrees 13 minutes E at 1005 hours. 1 unidentified Naval vessel,
possibly a cruiser, seen at 41 degrees 20 minutes N - 10 degrees 00 minutes E,
heading 100 degrees at 1030 hours.
Photos were taken.
5. WEATHER AT TARGET: CAVU, with haze.
GORDON C. LOCKE,
Major, Air Corps,
Group S-2. -----------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Bastia,
Corsica. 12 planes.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Monday, 4 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Monday, 4 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
A/C No. 12 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: Today we helped close the Corsican Campaign by bombing the
harbor of Bastia. The island was reported to have fallen some time today. At 1900 hrs
the entire squadron received the happy news that Lt. Hament and his crew had safely
landed on Foggia Airdrome. The crew returned back to our base late tonight.
Hament, Carrol (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 135 Date- October 4 1943
Target- Bastia, Corsica. Shipping in harbor. Squadron airplanes- nine
Today we made our debut over “Nappy’s Birthplace”, the isle of Corsica, to assist
our French Allies in putting the finishing touches on Nazi resistance at the northern tip of
the island. We learned this evening that after our attack all fighting had ceased and the
few remaining columns of the enemy had “Dunkirked” to Elba and the Italian Mainland.
Our bombing was quite effective. Many strings found their way across the dock
installations and adjacent warehouses starting several fires. Considerable smoke and dust
made observations difficult and limited.
All our bombers returned safely to base.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Rice, Carl E., 2Lt Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt
CP Ryan, Thomas Patrick, 2Lt Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt
N Konieczka, William F., 2Lt None
B Windler, John H., 2Lt Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt
E None None
R Morris, Jones E., S/Sgt McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt McCabe, George P., Sgt
F None None
Monday, 4 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Echols, George A., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Beale, Edward J., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Taylor, Frank E., Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 2Lt
CP Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt
N None None
B Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None None
R Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl None
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Dent, James J., Jr., Capt Sowder, Tony R., Jr., F/O
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Bates, Willie L., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt
E None None
R Acey, Marvin E., S/Sgt Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt
N None
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt
E None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt
G Larson, M.O., Sgt
TG McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
Monday, 4 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS War Diary: Lt. Burlingame received a letter today from Lt. Burris, stating that
he is in a British hospital near Philippeville. No information was given in the letter
regarding Lt. Donnovan or the other members of his crew, who are missing in action
from a mission to Potenza Marshalling Yards, Italy, on 9 September 43.
Bowden, Scott T., S/Sgt, gunner Burris, James Warren, 2Lt, pilot
Dittmar, Francis A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Donnovan, Gerald M., 2Lt, pilot
Rogers, Leo C., S/Sgt, bombardier-ginner
No word from Major Cometh.
Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt, navigator
Cometh, Lawrence (NMI), Maj, pilot, Commander
Evans, George N., Capt, pilot Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Mayronne, Clyde A., S/Sgt, gunner
Today’s target: Bastia Harbor, Corsica. A few hours after our planes landed it
was learned that the Germans remaining in Corsica had fled, and that the Island is once
again in the hands of the French.
Cpl. Emile A. Pontet completed 50 missions.
Pontet, Emile A., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
BASTIA HARBOR, CORSICA
Menzel Temime, 4 October 43
Group Mission # 175 Sqdrn. Mission # 133
Flight 36 B-25’s 3 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 07:40 Bombs Dropped: 3(6 x 500), 9,000#
Target 10:00 Bombing Altitude: 11,150
Down 12:20 Sorties to Date: 1,004
Total Time: 4 Hrs. 40 Min.
Mileage: 900
Weather: CAVU
STRATEGY: To blast harbor installations and shipping, thus hampering the evacuation
from Corsica of the last remaining German forces.
RESULTS: As the result of direct hits, a large M/V was left burning in the harbor. Other
strings of bombs cut across the quay, severing it in two places, and damaging warehouses
along the harbor front.
No flak, no fighters.
Monday, 4 October 1943 (continued)
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 41-30341 (H) A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (K)
P Campbell, Martin H., Jr., F/O Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt
CP Ramsey, Thomas Upton, 2Lt Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N None Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt
B Miller, Foster C., S/Sgt Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt
E None None
R Standish, Beverly R., S/Sgt Darling, Robert E., Pvt
G Sigafoos, James F., Jr., Sgt Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt None
A/C No. 41-30002 (B)
P Boston, Joseph W., Jr., 2Lt
CP Cruise, William H., 2Lt
N None
B Vervacke, Arsene H., Cpl
E None
R Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt
G Pontet, Emile A., Jr., Cpl
TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI), Cpl
428th
BS War Diary: Mission today. Truck convoy scheduled to go by landing barges
to new base in Italy on the 6th
.
The next few days were filled with dry runs. Truck convoys headed for ports of
embarkation and successive movements to the base in Italy were cancelled. An advance
detail destined for Oudna was cancelled. Nothing was certain save that indetermination
was the order of things that yellow jaundice was very prevalent.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : On
October 4th
, the group ran a raid against Corsica. No opposition was afforded---which
was a pleasant contrast from the ruggedness of the past few missions. The raid was
supposedly a great success until we were told that Bastia had been taken earlier that day.
In all fairness to the group, it had checked with higher echelons just prior to takeoff time
and received permission to go ahead. (428th
BS did not participate)
The planes and their maintenance crews left Menzel Temime for Oudna #2
Northwest of Tunis on October 11th
. They were to be attached to units of the 301st Bomb
Group, A B-17 outfit for rations and quarters. The squadron was once again spread over
three different localities. Oudna, Menzel Temime, and San Pancrazio in Italy.
Tuesday, 5 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): Lieutenant General James H Doolittle assumes
command of the Twelfth Air Force during the absence of General Carl Spaatz. In Italy,
XII Bomber Command B-17’s hit the Bologna marshalling yard; B-25’s and B-26’s
bomb the Formia road, a road loop N of Mignano, and Isernia chokepoint; NATBF, XII
Air Support Command, and RAF Desert Air Force (DAF) aircraft bomb numerous targets
in and N of the battle area, including heavy traffic in the Isernia area, gasoline dumps at
Alfedena, trains at Termoli, and towns of Venafro and Isolella. The 15th
Troop Carrier
Squadron, 61st Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Licata to Sciacca, Sicily with C-47’s.
The 27th
and 71st Fighter Squadrons, 1
st Fighter Group, based at Mateur, Tunisia send
detachments to Gambut, Libya with P-38’s. The 85th
and 86th
Fighter Squadrons, 79th
Fighter Group, transfer from Crotone to Salsola, Italy with P-40’s. The 111th
Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th
Reconnaissance Group, transfers from Sele to
Pomigliano, Italy with P-51’s. A detachment of the squadron is operating from Capaccio,
Italy. The 526th
Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 86th
Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from
Sele Airfield to Seretella Airfield, Italy with A-36’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Report # 188, 5 October 1943
1. UNIT: 310th
Bomb Gp (M) AAF.
2. At 0955 36 _B-25’s_ took off to Bomb Formia Highway at 682955. _ None_
Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C
returned early. 36 dropped 216 X 500 .1 & .01 sec delay bombs on target at
No. A/C No & Type
1200 from 9300-12,500 ft. ___36__ returned at 1411. _ None Lost, _ None_
Time Altitude No. A/C Time No. A/C No. A/C
missing, _ None at _____________ .
No. A/C Friendly Fields.
3. RESULTS: Strings started at East end of town and walked along the road, cutting
junction and coast road East of junction. Several crews report a large explosion at the
junction. A few strings fell short, hitting buildings in town. Hits were reported on
railroad and across secondary road running North to a building. Buildings at junction
seen burning. Several strings of bombs fell along the beach and in the water just
South of target area.
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
4. OBS: E/A--Two S/E unidentified A/C just Northeast of target - no attack. One crew
reported sighting three unidentified S/E A/C to rear of formation on deck over water
at the target. Flak-at target-Slight heavy from batteries located near buildings close to
beach at target. Elsewhere-Moderate heavy trailing flak from Gaeta Point. Moderate
heavy flak from a point just East of Formia. Two batteries of four guns each reported
at 41 degrees 15 minutes N - 13 degrees 46 minutes E. Moderate heavy flak from
Sessa Arunca Area. Flak followed formation 5/6 miles out to sea. Ground-10 M/T
scattered on beach at 41 degrees 13 minutes N - 13 degrees 34 minutes E. 15/20 M/T
heading NW on highway at 41 degrees 18 minutes N - 13 degrees 30 minutes E.
Shipping-One submarine seen to crash dive at 39 degrees 34 minutes N - 12 degrees
45 minutes E. Time 1240 hours. (Phoned at 1410). A convoy was sighted
approximately 100 miles South of this position. 14 small craft in Formia Harbor.
Photos were taken.
5. WEATHER AT TARGET: Towering cumulus, base 3/4000 ft., top 11/12000 ft.
4/10 coverage. Big cloud just to North of target. Haze layer up to 8000 ft. Visibility
good.
GORDON C. LOCKE,
Major, Air Corps,
Group S-2. -----------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Formia
Highway, Italy. 11 planes.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: The coastal road of Formia was today’s objective and was hit
rather well. Our Squadron planes did not participate in the bombing.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : (380
th BS did not participate)
381st BS War Diary: Major Cometh and his crew returned to this base after having
landed at Foggia Airdrome, 3 October 43. Foggia had been taken very recently by the
British 8th
Army; there were no communication facilities by which Major Cometh could
contact the group. They left their B-25 in Italy and returned to this base by transport
plane.
Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt, navigator
Cometh, Lawrence (NMI), Maj, pilot, Commander
Evans, George N., Capt, pilot Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Mayronne, Clyde A., S/Sgt, gunner
1st Lt. O.E. Fayard was appointed custodian of the Officers’ Club Council, with
Capt Abplanalp and 1st Lts. Horrocks and Knight as members.
Abplanalp, Walter J., Capt, Armament Officer Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
Horrocks, Donald D., 1Lt, intelligence Knight, Thomas R., Capt, Signals Officer
Today’s target: Highway at Formia, Italy.
The following complete 50 missions: 1st Lt. Thomas U. Ramsey, F/O Martin H.
Campbell Jr., and S/Sgt. Foster C. Miller.
Campbell, Martin H., Jr., F/O, pilot
Miller, Foster C., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner
Ramsey, Thomas Upton, 1Lt, pilot
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
HIGHWAY AT FORMIA, ITALY
Menzel Temime, 5 October 43
Group Mission # 176 Sqdrn. Mission # 134
Flight 36 B-25’s 11 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 11:00 Bombs Dropped: 11(6 x 500), 33,000#
Target 13:00 Bombing Altitude: 10,150
Down 15:00 Sorties to Date: 1,015
Total Time: 4 Hrs. 0 Min.
Mileage: 667
Weather: CAVU over target.
STRATEGY: An outflanking movement by our ground forces above Naples is causing
the withdrawal of German forces along this main highway.
RESULTS: The mission is reported to have been fairly successful. Although it cannot
be determined if the Formia Highway was rendered completely unserviceable, crews
observed many strings of bombs landing near the two aiming points.
No flak, no fighters.
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (P) A/C No. 41-29980 (N)
P Williamson, Lloyd V., F/O Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt
CP Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt
N None Forbes, Robert L., 1Lt
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
E None None
R Jereb, Vincent (NMI), T/Sgt Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt,
G Kim, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt Potolsky, George (NMI),S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30341 (O) A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (S)
P Campbell, Martin H., Jr., F/O Young, Charles A., 2Lt
CP Ramsey, Thomas Upton, 2Lt Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt
N None None
B Miller, Foster C., S/Sgt Doty, James K., S/Sgt
E None None
R Standish, Beverly R., S/Sgt Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt
G Sigafoos, James F., Jr., Sgt Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt
F None None
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(Q)
A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (R)
P Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt Boston, Joseph W., Jr., 2Lt
CP Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt None
B Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt Powell, Charles P., Sgt,
E None None
R Darling, Robert E., Pvt Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt
G Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt
TG None Buckner, Roy W., PFC
CREWS
2nd
Flight
A/C No. 41-30002 (P) A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (N)
P Jones, William E., F/O Flake, Ray M., 1Lt
CP Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt
N None Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt
E None None
R Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt
TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI), Cpl None
A/C No. (O)
(SPARE FILLED IN HERE) A/C No. 41-30386 (S)
P Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt
N None
B Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt
E None
R Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt
G Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt
TG Frazier, Robert E., PFC
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (Q) A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (R)
P Bitter, Irwin S., Capt Samson, George D., 2Lt
CP Cruise, William H., 2Lt Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt
N Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 2Lt None
B Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt
E None TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt
R Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt
G Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt
F None Scott, Ivan D., Cpl
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS War Diary: Squadron formation was held today to present Air Medals.
Mission.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : 36
Mitchells of our unit were scrambled October 5th
to hit a railroad junction in Italy at the
coastal town of Formia. The target was unhit, the majority of bombs hitting the East end
of the town. A secondary road junction at the East end of the town received six direct
hits. Moderate heavy flak of fair accuracy confronted the formation from four or five
scattered localities. Bursts followed them four or five miles out to sea.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Gena, Gerald M., 1Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Epperson, Elmer H., Maj, Commander Moulder, Robert W., F/O
N Akerland, Gustav J., 1Lt, navigator None
B Boatler, Sidney K., 1Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E None None
R Versaw, Robert E., Sgt Colley, Francis E., S/Sgt
G Ripple, William E. "Rip", S/Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Burkett, William H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None None
B Stewart, Leslie F., T/Sgt Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), Sgt
E None None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Housken, Wayne J., Pvt Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
TG Mahan, John J., PFC F Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt
Tuesday, 5 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Douglas, James D., 2Lt Chambers, Allen M., 2Lt
CP Kirtley, John M., 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt None
B Karvel, Roy L., 2Lt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt East, Charles D., S/Sgt
G Sviantek, John L., Sgt Agin, Clealon J., Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt None
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Boswell, Harry R., 2Lt
CP Holley, Hazil L., F/O Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt
N None None
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Baraniuk, Jerry M., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Booth, Jack D., S/Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Kelly, Andrew R., Cpl
F Frank, Donald A., Cpl Schenk, James S., Sgt
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Tooles, William B., 1Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None None
B Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Sisson, John E., Sgt Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt
F None Williamson, Felton J., Pvt
Wednesday, 6 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17’s bomb the Mestre marshalling
yard while B-26’s hit a highway chokepoint at Isernia, the highway at Mignano, and road
junction at Formia; P-38’s strafe Araxos Airfield in Greece; NATBF planes on road-
blocking missions hit targets at Teano, at Alfedena, between Cassino and Capua, and near
Sessa Aurunca; XII Air Support Command P-40’s and A-36’s attack roads and vehicles
N of the US Fifth Army battle zone and patrol the Naples area. The US Fifth Army
reaches the S bank of the Volturno River; Capua falls to British units. HQ 61st Troop
Carrier Group and its 14th
Troop Carrier Squadron transfer from Licata to Sciacca, Sicily
with C-47’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: Heavily laden clouds parted with their burdens and we were all
but washed away by the fiercest storms encountered so far. About ninety percent of the
land was under water and only little “Islands” of high ground appeared here and there.
381st BS War Diary: After threatening weather most of the day, heavy and steady rain
struck the base at 14:30 hours. It continued torrentially until 17:30 hours. During this
time, everything received a most thorough soaking. Rivers suddenly appeared in the
most unexpected places, running swiftly through tents and taking everything which could
float with them. One such river wound through the Intelligence and Operations Area,
broadening in some places to as wide as 200 feet. The 381st Intelligence tent was under
water to a depth of one foot. Debris of all descriptions floated in and was caught in the
furniture. Tents in the combat crew area suffered the worst losses. One man saw his
wallet, which contained $50.00, carried away in the swift stream. It was not recovered.
The kitchen was no exception, having about 15 inches of water swishing through it; yet
the cooks, under direction of Sgt. Whiting, the day’s mess sergeant, blossomed out with
roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy.
Whiting, Frank L., Sgt, cook, mess Sgt
As usual, Cpl. Nels (Chowhound) Johnson had informed himself of the menu well
in advance, and was almost drowned getting to the mess hall. Undaunted by the swift
waters of a river almost 200 feet wide and 7 feet deep, he was knocked down and had to
swim for it. He arrived safely, however, and had his usual quota of three helpings before
he changed into dry clothes. (Rumor has it 6 helpings, but the source is unreliable).
Johnson, Nels R. "Chowhound", Cpl,
Wednesday, 6 October 1943 (continued)
In the morning T/Sgts. Potolsky and Swanson, and S/Sgt. Bozovich and F.E.
Miller left for Oran on their way home, having completed 50 missions. However, the
storm changed their plans and Maj. Alexander, who was piloting the ship, turned around
and headed back to the base, arriving just a few minutes before the storm.
Alexander, William T. "Alex", Maj, pilot Bozovich, Matthew L., S/Sgt, gunner
Miller, Foster Eugene, S/Sgt, gunner Potolsky, George (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Swanson, William M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
428th
BS War Diary: Another big rain storm that lasted for four hours. Area by the
chaplain’s tent was flooded, and men waded up to their waists. T/Sgt. Martin, S/Sgt.
Guilfoyle, Michalek and Wink left for the States. The departure of the truck convoy has
been cancelled.
Guilfoyle, Frederick J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Martin, Robert J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Michalek, Joseph F., S/Sgt, gunner Wink, Jacob A., S/Sgt, gunner
Thursday, 7 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): Bad weather cancels many operations.
In Italy, NATBF medium and light bombers strike roads, railway,
junction, and town areas in the Capua and Guglionesi regions. RAF DAF fighter-bombers
hit trucks in the Termoli-Vasto areas. HQ 57th
Bombardment Wing transfers from
Lentini, Sicily to Naples, Italy. HQ 64th
Fighter Wing transfers from Milazzo, Sicily to
Frattamaggiore, Italy.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: The greater part of the day was spent in draining off the water in
the tents and around the area. It looked liked “Monday” wash day with the countless
number of clothes and baggage hung out to dry.
381st BS War Diary: Upon inspection this morning, the field was found to be
completely flooded and consequently unserviceable. Many of the planes were sunk deep
in the mud. It will take several days to free them.
Damage to equipment and personal property proved to be extensive. Much of the
day was devoted to drying things out, and making preparations for future storms, should
they arrive while we are still on this base.
428th
BS War Diary: Six men and an officer were ordered to be ready to go to the new
base tomorrow. No mission.
Friday, 8 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF):
In Greece, XII Bomber Command B-24’s bomb Tatoi and Eleusis
Airfields at Athens, airfields at Kastelli and Heraklion Airfields on Crete, and Maritsa
Airfield on Rhodes; B-25’s also hit Eleusis airfield; P-38’s fly convoy cover, patrols, and
sweeps over the Aegean Sea. Weather prevents the XII Air Support Command from
operating. In Italy, the NATBF and RAF DAF hit a bridge at Minturno and a road
junction and military concentration at Termoli.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: No operations today because the runway was just a sea of mud.
Our Saturday night entertainment came in the form of a movie at the “theatre” on the hill
at our base.
381st BS War Diary: A large group of officers and men --- all of the many who have
recently completed fifty missions --- left very early this morning for home. Trucks took
them to Tunis, where they will take off from Alouina Airdrome. Their names are as
follows: 1st Lts. Dauley, Denton, Durgin, Hornung, Marlow, Ramsey, and Therrien;
F/O’s Burt, Campbell, Cook and Wirth; T/Sgts. Budde, Porter, Potolsky, Swanson,
Szymik, and Thomas; S/Sgts. Bozovich, Dombkowski, Douglas, George, F.C. Miller,
F.E. Miller, and White; and Cpl Pontet.
Bozovich, Matthew L., S/Sgt, gunner
Budde, Wilbur H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier
Burt, Norman A., F/O, pilot Campbell, Martin H., Jr., F/O, pilot
Cook, Walter E., F/O, pilot Dauley, Charles Gordon, 1Lt, pilot
Denton, Richard D., 1Lt, pilot
Dombkowski, Stanley F., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner
Douglas, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner
Durgin, James L., 1Lt, pilot George, Wade Clayton, S/Sgt, gunner
Hornung, Willard R., 1Lt, bombardier Marlow, Jack F., 1Lt, pilot
Miller, Foster C., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner Miller, Foster Eugene, S/Sgt, gunner
Pontet, Emile A., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Porter, Lloyd G., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Potolsky, George (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Ramsey, Thomas Upton, 1Lt, pilot
Swanson, William M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Szymik, Emil (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Therrien, Robert W., 1Lt, pilot Thomas, Quentin W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
White, John Edward, S/Sgt, gunner Wirth, Thomas F., Jr., F/O, pilot
Friday, 8 October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS War Diary: Advance detail was called off. Lts. Blaauw, Peterson, Knight,
Southward, Moulder and S/Sgts. Ciampi, Reed, and Pvts Warlie and Temple placed on
TD pending orders sending them home.
Blaauw, Harold A., 1Lt, pilot Ciampi, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
Knight, Gerald R., 1Lt, pilot Moulder, Robert W., 2Lt, pilot
Peterson, Arthur C. “Pete”, 1Lt, pilot Reed, Robert H., S/Sgt, photographer, gunner
Southward, Thomas H., 1Lt, pilot Temple, Robert W., Pvt, radio-gunner
Warlie, Roger Rickie, Pvt, gunner
Saturday, 9 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF): XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb airfields at
Larissa, Athens and Salonika, Greece and Argos, Italy. B-24's hit Kastelli/Pediada
Airfield on Crete. P-38's fly a sweep between the island of Corfu, Greece and Dubrovnik,
Yugoslavia and escort shipping in the Karpathos Straits between Karpathos and Rhodes.
In Italy, the XII Air Support Command does not operate, but the NATBF and RAF DAF
hit traffic in the Termoli and Montenero areas, guns N of Capua, a HQ at Palata, and
roads and railroads N of Naples. HQ 79th
Fighter Group transfers from Crotone to
Foggia, Italy. The 66th
, 67th
, 68th
and 506th
Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 44th
Bombardment Group (Heavy), cease operating from Tunis, Tunisia and return to their
base at Shipdham, England with B-24's.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: Captain Gridley, Squadron Intelligence Officer, left today for our
new base on special duty for the Group. Today also au revoir was said to Capt. Carlson,
Adj. and five enlisted men who left for our new home in the heel of Italy. PX Rations
were issued today and our cigarette supply was strengthened putting all the men in good
spirits. A formation was held in the afternoon to award several of our combat crew
members with the Air Medal and Oak Leaf Cluster.
Carlson, Elmer Norman, 1Lt, personnel Gridley, William G., Capt, intelligence
381st BS War Diary: A meeting of the upper three grades of N.C.O.’s was held this
afternoon. Major Cometh approved the plans for a Non-Com’s club at the new base.
This club will be for the use of the upper three grades. Plans will be made later for a club
which will cater to the rest of the EM. The “Chow” situation was discussed --- general
consensus of opinion being that there is still great room for improvement, although the
food is 100% better than it was a month ago. Afterwards, Major Cometh outlined the
difficulties which we should expect to encounter at the new base. Also, he outlined the
policy to be followed in dealing with the Italian military and civilian population.
Cometh, Lawrence (NMI), Maj, pilot, Commander
Lts. Burlingame and Flake went to Philippeville today to visit Lt. Burris. Upon
questioning, he stated after Lt. Donnovan’s ship left the formation on 9 September 43 it
was damaged either by flak or by fighters, he doesn’t know which. His only recollection
is a blinding explosion. A British Hospital Unit found him ten days later. He had been
unconscious during that time, and had apparently been taken care of by some unknown
Saturday, 9 October 1943 (continued)
person. His injuries are extensive. His right arm is shattered, he has a bullet in one
kidney and several bullet wounds in the head. He was not completely rational when Lt.
Burlingame talked to him, believing that Lt. Burlingame and not Lt. Donnovan had
piloted the ship. British authorities are unable to furnish any information as to where Lt.
Burris was found, or the fate of his fellow crew members.
Bowden, Scott T., S/Sgt, gunner Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt, pilot
Burris, James Warren, 2Lt, pilot Dittmar, Francis A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Donnovan, Gerald M., 2Lt, pilot Flake, Ray M., 1Lt, pilot
Rogers, Leo C., S/Sgt, bombardier-ginner
428th
BS War Diary: The advance detail took off but movement of line personnel was
cancelled. A donation was taken up for G.I. Joe who will be placed with monks at the St.
Joseph of Thibar monastery. Approximately $125 was collected.
Sunday, 10 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): B-17's bomb 2 airfields at Athens, Greece
while B-24's hit Maritsa Airfield on Rhodes and Calato and Heraklion Airfields on Crete.
P-38's escort shipping off Rhodes hit Antimachia Airfield in the Dodecanese Islands, and
attack vessels in the harbors of Corfu, Greece and Kotor, Yugoslavia, and off Tivat,
Yugoslavia and hit targets of opportunity in the Aegean Sea and along its E coastline.
In Italy, the NATBF and RAF DAF concentrate on gun positions on
both the US Fifth and British Eighth Army battlefronts; vehicles, railroads, and town
areas also are hit; the attacks take place NE of Capua, at Guglionesi, at Cassino and
Mondragone, between Rome and Terracina, and around the Termoli-Isernia-Pescara
areas. HQ 82nd
Fighter Group and its 95th
, 96th
and 97th
Fighter Squadron transfer from
San Pancrazio to Lecce, Italy with P-38's. A detachment of the 380th
Bombardment
Squadron (Medium), 310th
Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Menzel Temime,
Tunisia with B-25's begins operating from Oudna, Tunisia.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 1102:
A/C No. 42-64510 (MACR-1102 - missing on Ferry mission)(the MACR
and other documents incorrectly identifies the ship as 42-6451)
P Hastings, Herbert L., 1Lt - MIA, DED
CP Lobdell, Ray B., 2Lt - MIA, DED
N None
B None
E Brezee, William B., S/Sgt - MIA, DED
PAX Stoneburner, Lewis T., Capt, surgeon, 45th Gen Hospital - MIA, DED
PAX Todorovich, Steve (NMI), 1Lt, EOD, 235th Ordnance Bomb Disposal Co. -
MIA, DED
PAX Dillon, Frederick H., Capt, EOD, 235th Ordnance Bomb Disposal Co. -
MIA, DED
A message from Algiers to WAR, routine casualty report no. 26121 Nov 43
reported Lt. Hastings and Lobdell and Sgt Brezee as missing non battle casualties. The
report further stated that they were members of the 379th
Bombardment Squadron, 310th
Bombardment Group and that they were missing as of 10 Oct 43 after take off from
Algiers, enroute to Tunis on a routine ferry mission. The plane was unreported enroute
and not heard from since. They were on Flying Pay status at the time they became
missing.
Sunday, 10 October 1943 (continued)
Missing Air Crew Report 1102, 27 October 43 reported that Lt. Hastings and
Lobdell and Sgt. Brezee the complete crew of a B-25 aircraft departed from Algiers on
routine Ferry mission to Tunis 10 Oct 43.
A message from Algiers 23 Nov. 43 reported Capt. Dillon and Lt. Todorovich
both members of the 235th
Bomb Disposal Co. had been missing since 10 Oct 43 under
unknown circumstances.
A message from Algiers 31 Dec. 43 reported that Capt. Stoneburner, Medical
Corps, 45th
Gen Hospital was a passenger not in flying status on an authorized mission
aboard the aircraft piloted by Lt. Hastings, who with two (2) crew members was reported
missing on route from Algiers to Tunis 10 Oct 43, and that two additional passengers,
namely Capt Dillon and Lt. Todorovich were aboard the plane. The plane was not seen
or heard from again.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Intentionally placed on the day of the event rather than the date written)
AG 704 - Dead (11 Oct 44) 11 October 1944
MEMORANDUM FOR: Chief, Casualty Branch.
SUBJECT: Determination of Status under Public Law 490, as amended.
1. - FACTS
1. The following-named personnel have been carried on the records of this office
as missing since 10 October 1943:
Name ASN Grade
Dillon, Frederick H. 0-1548195 Captain
Stoneburner, Lewis T., III 0-402641 Captain
Hastings, Herbert L. 0-668003 First Lieutenant
Todorovich, Steve 0-1550517 First Lieutenant
Lobdell, Ray B. 0-738427 Second Lieutenant
Brezee, William B. 19,004,906 Staff Sergeant
2. A message from Algiers to WAR, routine casualty report number 261, dated
21 November 1943, reported three of the above-named personnel, namely: Lieutenants
Hastings and Lobdell, and Sergeant Brezee, as missing, non-battle casualties. The report
further stated that they were members of the 379th
Bombardment Squadron, 310th
Bombardment Group, and that they were missing as of 10 October 1943, after take off
from Algiers, enroute to Tunis on a routine ferry mission. The plane was unreported
enroute and not heard from since. They were on flying pay status at the time they
became missing.
Sunday, 10 October 1943 (continued)
3. Missing Air Crew Report AAF No. 1102, dated 27 October 1943, reported that
Lieutenants Hastings and Lobdell, and Sergeant Brezee, the complete crew of a B-25
aircraft, number 42-6451, departed from Algiers on a routine ferry mission to Tunis on 10
October 1943. The plane was not reported enroute and nothing was known of the
circumstances of its disappearance. This report stated that there were no passengers on
this plane. A covering memorandum, dated 28 October 1943, is attached to the Missing
Air Crew Report. This memorandum is from the 310th
Bombardment Group to the
Commanding General, 47th
Wing, and states that “Higher Headquarters were notified
immediately of the plane’s failure to reach Tunis on schedule.”
4. A message from Algiers to WAR, routine casualty report number 270, dated
23 November 1943, reported that Captain Dillon and Lieutenant Todorovich, both
members of the 235th
Bomb Disposal Company, had been missing since 10 October 1943
under unknown circumstances. The message further stated that these officers departed
from Algiers on 10 October 1943 to rejoin their unit in Italy; that travel by aircraft or
surface vessel was authorized; and that they never rejoined their unit and no trace of them
had been found.
5. A message from Algiers to WAR, casualty report number 427, dated 31
December 1943, reported that Captain Stoneburner, Medical Corps, assigned to the 45th
General Hospital, was a passenger, not in flying pay status, on an authorized mission,
aboard the aircraft piloted by Lieutenant Hastings who, with two crew members, was
reported missing enroute from Algiers to Tunis on 10 October 1943; and that two
additional passengers, namely, Captain Dillon and Lieutenant Todorovich, were aboard
the plane.
6. The AG 201 file of Lieutenant Hastings contains a first wrapper Indorsement,
dated 13 January 1944, forwarded by Headquarters, Twelfth Air Force, to the
Commanding General, North African Theater Of Operations, in compliance with the
provisions of Circular 233, NATOUSA, 1943. This Indorsement states:
“2. Inasmuch as Lt Hastings incurred ‘missing’ status on an unescorted
flight, there is no available information other than he took-off on 10
Oct 43 from Maison Blanche, Algeria, on a routine ferry mission to
Tunis Tunisia. His plane was not seen or heard from again.”
7. In the AG 201 files of Captain Dillon and Lieutenant Todorovich are copies of
a first wrapper Indorsement from the 142nd
Ordnance Bomb Disposal Squad, to the
Adjutant General’s Office, North African Theater of Operations, dated 15 May 1944.
This Indorsement reads, in part, as follows:
“a. On 8 October 1943 officer concerned left Palermo, Sicily
by M/a on T/D, for approximately 3 days. * * *
Sunday, 10 October 1943 (continued)
“b. On 10 Oct 43 officer departed Algiers by m/a for Bizerte.
“c. Investigation conducted by Provost Marshal General
NATOUSA reveals aircraft missing on operational flight.
“d. Organization authorized by NATOUSA to drop officer
from rolls as missing.”
8. In response to an inquiry from the Adjutant General’s Office for all available
information concerning the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Captain
Stoneburner, a message from Algiers to WAR, W-159, dated 14 January 1944, was
received in this office. This message stated that the only information available
concerning Captain Stoneburner revealed that he was a passenger on aircraft number 42-
64510, piloted by Lieutenant Hastings, which took off on 10 October 1943, on an
operational flight to Tunis from Maison Blanche, Algeria, and had not been heard from
since and that a search was conducted with negative results.
9. The AG 201 file of Captain Stoneburner contains a letter, dated 4 February
1944, from Colonel Perrin H. Long, Medical Corps, Office of the Surgeon, Headquarters
North African Theater of Operations, addressed to Captain Stoneburner’s father. This
letter explains the lapse of time between the date when Captain Stoneburner became
missing and the date when he was first reported as missing, almost three months later.
The following statements are extracted from the letter:
“ * * * Lewis had done such good work * * that I asked the Surgeon,
NATOUSA, if he might not be attached to my division to help me with certain
problems.
“ * * * This work entailed visiting all the hospitals in this theater. * *
* he decided to start off to visit the remainder of the hospitals on or about the 10th
of October.
“It was estimated that it would take about 10 weeks to finish up his mission and
when we talked it over he asked me if I wanted him to write to me, and I told him
no, * * * * that I would be in and out of the office while he was gone, and if
he did write, my answers would probably not catch up with him, because he
would be moving about.
Sunday, 10 October 1943 (continued)
“ * * * About a month later I went to Italy and did not return to my office
until just before Christmas. When Christmas passed and Lewis had not returned,
I began to wonder where he was, but not wishing it to appear as though I was
checking up on him, I did nothing until about the 30th
of December, when I put
out discreet inquiries. Upon the next day our office was queried by the casualty
section as to whether or not we had a Captain Stoneburner attached to our
organization because they had information that he had been aboard a plane which
had been missing since October 10th
.
“My own information is as follows: Upon the 10th
of October Lewis went to the
airport with his ticket and priority, but when the transport plane’s passenger list
was made out, he found that his priority was of such a grade that it did not stand
up * * * Wishing to get away that day he went around * * to operations
and found that an operational flight was going where he wanted to go, and that he
could ‘hitch’ a ride on this plane. Upon such flights ‘hitch hiking’ passengers
names are sometimes not put on the manifest of the flight. The flight which he
went out on was never reported again and is now officially listed as missing. It
was definitely know however in the final check up on this flight that he was on
it.”
10. The AG 201 files and the Casualty Branch files of the officers and enlisted
man named in paragraph 1 were carefully examined, but not information of value in this
review, other than that set forth above, was found.
11. The Memorial Division, OQMG, and the Prisoner of War Bureau, PMGO,
were requested to furnish any information available in their files on these persons. Both
replied that they had no record of any of these officers or the enlisted man. The Officers’
Branch, AGO, in reply to a similar request in the cases of the officers, stated that the
latest reports in that office showed them as missing.
12. There is no report or record showing that any of these officers or the enlisted
man are prisoners of war or internees, or that they have returned to duty.
II. - CONCLUSIONS
1. This case concerns five officers and one enlisted man who became missing on
an unescorted routine flight from Algiers, Algeria, to Tunis, Tunisia, on 10 October 1943.
Two of the officers and the enlisted man were members of the crew of the plane. The
other three officers were passengers.
Sunday, 10 October 1943 (continued)
2. Algiers is on the north coast of Africa and Tunis is about 500 miles to the east,
also on the coast. The course of the flight was due east over territory which was under
control of Allied forces. Any attempt to state what happened to this plane and the men it
carried would be based on pure conjecture, inasmuch as the plane was not contacted after
it left Algiers, and a search failed to reveal any trace of it.
3. Twelve months have elapsed since the time when these officers and enlisted
men were reported missing. If they were alive, some information concerning them
should have been received. The absence of such information, together with the facts
surrounding their disappearance, leads to the conclusion that they may not reasonably be
presumed to be living.
III. - RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that findings of death be made in the cases of the officers and
enlisted man named in paragraph 1, Part 1, hereof, and that these findings show the
presumed date of death as 11 October 1944.
/i/ D.H.C
DORIS H. CUILLIER
Investigator,
Status Review and
Determination Section.
/i/ D.P.R. /i/ D.P.P.
DAVID P. RICHARDSON CONCURRED IN: DANIEL P. POTEET
Captain, A.G.D. Colonel, A.G.D.,
Status Review and Officer in Charge,
Determination Section Status Review and
Determination Section
APPROVED:
/i/ GFH
GEORGE F. HERRERT
Colonel, A.G.D.
Chief, Casualty Branch.
Captain Frederick H. Dillon,
0-1548095, et al.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 10 October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS War Diary: News reached us today that twelve of our combat crews and
planes would operate from the Flying Fortress Base at Oudna, along with a portion of our
ground personnel. Oudna’s two landing grounds are approx. ten miles from the city of
Tunis. Both the Officers and Enlisted Men’s Mess tents were taken down yesterday and
we are ready to move at a moment’s notice.
381st BS War Diary: Everything is packed. The day was spent in waiting for moving
orders which did not arrive.
Capt. Pemberton returned from Constantine this afternoon.
And advanced echelon composed of Capt. Abbott, S/Sgts. Munson and Proffitt,
Sgt. A.D. Reed and Cpls. Corsi, Roods and Scott left for our future base in Italy.
Abbott, Robert D., Capt, Adjutant Corsi, Ralph R. “Mr. Five by Five”, Cpl
Munson, Myron C., S/Sgt Pemberton, Robert (NMI) "Bob", Capt, intelligence
Proffitt, James L., S/Sgt Reed, Albert D., Sgt,
Roods, Louis R., Cpl Scott, Ivan D., Cpl, photographer
428th
BS War Diary: Planes have been unloaded and move cancelled for a few days at
least. G.I. Joe was given plenty of clothing and sent up to the monastery, but the
authorities refused to take him in since the boy did not know his guardian’s name.
Monday, 11 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF): XII Bomber Command B-25’s bomb Garitsa
Airfield, Greece and P-38’s hit a vessel in the Corfu harbor on Corfu Island.
In Italy, XII Air Support Command and NATBF operations are
cancelled or aborted due to weather, but RAF DAF fighters hit trains, trucks, and gun
positions near Montesilvano and Vasto. The 381st and 428
th Bombardment Squadrons
(Medium), 310th
Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Menzel Temime, Tunisia with
B-25’s begin operating from Oudna, Tunisia. Detachments of the 512th
, 513th
and 514th
Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 376th
Bombardment Group (Heavy), which have been
operating from Bengasi, Libya with B-24’s, return to their base at Enfidaville, Tunisia.
The 527th
and 528th
Fighter-Bomber Squadrons, 86th
Fighter-Bomber Group, transfer
from Sele Airfield to Serretella Airfield, Italy with A-36’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: Lieut. Lorch and Sgt. Robinson of our S-2 section were scheduled
to accompany the combat crews to Oudna but contradictory orders suddenly came
through detaining them. The stay at Oudna is only to be a temporary one.
Lorch, Henry H., 2Lt, intelligence Robinson, Sidney L., Sgt, intelligence
381st BS War Diary: The move is indefinitely postponed. Because of the condition of
the field, it would be impossible to fly a mission from here. This and other
considerations, which include transportation to Italy of our heavier equipment, and the
fact that our missions are essential, 12 of our planes with a complement of 39 officers and
81 enlisted men, left for Oudna Airdrome #2, where they will operate temporarily.
M/Sgt. Clyde Arnold, 381st line chief, has promised to keep this department
advised of important events at Oudna, and his communiqués will be quoted from time to
time. Forthwith is #1: “11 October 43 --- M/Sgt. Arnold being far too valuable to be
flown to Oudna, is sent in a truck with 10 armament and four communications men.
Arriving at 5:30 P.M., we ate chow first thing, and what a wonderful surprise it was:
steak, mashed potatoes and gravy. Afterwards we set up our tents on the line, and
everyone went to bed.”
A three day rain storm is predicted by Major Cole, Group Weather Officer. We
hope he is wrong, just this once.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line, chief, crew chief
Cole, Frederick J., Maj, Group Weather Officer, HQ 310th
BG
428th
BS War Diary: Planes took off for Oudna #2 to operate with the 301st Bomb
Group till our runway is usable again. Maintenance crews accompanied them.
Tuesday, 12 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): XII Bomber Command operations are canceled
by weather.
In Italy, the XII Air Support Command and other Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) elements (NATBF and RAF DAF) operate on a reduced
scale, hitting road junctions at Vasto and Fossacesia, Aquino Airfield, motor transport on
the Itri-Pico road and on a road N of Rome in the Bolsena and Capranica areas, roads
near Tarquinia, rail facilities at Cisterna di Latina, trains between Pescara and Benedello,
and guns and troops near Cercemaggiore. HQ 81st Fighter Group and its 91
st Fighter
Squadron transfer from Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia to Castelvetrano, Sicily with P-39’s. HQ
86th
Fighter-Bomber Group and its 526th
Fighter-Bomber Squadron, transfer from Sele
Airfield to Serretella Airfield, Italy with A-36’s. The 86th
Bombardment Squadron
(Light), 47th
Bombardment Group (Light), transfers from Grottaglie to Vincenzo Airfield,
Italy with A-20’s. The detachment of the 94th
Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group, that
has been operating from Gambut, Libya with P-38’s since 4 Oct, returns to its base at
Mateur, Tunisia. The detachment of the 515th
Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 376th
Bombardment Group (Heavy), at Bengasi, Libya with B-24’s since 1 Oct, returns to its
base at Enfidaville, Tunisia.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: Nothing unusual occurred today as most of our combat personnel
were participating in operational raids from Oudna. Lt. Fisher, our special services
officer arranged a show for tonight. “The Lady of Burlesque”, starring Barbara
Stanwyck was enjoyed. The attendance was diminished greatly, however, by a sudden
rainstorm that swept across our open-air theatre.
Fisher, Earl W., 1Lt, Special Services Officer, HQ 310th
BG
381st BS War Diary: Nothing of importance occurred at Menzel Temime. M/Sgt.
Arnold’s communiqué #2 states: “Worked on the ships in the morning, getting them
ready for a mission. Everyone went into Tunis in the P.M.”
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line, chief, crew chief
428th
BS War Diary: With planes gone, things are very quiet. Usual squadron duties.
Wednesday, 13 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): Italy declares war on Germany.
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-25’s and B-26’s bomb the town of
Alife, a road junction at Sessa Aurunca, and airfield at Tirana; XII Air Support
Command, supplemented by RAF DAF fighters, supports the US Fifth Army, which
begins an assault crossing of the Volturno River on a 40-mile (64 km) front during the
night of 12/13 Oct. Fighters and fighter-bombers hit troop and tank concentrations, trains,
trucks, and communications the lines in the forward areas, especially around Ortona,
Giulianova, and Campobasso. NATBF light bombers join in the attacks, hitting road
junctions in the Vairano, Carinola, Dragoni, Vasto, Terracina, and Minturno areas. The
12th
Photographic Squadron (Light), 3rd
Photographic Reconnaissance and Mapping
Group, transfers from Ariana to La Marsa, Tunisia with F-4’s and F-5’s. The detachment
of the 27th
Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group, operating from Gambut, Libya with P-
38’s since 5 Oct, returns to its base at Mateur, Tunisia. The 92nd
Fighter Squadron, 81st
Fighter Group, transfers from Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia to Castelvetrano, Sicily with P-39’s.
The 307th
Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers from Montecorvino to
Pomigliano, Italy with Spitfires. The 379th
Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 310th
Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Menzel Temime, Tunisia with B-25’s, begins
operating from Oudna, Tunisia.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Road Junction, Sessa Aurunca, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: At Oudna, our members quartered with a heavy bombardment
group.
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : The first
mission occurred on Oct. 13th
, the target being a Road Junction at Sessa Aurunca, Italy.
Several direct hits were reported. 12 planes.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Wednesday, 13 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Wednesday, 13 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
A/C No. 12 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: Although it was a peaceful day for those of us at Menzel
Termime, nevertheless, we heard that our combat crews at Oudna had struck the
transportation lines at Sessa Arunca, in Italy. All our boys were reported to have landed
safely.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 137 Date- October 13 1943
Target- Road Junction, Sessa Arunca, Italy. Squadron airplanes- twelve
Today’s mission took our boys over to Sessa Arunca to bomb a road junction.
Many direct hits were made in the center of the road junction. The flak was light and
very inaccurate. Observed enroute were several naval vessels and what was thought to be
a submarine just off the Volturno River.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Dent, James J., Jr., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Acey, Marvin E., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG None Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 13 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG None McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt Walton, Cecil Vernon, 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt Maxwell, Max W., 2Lt
N None Sharp, Kenneth R., 2Lt
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt Mizerski, Richard C. “Bronco”, 2Lt
E None None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt Dinges, J.W., T/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt Black, Jewell James “J.J.”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 2Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None None
R Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 13 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS War Diary: 1
st Lt. Withrow left for home at noon.
Cpl. Hevle, a cook, accidently shot himself through the hand while cleaning his
rifle. Dinner tonight was splendid. There was lots of fresh roast beef, and only a few left
here to eat it. Some G.I.’s, drawing the wrong conclusions; recommend that we shoot a
few more cooks.
This is the first day of Major Cole’s three day storm. Not so bad --- a mere
drizzle.
Today’s mission from Oudna: Sessa Aurunca Road Junction, Italy.
1st Lt. Robert L. Forbes and S/Sgt. Daniel Kim completed 50 missions.
Cole, Frederick J., Maj, Group Weather Officer, HQ 310th
BG
Forbes, Robert L., 1Lt, navigator Hevle, Gilman I., Cpl, cook
Kim, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Withrow, John B., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
SESSA AURUNCA ROAD JUNCTION, ITALY
Oudna A/D, 13 October 43
Group Mission # 177 Sqdrn. Mission # 135
Flight 36 B-25’s 9 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: 35 P-38’s Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 08:45 Bombs Dropped: 9(6 x 500), 27,000#
Target 11:00 Bombing Altitude: 11,150
Down 13:15 Sorties to Date: 1024
Total Time: 4 Hrs. 30 Min.
Mileage: 736
Weather: CAVU at target, scattered cumulus in surrounding areas.
RESULTS: Many direct hits were reported in the center of the road junction. A road
junction one mile west of the target was cut by bomb hits, as well as another road
junction just east of the target.
No enemy aircraft.
Slight light inaccurate flak at the target. Slight inaccurate heavy flak from several
positions en route and return from the target.
A possible submarine was observed at 37°51’ N - 10°35’, heading 30°
CREWS - 2nd
Flight
A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (B) A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (A)
P Samson, George D., 2Lt Bitter, Irwin S., Capt
CP Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt Cruise, William H., 2Lt
N None Forbes, Robert L., 1Lt
B Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt
E None None
R Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt
G Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt
TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt None
Wednesday, 13 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 41-30386 (F) A/C No. 41-30002 (J)
P Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt Jones, William E., F/O
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O
N None None
B Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt
E None None
R Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
G Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt
TG Frazier, Robert E., PFC Erceg, Samuel (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 41-13074 “Balls of Fire” /
“Royal Flush” (G)
A/C No. 42-64667 “Wet Dreams” (H)
P Flake, Ray M., 1Lt Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt
CP Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O
N Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt None
B Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt Marshburn, James T., Sgt
G Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt Lyon, John R., Sgt
TG None Kim, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (M) A/C No. 42-64592 (K)
P Young, Charles A., 2Lt Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt
CP Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt
N None Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt
B Doty, James K., S/Sgt Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt
E None None
R Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt Darling, Robert E., Pvt
G Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt
F Scott, Ivan D., Cpl None
A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (L)
P Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt
CP Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt
N None
B Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
E None
R Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt,
G Potolsky, George (NMI),S/Sgt
TG Buckner, Roy W., PFC
428th
BS War Diary: Our planes flew as spares in the first mission from the new base
today.
Wednesday, 13 October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : On
October 13th
the target for our first raid from Oudna was the Sessa Aurunca road
junction. It was another in the series of unescorted raids. Escort appears a thing of the
past. Photo interpretation revealed that the railroad junction received one direct hit. The
road just West of the target received two direct hits. On the whole it was a mediocre
performance. The little flak opposition created no severe problem.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified (spare) A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified (spare)
P Douglas, James D., 2Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N Peterson, Donald L., 2Lt None
B Karvel, Roy L., 2Lt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt
G Sviantek, John L., Sgt Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
TG Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified (spare)
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O
N None
B Stewart, William W., Cpl
E None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt
G Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
F None
Thursday, 14 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-25’s hit Argos Airfield and B-17’s
bomb the Terni marshalling yard. Other B-17’s and B-24’s attack a bridge at Giulianova,
the town area of Piano-Vomano and railroad and highway bridges N of Pescara and along
the E coast of Italy. Weather hinders tactical aircraft operations, but the XII Air Support
Command and RAF DAF hit trains and vehicles and fly patrols from N of the Volturno
River to Formia and N of Pescara. HQ 31st Fighter Group and its 308
th and 309
th Fighter
Squadrons transfer from Montecorvino to Pomigliano, Italy with Spitfires. The 5th
Photographic Squadron (Light), Twelfth Air Force, based at La Marsa, Tunisia with F-5’s
transfers operations from Pontecagnano to Pomigliano, Italy. The 111th
Reconnaissance
Squadron (Fighter), 68th
Reconnaissance Group, ceases operating from Capaccio and
returns to its base at Pomigliano, Italy with P-51’s. The 525th
Fighter-Bomber Squadron,
86th
Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from Sele Airfield to Serretella Airfield, Italy with
A-36’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Grosseto, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : On the
14th
, 36 ships were sent out to bomb Grosseto, Italy, but coverage was 10/10, so no
bombs were dropped.
(379th
BS did not participate)
380th
BS War Diary: PX Rations were again issued today. Four pks of cigarettes, one
candy bar, one pack of gum and one roll of lifesavers were the cause to bring our spirits
up and now morale is excellent.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 138 Date- October 14 1943
Target- RR Bridge 2 miles S of Grosseto, Italy. Squadron airplanes- twelve
Due to bad weather our 36 ships returned to their home base. The target was to
have been a RR bridge S of Grosseto. No bombs were dropped, but it was felt if the
formation had reached the target, the 1,000 pounders would have caused some damage.
Thursday, 14 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Dent, James J., Jr., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG Wilder, Rodney R. "Hoss", Lt Col,
Commander (observer)
Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG None McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
Thursday, 14 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt Walton, Cecil Vernon, 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt Maxwell, Max W., 2Lt
N None Sharp, Kenneth R., 2Lt
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt Mizerski, Richard C. "Bronco", 2Lt
E None None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt Dinges, J.W., T/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt Black, Jewell James “J.J.”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 2Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None None
R Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
F None None
381st BS War Diary: The B.B.C. announced this morning that Portugal has leased bases
in the Azores to Great Britain. The British are shipping arms into Portugal; and Lisbon
has been blacked out.
Fried eggs for breakfast, and rumors of C-Rations for the remainder of our
indefinite stay here.
Major Cole’s storm manifested itself throughout the day in the shape of California
dew.
Today’s mission from Oudna: Grosseto R.R. Bridge, Italy.
Cole, Frederick J., Maj, Group Weather Officer, HQ 310th
BG
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
GROSSETO R.R. BRIDGE, ITALY
Oudna A/D, 14 October 43
Group Mission # 178 Sqdrn. Mission # 136
Flight 36 B-25’s 12 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 10:00 Bombs Dropped: None
Target x x x Bombs Returned: All
Down 15:00 Bombing Altitude: x x x
Total Time: 5 Hrs. 0 Min. Sorties to Date: 1,036
Mileage: 895
Thursday, 14 October 1943 (continued)
Weather: Complete 10/10 overcast at the target and around the target area, with base at
6,500 feet. Visibility 2-3 miles.
RESULTS: Complete weather coverage at the target caused the flight to return without
dropping its bombs.
No flak.
An unidentified P-38 was reported to have approached the formation. When the
formation was within about 1,800 yards of it, it made a 180° turn and headed for the
Italian coast.
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (C)
A/C No. 41-29980 (A)
P Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt Evans, George N., Capt
CP Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N None Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt
B Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt
E None None
R Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt
G Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt Mayronne, Clyde A., Sgt
TG Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (B) A/C No. 41-30386 (F)
P Stagner, Howard C., F/O Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt
CP Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt Kurtz, James A., 2Lt
N None None
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt
E None None
R Jereb, Vincent (NMI), S/Sgt Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt
G Moxey, Orville Earl, S/Sgt Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt
TG Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt Frazier, Robert E., PFC
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (D) A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (E)
P Bitter, Irwin S., Capt Samson, George D., 2Lt
CP Cruise, William H., 2Lt Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt
N Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 1Lt None
B Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt
E None None
R Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt
G Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt
Thursday, 14 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 42-64667 “Wet Dreams” (J) A/C No. 41-13074 “Balls of Fire” /
“Royal Flush” (G)
P Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt Flake, Ray M., 1Lt
CP Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O Cometh, Lawrence (NMI), Maj,
Commander
N None Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt
E None None
R Marshburn, James T., Sgt Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt
G Lyon, John R., Sgt Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30002 (H) A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (M)
P Jones, William E., F/O Young, Charles A., 2Lt
CP Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt
N None None
B Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt Doty, James K., S/Sgt
E None None
R Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt
TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI), Cpl F Scott, Ivan D., Cpl
A/C No. 42-64592 (K) A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (L)
P Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt
CP Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt
N Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt None
B Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
E None None
R Darling, Robert E., Pvt Standish, Beverly R., T/Sgt
G Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt Sigafoos, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
TG None Buckner, Roy W., PFC
428th
BS War Diary: G.I. Joe was taken to Tunis where arrangements were made to fly
him to Algiers and from there to Casablanca.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : The 14th
was the date for a trip to Grosseto to bomb a rail bridge there. Complete cloud coverage
of the target area prevented the mission’s completion.
Thursday, 14 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Gena, Gerald M., 1Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Chambers, Allen M., 2Lt Kirtley, John M., 2Lt
N Akerland, Gustav J., 1Lt, navigator None
B Boatler, Sidney K., 1Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Versaw, Robert E., Sgt Colley, Francis E., S/Sgt
G Ripple, William E. "Rip", S/Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
TG Schenk, James S., Sgt Herring, William S., S/Sgt
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt,
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Burkett, William H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None None
B Stewart, Leslie F., T/Sgt Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), Sgt
E None None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Housken, Wayne J., Pvt Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F None Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Douglas, James D., 2Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N Peterson, Donald L., 2Lt None
B Karvel, Roy L., 2Lt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt
G Sviantek, John L., Sgt Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt
TG Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt None
Thursday, 14 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Waugh, Carter H., 1Lt
CP Holley, Hazil L., F/O Davidson, James C., 2Lt
N None Wortman, Robert A., 2Lt
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Snoddy, William G., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt East, Charles D., S/Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Agin, Clealon J., Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Tooles, William B., 1Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None None
B Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Sisson, John E., Sgt Mahan, John J., PFC
F None Bean, Herman B., Cpl,
Friday, 15 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): B-25’s of the XII Bomber Command hit
airfields at Salonika and Megalo Mikra, Greece.
In Italy, XII Air Support Command and other elements of NATAF hit
roads, railroads, bridges, junctions, railway facilities, town areas, and motor transport at
or near Piedimonte, Vairano, Termoli, Petacciato, Sparanise, and Civitanova, and hit gun
positions and communications in the general battle area N of the Volturno River. HQ
47th
Bombardment Group (Light) and its 84th
and 85th
Bombardment Squadron (Light)
transfer from Grottaglie to Vincenzo Airfield, Italy with A-20’s. HQ 340th
Bombardment
Group (Medium) and its 489th
Bombardment Squadron (Medium) transfer from Catania,
Sicily to San Pancrazio, Italy with B-25’s. The detachment of the 71st Fighter Squadron,
1st Fighter Group, operating from Gambut, Libya with P-38’s returns to its base at
Mateur, Tunisia.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: We all enjoyed a delicacy this morning at breakfast when the
Mess Hall Personnel had fried eggs on the menu. They certainly started the day off right.
There was a mission flown by our squadron from Oudna today. In the evening almost all
attended a showing of that sensational picture, “Honky Tonk” starring Lana Turner &
Clark Gable. The remaining aircraft on the base were flown to Oudna this afternoon.
381st BS War Diary: The few planes which remained on this field were flown up to the
new base today. Some of them on to Bizerte, to be modified. This consists of installing
one tail and two waist guns in place of the lower turret.
M/Sgt. Arnold’s communiqué #3: “No flying, raining like Hell.”
C-Rations for lunch and dinner.
Warm, sunny weather at Menzel Temime. Green grass is beginning to appear,
giving the impression that it is springtime. Major Cole’s rainstorm must have stopped off
at Oudna.
One new Sergeant and five Pfc’s were assigned to the Squadron.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
Cole, Frederick J., Maj, Group Weather Officer, HQ 310th
BG
428th
BS War Diary: We participated in the mission from the new base at Oudna today.
The Italian prisoners have been assigned to the squadron and live on the post now.
Saturday, 16 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF): P-38’s bomb a vessel in Leukas Channel off the
W coast of Greece. In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-25’s bomb the marshalling yard
and rail lines, railroad tunnel, highway underpass, warehouses, industrial buildings, and
gas works in or near Bologna; XII Air Support Command and other NATAF elements
provide close support to the US Fifth and British Eighth Armies; fighters and light and
medium bombers hit communications centers of Venafro, Vairano, Sparanise, Latina,
Alife, and the town of Pietravairano; roads, railroads, and junctions in the areas SE of
Rome to the bomb line, between Vasto and Pescara, and at Mondragone; gun positions,
trucks, and military concentrations near Vinchiaturo, Boiano, and Termoli; landing
ground of Cisterna di Latina; and several other targets in the area between Rome and
Ancona.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: On the 16th
, the men were entertained by the Hollywood actor
Adolphe Menjou and his troupe, which put on an excellent stage show.
380th
BS War Diary: During the morning all the ground sections busied themselves
crating the remaining equipment for our move. We were now just waiting for the “Go”
signal. It was a good thing that all was done in the morning as another thunderstorm
broke this afternoon making things miserable again.
381st BS War Diary: The radio reports that in many places our troops have penetrated
the German lines of resistance along the Volturno River.
The Mediterranean is suitable for swimming again. Those who tried it found the
water fine, though a little colder than it used to be.
Fresh beef appeared at dinner, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
We had expected C-Rations again.
M/Sgt. Arnold’s communiqué #4: Same as #3.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
428th
BS War Diary: Lt. Lanning caught an Arab in his tent with a bag full of brand
new clothes. The Arab was turned over to the French police when he couldn’t explain his
presence.
Lanning, Fred H., 2Lt, bombardier
Sunday, 17 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): Weather prevents operations by the XII
Bomber Command. US and RAF units of NATAF operate at a reduced pace.
In Italy, light and medium bombers hit the towns of Teano and Alife
and motor transport at Benedello, Penna, and Pedesso; fighter-bombers bomb and strafe
troops, trucks, guns, train stations, and a bridge near Vinchiaturo, Benedello, Teramo,
and Sparanise; other fighters strafe locomotives S of Ancona. The 97th
Bombardment
Squadron (Light), 47th
Bombardment Group (Light), transfers from Grottaglie to
Vincenzo Airfield, Italy with A-20's. The 99th
Fighter Squadron, XII Air Support
Command, transfers from Barcellona, Sicily to Foggia, Italy with P-40's.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No activity due to bad weather conditions, so most of the men
took off to Tunis on pass.
380th
BS War Diary: Today was Sunday and Church Services were held both in the
morning and afternoon. The entire area is absolutely covered with a thick sticky covering
of mud.
381st BS War Diary: Warm and sunny weather. Genuine hamburgers for lunch and
fresh beef for dinner. Otherwise nothing of importance occurred at Menzel Temime.
M/Sgt. Arnold’s communiqué #5: “Six ships did local flying; there being no
mission.”
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
428th
BS War Diary: Major Epperson paid us a visit from Oudna.
Epperson, Elmer H., Maj, pilot, Commander
Monday, 18 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): XII Bomber Command B-25's bomb the
marshalling yard at Skoplje, Yugoslavia; P-38's follow with a strafing mission, damaging
or destroying several locomotives and vehicles.
In Italy, XII Air Support Command A-36's hit the Venafro railroad
yards, and other fighter-bombers hit gun positions, troops, and railway stations in or near
Boiano, Petacciato, and Vairano. Fighters strafe airfields around Rome and also hit
Viterbo, Grosseto, and the seaplane base at Bracciano, and attack trains on the Rome-
Orte and Rome-Naples, Italy lines. NATBF light bombers bomb the road and railway
near Cassino, the town of Carpinone, the road junction at Castiglione della Valle, and
roads, bridges, and motor transport near Minturno and Chieti. HQ 316th
Troop Carrier
Group transfers from Mazzara to Borizzo, Sicily. The 4th
Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd
Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Gela to Catania, Sicily with C-47's. The 12th
Photographic Squadron (Light), 3rd
Photographic Reconnaissance and Mapping Group,
based at La Marsa, Tunisia with F-4's and F-5's, sends a detachment to operate from
Ajaccio/Camp del Oro, Corsica.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No activity due to bad weather conditions, so most of the men
took off to Tunis on pass.
380th
BS War Diary: Nothing of interest happened today. We are still awaiting orders
to move out. The men kept themselves busy by playing softball and exercises.
381st BS War Diary: Another very beautiful day, with nothing to do. Wild fowl,
including grouse, quail and doves abound in this area. A few of the officers and some of
the enlisted men have been spending considerable time with rifles and side arms hunting,
without notable successes. Feasts of frog legs have been whipped up; some of the men
are reported to be thinking about catching and cooking turtles.
Beef for lunch and dinner. This is indeed incredible. We have had more beef in
the past three days than during the past year. No reasonable explanation is available.
1st Lt. VanZytveld was promoted to the rank of Captain.
VanZytveld, Roger F., Capt, Engineering Officer
428th
BS War Diary: No news.
Tuesday, 19 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, during a low-level raid, XII Bomber Command B-24's bomb
bridges at Porto Civitanova, S of Porto Sant' Elpidio, N of Pedaso, and N of Cupra
Marittima; fighters, fighter-bombers, and light bombers of the XII Air Support
Command, NATBF, and RAF DAF attack the town of Boiano, gun positions and troop
concentrations on the outskirts of town, and an ammunition dump and railroad tunnel
nearby, Viterbo and Tarquinia landing fields, the towns of Cassino and Anzio, the
railroad N of Pesaro and near Pineto, trains near Barisciano, troops near Mintumo, and
vehicles at several points.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No activity due to bad weather conditions, so most of the men
took off to Tunis on pass.
380th
BS War Diary: Nothing of interest happened today. We are still awaiting orders
to move out. The men kept themselves busy by playing softball and exercises.
381st BS War Diary: One year ago today, at R.A.F. Station, Hardwick, Norfolk,
England, the Air Echelon experienced strafing and bombing by a lone JU-88. The date
was recalled reverently by the 28 men of that detachment who are still with the squadron.
It is the only instance in the history of the Squadron or of the Group in which ground
personnel has been subjected to enemy action. The occasion was celebrated quietly, with
lots of nostalgic conversation about Norwich, Bungay and Harleston. For those men of
the Air Echelon, today marks one year, one month and 15 days of overseas duty.
Sgts. Spradling and Eliot left for Oudna.
Eliot, Donner C., Sgt, engineering Spradling, Robert L., Jr., Sgt, engineering
428th
BS War Diary: The squadron had some 3,000 V-mails mimeographed with a
Christmas greeting on them for the boys to send home.
Wednesday, 20 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's, B-26's, B-25's and P-38's
bomb the Rome-Casale landing ground, Marcigliana and Cerveteri Airfields, railroad
bridges at Montalto di Castro, Grosseto, and 13 miles (21 km) SE of Orvieto, and the
marshalling yard at Nish, Yugoslavia obstructing the Belgrade-Sofia line; the XII Air
Support Command, NATBF, and other aircraft of the NATAF devote most of their
efforts to bombing gun positions, trucks, and rail and road communications S of Vasto, at
Mignano, N of Cassino, in Cassino and Chieti, at Castropignano, Carpinone, Arce,
Tratella, and at various other points along highways and railroads. Fighter-bombers also
hit shipping along Dalmatian coast of Yugoslavia, claiming 2 vessels sunk. HQ 62nd
Fighter Wing transfers from Palermo, Sicily to Naples, Italy. The 527th
Fighter-Bomber
Squadron, 86th
Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from Serretella Airfield to Pomigliano,
Italy with A-36's.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : A/D, Cerveteri, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : A/D,
Cerveteri, Italy. 10 planes.
On the 20th
, 36 ships were sent out to bomb Cerveteri A/D, in Italy. It was a good
bombing job. However, one ship was destroyed of another Squadron in our Group, but
the men bailed out safely.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS War Diary: We received our candy and cigarettes today. The morale is very
good despite the many days we have waited inactive. The movie “Cat People” was
shown in the evening.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 139 Date- October 20 1943
Target- Airdrome at Cerveteri, Italy. Squadron airplanes- eleven
This day our command directed our 36 ship formation to Cerveteri A/D in Italy.
Crews report the frags hitting directly on hangars and buildings and also covered the
dispersals well. Many large fires and plenty of smoke was observed. There was very
little flak and it was light. During the course of the trip several boats were observed. All
crews returned safely home knowing that they had done their duty for another day.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Grow, Clyde L., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG Wilder, Rodney R. "Hoss", Lt Col,
Commander (observer)
Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG None McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
(SPARE FILLED IN HERE)
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt
N None
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt
E None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt
F None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 2Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None None
R Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
F None None
381st BS War Diary: T/Sgt Peters and Sgt. Czajka left for Oudna. For Sgt. Czajka, the
journey was an errand of grave importance. Rumors have reached this rear detachment
that the cooks of the 301st Bomb Group at Oudna with which our men are stationed,
know how to do wonderful things to G.I. food. Sgt. Czajka’s mission, therefore, is to
discover, one way or another, their trade secrets, so that they may be applied to the chow
in our mess hall. If it can be done, Czajka will do it --- we hope! There is, however, such
discussion and lots of skepticism as to whether even Czajka can make Spam taste like the
Pork Chops we had for dinner tonight.
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
T/Sgt D.W. Smith and S/Sgt. Daniel Kim returned from Oudna.
Today’s mission from Oudna: Cerveteri Airdrome, Italy. S/Sgt. Orville E.
Moxey completed his 50th
mission.
Czajka, Joseph A., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt
Kim, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
Moxey, Orville Earl, S/Sgt, gunner
Peters, Edward J., T/Sgt, engineering, crew chief
Smith, Donovan W., T/Sgt, engineering
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
CERVETERI AIRDROME, ITALY
Oudna A/D, 20 October 43
Group Mission # 179 Sqdrn. Mission # 137
Flight 36 B-25’s 5 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 20 Frags
Take Off 11:45 Bombs Dropped: 57 x 6 x 20
Target 13:10 Bombs Returned: 3 x 6 x 20
Down 14:20 Bombing Altitude: 11,650
Total Time: 2 Hrs. 35 Min. Sorties to Date: 1,041
Mileage: 775
Weather: CAVU
RESULTS: Bombs hit directly across the field and into hangars and buildings on its
north side. Several aircraft parked near the hangars were hit. Bombs also struck in the
dispersal areas, causing at least 6 planes to burst into flame. One string which fell short
of the target cut railroad tracks.
Three or four enemy aircraft were sighted, but did not attack.
Slight light flak at the target.
A submarine was sighted at 41°53’ N - 12°10’ E at 14:04 hours. It was headed
towards Lido di Roma.
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (K) A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (O)
P Bitter, Irwin S., Capt Stagner, Howard C., F/O
CP Cruise, William H., 2Lt Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt
N Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 1Lt None
B Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt
E None None
R Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt Jereb, Vincent (NMI), S/Sgt
G Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt
TG None None
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
CREWS
2nd
Flight
A/C No. 41-30386 (E) A/C No. 41-29980 (K)
P Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt
N None Ewalt, William F., 2Lt
B Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
E None None
R Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt Standish, Beverly R., T/Sgt
G Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt Sigafoos, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
TG Frazier, Robert E., PFC None
A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (R)
P Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt
CP Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt
N None
B Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt
E None
R Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt
G Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt
TG Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt
428th
BS War Diary: Pfc. Burleson was reduced to the grade of Pvt. And confined to
seven days hard labor for promiscuous firing of rifle. Blue stripes and a black star were
ordered to be put on all the crates.
Burleson, Clinton L., PFC
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : After a
five day rest Cerveteri Airdrome on the coast Northeast of Rome was struck with
fragmentation explosives. It was one of the important dromes from which Axis fighters
had operated against our formation in the Rome area. Photo interpretation revealed that
nine of the twenty-six aircraft present were damaged and another destroyed. One string
fell amongst administration buildings in the Northwest corner of the field. Slight, Light
flak was completely harmless, its range being too low. Some six fires were started on the
field.
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Gena, Gerald M., 1Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Chambers, Allen M., 2Lt Kirtley, John M., 2Lt
N Akerland, Gustav J., 1Lt, navigator None
B Boatler, Sidney K., 1Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E Epperson, Elmer H., Maj, Commander
(observer)
Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Versaw, Robert E., Sgt Colley, Francis E., S/Sgt
G Ripple, William E. "Rip", S/Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
TG Schenk, James S., Sgt None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt,
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Burkett, William H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N None None
B Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), Sgt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R Morris, Raymond J., Sgt Kelly, Phillip J., S/Sgt
G Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt
F Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt None
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Douglas, James D., 2Lt
CP Davidson, James C., 2Lt Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt
N None None
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Karvel, Roy L., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Sviantek, John L., Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt
Wednesday, 20 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Tooles, William B., 1Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None None
B Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Sisson, John E., Sgt Mahan, John J., PFC
F None Frank, Donald A., Cpl
Thursday, 21 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): Colonel Arthur Thomas takes command of the
XII Air Force Service Command.
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17’s hit a railroad viaduct at Terni
and rail and road bridges in Albania. B-24’s hit Orvieto railroad bridge; B-26’s and B-
25’s bomb bridges at Montalto di Castro and NW of Acquapendente and the railroad at
Orbetello; P-38’s bomb a radar station at Pellegrino and the marshalling yard at Skoplje,
Yugoslavia; RAF and US NATAF light and medium bombers concentrate on Cassino,
hitting the town, a bivouac area nearby, and railroad to the S; vessels along Dalmatian
coast of Yugoslavia are also attacked; XII Air Support Command fighters and fighter-
bombers patrol the Naples area and attack numerous roads, railroads, bridges, junctions,
trucks, gun emplacements, and other targets in the battle area. The 93rd
Fighter
Squadron, 81st Fighter Group, transfers from Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia to Castelvetrano,
Sicily with P-39’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Railroad Tracks, SE Orbetello, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : RR
Tracks, SE Orbetello, Italy. 12 planes..
On the 21st, 36 ships bombed Orbetello RR, in Italy. Ten (10) direct hits were
scored on the target. That night, a weekly dance was held at the Officers’ Club which
was attended by most of our Squadron Officers.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Thursday, 21 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Thursday, 21 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
A/C No. 12 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: At noon time we had fresh hamburgers. It has been a long time
since we had fresh meat and everyone enjoyed the change. A large mail call rounded out
the day.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
381st BS War Diary: Capt. Pemberton left for Hammamet, where he will conduct
another series of lectures.
T/Sgt. Starnes and S/Sgt. Moxey returned from Oudna with 50 missions under
their respective belts.
S/Sgt. Orville E. Moxey is one of the Squadron’s original combat men. He
entered the Squadron way back at Columbia, where he became an outstanding and most
enthusiastic gunnery student. He has one ME-109 to his credit, which he shot down on
27 August 43. Moxey spent almost a month in the hospital at Souk el Arba, recovering
from wounds received on the July 10th
raid on Sciacca. This accounts for both his Purple
Heart decoration and for the fact that he is the last member of our original combat teams
to “Graduate”. Pint-sized Sgt. Moxey’s fabulous personality and clean cut handsomeness
have endeared him to every member of the organization. After he leaves there will be an
empty spot in the Squadron which will take a damn good man to fill. Too bad he can’t
remain as a mascot. He wouldn’t like that very much, though, as he is too anxious to get
back to Alton, Illinois, and wow the babes in the vicinity of 3003 Edwards Street. And
someday, he says he wants to take a crack at the Japs.
T/Sgt. Carl B. Starnes completed his 50th
on today’s mission to Italy. The target:
R.R. Tracks 10 miles S.E. of Orbetello.
Moxey, Orville Earl, S/Sgt, gunner
Pemberton, Robert (NMI) « Bob », Capt, intelligence
Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Thursday, 21 October 1943 (continued)
M/Sgt. Arnold’s Communiqué #6: “Chow is still exceptional. Everyone is
happy, even though there is lots of work. M/Sgt. Vardaman nearly caused a calamity by
not waking me up for pre-flight. We have had him worried all day about getting busted.”
Apparently M/Sgt Arnold has been busy too --- wonders will never cease.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
Vardaman, Edwin W., M/Sgt, engineering
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
R.R. TRACKS 10 MILES S.E. OF ORBETELLO
Oudna A/D, 21 October 43
Group Mission # 180 Sqdrn. Mission # 138
Flight 36 B-25’s 12 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 09:25 Bombs Dropped: 12(6 x 500), 36,000#
Target 12:00 Bombing Altitude: 11,150
Down 14:05 Sorties to Date: 1,053
Total Time: 4 Hrs. 40 Min.
Mileage: 819
Weather: At target --- CAVU with slight haze.
RESULTS: The R.R. tracks were bombed between a road junction at 42°23’N - 11°27’E
and a lake at 42°24’N - 11°23’E. The tracks were reported severed in three places. At
least three direct hits were made on the tracks just west of a road junction and 6 direct
hits on the tracks just east of the lake. Black smoke was seen coming from a bombed
area on the tracks near the east end of the lake. Many near misses were reported.
12-15 unidentified enemy aircraft sighted during the bombing run. They
continued on their southward course instead of attacking.
Flak: Slight, light accurate flak at the target and from shipping just off the coast.
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(P)
A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (N)
P Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt Evans, George N., Capt
CP Stagner, Howard C., F/O Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N None Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt
E None None
R Jereb, Vincent (NMI), S/Sgt Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt
G Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt Mayronne, Clyde A., Sgt
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt None
Thursday, 21 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (R)
A/C No. 41-30002 (S)
P Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt Jones, William E., F/O
CP Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O
N None None
B Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt
E None None
R Starnes, Carl B., T/Sgt Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
G Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt
TG Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt Erceg, Samuel (NMI),
A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (Q) A/C No. 42-64667 “Wet Dreams” (R)
P Flake, Ray M., 1Lt Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt
CP Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt
N Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt None
B Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt Marshburn, James T., Sgt
G Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt Lyon, John R., Sgt
TG None Mason, John Joseph, Jr., 1Lt
CREWS
2nd
Flight
A/C No. 41-30386 (P) A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (N)
P Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt Bitter, Irwin S., Capt
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt Cruise, William H., 2Lt
N None Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
B Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt
E None None
R Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt
G Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt
TG Frazier, Robert E., PFC None
A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (O) A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (S)
P Samson, George D., 2Lt Young, Charles A., 2Lt
CP Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt
N None None
B Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt Doty, James K., S/Sgt
E None None
R Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt
G Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt
TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt F Scott, Ivan D., Cpl
Thursday, 21 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 41-29980 (Q) A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (L)
P Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt
N None Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt
B Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt
E None None
R Standish, Beverly R., T/Sgt Darling, Robert E., Pvt
G Sigafoos, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt
TG Buckner, Roy W., PFC None
428th
BS War Diary: Rumors still flying as to our movement. No definite news yet.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : The
tempo of operations continued its fast pace on the 21st with a 36-plane raid against a
railroad track Southeast of Orbetello Northwest of Rome. Eleven direct hits were scored
at three places, a truly fine piece of work. Some light inaccurate flak from shipping off
the coast caused no damage. Again all of our aircraft returned safely.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Gena, Gerald M., 1Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Epperson, Elmer H., Maj, Commander Kirtley, John M., 2Lt
N Akerland, Gustav J., 1Lt, navigator None
B Boatler, Sidney K., 1Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Versaw, Robert E., Sgt Colley, Francis E., S/Sgt
G Sisson, John E., Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
TG Schenk, James S., Sgt None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt,
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Burkett, William H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
F Frank, Donald A., Cpl None
Thursday, 21 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None None
B Stewart, William W., S/Sgt Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), Sgt
E None None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Housken, Wayne J., Pvt Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F None Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Waugh, Carter H., 1Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Hill, Lawrence G., Jr., Capt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N Wortman, Robert A., 2Lt None
B Snoddy, William G., 2Lt Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt
E None None
R East, Charles D., S/Sgt Kelly, Phillip J., S/Sgt
G Agin, Clealon J., Sgt Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Douglas, James D., 2Lt
CP Holley, Hazil L., F/O Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt
N None None
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Karvel, Roy L., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Sviantek, John L., Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Dory, John N., 2Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None None
B Simmons, Bernard B., S/Sgt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt Mahan, John J., PFC
TG Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt F Bean, Herman B., Cpl
Friday, 22 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): The Combined Chiefs of Staff (CCS) approve
the plan, submitted by General Henry H “Hap” Arnold and the US Joint Chiefs of Staff
(JCS), to create a new Air Force (the Fifteenth) in Italy from part of the Twelfth Air
Force to be used in strategic bombing against Germany as well as in support of ground
operations.
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-26’s bomb railroad bridges N and
SE of Omvieto; B-25’s hit a railroad bridge S of Grosseto and Eleusis Airfield, Greece;
The XII Air Support Command, along with other elements of the NATAF, hit town areas,
highways, vehicles, gun positions, railroad communications, strong points, and targets of
opportunity at or near San Salvo Teano, Venafro, Cantalupo el Sannio, Isernia, Cassino,
Montenero, and Boiano. Aquino Airfield is also bombed. The 12th
Troop Carrier
Squadron, 60th
Troop Carrier Group, based at Gela, Sicily, begins operating from
Comiso, Sicily with C-47’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Railroad Bridge at Grosseto, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : RR
Bridge at Grosseto, Italy. 11 planes.
On the 22nd
, Grosseto was the target again, and a good bombing show was put on.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Friday, 22 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Friday, 22 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: The two main events today were: A large mail call that consisted
mainly of packages. The first Christmas packages were beginning to arrive. The movie
“Canal Zone” was our source of entertainment in the evening. It was a Class B picture
but it sure brought quite a number of laughs.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 140 Date- October 22 1943
Target- RR Bridge at Grosseto, Italy. Squadron airplanes- twelve
“What a beautiful day for bombing,” it really was when 36 B-25’s took off to
bomb railroad installations SE of Orbetello. Direct hits are believed to have been made
in several places. Just before the home run 12-15 unidentified aircraft were seen but they
did not intercept. The only excitement on the trip was a little light flak from shipping just
off the coast at the target. All aircraft returned safely home.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Grow, Clyde L., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG None Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
Friday, 22 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG None McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt Walton, Cecil Vernon, 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt Maxwell, Max W., 2Lt
N None Sharp, Kenneth R., 2Lt
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt Mizerski, Richard C. "Bronco", 2Lt
E None None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt Dinges, J.W., T/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt Black, Jewell James “J.J.”, Sgt
F None None
Friday, 22 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hament, Carrol (NMI), 1Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None None
R Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
TG Huston, Rex (NMI), PFC Hunt, Joe H., PFC
381st BS War Diary: One F/O and eight enlisted men left for Oudna, while three
enlisted men went to Hammamet on D.S. Twelve officers and 180 enlisted men are still
on this base. Nevertheless, it seems a little lonesome, what with no missions and all.
M/Sgt. Arnold’s communiqué #7: “War as usual.”
Today’s mission from Oudna: Grosseto R.R. Bridge.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
R.R. BRIDGE 2 MILES SOUTH OF GROSSETO
Oudna A/D, 22 October 43
Group Mission # 181 Sqdrn. Mission # 139
Flight 36 B-25’s 12 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 3 X 1,000
Take Off 10:35 Bombs Dropped: 12(3 X 1,000), 36,000#
Target 13:15 Bombing Altitude: 10,150
Down 15:42 Sorties to Date: 1,065
Total Time: 5 Hrs. 07 Min.
Mileage: 913
Weather: Hole in the weather directly over the target. Surrounding areas --- 4-5/10 cover
at 3-6,000 feet. Visibility 9 miles.
RESULTS: Considerable dust and smoke covered the target area, making observations
difficult. Nevertheless, many near misses within 100 feet of the bridge were reported.
No damage was observed from previous bombings.
Photographic analysis, however, revealed the following: Three direct hits on the
bridge, and one hit on each approach to the bridge. This is phenomenal bombing,
especially so by comparison to our previous very bad luck with bridge targets.
No enemy aircraft. Slight light flak in the vicinity of the target.
Friday, 22 October 1943 (continued)
CREWS
2nd
Flight
A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (C)
A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(A)
P Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt Evans, George N., Capt
CP Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O
N None Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt
B Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt
E None None
R Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt
G Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt Mayronne, Clyde A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (B) A/C No. 41-30002 (F)
P Stagner, Howard C., F/O Jones, William E., F/O
CP Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N None None
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt
E None None
R Jereb, Vincent (NMI), S/Sgt Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
G Wolfrom, Earl R., Pvt Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI),
A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (D) A/C No. 42-64667 “Wet Dreams” (E)
P Flake, Ray M., 1Lt Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt
CP Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt
N Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt None
B Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt Marshburn, James T., Sgt
G Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt Lyon, John R., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (J) A/C No. 41-29980 (G)
P Samson, George D., 2Lt Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt
CP Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt
N None None
B Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
E None None
R Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt Standish, Beverly R., T/Sgt
G Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt Sigafoos, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt None
Friday, 22 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 41-30386 (H) A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (M)
P Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt Young, Charles A., 2Lt
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt
N None None
B Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt Doty, James K., S/Sgt
E None None
R Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt
G Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt
TG Frazier, Robert E., PFC F Scott, Ivan D., Cpl
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (K) A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (L)
P Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt Bitter, Irwin S., Capt
CP Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt Cruise, William H., 2Lt
N Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt None
B Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt
E None None
R Darling, Robert E., Pvt Schmidt, Harold E., Sgt
G Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., Sgt Bruhlman, Otto C., Sgt
TG None Buckner, Roy W., PFC
428th
BS War Diary: Sgts. Goolsby, Gatzkiewicz and Schwerke put on DS to 47th
Wing
to work on B-25 G’s.
Gatzkiewicz, Boniface (NMI), Sgt, engineering
Goolsby, William J., Sgt, engineering
Schwerke, (Glen R.?), Sgt, engineering
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : The
railroad bridge two miles South of Grosseto obtained the pasting from which weather had
protected her in an abortive trip two weeks before. Numerous strings straddled the
bridge. At least two and probably four or five more are dimly discernable through the
mass of smoke in the photos. The bombardiers dropped an amazingly accurate bomb
pattern. Flak was again the only opposition.
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified
P Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None
B Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Mahan, John J., PFC
F None
Saturday, 23 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-26’s bomb railroad and road
bridges at Marsciano and Montalto di Castro; P-38’s hit the airfield at Tirana; B-25’s hit
a bridge in Albania; the XII Air Support Command, RAF Desert Air Force (DAF), and
NATBF attack troop concentrations in the Spinete area, and town areas, vehicles, trains,
railroads, highways, bridges, and gun positions at or near Gaeta, Pescara, Vasto, Isolella,
Sulmona, Isernia, Vairano, and Ancona.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Albania RR Bridge, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Albania
RR Bridge, Italy. 1 plane.
On the 23rd
, the Squadron pulled its best bombing-show of the month from
Oudna. The Albania RR Bridge was hit and destroyed.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: Eleven of our bombers went out from Oudna and bombed the RR
bridges E of Albania very effectively. All the boys returned home safely. Here at
Menzel we enjoyed fresh beefsteak at dinner and let me tell you it was good!
Saturday, 23 October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 141 Date- October 23 1943
Target- Albania RR Bridges E Z02378, Italy. Squadron airplanes- eleven
36 planes took off, each carrying six 500 pound bombs. Today’s trip carried the
boys to Orbetello to make contact with a railroad bridge in that vicinity. Crew members
feel confident that the bridge was totally destroyed. Due to there being no flak the crew
members feel the visit to be an unexpected one. Observations on the trip reveal about
thirty sea planes at the sea plane base at Orbetello and several large boats. All 36 ships
dropped their cargo of bombs and returned safely home again.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Rice, Carl E., 2Lt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG Wilder, Rodney R. "Hoss", Lt Col,
Commander (observer)
Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
Saturday, 23 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Hament, Carrol (NMI), 1Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt
TG None Huston, Rex (NMI), PFC
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
(SPARE FILLED IN HERE)
P Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None
B Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None
R Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
TG Hunt, Joe H., PFC
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt
CP Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt Toltzman, William J., 2Lt
N None None
B Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt
E None None
R Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt Parker, P.J., S/Sgt
G Orr, William J., Sgt Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt
TG McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt F Moore, Melvin H., T/Sgt
381st BS War Diary: Capt. Campbell called a formation of all enlisted men of the
Squadron and spoke to them briefly about military courtesy. Also, he directed S/Sgt.
Hosack to organize a ball game for the afternoon, as too many people have been getting
too much Sack time. The formation then proceeded to police up the area under the
direction of 1st Sgt. Sorrough before being taken over by Sgt. Hosack.
Today’s mission from Oudna: Orbetello R.R. Bridge.
Campbell, Ivan R., Capt, Executive Officer,
Hosack, Mack B., S/Sgt
Sorrough, James E., S/Sgt, 1st Sgt
Saturday, 23 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
ORBETELLO R.R. BRIDGE, ITALY
Oudna A/D, 23 October 43
Group Mission # 182 Sqdrn. Mission # 140
Flight 36 B-25’s 12 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 11:00 Bombs Dropped: 12(6 x 500), 36,000#
Target 13:40 Bombing Altitude: 9,650
Down 15:45 Sorties to Date: 1,077
Total Time: 4 Hrs. 45 Min
Mileage: 869
Weather: CAVU over target. Scattered cumulus en route and return.
RESULTS: Bomb hits were concentrated around the bridge, with several strings cutting
across it. Other strings of bombs blasted the north and south approaches. Much flying
debris was observed.
No flak, no fighters.
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (C) A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(A)
P Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt Evans, George N., Capt
CP Stagner, Howard C., F/O Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O
N None Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt
E None None
R Hildebrand, Edward W., PFC None listed
G Jereb, Vincent (NMI), T/Sgt Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt TG Mayronne, Clyde A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (B)
A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (F)
P Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt Young, Charles A., 2Lt
CP Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt
N None None
B Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt Doty, James K., S/Sgt
E None None
R Dingle, S/Sgt Hinds, Donald L., PFC
G Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt
TG Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt
Saturday, 23 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 42-64592 (D) A/C No. 42-32428 “Little Isadore” (E)
P Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt Bitter, Irwin S., Capt
CP Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt Cruise, William H., 2Lt
N Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt None
B Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt
E None None
R Hinton, Zane R., PFC Buckner, Roy W., PFC
G Darling, Robert E., Pvt Schmidt, Harold E., S/Sgt
TG Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., S/Sgt Bruhlman, Otto C., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (J) /C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (G)
P Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt Flake, Ray M., 1Lt
CP Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O
N None Opeka, John (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
B Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt
E None None
R Precosky, Louis F., Sgt Howell, Bob E., PFC
G Marshburn, James T., Sgt Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt
TG Lyon, John R., Sgt Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-30002 (H) A/C No. 41-30386 (M)
P Jones, William E., F/O Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt
CP Warren, Donald B., 2Lt Kurtz, James A., 2Lt
N None None
B Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt
E None None
R Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt
TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI), Frazier, Robert E., PFC
A/C No. 41-29980 (K) A/C No. 42-32500 “The Saint” (L)
P Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt Samson, George D., 2Lt
CP Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt
N Ewalt, William F., 2Lt None
B Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt
E None F Scott, Ivan D., Cpl
R Standish, Beverly R., T/Sgt Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt
G Sigafoos, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt
TG Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt
Saturday, 23 October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS War Diary: Started having a roll call every morning because of occasional
disappearances.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : The
phenomenal accuracy of the day before was repeated in the raid of the 23rd
against the
railroad bridge at Orbetello. The bridge received at least seven direct hits, the tracks
North and South of the bridge at least twelve more. The photo interpreter stated that
smoke patterns obscured many more. One string was short and another over. No
opposition. Another high point in our bombing career.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Gena, Gerald M., 1Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Dory, John N., 2Lt Kirtley, John M., 2Lt
N Akerland, Gustav J., 1Lt, navigator None
B Boatler, Sidney K., 1Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Versaw, Robert E., Sgt Booth, Jack D., S/Sgt
G Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
TG Schenk, James S., Sgt None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Lanning, Fred H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
F Frank, Donald A., Cpl None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None None
B Stewart, William W., S/Sgt Konchinsky, Herman (NMI), Sgt
E None None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Housken, Wayne J., Pvt Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F None Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt
Saturday, 23 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Waugh, Carter H., 1Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Davidson, James C., 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N None None
B Snoddy, William G., 2Lt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R East, Charles D., S/Sgt Kelly, Phillip J., S/Sgt
G Agin, Clealon J., Sgt Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Douglas, James D., 2Lt
CP Holley, Hazil L., F/O Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt
N None Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Baraniuk, Jerry M., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Sviantek, John L., Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Tooles, William B., 1Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None None
B Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Sisson, John E., Sgt Mahan, John J., PFC
TG Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt F Bean, Herman B., Cpl
Sunday, 24 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): XII Bomber Command B-24's of the 98th
Bombardment Group (Heavy) hit Wiener-Neustadt, Austria; the 376th
Bombardment
Group (Heavy) fails to complete the mission because of clouds.
In Italy, medium bombers hit Tirana Airfield, a railroad bridge N of
Orvieto, and a viaduct at Terni; the XII Air Support Command, NATBF, and RAF DAF
attack communications and shipping targets, hitting vessels, vehicles, trains, roads,
bridges, and the town areas in and around Formia, Sora, Chieti, Minturno, Sessa
Aurunca, Popoli, Terracina, between Ancona-Pedaso, Frosolone (just before it is taken by
allied ground forces), and along the Dalmatian coast of Yugoslavia.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Railroad Bridge, N of Orvieto, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : RR
Bridge, N of Orvieto, Italy. 10 planes.
The Orvieto RR Bridge was hit on the 24th
. Our gunners destroyed three (3) E/A,
with no losses for us.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Sunday, 24 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
380th
BS War Diary: Sunday passed very quietly for us at the Cape. Church services
were held as usual. Our combat crews bombed a RR bridge at Orvieto in Italy with good
results.
Sunday, 24 October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 142 Date- October 24 1943
Target- RR Bridge N of Orvieto, Italy. Squadron airplanes- twelve
“London Bridge is falling down” If you believe the old saying, but our crews
believe Orvieto RR bridge also to have fallen down this day, when 36 B-25’s paid its
visit. Upon leaving the target the rear of our formation was attacked by several ME-
109’s and FW-190’s. Rocket shells exploded like flak. Observations on the trip revealed
many dummy aircraft on airfields, and saw a convoy of motor trailers and several trains.
A worth while trip was everyone’s thought when they returned to the home base.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Grow, Clyde L., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Bower, William M., Lt Col, HQ 310th
BG Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Ritter, Robert E., Sgt
TG None Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Walton, Cecil Vernon, 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Maxwell, Max W., 2Lt
N None Sharp, Kenneth R., 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Mizerski, Richard C. "Bronco", 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Dinges, J.W., T/Sgt
G Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt Black, Jewell James “J.J.”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Hament, Carrol (NMI), 1Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None None
R Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
TG Huston, Rex (NMI), PFC Hunt, Joe H., PFC
Sunday, 24 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG None McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Toltzman, William J., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Smith, Leonard D. “Leo”, 2Lt Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R McDowell, Alva H., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
F Powers, John A., S/Sgt TG Larson, M.O., Sgt
381st BS War Diary: Two new Sergeants, a Corporal and a Pfc. Were assigned to the
Squadron today. They have been in Africa for only two months and are still a bit
mystified by the complexities of overseas service.
M/Sgt Arnold’s communiqué #8: ship #42-32454“Boomerang” filled in as a
spare today. Also, we loaned out two ships, one each to 379th
and 380th
Squadrons. We
now have 15 ships, all in commission, and have been lending them to other Squadrons
when needed.
Promotions of enlisted men created two new Staff Sergeants, one Sergeant and
two Corporals.
1st Lt. Forbes and S/Sgt. Daniel Kim left for the U.S.A. this morning.
Today’s mission from Oudna: Orvieto R.R. Bridge, Italy.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
Forbes, Robert L., 1Lt, navigator
Kim, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
Sunday, 24 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
ORVIETO R.R. BRIDGE, ITALY
Oudna A/D, 24 October 43
Group Mission # 183 Sqdrn. Mission # 141
Flight 36 B-25’s 1 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 08:45 Bombs Dropped: 1(6 x 500), 3,000#
Target 11:45 Bombing Altitude: 11,150
Down 14:10 Sorties to Date: 1,078
Total Time: 5 Hrs. 25 Min
Mileage: 931
Weather: Low scud south of target. 1/10 coverage, visibility unlimited.
RESULTS: Some bombs fell short, while a few over-shot the target. The majority of the
bombs, however, were concentrated on the bridge and north approach. Both the bridge
and north approach are believed to have been completely wiped out.
The formation was attacked by two ME-109’s which were using rocket bombs.
No hits were scored on our planes. A 428th
gunner claims destruction of one of these
enemy aircraft.
No flak.
CREWS
2nd
Flight
A/C No. 42-32454 “Boomerang” (G)
P Young, Charles A., 2Lt
CP Stoeber, Leslie R., 2Lt
N None
B Doty, James K., S/Sgt
E None
R Shapiro, Marvin L., T/Sgt
G Blackshire, Joseph R., S/Sgt
TG Hinds, Donald L., PFC
428th
BS War Diary: Organized an intra-squadron baseball team.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Thirty-
six Mitchells of the 310th
continued the astounding successes of the current streak. The
target, once again was the most difficult target for bombers, a railroad bridge. Photo
interpretation credited the unit with three direct hits and numerous near misses. The
North approach was blanketed with direct hits.
4 ME-109s’ and FW-190’s attacked the formation firing rocket shells. All bursts
were short. One ME-109 was destroyed and a second damaged. Slight flak opposition
caused no harm to the formation.
Sunday, 24 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 20 aircraft unidentified
P Douglas, James D., 2Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Hill, Lawrence G., Jr., Capt Kirtley, John M., 2Lt
N Peterson, Donald L., 2Lt None
B Baraniuk, Jerry M., 2Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt Booth, Jack D., S/Sgt
G Sviantek, John L., Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Tooles, William B., 1Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt
N None None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Lanning, Fred H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Sisson, John E., Sgt
F Frank, Donald A., Cpl None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Dory, John N., 2Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None, None
B Simmons, Bernard B., S/Sgt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt Mahan, John J., PFC
TG Schenk, James S., Sgt F Bean, Herman B., Cpl
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Waugh, Carter H., 1Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Davidson, James C., 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt None
B Snoddy, William G., 2Lt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R East, Charles D., S/Sgt Kelly, Phillip J., S/Sgt
G Agin, Clealon J., Sgt Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt
TG Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sg, None
Sunday, 24 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Holley, Hazil L., F/O Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Burkett, William H., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None None
B Stewart, William W., S/Sgt Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt
E None None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Housken, Wayne J., Pvt Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F None Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt
Monday, 25 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command P-39’s strafe and bomb the landing
ground at Podgorica; XII Air Support Command, NATBF and RAF DAF concentrate on
blocking roads and destroying bridges; town areas, vehicles, radio stations, trains, and
vessels are also attacked; targets attacked are in or near Frosinone, Formia, Gaeta,
Cetraro, along the Sangro River, Kuna, along the Dalmatian coast of Yugoslavia, W of
Lagosta Island and S of Rome; Tarquinia Airfield is also bombed. HQ 324th
Fighter
Group and its 314th
Fighter Squadron transfer from Menzel Heurr, Tunisia to Cercola,
Italy with P-40’s. The squadron, which has been out of combat since 21 Jul, will fly its
first mission on 30 Oct. The 36th
Troop Carrier Squadron, 316th
Troop Carrier Group,
transfers from Mazara to Castelvetrano, Sicily with C-47’s. The 64th
Fighter Squadron,
57th
Fighter Group, transfers from Foggia to Amendola, Italy with P-40’s. The 486th
Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 340th
Bombardment Group (Medium), transfers from
Catania, Sicily to San Pancrazio, Italy with B-25’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: The 25th
was another Tunis holiday.
380th
BS War Diary: Captain Gridley received a pleasant surprise today. Orders came
through to the effect that he would return to the states to instruct fighter pilots in Florida.
We are sorry to see him leave as he is a fine man but happy that he is getting such a fine
break that he so richly deserves. We saw a very excellent picture tonight “The Fleet’s
In”. I don’t know what we would do without our moving pictures here.
Gridley, William G., Capt, intelligence
381st BS War Diary: Swimming weather again. The beach was crowded for the first
time in a long while.
Fresh beef for dinner.
428th
BS War Diary: A four-foot snake was found in Doc Ryterband’s private tent.
Ryterband, Louis (NMI) "Doc", Capt, surgeon, Medical Officer
Tuesday, 26 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Greece, B-25's and P-38's of the XII Bomber Command attack the
airfields of Salonika/Sedhes and Megalo Mikra.
In Italy, XII Air Support Command and RAF DAF fighters and
fighter-bombers attack gun emplacements and road junctions in the battle area along the
E coast and in the center of Italy, also destroying many vehicles and parked aircraft in the
Ancona area, where railroad facilities are also hit; a schooner at Porto Civitanova is left
smoking; medium bombers of the NATBF bomb Terracina and an ammunition dump.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: On the 26th
, we were notified of our transfer to the Coastal Air
Force, as of Nov. 1st.
380th
BS War Diary: We had a sudden rainstorm early this morning and lowered our
spirits very much because the area grounds had just about dried.
381st BS War Diary: Rumors are circulating to the effect that our move to Italy has been
cancelled, and that the Group will be returned to the United States for O.T.U. training in
the new B-29, a heavy bomber.
No mission.
428th
BS War Diary: No news.
Wednesday, 27 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Austria, 150+ B-17’s and B-24’s bomb Wiener-Neustadt and
railroad tracks and installations and bridges at Friedberg and Ebenfurth. Weather severely
curtails NATBF missions and XII Air Support Command operations in support of ground
forces. Fighter-bombers attack Gaeta, Italy and bomb small vessels on the Dalmatian
coast at Opuzen, Yugoslavia. HQ 57th
Fighter Group and its 65th
and 66th
Fighter
Squadrons transfer from Foggia to Amendola, Italy with P-40’s. The 315th
and 316th
Fighter Squadrons, 324th
Fighter Group, transfer from Menzel Heurr, Tunisia to Cercola,
Italy with P-40’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
380th
BS War Diary: The men are now getting very restless. No word to move has
come in yet. The Officers and the men had a softball game this afternoon and all had a
good time. The enlisted men beat the officers, by the way.
381st BS War Diary: The mystery of the fresh beef has finally been solved. The story is
that a supply ship went ashore near here, and that the Quartermaster Corps salvaged its
cargo of fresh meat. This heroic action by the Quartermaster Corps should nullify all the
harsh things we have implied about them heretofore.
M/Sgt Arnold has neglected to send a communiqué during the past several days.
It can be assumed that he is devoting his time and energy to hard work, and is not
carousing in Tunis.
Arnold, Clyde L., M/Sgt, engineering, line chief, crew chief
428th
BS War Diary: Had a rain storm during the night.
Thursday, 28 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): Weather prevents most Twelfth Air Force
operations planned for the day. No missions are flown by the XII Bomber Command.
In Italy, XII Air Support Command A-36’s hit several highways and
bridges in advance of the battleline and attack gun positions in the Vairano area and
transportation targets in the Rome area. The 28th
Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th
Troop
Carrier Group, transfers from Gela to Gerbini, Sicily with C-47’s. The 346th
Fighter
Squadron, 350th
Fighter Group, transfers from Rerhaia, Algeria to Sardinia with P-39’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS War Diary: Another Officers’ party was held on the 28th
.
380th
BS War Diary: The show “Hit the Ice” with Abbott & Costello brought out many
belly laughs this evening.
381st BS War Diary: Rumors are flying so thick and fast that it would be impossible to
enumerate even the more conservative ones. They all involve moving, with every quarter
of the globe being mentioned among possible destinations. Despite the rumors, it is
evident that some drastic change is in store for us. The fog will probably clear when
Colonel Hunter returns from Algiers. It is reported that he is there for the purpose of
conferring General Eisenhower, regarding our future operations.
The rumor that we are not going to Italy has been confirmed by the fact that
planes were sent from Oudna to pick up and return our advanced echelon.
Eisenhower, Dwight David "Ike", General of the Army, Supreme Commander Allied
Forces Europe
Hunter, Anthony G., Col, pilot, 310th BG Commander
428th
BS War Diary: Two transports are rumored to have taken off for Italy from Oudna
to pick up the advanced echelon.
Friday, 29 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12th
AF):
In Italy, 100+ XII Bomber Command B-17's, escorted by P-38's,
bomb the Genoa marshalling yard and also hit the Sampierdarena marshalling yard, San
Giorgio instrument factory, and ordnance, electric, and fitting plants and bridges at
Genoa-Ansaldo; the XII Air Support Command, NATBF, and RAF DAF are forced by
bad weather to abandon several missions in support of ground forces. Troops and gun
positions are attacked on 2 occasions and several bridges are hit; Giulianova harbor and
shipping are successfully attacked. HQ 57th
Bombardment Wing transfers from Naples to
Foggia, Italy. HQ 60th
Troop Carrier Group and its 11th
Troop Carrier Squadron transfer
from Gela to Gerbini, Sicily with C-47's. The 487th
and 488th
Bombardment Squadrons
(Medium), 340th
Bombardment Group (Medium), transfer from Catania, Sicily to San
Pancrazio, Italy with B-25's.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Railroad Track, 10 mi. S of Cecina, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : RR
Track, 10 mi. S of Cecina, Italy. 12 planes.
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Friday, 29 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
A/C No. 12 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Friday, 29 October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS War Diary: Lt. Fisher, Gp Spec. Services Officer is doing a remarkable job of
keeping the boys morale up with his shows. Tonight we saw the much talked about
“Arsenic & Old Lace”. It was spoiled however when the clouds above gave forth much
rain.
Fisher, Earl W., 1Lt, Special Services Officer, HQ 310th
BG
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : (380
th BS did not participate)
381st BS War Diary: Capt. Abbott arrived at Oudna from Italy with the following
advanced echelon of enlisted men: S/Sgt. Munson and Proffitt; Sgt. A.D. Reed, and Cpls.
Corsi, Roods and Scott. Their report on conditions in Italy describes the base in the most
glowing terms, and the towns around the base as being quite superior to anything we have
visited in North Africa. The people are friendly, and hospitable. Food is scarce, but
other commodities are plentiful. Each man returned with a large box of souvenirs.
Abbott, Robert D., Capt, Adjutant Corsi, Ralph R. "Mr. Five by Five", Cpl
Munson, Myron C., S/Sgt, Proffitt, James L., S/Sgt
Reed, Albert D., Sgt, Roods, Louis R., Cpl,
Scott, Arthur (NMI), PFC,
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
(381st BS did not participate)
428th
BS War Diary: The advance echelons came back from San Pancrazio, Italy, where
they had been stationed.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : (380
th BS did not participate)
Saturday, 30 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF):
In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-24’s bomb the Genoa marshalling
yard and nearby Sampierdarena and Genoa-Ansaldo steel works; B-17’s bomb Savona
and Varazze, Porto Maurizio, and the Imperia marshalling yard; weather reduces the
efforts of NATAF elements; NATBF B-25’s bomb Frosinone; fighter-bombers, mainly of
the XII Air Support Command, hit bridges, junctions, shipping, marshalling yard, gun
positions, and vehicles at several locations, including Giulianova, Ancona, Ortona, Sessa
Aurunca, Mignano, and Cassino.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Railroad 10 miles S of Cecina, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: No Entry
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : (379
th BS did not participate)
380th
BS War Diary: After a lay-off of six days, the combat crews of our sqdn paid a
visit to a stretch of Rail line ten miles S of Cecina in Italy. Heavy weather and low
clouds made it impossible to bomb so the flight returned without dropping their bombs.
A heavy mail call with beaucoup packages brought delight to all our personnel.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 143 Date- October 30 1943
Target- RR 10 miles S of Cecina, Italy. Squadron airplanes- two
Today 36 of our ships, two of them planes of this squadron, took off to hit
railroad installations 10 miles south of Cecina. This mission did not pan out so well for
us due to heavy rains encountered before reaching the target, so the formation felt it was
wise to return to the home base and hope for better weather for the next day so that they
could complete the job they started to do this day.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Parker, P.J., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt
TG Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), S/Sgt Hunt, Joe H., PFC
Saturday, 30 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS War Diary: Today’s target from Oudna: A ten mile strip of R.R. south of
Cecina. A solid overcast obscured the target; all bombs were returned.
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
R.R. TRACKS 10 MILES SOUTH OF CECINA
Oudna A/D, 30 October 43
Group Mission # 184 Sqdrn. Mission # 142
Flight 36 B-25’s 10 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 10:00 Bombs Dropped: None
Target xx:xx Bombs Returned: All
Down 15:15 Bombing Altitude: x x x
Total Time: 5 Hrs. 15 Min Sorties to Date: 1,088
Mileage: 934
Weather: Heavy rain over target area --- 10/10 coverage at 4,000 feet.
RESULTS: The flight turned back at 43°08’ N - 10°00’ E, due to unfavorable weather
conditions in the target area.
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 41-30002 (P) A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(N)
P Jones, William E., F/O Flake, Ray M., 1Lt
CP Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O
N None Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt
E None None
R Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt
G Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt
TG Erceg, Samuel (NMI), None
A/C No. 42-64667 “Wet Dreams” (O) A/C No. 41-13074 “Balls of Fire” /
“Royal Flush” (S)
P Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt Williamson, Lloyd V., F/O
CP Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N None None
B Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt Ewalt, William F., 2Lt
E None None
R Marshburn, James T., Sgt Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt
G Lyon, John R., Sgt Mayronne, Clyde A., S/Sgt
TG Precosky, Louis F., Sgt Howell, Bob E., PFC
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt None
Saturday, 30 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 42-64592 (Q)
P Kreuzkamp, Paul J., 1Lt
CP Arnoult, Hubbard B. “Hub”, Jr., 2Lt
N Victor, Joseph G., 2Lt
B Leasure, Oliver B., 2Lt
E None
R Darling, Robert E., Pvt
G Mayhew, Wesley B., Jr., S/Sgt
TG Hinton, Zane R., PFC
CREWS
1st Flight
A/C No. 41-30341 (P) A/C No. (N)
(SPARE FILLED IN HERE)
P Samson, George D., 2Lt
CP Burlingame, John Hancock, 2Lt
N None
B Campbell, Warren Bertwell, S/Sgt
E None
R Rea, Willis L., S/Sgt
G Sentlingar, Charles W., Sgt
TG Dees, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-30386 (O) A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (S)
P Hanna, Malcolm C., 1Lt Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt
CP Kurtz, James A., 2Lt Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt
N None None
B Trevethan, George R., S/Sgt Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Pelkey, John R., S/Sgt Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt
G Camagna, Celest F., S/Sgt Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt
TG Frazier, Robert E., PFC Dingle, Ernest A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-32333 “Lorelei” (Q) A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (R)
P Bitter, Irwin S., Capt Stagner, Howard C., F/O
CP Cruise, William H., 2Lt Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt
N None Mason, John Joseph, Jr., 1Lt (observer)
B Heitman, Oliver C., 2Lt Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt
E None None
R Buckner, Roy W., PFC Hildebrand, Edward W., PFC
G Schmidt, Harold E., S/Sgt Jereb, Vincent (NMI), S/Sgt
TG Bruhlman, Otto C., S/Sgt Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC
Saturday, 30 October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS War Diary: No News.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : On the
30th
the Railroad bridge received a reprieve of serviceability, when ten tenths cloud cover
and heavy rain obscured the target area. Nothing else reported worthy of note. Crews
were the same as for the last raid.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 20 aircraft unidentified
P Douglas, James D., 2Lt Koch, Richard J., 2Lt
CP Hill, Lawrence G., Jr., Capt Kirtley, John M., 2Lt
N Peterson, Donald L., 2Lt None
B Baraniuk, Jerry M., 2Lt Ream, Elmer W., PFC
E None Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt
R Lunger, Quentin L., S/Sgt Booth, Jack D., S/Sgt
G Sviantek, John L., Sgt Ringler, Ryan C., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Buglass, Kenneth G., 1Lt Tooles, William B., 1Lt
CP Sandstrom, John E., 2Lt Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt
N None None
B Evans, Allen (NMI), Sgt Lanning, Fred H., 2Lt
E None None
R Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt
G Rankin, James V., S/Sgt Sisson, John E., Sgt
F Frank, Donald A., Cpl None
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Dory, John N., 2Lt Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None, None
B Simmons, Bernard B., S/Sgt Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E None Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Ramos, Smiles (NMI), Pvt Mahan, John J., PFC
TG Schenk, James S., Sgt F Bean, Herman B., Cpl
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Waugh, Carter H., 1Lt Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt
CP Davidson, James C., 2Lt Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt
N Lick, Edmund W., 2Lt None
B Snoddy, William G., 2Lt Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt
E None None
R East, Charles D., S/Sgt Kelly, Phillip J., S/Sgt
G Agin, Clealon J., Sgt Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt
TG Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sg, None
Saturday, 30 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt Edwards, William P., 2Lt
CP Holley, Hazil L., F/O Sebor, George (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt Burkett, William H., 2Lt
E None None
R Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jack, Robert C., Sgt
G Donaldson, William M., Sgt Houseman, Charles M., Jr., S/Sgt
TG Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hogan, Jack F., F/O Stokes, Louis S., 2Lt
CP Edelman, Forrest J., F/O Lewis, Quentin McAlpine, 2Lt
N None None
B Stewart, William W., S/Sgt Moynihan, Donald M., Pvt
E None None
R Gilpatrick, Sgt Morris, Raymond J., Sgt
G Housken, Wayne J., Pvt Graham, Herbert J., S/Sgt
F None Amirault, Osborne J., Sgt
Sunday, 31 October 1943
USAAF Chronology: MTO (12
th AF): XII Bomber Command B-17’s bomb Antheor
viaduct in France.
In Italy, B-26’s hit Anzio; B-25’s attack docks and shipping at
Civitavecchia; P-38’s strafe and bomb Tirana airfield; weather cancels all NATAF
attacks except for 11 P-40’s which bomb and strafe a tanker off Split, Yugoslavia,
leaving it burning. XII Air Support Command fighters fly an uneventful naval escort.
HQ 1st Fighter Group and its 71
st Fighter Squadron transfer from Mateur to Djedeida,
Tunisia with P-38’s. The 379th
Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 310th
Bombardment
Group (Medium), ceases operating from Oudna and returns to its base at Menzel
Temime, Tunisia with B-25’s.
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 310th
BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
Harbor Install. & shipping, Civitavecchia, Italy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
379th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
379th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Harbor
Install. & shipping, Civitavecchia, Italy. 12 planes.
On the last day of the month, an excellent job was done on Civitavecchia Harbor.
Two (2) ships were hit; also docks and RR tracks. Thus ended a fairly busy month for
our Combat Crews
A/C No. 1 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 3 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Sunday, 31 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 5 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 7 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft and crew unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 9 aircraft and crew unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 11 aircraft and crew
unidentified
A/C No. 12 aircraft and crew
unidentified
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Sunday, 31 October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS War Diary: Today is pay-day. In the evening the game of chance started and
for a little all thoughts of moving and boredom were forgotten as the boys “sweated out”
the cards and dice.
380th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : Mission Report # 144 Date- October 31 1943
Target- Civitavecchia Harbor. Squadron airplanes- twelve
Civitavecchia docks received a welcome this day when 36 B-25’s dropped 216
500-pound eggs. Many direct hits were made on vessels in the harbor and due to the
amount of smoke, accurate observations could not be made. Direct hits were made on the
railroad tracks, ferry terminal and other installations causing explosions and large fires.
The boys report the weather ideal for the visit, and were also impressed by the light flak
that greeted them over the target. Many railroad cars were observed in the marshalling
yards. All ships returned to home base. The crews feel the job well done and this was
proven by photos taken.
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Dent, James J., Jr., Capt Ross, Fred C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Albert J., 2Lt Richardson, Richard K., F/O
N Potter, Eliot H., 1Lt None
B Anderson, John B., 2Lt Haran, J.F., 2Lt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Lysowski, Raymond A., Cpl
G McGimpsey, Paul D., Sgt Stackman, Walter C., S/Sgt
TG None Cangillieri, Liobnick (NMI), Cpl
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Benton, James H., 2Lt Derrick, William S., 2Lt
CP Auchard, Richard L., 2Lt Panich, Milan (NMI), 2Lt
N None Lewis, Jack (NMI), 2Lt
B Snyder, Glen F., S/Sgt Ackerson, Newell W., 2Lt
E None None
R Hoover, Donald E., S/Sgt Liudahl, Irvin Melbourne, S/Sgt
G McCabe, George P., Sgt Barszcz, Stanley G., Sgt
TG Hunt, Joe H., PFC None
Sunday, 31 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 6 aircraft unidentified
P Sowder, Tony R., Jr., F/O Echols, George A., 2Lt
CP Bates, Willie L., F/O Beale, Edward J., 2Lt
N None None
B Blevins, Amos M., S/Sgt Silvis, Harry Cleveland, Sgt
E None None
R Henry, Lewis F., S/Sgt Taylor, Frank E., Sgt
G Ritter, Robert E., Sgt Tippitt, Everett O., Sgt
TG Cook, Keith L., Sgt Larson, M.O., Sgt
A/C No. 7 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 8 aircraft unidentified
P Folwell, Frank C., 1Lt Bounds, Thomas C., 2Lt
CP Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Anderson, Lloyd G., 2Lt
N McBride, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt None
B Blumenfeld, Philip I., 2Lt Link, Byron F. “Bud”, S/Sgt
E None None
R Altobello, Joseph J., S/Sgt Brinson, Lloyd D., S/Sgt
G Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
TG None McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt
A/C No. 9 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 10 aircraft unidentified
P Weaver, Joseph S., Jr., 2Lt Walton, Cecil Vernon, 2Lt
CP Dodge, Charles M., 2Lt Maxwell, Max W., 2Lt
N None Sharp, Kenneth R., 2Lt
B Gardner, Clarence R., S/Sgt Windler, John H., 2Lt
E None None
R Parker, P.J., S/Sgt Dinges, J.W., T/Sgt
G Orzynski, Henry E., Sgt Black, Jewell James “J.J.”, Sgt
TG Papp, Frank (NMI), Jr., Sgt None
A/C No. 11 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 12 aircraft unidentified
P Hanlon, James Augustus, Jr., 1Lt Neumann, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Newkirk, Renford Raymond, 2Lt Carney, James Bernard, 2Lt
N None None
B Hotaling, R. (NMI), S/Sgt Underwood, James H., Jr., 2Lt
E None F Powers, John A., S/Sgt
R Pyles, Deane E., S/Sgt Bixby, Jack H., S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Faust, Robert A., S/Sgt
TG Isaacs, Dwight D., PFC Hunt, Joe H., PFC
Sunday, 31 October 1943 (continued)
381st BS War Diary: Today’s mission from Oudna: Docks and shipping at
Civitavecchia.
At Menzel Termime, usual activities.
381st BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # :
CIVITAVECCHIA DOCKS AND SHIPPING
Oudna A/D, 31 October 43
Group Mission # 185 Sqdrn. Mission # 143
Flight 36 B-25’s 7 Squadron B-25’s
Escort: None Bomb Load: 6 x 500
Take Off 10:05 Bombs Dropped: 7(6 x 500), 21,000#
Target 12:38 Bombing Altitude: 11,150
Down 14:40 Sorties to Date: 1,0958
Total Time: 4 Hrs. 35 Min
Mileage: 815
Weather: 7/10 high cirrus at 15-20,000 feet, slight haze. Vis. 8-9 miles.
RESULTS: Direct hits were scored on one M/V in the southern basin of the harbor.
Bombs enveloped 4 other M/V’s anchored nearby. Heavy smoke made observations
difficult. Strings of bombs caused damage to R.R. tracks, a ferry terminal and other
installations on the southern quay. These hits resulted in fires and explosions. A
warehouse and oil storage tanks were also reported hit.
No enemy aircraft.
Flak: Slight and light over the target. Poor range.
.
CREWS
2nd
Flight
A/C No. 42-53445 “Lottie’s Goose”
(A)
A/C No. 41-13061 “Lil Joe” (B)
P Evans, George N., Capt Weaver, Claude H., 2Lt
CP Hudson, Charles (NMI), Jr., F/O Wolfe, Warren M., 1Lt
N Collins, Vincent A., 1Lt None
B Fayard, Oliver E., Jr., 1Lt Malone, Donald B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Foderaro, Albert (NMI), T/Sgt Marshburn, James T., Sgt
G Mayronne, Clyde A., S/Sgt Lyon, John R., Sgt
TG None Precosky, Louis F., Sgt
Sunday, 31 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 42-64596 “Donna Marie” (E) A/C No. 41-30002 (J)
P Knecum, Walter A., 2Lt Jones, William E., F/O
CP Stagner, Howard C., F/O Warren, Donald B., 2Lt
N None None
B Schoen, Everett G., S/Sgt Smith, Paul F., S/Sgt
E None None
R Dingle, Ernest A., S/Sgt Clark, Thomas J., T/Sgt
G Jereb, Vincent (NMI), T/Sgt Hannon, Robert P., S/Sgt
TG Hildebrand, PFC Erceg, Samuel (NMI),
F Pummill, Earl (NMI), Sgt None
A/C No. 42-64592 (G) A/C No. 41-29980 (K)
P Flake, Ray M., 1Lt Dusek, Ernest P., 2Lt
CP Mitchell, Lenyard C., F/O Baker, Gordon G., 1Lt
N Renton, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt Ewalt, William F., 2Lt
B Feinglass, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Schutte, Warren G., 2Lt
E None None
R Fiumecel, Albert F., T/Sgt Standish, Beverly R., T/Sgt
G Marvin, Lawrence R., S/Sgt Sigafoos, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
TG None Huddleson, LeeRoy L., PFC
A/C No. 41-30333 “A Touch of
Texas” (L)
P Baisch, Joseph M., III, 2Lt
CP Sautter, Carl U., 2Lt
N None
B Micks, Henry B., S/Sgt
E None
R Howell, Bob E., PFC
G Rounis, Gus T., T/Sgt
TG Collom, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt
428th
BS War Diary: No news.
428th
BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order ---/mission ---) Group Mission # : The
month’s finale was staged against the harbor and dock facilities at Civitavecchia,
Northeast of Rome. Photo Interpretation reported seven direct hits on the port
overlooking the harbor from its Southern neck. The tracks between the port and shore
received several direct hits. A grain silo on the docks suffered a direct hit and at least
four near misses, and a few probably hits scored on three vessels (two were tankers). A
warehouse was demolished and oil storage tanks were blown up. Flak at the target was
unexpectedly light. It was a fitting climax to a series of raids that marked the highest tide
of the 310th
’s effectiveness. For that matter it is doubtful whether any unit has ever
attained the accuracy that was ours in the current streak.
Sunday, 31 October 1943 (continued)
A/C No. 1 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 2 aircraft unidentified
P Stewart, Hugh W., 2Lt Whitehurst, Ray E., 2Lt
CP Tiefel, Norman J., 2Lt Holley, Hazil L., F/O
N None None
B Lim, Wing Y., S/Sgt Sierlecki, Richard E., Sgt
E None None
R Kelly, Phillip J., S/Sgt Tow, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt
G Hirt, Fred A., S/Sgt Donaldson, William M., Sgt
TG Jackson, (observer?) Glass, Harry Martin, S/Sgt
A/C No. 3 aircraft unidentified A/C No. 4 aircraft unidentified
P Tooles, William B., 1Lt Dory, John N., 2Lt
CP Jones, Gordon K., 2Lt Everiss, William Raymond, 2Lt
N None None
B Smirnoff, Andrew P., 2Lt, Simmons, Bernard B., S/Sgt
E None None
R Weiland, Ray C., S/Sgt Gilpatrick, Sgt
G Sisson, John E., Sgt Hochstratter, Sgt
TG Hook, Raymond K., S/Sgt Cook, Ray E., S/Sgt
A/C No. 5 aircraft unidentified
P Fleming, Thornton (NMI), 1Lt
CP Fassett, Walter J., 2Lt
N None
B Risteau, John E., S/Sgt
E Taylor, Sgt (observer, gunner?)
R Neview, Frederick J., Cpl
G Mahan, John J., PFC
F None
October 1943
HQ 310th
BG War Diary: Additional Information for October 1943: None
379th
BS War Diary: Additional Information for October 1943: It was impossible to
keep a day-to-day War Diary of the Squadron activities during the month of October,
1943, due to constant movements and separation of units of the 379th
Squadron during the
month. However, the following is a summary of activities of each separated unit:
Activities during the month of October were practically at a standstill for the men
who remained behind in the detachment at MENZEL-TEMIME, up on the Cape Bon
Peninsula.
The men got in plenty of “sack-time” and read all the reading material available
on the Base. Our Special Service Officer provided us with movies a few nights a week,
which we viewed under the stars as we sat on the side of a hill. One night, however, it
rained, but the film was an enthralling murder mystery and no one cared to leave until it
was all over!
Many of the boys went along the beach for rifle-practice, and the shots from their
guns re-echoed among the twisted wreckage of German tanks and trucks, scattered along
the beach.
A training program was begun to keep the men occupied part of the morning of
each day. Calisthenics were led by the officers. The first few days, the boys were lame
and limp, having had no real exercise in months. But, when the kinks were smoothed
out, the boys seemed to enjoy the brief period of morning exercises.
Finally, the month was over and with it the “vacation” ended. Once more the
Squadron was reunited at a new Base and ready for a new month of activity.
On October 9th
, Lt. Canale and six enlisted men were transported by a B-25 to San
Pancrazio, Italy, to prepare part of the airport there for occupation by the Squadron. The
air port consisted of a hard-surface runway, several stone buildings, and wooden barracks
(some of which had been partially destroyed). Very little work was undertaken, since an
argument was raging as to who had rights to the field, and since another Group moved in
to operate shortly after our detail arrived. The detail remained at the air port until the
latter part of October, and then was flown back to Africa to rejoin the rest of the
Squadron. The men who went to Italy report that the Italian people welcomed American
soldiers with open arms, and gladly shared whatever they had with the Americans.
Canale, Philip M., Jr., 2Lt, Supply Officer
The month of October was a busy one for the Combat Crews of the 379th
.
Operating from Oudna #1 and #2, in Tunisia, the men participated in eleven (11)
missions.
October 1943 (continued)
At Oudna, our members quartered with a heavy bombardment group. The first
mission occurred on Oct. 13th
, the target being a Road Junction at Sessa Aurunca, Italy.
Several direct hits were reported.
On the 14th
, 36 ships were sent out to bomb Grosseto, Italy, but coverage was
10/10, so no bombs were dropped.
On the 16th
, the men were entertained by the Hollywood actor Adolphe Menjou and his
troupe, which put on an excellent stage show.
For the next couple of days there was no activity due to bad weather conditions,
so most of the men took off to Tunis on pass.
On the 20th
, 36 ships were sent out to bomb Cerveteri A/D, in Italy. It was a good
bombing job. However, one ship was destroyed of another Squadron in our Group, but
the men bailed out safely.
On the 21st, 36 ships bombed Orbetello RR, in Italy. Ten (10) direct hits were
scored on the target. That night, a weekly dance was held at the Officers’ Club which
was attended by most of our Squadron Officers.
On the 22nd
, Grosseto was the target again, and a good bombing show was put on.
On the 23rd
, the Squadron pulled its best bombing-show of the month from
Oudna. The Albania RR Bridge was hit and destroyed.
The Orvieto RR Bridge was hit on the 24th
. Our gunners destroyed three (3) E/A,
with no losses for us.
The 25th
was another Tunis holiday.
On the 26th
, we were notified of our transfer to the Coastal Air Force, as of Nov.
1st.
Another Officers’ party was held on the 28th
.
On the last day of the month, an excellent job was done on Civitavecchia Harbor.
Two (2) ships were hit; also docks and RR tracks.
Thus ended a fairly busy month for our Combat Crews.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORY
379TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON
SECTION II…Operations for October 1943.
DATE: TARGET: No. PLANES:
Oct. 3 Highway Intersection, Isernia, Italy 2
Oct. 4 Bastia, Corsica 12
Oct. 5 Formia Highway, Italy 11
Oct. 13 Road Junction, Sessa Aurunca, Italy 12
Oct. 20 A/D, Cerveteri, Italy 10
Oct. 21 RR Tracks, SE Orbetello, Italy 12
Oct. 22 RR Bridge at Grosseto, Italy 11
October 1943 (continued)
Oct. 23 Albania RR Bridge, Italy 1
Oct. 24 RR Bridge, N of Orvieto, Italy 10
Oct. 29 RR Track, 10 mi. S of Cecina, Italy 12
Oct. 31 Harbor Install. & shipping, Civitavecchia, Italy 12
____________
Total sorties………...105
Brought Forward…...971
____________
Grand Total………..1076
Total Squadron Missions for month…11
Total Squadron Missions brought forward…143
____________
Grand Total…………154
October 1943 (continued)
380th
BS War Diary: Additional Information for October 1943:
SPECIAL OUTLINE
SECTION
The new month opened as did the clouds above, for the first day of October was
one of heavy rains with the mud getting deeper and deeper. The rainy season, following
a hot blistering summer, had been. In the wee hours of the morning of the next day
another storm struck savagely at us making things even more miserable. The rain that
accompanied the wind blew with mighty gusts, knocking to the ground many of our tents
which housed our personnel.
The rank of Lieut. Colonelcy was bestowed upon our Commanding Officer
Rodney R. Wilder, a promotion which was both well deserved and earned. On the 9th
of
October after several operational missions had been flown intermittently between
rainstorms, news reached us that the Squadron would leave North Africa and settle down
somewhere in the heel of Italy. Capt. W.G. Gridley, Capt. Elmer N. Carlson with five
enlisted men left in one of our bombers for the new base. On the 10th
of the month 12 of
our planes and aircrews were transferred to Oudna L/G to continue operational missions
as the Menzel Termime L/G was closed due to the deep mud on the runway. Oudna A/D,
home of the 99th
Bombardment Group of Flying Fortresses consists of two L/G on which
their four Squadrons are located. The one outstanding and most talked about condition
there is the excellent food that is served three times a day. Nine operational raids were
flown from Oudna with our bombers mainly attacking Supply and Communication lines,
road and railroad bridges and harbors in an effort to sever the stream of war material
reaching the enemy troops at the front just north of the Volturno River.
Carlson, Elmer Norman, 1Lt, personnel
Gridley, William G., Capt, intelligence
Wilder, Rodney R. "Hoss", Lt Col, pilot, Commander
Colonel Wilder seeing the need for relaxation on the part of the combat crews
made the necessary arrangements and opened up the first “American Night Club” in
Tunis. It was complete from bar maids to dance floor and its fame spread far and wide
over the surrounding area.
Meanwhile back at Menzel Termime, the remaining air crews and ground
personnel busied themselves preparing to move, crating and boxing equipment, and
attending the last minute details for the move to Italy.
In the evenings, our main entertainment came in the form of picture shows that
the Special Service Officer arranged to have shown periodically.
October 1943 (continued)
On October 25th
. Capt. Gridley arrived at Menzel Termime, highly jubilant over
the fact that orders had just come through transferring him back to the states as an
Instructor in a Training school at Orlando, Florida. It was about this time that Capt.
Carlson and the five man detail to Italy returned to Menzel bringing with them news that
the group had been given orders to proceed to Phillipville, Algeria, and had been
transferred from NASAF into the NA Coastal Command. We were of course
disappointed to find that we would not cross “Mare Nostrum” to Musso’s “Stamping
Ground” but since a new type of tactical work, upon which we would experiment, was of
both a new and exciting nature, we looked forward with renewed enthusiasm toward
settling down at our new base at Phillipville.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SPECIAL EVENTS
SECTION October 25, 1943
FLIGHT OVER FOGGIA: Story told by 1ST LIEUT. CARROL HAMMENT, pilot, of
Baltimore Maryland, and by members of his crew.
Almost directly over the battleline, 1st Lieut. Carrol Hament had picked out an
airfield on the muddy Italian ground below and began his approach for an emergency
landing. Suddenly the co-pilot popped a rather embarrassing question: “Are you sure
we’ve captured this field?”
Lieut. Hament, a Baltimore boy, whose address is 2912 Ulman Avenue, usually
has a ready answer and is quick on the uptake, but that question had him stopped!
He’d made his decision as pilot of the crippled B-25 Mitchell Bomber; with the
instruments shot away, the main hydraulic line cut by flak, right engine dead, and the left
engine working rough with an uncontrollable prop, Lieut. Hament had to set old “Miss
Baltimore” down in a hurry …. Allied or “Jerry” field below!
The twenty four year old bomber pilot tells it this way: “Our target had been a
road intersection near Isernia, Italy. It was located in a narrow valley through which the
Germans were being forced to retreat. The roads were lined solid with anti-aircraft guns
and to make matters worse we had to dive below low hanging clouds in order to find the
target.
“My bombardier S/Sgt. Robert S. Weinstein (308 Chelsea St., Everett, Mass.) had
no sooner called „Bombs Away!”, than a flak burst cut the hydraulic line and sprayed
fluid all over us. My co-pilot, 2nd
Lieut. Robert M. Arentson (303 South Main St.,
Moultrie, Ga.) started to leave his seat to locate the damage but the flak bursts rocked the
plane too much for him to move. The next hit got my right engine. We saw the oil
streaming out as it went dead.
October 1943 (continued)
“We had to drop out of formation then and “Jerry” ground batteries seemed to
concentrate on us. We ran the gauntlet for a couple of minutes that seemed like a
lifetime. They got our instruments and also damaged the propeller pitch control on our
good engine. We had forty or more holes over the plane: in the wings, fuselage,
appendage, and even the propeller.
“My good left engine was running very rough with the uncontrolled prop. It looked as
though ten or fifteen minutes would finish it, so I headed back for the battle line. At least
we would be over friendly territory if we had to bail out. In a way, we were lucky, for
our formation was fighting off enemy interceptors … they didn’t see us.
“The first friendly field I located was closed in by bad weather, so we had to turn
back and fly closer to the front. The left engine labored for over an hour, how I’ll never
know, and then finally we saw an airfield below.
“We pumped the landing gear down and prepared to land when Bob asked that
“hot” question. I had been sure up ‘til then, but we were all relieved when the first
soldier we laid eyes on wore a British uniform!”
Lieut. Hament’s crew members are quite used to these emergency landings,
having made one in Sicily not too long ago. All of them agree that “Miss Baltimore” and
Lt. Hament are a good combination.
The other members of the crew were: S/Sgt. Donald Walter Wells, Radio
Operator of Huntsburg, Ohio, Sgt. Keith L. Cook, Turret Gunner of Milton, Illinois, and
Cpl. Wilson E. Land, Photographer, of Bridgeport, Illinois.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAMPAIGN
OUTLINES
(Month of October)
THE CORSICAN CAMPAIGN *** 1943 OCT
French patriots and soldiers for the entire month of September steadily pushed the
“German” back to the northern tip of the isle of Corsica. On October fourth, our bombers
took off and struck at the harbor of Bastia, last remaining enemy stronghold on the island.
Considerable damage was done and the raid marked the fall of the tiny isle for late that
same day all hostilities ceased and the enemy withdrew to the isle of Elba and the Italian
Mainland.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 1943 (continued)
THE ITALIAN CAMPAIGN (CONTD) 1943 OCT
During the month of October our bombing missions were centered almost entirely
upon transportation and communications. Roads, bridges, and rail lines were destroyed
and the enemy’s supply lines were severed in numerous places. The airdrome of
Cerveteri was hit hard by our bombers. Hangars, bldgs, aircraft and runways suffered
under the accuracy of our bombardiers. Many fires were started and smoke covered the
major portion of the target. On the last day of the month, the harbor of Civitavecchia
became the object of attack when thirty six of our bombers dropped 216 “500 pounders”
to turn the port into a flaming pyre. RR tracks were torn up and large explosions
resounded as the ferry terminal and other installations nearby were directly hit.
Orders from higher Command have now placed us among the fighting units in the
Coastal Air Force and we are now no longer with General Doolittle’s Strategic.
As a result of this transfer the group will not go to Italy but will move north west
to Phillipville to train for its new job. Our future targets will probably be mainly
shipping and radar stations.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 1943 (continued)
381st BS War Diary: Additional Information for October 1943: Three missions were
flown from the Base at Menzel Termime before a very severe rainstorm flooded the
landing strips and rendered them completely unserviceable. The move to Italy ---
postponed because of a lack of facilities made quickly enough to insure uninterrupted
operations against enemy objectives. Therefore, on 11 October our combat crews,
accompanied by sufficient ground personnel to maintain 12 planes, went to Oudna
Airdrome near Tunis, where they continued to operate throughout the month, flying a
total of nine missions from that base. These missions were characterized by an accuracy
of bombing for which there is no parallel in the history of the organization. At the same
time a small echelon proceeded to our advanced base in Italy for the purpose of preparing
it for the Squadron’s scheduled arrival.
Thus, for most of October, detachments of the Squadron’s personnel could be
found stationed on three bases: Menzel Temime, Oudna A/D and San Pancrazio, Italy.
Also three officers and three enlisted men were on detached service with unassigned, B-
25G crews at Hammamet. Life for these detachments was pleasant in the extreme. As
well as numerous trips into Tunis, the men at Oudna report excellent food. The 301st
Heavy Bomb Group (B-17’s), with whom they are quartered, are blessed with having
among their personnel excellent cooks. Several of our mess sergeants were detailed to
study under them.
The men in Italy report a marvelous set-up on the base there: buildings, running
water, and even fireplaces in some of the office buildings. Although one can’t buy much
food in Italy, the stores are full of reasonably priced articles of good quality, and the
people are friendly and hospitable.
The men remaining at Menzel Temime kept occupied with base ball or with
“catch”, and when the weather permitted, went to the beach. Lt. Colleton entertained the
officers, who assembled in his tent, by spinning yarns of his early life. When he becomes
“A Wheel” he will be known as “J.C.”. Lt. (Pop) Wells, of Georgia, worked hard at the
poker table and discussed southern politics and customs. Everyone became more and
more restless and anxious to get on with the war or go home.
Colleton, John Charles, 2Lt, bombardier Wells, Frank P. "Pop", 1Lt, Supply Officer
The principal diversion for all of the detachments of the Squadron was the
collection, evaluation and dissemination of rumors. Rumor mongering, an art which has
always been enthusiastically practiced by most members of the Squadron, reached its all
time high during October. Most of the current rumors have been following a pattern of
actual fact, and are not based on idle fancy. These facts readily support the conclusion
that something of profound importance is about to take place --- but what, not even the
most talented rumor monger knows, as yet.
October 1943 (continued)
These facts are as follows:
During October, 13 officers and 15 enlisted men completed 50 combat missions
and were transferred from the Squadron. No new crews have been sent to replace them.
Our planes are becoming old and mission weary, and some of them need to be
replaced. This is true also of much of our ground equipment and some of our ground
personnel.
The move to Italy, scheduled and then postponed many times during the month
was finally abandoned. The echelon which was preparing our advanced base for
occupancy was recalled to Africa.
Thus the Squadron, and the Group too, find themselves in the peculiar position of
being an experienced combat force with virtually no combat personnel, and few
serviceable planes; stationed at bases which are practically out of range of desirable
enemy targets.
The end of October finds Colonel Hunter attending a conference in Algiers --- a
conference during which he will undoubtedly learn the answer to the questions which his
men have been asking one another --- “Where are we going; what will we do?”
Hunter, Anthony G., Col, pilot, 310th BG Commander
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MISSION TO BATTIPAGLIA
By 2nd
Lt. Joseph M. Baisch III (pilot)
“Hey, Codd, how many missions have you got now?”, inquired “The Bullet”, as
he fastened his pistol belt around his waist, then adjusted his .45 so it was comfortable on
his hip and examined the spare clips to make sure they were loaded with bullets.
Coddington, Walter E. "Codd", Capt, pilot
“Forty-seven, Bullet”, this morning’s raid’ll make forty-eight. I’ll only have two
more to sweat out after this one”, was the curt reply of the Captain, who was one of the
outstanding flight leaders of the entire medium bombardment group which had been
operating from North Africa since December 10, 1942. The outfit had scored smashing
successes in not only the Tunisian Campaign but also had been highly instrumental in the
fall of Pantelleria, Lampedusa, Sicily and was now intensely occupied with the Italian
invasion. Both men had just finished a pre-dawn breakfast, preparing for an early
morning briefing. “Codd”, as he was affectionately known to his comrades, was standing
October 1943 (continued)
in the entrance of their pyramidal tent, silhouetted against the first rays of the beautiful
Tunisian sunrise. Anyone who has seen the splendor of an African sunrise over the wide
blue Mediterranean can vouch for its awe-inspiring feeling of strength, peace and
humility. The two fellows, both pilots of the mighty Northwest African Strategic Air
Force, were clad in simple G.I. Khaki uniforms, casually preparing for the day’s mission.
“What time is briefing, Bullet?”, asked the Captain as he rolled up his mosquito
bar and covered his blankets with his bed-roll to protect them from the sand and insects
which are the curse of our fighting men who are stationed on this foreign soil, eight
thousand miles from home and their loved ones.
“In fifteen minutes”, remarked his tent mate, as he lit a cigarette. “Bombardiers’
and pilots’ briefing will be consolidated to save time…wonder what’s up?” An air of
bewilderment was obvious, for strong rumors of stiff resistance by the Germans against
our invading 5th
Army’s landings near Salerno had floated around the previous night.
Things definitely weren’t going so good for our boys.
“I don’t know, but it looks like a tough mission. I’m ready to go over so that I
can get a front seat. I like to know what’s going on. Are you ready, Bullet”?
“I’ll be ready in a second, Codd”. A sort while later both men were sitting side by
side in the open air briefing room which consisted of a three-quartered, round roofed
Nissen Hut, providing shelter for the map board, bomb charts and formation and target
data. The open end faced several rows of combat crews who were sitting on steel bomb
crates which were carefully placed in straight lines. The whole thing resembled a
miniature, crudely fashioned amphitheater.
The Group C.O., Colonel Hunter, was conferring over last minute changes and
tactics with Lt. Col. Bower, Group Operations Officer, Captain Gridley, Intelligence
Officer, Capt. Holmes, Bombardier, and the Group Navigator, Major Pound.
Bower, William M., Lt Col, pilot, Group Operations Officer
Gridley, William G., Capt, intelligence, HQ 310th
BG
Holmes, William G., Capt, bombardier, HQ 310th
BG
Hunter, Anthony G., Col, pilot, 310th BG Commander
Pound, William R., Jr., Capt, navigator, HQ 310th
BG
“Looks like a football huddle up there”, cracked the Bullet.
“Yeah, the coach is putting his first team in today”, joked Codd as he accepted
one of the blank flimsies which were being passed out to the first pilots of each airplane.
October 1943 (continued)
Captain Holmes stepped out of the huddle, holding his mission and formation data
board before him as he commanded, “Let me have your attention, men”. The talking cut
don to a buzz, then a silence. “Holstead?” “Here, Sir!” “Allison?” “Here, Sir!” He was
calling off the roll in the order of positions in the formation. After going through the
complete list of pilots and bombardiers and navigators, receiving an affirmative, “Here,
Sir!”, and checking all present, he stepped aside, and in turn the various other department
heads gave out pertinent information. The Intelligence Officer pointed out flak positions,
gave a summary of the military situation in general; the Weather Officer told what the
formation would encounter in weather along the route and at the target; the
Communications Officer relayed his data, and then the Colonel stepped up.
Allison, Royal B., Capt, pilot, 379th
BS
Burger, Joseph L., Capt, communications, HQ 310th
BG
Cole, Frederick J., Maj, weather, HQ 310th
BG
Gridley, William G., Capt, intelligence, HQ 310th
BG
Holstead, James R., Capt, pilot, 379th
BS
Holmes, William G., Capt, bombardier, HQ 310th
BG
Hunter, Anthony G., Col, pilot, 310th BG Commander
“Gentlemen”, the Group C.O. stated, “things aren’t looking so good for our boys
in the Fifth Army. I just received, in code, less than one hour ago, this message which is
self-explanatory, and expresses the gravity of the situation up there…here it is: ‘Situation
critical…..pressure from all sides’. That’s it, men”. He paused, a serious look in his eye,
and continued, “The Germans have been shelling our troops on the beaches and plains off
the Gulf of Salerno. Those boys are catching Hell up there. Reinforcements haven’t
reached them yet. They have been fighting for forty-eight hours with no relief. It’s up to
you men to help alleviate the situation. Your target for this morning is this town”,
pointing to the map, “Battipaglia, which has been retaken by the Germans. You men
have done some excellent bombing on recent raids, but today you’ve got to do your
absolute best. You’re going to level this town, which is well fortified by the Hun. Our
front lines are no less than 200 to 300 yards from the town limits. If you bombardiers
don’t exercise extreme caution, you’ll be bombing our own troops and positions. It’s a
tough assignment, but I have every confidence that you men will do a good job. You
pilots…give your bombardiers a good run today. You will not use any evasive action
until you’ve completed the bomb run. We’ve got to wipe out that town. American
troops”, he added, pointing to a diagram of the target area, “are concentrated in these
sections outlining the town, so you can see we can’t afford any misses”. Continuing, he
assigned the various flights to particular sections of the town. After a deliberate pause he
again stressed the importance of precision bombing, and added, “There’ll be no escort;
however, we have fighter patrols working out of Sicily, and”, pointing again to the map,
“from these points”. Referring again to the map, he added, “We have six aircraft carriers
out here, as well as a great deal of naval activity in this section. Avoid all shipping,
keeping your I.F.F. on throughout the entire mission, and be on the alert to use your flare
October 1943 (continued)
guns. Especially you flight leaders, be on the aware, ready to show your colors of the
day, properly identifying yourselves when near Allied shipping. You have plenty of
flares, so use them. There are sixty ships on this mission, each carrying eight 300 pound
demolition type bombs. You’ve got your altitudes…Take-off will be in the usual order,
to the West…Check your radios prior to take-off…Are there any questions?” Everything
had been made clear to the minutest detail. No questions. “All right”, he concluded, “go
to your ships”.
Minutes later, shortly after 7:00 A.M., the sun still casting lengthy shadows on the
airdrome, Mitchell B-25’s were streaking down the runway three at a time, circling
overhead until the entire group was formed, then a graceful, birdlike circle to the right,
and on out to sea.
I was in the second flight of eighteen ships. There was one flight ahead of us, and
the one to our left, which would pass over the target after us. We turned on the radio to
while away the time with a good commercial program. The chimes of Big Ben were
resounding with their hollow, bellowing roar. I looked at my watch, which had been
carefully synchronized at briefing, and cockily thought, “The old Master Clock is 15
seconds slow.” The program continued, “London calling…this is the British
Broadcasting Corporation. Here is the news: In the Salerno region our troops are
engaged in one of the fiercest battles of the war. American troops have been pushed back
to the beaches. Several small towns have been recaptured by the Germans”. It went on
telling that a crack panzer division had made a strong counter attack…that there was
pressure from all sides. A few minutes later the mood was gay, as the strains of “Ah,
Sweet Mystery of Life” came in. The music was smooth, rare, and thoroughly enjoyed.
At 9:15 we commenced our climb to our bombing altitudes. The haze was lifting, as the
Weather Officer said it would. Visibility was now unlimited. It was like lifting the
curtain for a mammoth production. We were about to witness one of the most lavish
spectacles of our lives.
Off to our left in the Gulf of Salerno, hundreds of naval craft were hastily engaged
in the business of war. Clearly outlined, almost in the center of the activity, a huge white
hospital ship was the first to catch the identity of my eye. Close toward us a battleship
was hurling tons of fire and explosives at the costal defenses of the enemy. Here was a
panorama of large scale invasion: Corvettes, P.T. boats, destroyers, landing barges,
cruisers, merchant ships; yes, even aircraft carriers off in the background, cautiously
hiding beneath a blanket of stratocumulus clouds. The beaches were lined with landing
barges, tanks, jeeps, trucks, and the other necessary vehicles of invasion. Dive bombers
were busy attacking our naval craft. For the first time, I heard the roar of angry heavy
guns over the whining of our airplanes’ engines. There were hundreds of small fires
burning along the beaches and in the inland hills bordering the wide, gentle plain South
of Salerno. Not far off shore, one of our ships was bellowing up heavy black smoke,
evidently the victim of enemy dive bomber attacks.
October 1943 (continued)
Almost before we knew it, we were on our bomb run; everyone tense, alert,
watching, hoping. Seconds seemed like eternities. Then I called the gunner, “Watch this
formation of six fighters coming at us at eleven o’clock, slightly below”. “Roger, I see
them”, he answered over the interphone. His voice was clear and cool. Suddenly, out of
nowhere, eight P-38’s were right on the Jerries’ tails, and that’s the last I saw of them.
No other fighters came close to us. I carefully checked the instruments: Indicated air
speed correct…altitude right on the money…all the multivarious controls in their proper
place. The bombardier was steering us in on the target, giving just one slight correction
to the right. “Steady now…steady!” Almost simultaneously, I saw the bombs drop from
the bomb bay of the lead ship of our element and the bombardier called out on
interphone, “Bombs away”, then a short pause, “Bomb bay closed, clear to turn”. But by
that time we were in a steep turn to the right to avoid enemy flak positions which had
been pinpointed at briefing. Looking back at the target area, I could see we had scored
direct hits on the town, as smoke and dust had already obscured a good look at several
sections. A huge fire was started, flames shooting up at least one thousand feet. Smoke
was pouring from a hundred different places. As our squadron cleared the target, another
squadron was on its bomb run, adding further to the conflagration and devastation below.
We took up gentle evasive action, and soon were winging once again over the quiet,
peaceful, blue Mediterranean.
On checking the formation, we found that all ships were still intact, and if the rest
of the combat crews felt the same as we, they were plenty anxious to get back to our
airdrome to get some doughnuts and hot coffee. Another good program of popular
American dance rhythms sent the hands of the clock in high gear, and before we realized
it, we were buzzing our home field for a landing. Shortly after 11:30 crew chiefs were
directing taxiing airplanes into their dispersal areas. Fight records and ships’
performance reports were hastily filled in, and then our crew piled into a jeep on its way
to interrogation. Here each crew have its personal views on damage to the target…all
agreed the job was thorough. Later photographic interpretation showed excellent results.
That evening as the sun was sinking into the mountains off to the West, Codd was
asking, “Bullet, did you see the notice on the Operations bulletin board?”
The answer was a quick, “No, I heard about it, though…let’s go read it.” Codd
nodded his approval. Here’s what they read:
October 1943 (continued)
15 September 43
HEADQUARTERS, 310TH BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M), AAF, A.P.O. 520.
SUBJECT: Commendation.
TO : All Concerned.
1. It is my desire to commend and congratulate all of you who participated in
yesterday’s bombing of Battipaglia. In spite of the strain laid upon you by having Allied
Troops near the target area and a miss could have resulted in their destruction, you came
through with such accuracy that the mission was a most complete success and a highlight
in the campaign. There is no doubt in my mind that the bombing done by you will be
instrumental in the initial success of the campaign.
/s/ Anthony G. Hunter
ANTHONY G. HUNTER
Colonel, Air Corps
Commanding
“Pretty nice, hey, Bullet?”
“Yeah, Codd, damn nice…by the way, how many you got now?”
“Forty-eight, Bullet, two more to go”.
October 1943 (continued)
428th
BS War Diary: Additional Information for October 1943: In October the first
operation of the month, on the third, was directed at the road junction at Isernia close
behind the enemy lines. It cost us Lt. Brennan and his crew. Lt Keys, his bombardier,
made a successful parachute descent and eluded enemy patrols with the help of the
natives until the German defense line disintegrated around him.
1st Lt Samuel J. Brennan Pilot
2nd
Lt. Raymond E. Berent Co-Pilot
2nd
Lt. Paul R. Keys Bombardier
T/Sgt. Richard F. Smit Radio Operator
S/Sgt. Donald W. Storms Aerial Gunner
Paul Keys brought back the story of the death of a hero. Shortly after target, flak
crippled the airplane and apparently injured Lt. Brennan, He ordered her crew to bail out
and was able to steer his aircraft in a straight and level attitude until they had a chance to
leave the aircraft safely. Just why he was unable(?) to leave himself is not known.
Suffice to say that seen thereafter the plane assumed a diving attitude and that later Lt
Keys saw Lt Brennan’s grave beside his plane. It may well have been that he was too
weak to leave the aircraft himself.
It was another laurel to the wreath for which we shall always cherish his memory.
He was an exceptionally fine pilot, cool, courageous, and intelligent and able. Chronic
misfortune was his inequitable lot. Ironically, his quiet, unostentatious courage
contributed to his passing. In the light of the numerous scrapes that he had been through
he was offered relief from his combat responsibilities after his last close call with death.
It was not the path Brennan chose. Already recommended for the D.F.C. for previous
valor, in a host of 310th
heroes Sam Brennan stands out like a four-star general. A pilot’s
pilot and a man’s man.
S/Sgt Don Storms, his gunner, was taken prisoner. T/Sgt Robert Smit, the last
member of his original crew succeeded as did Lt. Keys in returning safely. Lt Bob
Berent, co-pilot broke a leg in landing and is now a German prisoner. Lt Keys brought
back many tales as evidence of the good will of the Italian population.
A few hits were reported in the town and one flight is believed to have hit the area
of the intersection. On the return trip, four of eight to ten attacking ME-109’s and FW-
190’s were brought down. Intense, accurate, heavy flak after target brought Lt.
Brennan’s aircraft down.
The next few days were filled with dry runs. Truck convoys headed for ports of
embarkation and successive movements to the base in Italy were cancelled. An advance
detail destined for Oudna was cancelled. Nothing was certain save that indetermination
was the order of things and that yellow jaundice was very prevalent.
October 1943 (continued)
On October 4th
, the group ran a raid against Corsica. No opposition was afforded-
-which was a pleasant contrast from the ruggedness of the past few missions. The raid
was supposedly a great success until we were told that Bastia had been taken earlier that
day. In all fairness to the group, it had checked with higher echelons just prior to takeoff
time and received permission to go ahead.
The planes and their maintenance crews left Menzel Temime for Oudna #2
Northwest of Tunis on October 11th
. They were to be attached to units of the 301st Bomb
Group, a B-17 outfit for rations and quarters. The squadron was once again spread over
three different localities. Oudna, Menzel Temime, and San Pancrazio in Italy.
36 Mitchells of our unit were scrambled October 5th
to hit a railroad junction in
Italy at the coastal town of Formia. The target was unhit, the majority of bombs hitting
the East end of the town. A secondary road junction at the East end of the town received
six direct hits. Moderate heavy flak of fair accuracy confronted the formation from four
or five scattered localities. Bursts followed them four or five miles out to sea.
On October 13th
the target for our first raid from Oudna was the Sessa Aurunca
road junction. It was another in the series of unescorted raids. Escort appears to be a
thing of the past. Photo interpretations revealed that railroad junction received one direct
hit. The road just west of the target received two direct hits. On the whole it was a
mediocre performance. The little flak opposition created no severe problem.
The 14th
was the date for a trip to Grosseto to bomb a rail bridge there. Complete
cloud coverage of the target area prevented the mission’s completion. After a five day
rest Cerveteri Airdrome on the coast Northeast of Rome was struck with fragmentation
explosives. It was one of the important dromes from which Axis fighters had operated
against our formations in the Rome area. Photo interpretation revealed that nine of the
twenty-six aircraft present were damaged and another destroyed. One string fell amongst
administration buildings in the Northwest corner of the field. Slight, light flak was
completely harmless, its range being too low. Some six fires were started on the field.
The tempo of operations continued its fast pace on the 21st with a 26 plane raid
against a railroad track southeast of Orbetello Northwest of Rome. Eleven direct hits
were scored at three places, a truly fine piece of work. Some light inaccurate flak from
shipping off the coast caused no damage. Again all of our aircraft returned safely.
The railroad bridge two miles South of Grosseto obtained the pasting from which
weather had protected her in an abortive trip two weeks before. Numerous strings
straddled the bridge. At least two and probably four or five more are dimly discernable
through the mass of smoke in the photos.
October 1943 (continued)
The phenomenal accuracy of the day before was repeated in the raid of the 23rd
against the railroad at Orbetello. The bridge received at least seven direct hits, the tracks
North and South of the bridge at least twelve more. The photo interpreter stated that
smoke patterns obscured many more. One string was short and another over. No
opposition.
36 Mitchells of the 310th
continued the astounding successes of the current streak.
The target, once again was the most difficult target for bombers, a railroad bridge. Photo
interpretation credited the unit with three direct hits and numerous near misses.
4 ME-109’s and FW-190’s attacked the formation firing rocket shells. All bursts
were short. One ME-109 was destroyed and a second damaged. Slight flak, opposition
caused no harm to the formation.
On the 30th
the Railroad bridge received a reprieve of serviceability,, when ten
tenths cloud over the target and heavy rain obscured the target area. Nothing else
reported worthy of note.
The month’s finale was staged against the harbor and deck facilities at
Civitavecchia, northeast of Rome. Photo Interpretations reported seven direct hits on the
port overlooking the harbor from its Southern neck. The tracks between the port and the
shore received several direct hits. A grain silo in the decks suffered a direct hit and at
least four near misses, and a few probably hits scored on three vessels (two were tankers).
A warehouse was demolished and oil storage tanks were blown up. Flak at the target was
unexpectedly light. It was a fitting climax to a series of raids that marked the highest tide
of the 310th
effectiveness. For that matter it is doubtful whether any unit has ever
attained the accuracy that was ours in the current streak.