October 1944 - 57th Bomb Wing

Transcription

12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group
History: October 1944
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For my dad,
Colonel John “Jack” Fitzgerald, U.S. Army (deceased)
“Lil Butch”
John T. Fitzgerald, SMSgt, U.S. Air Force (retired)
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12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group
History: October 1944
The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s Headquarters and individual
Squadron War Diaries. They have been transcribed word for word, from the Squadron
Histories provided by the Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA), Maxwell Air
Force Base Alabama. At the end of each Squadron’s daily entry, the individuals cited in
the entry are identified by full name, rank and duty, in alphabetical order. The day’s
entry begins with the Tactical Operations Statement, from the United States Army Air
Forces (USAAF) Chronology, for the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO). The
history also includes mission reports, mission crew rosters, Missing Air Crew Reports
(MACR), personal mission logs, journals, and diaries made available by various sources.
Invitation
Anyone who has documentation pertaining to the 321st Bomb Group or its members, and
would like to have it included in this history, is welcome to participate. Copies of:
photos (official or personal); orders (promotion, decoration, travel, etc.); Mission
Reports; Missing Air Crew Reports; personal diaries, logs, journals, etc; other
documentation; or information that will help identify hi-lited individuals will be greatly
appreciated, as one of my goals is to correctly identify every man and plane assigned to
the 321st Bomb Group.
My only interest in this project is to honor those who served by perpetuating their story,
and making it available for future generations, particularly the families and friends of
our Great Heroes. If you are interested in helping, or if I may be of assistance in finding
information about your 321st BG Hero, please contact me at: [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-radiogunner, 447th BS
1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS
Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner
Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG
Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)
Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS
John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS
Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia,
T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS
Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th BS
John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th BS
Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th BS
st
1 Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448th BS and friend of: Vernon Curtis Dossey, Capt,
pilot, 448th BS
Vince Mango, son of: Vincent A. “Vince” Mango, S/Sgt, aerial gunner, 447th BS
John J. McCarthy: Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier, 447th BS
Lorraine McRae, daughter of: James Arrington McRae, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS
T/Sgt Rocco F. “Rocky” Milano & daughter Peggy Chatham: Crew Chief of Peg O' My
Heart, Lil Butch, and Haulin' Ass, 446th BS
Bob Ritger, nephew of: Frederic Charles Ritger, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Irving J. Schaffer: T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer, 448th BS
1st Lt Frederick H. Smith: pilot, 447th BS
Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner,
448thBS
Dominique Taddei: author, U.S.S. Corsica (Corsica)
S/Sgt George B. Underwood: gunner, 381st BS
David Waldrip, nephew of: Robert Laseter Waldrip, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
Vinny J. White, son of: Joseph P. White, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 381st BS
S/Sgt, Harry (NMI) Yoa: engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Crew lists
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
CL
O
Aircraft information - serial #, name, etc
Pilot
Co-pilot
Navigator
Bombardier
Engineer-gunner
Radio-gunner
Gunner
Photographer
Cannon Loader (on B-25G)
Observer
Sometimes used
Bomb/Nav Bombardier-Navigator
BN Bombardier-Navigator
EG Engineer-gunner
RG Radio-gunner
TG Turret gunner
AG Aerial gunner
PH Photographer
AP Aerial photographer
CC Crew Chief
Acronyms & Abbreviations
A/C: Aircraft
A/D: Aerodrome
AE: Aerial Engineer
A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak
AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery)
abs: absent
AGL: Above Ground Level
ALO: Allied Liaison Officer
ALW: Alive and Well
AMGOT: Allied Military Government for
Occupied Territories
A.R.C.: American Red Cross
ASC: Air Support Command
ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel)
Assg: Assigned
ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar)
ATA: Actual Time of Arrival
ATC: Air Transportation Command
ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army
Telegraph Service
Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb)
BC: Bomber Command
BIC: Bruised in Crash
Bmb: Bombardier
Bn: Battalion
B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory
BSM: Bomb System Maintenance
CA: Heavy Cruiser
CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited
C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater
C/D: Coastal Defense
CE: Circular Error
CEP: Circular Error Probable
Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure:
tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass
fiber, or plastic. See Window
CL: Cannon Loader
CO: Commanding Officer
CG: Commanding General
CP: Command Post
M/G: Machine Gun
MIA: Missing In Action
M/T: Motor Transport (Truck)
MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat
M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel
M/Y: Marshalling Yards
MC: Maintenance Crew
NARA: National Archives and Records
Administration
NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air
Force
NATC - Northwest African Training
Command
NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of
Operations USA
Nav: Navigator
N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards
NC: Nurse Corps.
NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer
Nickels: propaganda Leaflets
(NMI): No Middle Initial
NOK: Next Of Kin
NRO: National Reconnaissance Office
OAF: Occupation Air Forces
OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab
OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster
OTU: Operational Training Unit
PAX: Passengers
PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator
POE: Point of Embarkation
POW: Prisoner of War (also PW)
PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical
Prophylactic packet
PW: Prisoner of War (also POW)
PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch
PX: Post Exchange
QBB: Base of cloud
QDM: Course to steer
QM: Quarter Master
R/B: Road Bridge
RC: Red Cross
CQ: Charge of Quarters
C/S: Call Sign
CWS: Chemical Warfare Service
D/H: Direct Hit
DD: Destroyer
DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains
found
Demo: Demolition
DL: Dead List
DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle
DOW: Died Of Wounds.
DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in
Action
DS: Detached Service
E/A: Enemy Aircraft
E/F: Enemy Fighter
EM or E/M: Enlisted Men
ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival
ETIR: Estimated Time In Route
EUS: Evacuated to the United States
E/V: Enemy Vessel
F Boat: Flying Boat
F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader
FO or F/O: Flying Officer
FOD: Finding Of Death
Frag: Fragmentation
F.S.: Flight Section
GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK)
GO: General Order
GP: General Purpose/Gun Position
GTC: General Time Convention (railroad)
HE: High Explosive
IAS: Indicated Air Speed
I & E: Information & Education
I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe
(i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name)
IP: Initial Point
KNB: Killed Not Battle
KIA: Killed In Action
L/A: Landing Area
LC: Landing Craft
L/G: Landing Ground
Lox: Liquid Oxygen
L/S: Landing Strip
R/J: Road Junction
R/Y: Railroad Yards
Repl: Replacement
RMC: Returned to Military Control
RON: Remain OverNight
RR/B: Railroad Bridge
RR/J: Railroad Junction
RR: Railroad
RTD: Returned To Duty
R/V: Rendezvous
S-1: Administration
S-2: Intelligence
S-3: Operations
S-4: Supply
SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing
SD: Special Duty
S/E: Single Engine (plane)
S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran)
S/F: Siebel Ferry
sk: sick
S/M: Submarine
SO: Special Order
SOI: Standard Operating Instructions?
S/P: Sea Plane
Sq: Squadron
Sqdn: Squadron
SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action
T/A: Target Area
T/C: Troop Concentration
T/E: Twin Engine (plane)
TAC: Theater Allied Command
TBF: Tactical Bomber Force
TD: Temporary Duty
TDY: Temporary Duty
TLC: Tactical Landing Craft
TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical
Order, and Transportation Officer
T/O: Table of Organization
TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target
Trfd: Transferred
TWX: Teletypewriter Message
u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue
UNRRA: United Nations Relief and
Rehabilitation Administration
L/V: Large Vehicle
LST: Landing Ship Tank
Ltr: Letter
LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action
MACR: Missing Air Crew Report
MATS: Military Air Transport Service
Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun
VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding
Officer
WC: Water closet
W.O.: Warrant Officer
WIA: Wounded In Action
Window (British term): Radar
countermeasure: tiny strips of aluminum,
metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Chaff
WP: White Phosphorus (bombs)
WT, W/T: Watch Tower
XC: Cross Country
ZI: Zone of Interior (U.S.A.)
Sunday, 1 October 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, B-25s and B-26s attack bridges, fuel dumps, factory, and
barracks in C and W Po Valley, including 3 attacks on Piacenza while XII Fighter
Command's A-20s hit a fuel dump and bivouacs and fighter-bombers blast guns and
communications in the mountainous battle areas between Florence and Bologna; the 416th
Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, moves from Rosignano to Pisa with
Mosquitos.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: In a coordinated attack with P-47’s, who dive-bombed gun
positions, sixty aircraft of the Group started the month with a high-geared bang by
placing 100 percent concentrations into Explosive stores and stores depot areas at
Piacenza. No ships lost.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 576/mission 576) Group Mission # 576:
Piacenza Explosives Stores Area in Italy. (K-6231543)
(Group mission report not available at this time)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 577/mission 577) Group Mission # 577:
Piacenza Stores Depot Area in Italy.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: At this time there are 18 combat crews available for combat.
Training programs today included two ships to the bombing range, four planes flying
formation and three cross-country flights. There was very little mail today.
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 576/mission 576) Group Mission # 576:
(445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 577/mission 577) Group Mission # 577: The
445th participated in a mission sent out to bomb the stores depot area at Piacenza, Italy.
This squadron registered a 98.8 bombing accuracy. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
Sunday, 1 October 1944 (continued)
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
CP
N None
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F None
P
CP
N None
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F None
None
None
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None
None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
CP
N None
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F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
CP
N None
B
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G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
446th BS War Diary: The group flew a mission with our squadron sending 18 ships.
Lieut. Meier, squadron communications officer, is promoted to First Lieutenant.
Meier, Donald J., 1Lt, communications
Squadron Mission 404
TARGET: Stores Depot Area Piacenza, Italy
DATE: 1 Oct.1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb.
446th Planes: 18
Major Cooper led the formation. Good concentrations. N position well hit and just S of
main highway. Majority of buildings believed damaged. Many fires, with columns of
smoke rising to 6000 feet. Flak was heavy, moderate, inaccurate, tracking briefly on
breakaway. Barrage type inaccurate over target. No fighters. Lt. Matthews was a spare
and returned early. (Crew list missing)
P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”,
Capt
CP
N None
B
E
R Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 2 (Spare - returned early - did
not fill in) unidentified plane & crew
Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt
None
None
A/C No. 4 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
unidentified crew
Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
None
None
None
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None
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None
P
CP
N None
B
E
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G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 69, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J
Mission: Stores Depot Area Piacenza, Italy
Flying Time: 3:30 (139th mission in MTO)
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl, radio-gunner: (mission 3)
“No. 3) Piacenza Fuel Dump - 4x1000 - Had a great deal of flak - Gunner Killed. Capt
Burandt”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, Capt, pilot
Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 448th BS, KIA
446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Usual rain this a.m. To Base Censor with Chudars, then to Medical Center to see a
friend. Met Barbour @ the RC, coffee, etc. Dinner @ transient mess. Hung around RC
all afternoon, Tea Dance @ 1600. Supper, then to show – GI stage show ‘Anzio –
Nettuno Barrage’ – pretty good. Movie ‘Double Indemnity’. Tough bumming @ nite, hit
it lucky, got a ride right back to Depot.”
Barbour, Marshall H. "Red", 1Lt, pilot
Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp,
Cairo, Egypt: Capt Eugene E. Stocking, 1st Lt Gerald E. Fisher, 1st Lt Edward Krafka, 1st
Lt Ivan E. Dean, Capt Marvin L. Speer, S/Sgt Herbert Dimondstein, T/Sgt Andrew Pelak,
T/Sgt John F. McFarland, S/Sgt Everett H. Clyne, Sgt George F. Murray. Training today consisted of local transition. Morning Report: Officers 93, Enlisted men 338.
Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, armament-gunner
Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot
Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt, bombardier
Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
McFarland, John F., T/Sgt, gunner
Murray, George F., Sgt, engineering
Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot
Pelak, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Speer, Marvin L, Capt, pilot
Stocking, Eugene, E., Capt, pilot
Fourteen of our ships participated in a raid on Piacenza Explosive stores area (K6231543). Lt Muzinich leading our squadron, Good coverage of target area, several large
explosions and columns of black smoke observed. Mission efficiency, 98.9%, bombing
accuracy, 100%. (Crew list missing)
P Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” plane
and crew identified in Mango war diary
Schweda, George J., 1Lt
Brice, David W., 2Lt
Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt
Altman, Irving L., 1Lt
Hopp, Charles J., Sgt
Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt
Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
P
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N None
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F None
P
CP
N None
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F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
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None
None
None
447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 50)
“Target: Piacenza Ammo dump
Flak: HIA
Combat: 3:05
Bombs: 500 lbs
Escorts: None
Plane # 498 (43-27498 “Ave Maria)
Crew: P-Lt Schweda
CP-Lt Brice B-Lt Altman N-Lt Tulley E-Sgt Hopp R-TSG Alpino G-SSG Mango
Good coverage of area especially E center of area. 1 Large and 3 small billows of smoke
from center of target. 2 large explosions observed after bombings. 1 plane lost 1 man
KIA”
Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Altman, Irving L., 1Lt, bombardier
Brice, David W., 2Lt, pilot
Hopp, Charles J., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Schweda, George J., 1Lt, pilot
Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt, navigator
448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
Mission 366 (576): At 0840 twenty-four (24) planes were airborne to bomb Piacenza
Explosives Stores Area in Italy. Ten (10) planes of the 448th participated flying as lead
Squadron. The formation dropped 184 x 500 # .1 & .025 GP bombs from 10,200/11,500
feet. 1 x 500 GP jettisoned and 7 x 500 returned due to rack malfunction. Escort: P-47
area anti-aircraft cover. Good coverage of bombs in the area especially in the east center.
One large billow of black smoke seen from east half and three smaller columns of smoke
from center of target. Two large explosions observed after bombing. Heavy, intense,
fairly accurate tracking flak on bomb run; 12 planes holed, one man killed and one man
wounded. Weather: CAVU with slight haze throughout. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane - partial
crew identified in Dossey war diary
P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, Capt
CP Knapp, Robert Duane, Brig Gen, 57th
BW Commander
N ?
B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt
E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt
R Parham, James E., T/Sgt
G ?
F None
crew identified in Schaffer war diary
Carrington, Charles C., 1Lt
None
Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt,
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
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F None
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CP
N None
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F None
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CP
N None
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F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
Mission 367 (577): At 0856 thirty-six (36) planes off to bomb Piacenza Stores Depot
Area in Italy. Three (3) planes from the 448th participated, flying as last element in the
last box. The formation dropped 262 x 500 # .1 & .025 GP bombs from 11,500/13,000
feet. 26 x 500 GP returned due to malfunction in the lead ship. Escort: P-47 area antiflak cover. Heavy concentration of hits in center of area, with hits also on North portion
and area just South of the main highway. Many fires and columns of smoke observed,
one reaching to 6,000 feet. Heavy, moderate inaccurate barrage type flak starting before
bomb run and tracking on breakaway; 1 plane holed. Weather: Enroute – low scattered
cumulus clouds over mountains; Target – clear with slight haze and visibility of ten (10)
miles. Observation: 100 RR cars stationary Piacenza M/Y. One freighter and possible
DD or Sub (photo taken). (Crew list missing)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner:
“CQ blowing whistle at 5:45. Briefing for first mission at 6:55AM. Second mission
7:35AM. On second mission. Powdered egg, omelet, oatmeal, stewed apricots, coffee.
Carrying 1000 lb (GP) Last element of 18-ship formation from 445th. Target is ammo
dump at Piacenza, Northern Italy. Over target at 10:45AM. Carry K-20. Good photos.
Lt Carrington pilot. Commencing to feel tired at 13,500 feet. Lack of oxygen. Beaucoup
flak. Evasive action. Take off 8:50AM. Landed 12:30PM. Circled field for one hour
awaiting first formation to land. James Davis, engineer, flying tail was killed. Davis
crash-landed and bailed out before, about 35th mission. Flak hit him just above the
heart. Going completely through flak suit. Headache and I feel beat in general. Fried
chicken, diced beets, canned pineapple, bread, butter, water. Moleski, Huha, Ratcliffe
crash landed safely yesterday in Northern Italy at an allied field. Both engines on fire.
Received rations today. 5 bottles beer, 2 cokes, 4 pkg gum, 1 box sour balls, 1 tropical
Hershey, 1 towel (bath) 1 cookie, 4 O'Henry's, 1 Hi-Mac, 1 cigars, 14 pkg cigarettes.
Clear and warm. Today was Davis' 57th mission. I flew my fourteenth. Roast beef,
mashed potatoes, gravy, canned tomatoes, bread, peanut butter, hot tea. Clear, moonlit
night. Retired 9:00PM.”
Carrington, Charles C., 1Lt, pilot
Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications
Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl, gunner
Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier
Monday, 2 October 1944
In Italy, weather grounds medium bombers and restricts fighters to
reconnaissance and patrols; during the night of 1/2 Oct A-20s bomb targets of
opportunity in the Po Valley; HQ 27th Fighter Group and the 522nd, 523rd and 524th
Fighter Squadrons move from Loyettes, France to Tarquinia with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – bad weather.
445th BS War Diary: The operational mission for today was cancelled due to bad
weather conditions. There were 16 crews scheduled for the mission. A plane was sent to
Rome today for rest camp personnel. There was the usual training and cross-country
flights. Major Bounds called a meeting this evening for all pilots. Among other things,
formation assembly and training were discussed. Afterwards Major Bounds spoke to the
new pilots.
Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander
446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties.
“Ate breakfast, then rained, so went back to bed for awhile. Into town with Barbour,
snack @ RC, shave & shower. At training movies for awhile. At RC all afternoon, ate
supper, back to Camp. Took my jacket in to have bombs painted on.”
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. The
following officers and enlisted men were assigned to this squadron from 57th Bomb Wg:
1st Lt Henry C. Satterwhite, 2nd Lt John L. Dickson, 2nd Lt Edmund R. Harvey, F/O John
B. Bokum, Sgt Carl Daniels, Cpl Phillip L. Barksdale, Cpl Edward C. Staub. The
following officers and enlisted men returned from Capri, Rest Camp: 1st Lt Marion E.
Walker, 1st Lt Richard J. Woods, S/Sgt George D. Schnaars, Sgt Andrew C. Dubbs, S/Sgt
Gaston G. Poulin, Sgt Harold R. Bauder. To-day’s training consisted of local transition.
Barksdale, Phillip L., Cpl, gunner
Bauder, Harold R., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Bokum, John B., F/O, bombardier
Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Harvey, Edmund R., 2Lt, bombardier
Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt, pilot
Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt, gunner
Staub, Edward C., Cpl, gunner
Walker, Marion E., 1Lt, pilot
Woods, Richard J., 1Lt, pilot
Monday, 2 October 1944 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: No Entry
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner:
“CQ calling at 6:45AM for chow. Not on today's mission. Pineapple pancakes, oatmeal,
coffee. 3/10 coverage, warm. Met Ike's cousin, John Vink. To attend funeral of James
Davis (killed in combat yesterday). Sent home 5000 francs ($100.00) Cpl McCall sealed
envelope. Left area at 12:15PM for burial services. 2 1/2 hour ride over bumpy road.
At 3:30PM about 25 attended. We awaited the ceremonies for a bombardier on a B-26
also killed in yesterday's raid. Captain Farwell was in charge. Being a US military
cemetery there were many already laid to rest. In formation, we faced Jimmy's flag
draped casket. Upon completion of Chaplain Johnson administering the last rites, the
firing squad of six men shot three volleys. Against a clear mountainous background a
bugler sounded taps. Indeed we shall miss James Davis. Against a W-D order, I took
several pictures. Being but several miles outside Bastia we drove to the seaport town. In
the harbor laid the wreckage of several freighters. An allied destroyer and freighter were
also anchored. The outskirts was badly damaged; mainly a huge cemetery. It was here
the Germans fought a sniper's war. Blue uniformed Gendarmes patrol the city. Boston
streets are similar in construction. It'd been the first time in weeks since I've seen a welldressed person. Stopped at the Red Cross for a sandwich and coffee (5 francs). A rather
delightful and pretty mademoiselle was cashier. Bastia is several hundred feet above the
harbor. Located on the side of a mountain. It is a large sized town, perhaps 100,000.
Prostitution is prevalent. Returned to camp at 6:00PM. Roast beef, rice and gravy,
vanilla pudding, bread, peanut butter, coffee. Washed thoroughly after that dusty trip.
Full orange moon. Retired 9:00PM. Chest feels a bit congested.”
Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot,
Iseldyke, LeRoy J. “Ike”, Sgt, gunner, personnel, 1st Sgt
Johnson, E. V. (i.o.), Capt, Chaplain, HQ 321st BG
McCall, Robert V., Cpl, personnel
Tuesday, 3 October 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: "A" Flight of
the 121st Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, moves from Lyons to Vittel, France with L-4s
and L-5s (squadron is based at Pomigliano, Italy).
In Italy, medium bombers continue to pound road and rail bridges and
fuel dumps in the Po Valley; A-20s, fighter-bombers, and fighters of the XII Fighter
Command hit fuel dumps, rail lines, and transportation in the Valley and support US Fifth
Army forces in the battle areas in the N Apennines S and SW of Bologna and N of the
Arno River Valley; the 4th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, moves
from Galera Airfield to Malignano Airfield with C-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: A rough one today – to the Galliate Road Bridge in the Milan
area. Two aircraft lost and sixteen additional holed was the toll but in spite of the
accurate, intense flak which got the lead ship, a 95 percent accuracy mission was attained
with the bridge well hit in several places. 24 aircraft went to the Giotto Fuel Dump and
covered the area there with 100 pounders causing numerous fires and explosions.
Galliate Road Bridge, Italy
Giotto Fuel dump in Italy.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: There was the usual training in the squadron.
445th squadron ran into plenty of trouble today when they helped bomb the Galliate road
bridge, Italy. This “hot” target is surrounded by a heavy network of anti-aircraft defenses
and the accurate flak cost the squadron two aircraft, including Capt. Russell, the leader.
“Ace” Russell was very popular with the men in the squadron. In the ship with him were
Capt. Casaburi, navigation officer, and Lt. Daniel Galindo, an ace bombardier. The ship
was seen to go down under control and the crew all bailed out safely. Lt. Frank also went
down with his crew. His ship went into flames and its doubtful if any got out. Even with
the intense and accurate flak, this squadron’s bombardiers got their bombs well
concentrated in the target area with 100 percent bombing accuracy.
Tuesday, 3 October 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27740 (MACR-9037 - shot
down)
P Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”,
Capt
CP Martin, John W., 2Lt
N Casaburi, Robert Roland, Capt
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt
E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt
R Plott, John M., T/Sgt
G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 44-28948 ‘Miss Belle
Fontaine” plane and partial crew
identified in MACR-9028
P
CP
N None
B
E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” (MACR9028 - shot down)
Frank, Robert R., 1Lt
Reed, Donald C., 1Lt
None
Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt
Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl
Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt
Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St. Louis’
plane and partial crew identified in
MACR-9028
McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt
None
Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
445th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 9028:
A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” (MACR-9028 – hit by flak, went down in flames)
P Frank, Robert R., 1Lt – KIA, buried in Florence, Italy
CP Reed, Donald C., 1Lt – KIA, buried in Florence, Italy
N None
B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt – KIA, buried in Florence, Italy
E Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl – KIA, buried in Florence, Italy
R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt – KIA, buried in Florence, Italy
G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt – KIA, buried in Florence, Italy
F None
Eyewitness Accounts: Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
445th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF
321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 650
7 October 1944
AG-360.33 – Frank, Robert R. (0) and Crew.
SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report.
1. On 3 October 1944, after a raid on the Galliate Road Bridge (J-930673), Italy,
aircraft 43-27753, B-25J received a direct flak hit in the left engine, causing and
explosion and the left wing to fall away. The plane was seen to go down out of control
and believed to have crashed into the ground at J-9268, just west of the target. There
were no parachutes reported. The following observations were noted by various
participants in the raid:
a. Sergeant Gerald M. Bertling, tail gunner in aircraft 44-28948, the right wing
plane of the fourth element in the same flight in which the plane in question was flying,
gives the following report of his observations:
“After we began our bomb run we encountered heavy, intense and accurate
flak. A few seconds before the bombs were released, I saw two large pieces of metal fly
past our element. I turned in time to see the left wing plane of the first element on fire
sliding under the formation and losing altitude quickly. It began to spin and after it lost
3000 feet, one wing fell away and it began to spin faster. I saw the plane crash and
burning a few miles from the target. I did not see any parachutes leave the plane.”
b. First Lieutenant Elwood F. McLaughlin Jr., pilot of aircraft 43-4008, flying
on the opposite wing of the plane concerned, makes the following statements on his
observations:
“Approximately four seconds before “bombs away”, Lt. Frank’s plane
appeared to receive a direct flak hit in the left engine. The engine exploded and burst into
flames. For a second, the left wing rose and then the plane slid off to the left. The entire
left wing was burning when I lost sight of it.”
c. Staff Sergeant William A. Smith, tail gunner of aircraft 43-4008, flying on
the opposite wing of the airplane in question, states as follows:
“Just before the bombs release point, I noticed a trail of flame coming from
behind our left rudder. The next instant the aircraft came into view. The entire left side
of it seemed to be engulfed in flames. Then the plane rolled over on its left side and
started downward out of control leaving a trail of burning fragments. I did not observe
any parachutes. We then went into a steep bank and I was unable to see the plane in
question after we leveled off.”
LEON F. HATCHER, JR.
Captain, Air Corps,
Operations Officer.
(Attachment to MAC Report,
Frank, Robert R. (0) and Crew,
B-25J, A/C No. 43-27553, 7 October 1944).
Incl 4.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS: Extract From: Graves Registration Documents - File No. A.V. 1518/45
Airbase-Headquarters E(v) 203/VII (Lonante) ________________________Oct. 4, 1944
Referring to: Supreme Command, File No. 2f 63 e P.O.W.s
Subject
: Dead Members of enemy airforces. (general (V)
To
: Quartermaster-General and Commander in Chief SW
On October 3, 1944 about 14.10 enemy aircraft crashed burning, about 2.5
km north-east Trecate, Province Novara in Upper Italy, after hit by anti-aircraft. Army
grid square map leaf 44 WL 9c.
One crew-member tried to save his life by bailing out. Because the chute
already was burning, this crew member was killed, like the 5 crew-members who
remained in the plane.
Place and time of interment: Crew was interred on October 5, 1944 on Cemetery of
Trecate, Province Novara, Upper Italy.
Grave No. 50 Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Grave No. 51 Frank, Robert R., 1Lt, pilot
Grave No. 52 Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl, engineer-gunner
Grave No. 53 Reed, Donald C., 1Lt, pilot
Grave No. 54 Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
Grave No. 55 Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt, bombardier
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A/C No. 43-27740 shot down (MACR 9037 – hit by flak, crashed)
P Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, Capt – MIA, POW, returned
CP Martin, John W., 2Lt – MIA, returned 11 Nov 44
N Casaburi, Robert Roland, Capt – MIA, POW, returned
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt – MIA, POW, returned
E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt – MIA, POW, returned
R Plott, John M., T/Sgt – MIA, POW, returned
G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl – WIA, MIA, POW, returned
F None
Eyewitness Account: Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 650
7 October 1944
AG-360.33 – Russell, Lawrence L. (0) and Crew.
1. On 3 October 1944, B-25J, Aircraft 43-27740, lead aircraft of a 36 bomber
formation - piloted by Captain Lawrence L Russell – received a direct flak hit in the right
engine in an attack on a road bridge (J-930673) at Galliate, Italy. The engine burst into
flames and then smoke. The pilot kept the bomber on the bomb run until the bombs were
dropped. After the bombs were away, the plane fell out of formation and began to lose
altitude quickly. When last seen the bomber was under control at approximately 6000
feet and the right engine was smoking badly at J-9560. No parachutes were reported.
Following are statements of observations made by two participants in the raid.
a. Second Lieutenant Harold L. Cox, co-pilot in the lead aircraft of the second
element flying immediately behind the airplane in question, gives the following report of
his observations:
“Approximately five seconds before the bomb release point, Captain
Russell’s bomber received a flak hit in the right engine. There was a burst of flame
which went out immediately, followed by gray smoke. The plane jerked sharply to the
right and left several times, but he kept it under control until the bombs were away. As
we broke away from the target, Captain Russell completed a 180 degree turn and went off
to our right. At this time he had not feathered the right engine. After making our 180
degree turn enroute to the IP, I observed Captain Russell’s plane under control and
holding altitude well, but the right engine was still smoking. As we turned to the left on
the IP, it appeared as if Captain Russell was turning to follow. He was in the vicinity of
Novara. Approximately 30 seconds after we completed our turn on course, Captain
Russell called, saying ‘Anyone in the Drybeef formation. This is 740. I’M going down.’
I was on VHF at the time and heard his call loud and clear. Immediately I asked for his
position. His only reply was ‘This is 740 going down’. I called again for his position but
received no answer.”
b. Second Lieutenant Max E. Lewis, co-pilot in the left wing plane of the
fourth element of the same flight in which the aircraft in question was flying, states as
follows:
“I did not realize that aircraft 740 (43-27740) was in serious trouble until
approximately two minutes after the bombs were away. At that time, I heard Captain
Russell say that his front turret gunner was wounded and that he was going down. He
repeated the call that he was going down.”
LEON F. HATCHER, JR.
Captain, Air Corps,
Operations Officer.
(Attachment to MAC Report,
Russell, Lawrence L. (0) and Crew,
B-25J, A/C No. 43-27740, 7 October 1944).
Incl 4.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 579/mission 579) Group Mission # 579:
446th BS War Diary: Sergeants Rousos, McCarty, McKearnin, Mygrant and Poorman
are promoted to Technical Sergeant; they are radio operator-gunners.
McCarty, Lyle (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner
McKearnin, William J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Mygrant, Robert F., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Poorman, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Rousos, Milton P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
TARGET: Galliate Road Bridge, Italy
DATE: 3 Oct.1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo.
446th Planes: 15
Captain Russell led the formation. Largest concentration across W approach to bridge. E
approach hit and center of bridge believed hit. Smoke made observation difficult. Flak
was heavy, intense from the target. Two planes were lost. No chutes seen. 16 planes
holed. No fighters. Lt. Grove returned early with engine trouble. Lt. Hively filled in
with the 445th Sqdn. (Crew list missing)
Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, Capt, pilot, 445th BS
P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt, pilot
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”,
Capt
CP
N None
B
E
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 2 (Spare - filled in with 445th
BS) unidentified plane & crew
Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt, pilot
None
None
A/C No. 4 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
unidentified crew
Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 70, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Mission: Galliate Road Bridge, Italy
Flying Time: 3:50 (140th mission in MTO)
“No. 4) Milan R.R. Bridge. Flak for about twenty minutes. Saw German sub off the
coast. One Ship Lost. Direct Hit. Miller on Ship. Burandt”
Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS, KIA
“Got PX rations @ 0800. In to town, snack @ RC. Down to San Carlos theatre, got
tickets for opera. Had a chat with MK. Went to opera with Chudars & Barbour – ‘The
Barber of Seville’ – fine performance. Supper @ transient mess. Back to Repple Depot.
All officers restricted eff. 2400, this date. Marshall Barbour, 5105 So. E. 38th Avenue,
Portland, Oregon.”
447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men left for Rest Camp,
Rome, Italy: Capt Leroy Alger, 1st Lt Edward Gates, S/Sgt Ernest E. Byrn, S/Sgt Hughie
L. Curry, S/Sgt Frank J. Flowers, S/Sgt Robert P. Quintenz. The following enlisted men
returned from Rest Came, Rome, Italy: S/Sgt Edward S. Carpenter, Cpl Cyril Gralke,
Cpl Pasquale J. Rainone, Cpl Harold F. Siebert. To-day’s training consisted of local
transition.
Alger, LeRoy (NMI), Capt, pilot
Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Carpenter, Edward S., S/Sgt, armament
Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt, gunner
Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
Gralke, Cyril (NMI), Cpl, transportation
Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Rainone, Pasquale J., Cpl, supply
Siebert, Harold F., Cpl, mess
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 578/mission 578) Group Mission # 578: First
Mission: Three of our planes participated in a raid on the Galliate Road Bridge (J930664) Lt Schweda led our squadron. Large concentration across bridge approach
center and east approach of bridge hit. Mission efficiency 100%, Bombing accuracy
100%. (Crew list missing)
Schweda, George J., 1Lt, pilot
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # 579:
Second Mission: Twelve of our planes participated in a raid on the Giotto Fuel Dumps
(F-38033). Capt Murray led our squadron. Area well covered with explosions, fire and
black smoke observed. Mission efficiency 94.5%, bombing accuracy 94.5%. (Crew list
missing)
P Murray, Richard E., Capt, pilot
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F
None
crew identified in Rogowski war diary
Cunningham, Robert T., 1Lt
None
Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” plane
Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt
None
Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt
Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt
Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
“Target: Giotto Fuel Dump
Flak: None Combat: 3:00
Bombs: 100 lbs
Escorts: None
Plane # 079 (43-4079 “Little David”)
Crew: P-Lt Dean
CP-Lt Murchland B-Lt Colgan E-SSG Partee R-TSG Alpino G SSG Mango
Area well covered with bombs causing explosions, fires and black smoke. In fuel area, 1
bright blue flame and 1 red/yellow flame observed flashing quickly to length of 200 feet.”
Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt, bombardier
Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt, pilot
Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “62nd
mission, flew with Lt. Cunningham as bombardier, bombed Giotto fuel dump, nice
bombing, no opposition.”
Cunningham, Robert T., 1Lt, pilot
Mission 368 (578): At 1202 thirty-six (36) planes off to bomb Galliate Road Bridge in
Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th participated flying as lead in the third flight. The
formation dropped 136 x 1000 # .1 & .01 GP bombs. 4 x 1000 # jettisoned due to enemy
action hitting lead plane and 4 x 1000 # GP returned due to bombardier’s error. No
escort. Large concentration of bombs observed across west approach to bridge. East
approach hit and center of bridge believe hit although smoke made observations of bomb
hits of last flight difficult. Observation: Possible submarine at P-4000 at 1440 hours; one
large splash seen leaving an oil slick. 100/150 RR cars observed at Voghera M/Y.
Heavy, intense, accurate flak on bomb run, over target, and on breakaway, with several
red bursts reported. Heavy, moderate, out of range flak from Vigevano area, North of
Torreberretti, and Cameri area. Heavy, scant to moderate, inaccurate out of range flak
from Vercelli and from a small boat off South Margherita Ligure. 16 A/C holed, 2 A/C
lost, 1 A/C, formation leader, hit by flak over the target last seen heading S.E. on single
engine at 6000 feet under control at J-700301 at 1440 hours. 1 B-25 hit just after bombs
away, exploding and losing left wing. No chutes seen. Plane crashed and burned at J920680 at 1420 hours. Weather: CAVU. (Crew list missing)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
Mission 369 (579): At 1349 twenty-four (24) B-25s took off to bomb Giotto Fuel dump
in Italy. Twelve (12) planes from the 448th participated, flying as second flight. The
formation dropped 451 x 100 GP mixed fusing (.1 & .025) and (.1 & instantaneous) from
11,000/11,500 feet. 29 x 100 GP jettisoned in water off Cape Corse due to rack
malfunction. No escort. Area well covered with bombs causing explosions, fires and
black smoke. In fuel area one bright blue flame and one red/yellow flame flashed quickly
to over 100 feet. No flak or E/A. Weather: CAVU. Observation: one sub crash diving
at K-4820, one sub surfaced and heading North at Sestri Levante, three (3) large ships
and one medium vessel at La Spezia. (Crew list missing)
Norris, Grafton R., 1Lt, pilot
P
CP
N None
B
E
R Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl
G
F None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
“CQ blowing whistle at 6:55AM. Briefing at 9:50AM. Cool, clear, sunny morning.
Pancakes, bacon, whole wheat cereal, marmalade, coffee, tomato juice. Still shaving
every morning. Briefing changed to 12:30PM. Eating early chow at 10:45. I have a
premonition. Feel a bit nervous. Rather I didn't fly. Take off 1:50PM. Target is at
Giotto, Italy (fuel dump). Over target 3:35PM. Milk run. Lt Norris pilot. Rather cold,
very clear day. Feeling rather punk. Hit target. Landed 5:05PM. 445th lost two ships
over target near Milan. A burst of flak blew up one ship. The concussion sent another
ship into a spin. S-2 said a "May-day" was received. The first ship's crew is finito. Roast
beef, gravy, navy beans, carrots, peas, fruit salad, bread, jelly. USO show this afternoon
while we were on mission. Joe Ryan over and feeling a bit intoxicated. Being a rather
boisterous individual causes one to get a rather bad impression. Visited Taylor at 445th.
His bunkmate Hickey went down over target today. Came back with me to club. Had
several Tom Collins. Feeling punk. Retired 9:30PM.”
Hickey, William R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th, BS
Norris, Grafton R., 1Lt, pilot
Ryan, Joseph C. "Joe", Sgt, personnel, (detail Sgt)
Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Wednesday, 4 October 1944
In Italy, weather restricts medium bombers to attacks on 2 bridges at
Bistagno and Villafranca d'Asti; fighter-bombers closely support ground forces fighting
in the Loiano-Quinzanod'Oglio -Sassoleone areas, and hit communications N of the battle
areas; HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and the 84th, 85th and 86th Bombardment
Squadrons (Light) move from Follonica to Rosignano Airfield with A-20s; HQ 79th
Fighter Group and the 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons move from Southern France to Iesi
with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two 12 plane mission abortive due to weather.
Pontetidone R.R. Bridge, Italy
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Five crews scheduled for the mission failed to take off due to
weather. The bad conditions in the air and on the ground kept 10 other crews inactive.
Approximately 12 radio gunners were taken to the line and given instructions on
bombing procedure, bomb racks and malfunctions among other points of bombing. In
the future radio gunners may be used as wing bombardiers, cutting the crew down to 5.
Stoves were issued to squadron personnel today on a raffle basis due to the fact that there
weren’t enough stoves for everyone. Those unlucky personnel who failed to draw a stove
are constructing their own from 50 gallon oil drums and 90 mm shell casing, the later
being used as stovepipe. American ingenuity forges to the front.
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
Wednesday, 4 October 1944 (continued)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
10/04/44:
“One year ago today, I arrived in Italy from Africa. I recall it was just
such a drizzling rain as we have tonight. Rucker and I have been home all evening
writing letters. Tomorrow I have to pull KP the first time since last October in Grottaglie
when I was forced to quit at noon on account of jaundice. During the last two weeks we
(the squadron) have lost three planes, two on one mission yesterday. The crews are
sweating aplenty. Bates just came in the tent with a bottle. He doesn’t hesitate to say
that it is about to get him down. Russell and Galindo were in the lead plane that went
down yesterday. They were one of the most successful bombing teams the Group has
developed. When last heard, Russell said he was going down and that Tronolone, turret
gunner, was badly wounded. It was Russell’s last mission.”
Bates, Leonard H., S/Sgt, gunner
Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier, navigator
Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament
Russell, Lawrence Lee "Scrap Iron", Capt, pilot
Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl, turret gunner
446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Matzinger, serving as Base Operations Officer, is made
a Captain. Just returned from gunnery school at Laredo, Texas is Lieut. Ritger.
Matzinger, Keith Robinson, Capt, pilot
Ritger, Frederic Charles, 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Pontetidone R.R. Bridge, Italy
DATE: 4 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Goff led the formation. Target not reached due to weather. No flak, no fighters. Lt.
Rackley was a spare and returned early. (Crew list missing)
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt, pilot
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 2 (Spare - returned early - did
not fill in) unidentified plane & crew
Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt
None
None
None
None
None
None
“Restriction lifted @ 0800, moving into Naples tomorrow. Into town, shave & shower.
Snack @ RC. Back out to Repple Depot @ 1500, seeing about getting on air orders.
OK, promised I’d leave in a day or two. To show ‘Abbot & Costello in Society’ – good.”
447th BS War Diary: Pvt Roy H. Bartram was promoted to grade of Cpl and reclassified
from 754 to 757.
Bartram, Roy H., Cpl, gunner
Seven of our ships participated in a raid on the Pontetidone rail bridge, (K-483175). No
bombs were dropped because of weather conditions at the primary and alternate targets.
(Crew list missing)
Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt
P
CP
N None
B Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “63rd
mission, flew with Lt. Johnson as bombardier, did not drop bombs because of weather,
Pontetidone R.R. bridge primary, Parma R.R. Bridge alt.”
Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt, pilot
Mission 370 (581): At 1111 twelve (12) planes airborne to bomb Pontetidone RR Bridge
in Italy. Six (6) planes from the 448th participated, flying as the second box of six. The
formation dropped no bombs due to cloud coverage and returned all bombs to base. No
flak. Weather: Enroute to and over target – clouds beginning at Italian coast 10/10
stratocumulus with tops at 13,000 feet. (Crew list missing)
crew identified in Dossey war diary
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
Burks, Richard W., Capt
None
Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
“CQ blowing whistle 6:50AM. Standby on today's mission until 10 o'clock. Egg, cheese
omelet, oatmeal, bread, jam, tomato juice, coffee. Low ceiling, cold sun trying to
penetrate ceiling. Looks clear out at sea. Feeling rather perky this AM. Commencing to
rebuild tent. Briefing at 10:05AM. Carry 1000 lb GP's. Target at Pontetidone, Italy
(Railroad bridge). Heavy overcast. 10/10 coverage over target. Did not drop bombs.
Captain Burks pilot. Landed 1:35PM. Tent with wooden floor and 2 x 4 supporting
beams. Spaghetti and sauce, navy beans, bread, butter, fruit salad, cocoa. Helped build.
Completed job just as rain commenced. Baked beans, peas, beets, celery, bread,
marmalade, coffee. Smoking a lot lately. Received letter from #19 and Merriam. First
meal in 12 days. Slight rain. "Hum Strum" and Ray Kretzer returned awaiting hop to
Florence. To entertain 5th army. Staying at 448th officer's area. Standing in drizzle in
coveralls. Ray came over for a few minutes. Retired 12:00AM.”
Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot
Schaffer, Merriam, Irving Schaffer’s sister
Thursday, 5 October 1944
In Italy during the night of 4/5 Oct A-20s bomb targets of opportunity
in the battle area in the mountains S of Bologna and N of the Arno River Valley; during
the day weather grounds medium bomber wings and the XII Fighter Command; the 8th
Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, moves from Galera Airfield to
Malignano Airfield with C-47s; the 85th Fighter Squadron, 79th Fighter Group, moves
from Southern France to Iesi with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions – weather.
445th BS War Diary: Once again, rain and mud stopped combat operations. Continued
rain has soaked the runway quite a bit and training was cancelled because of the mud.
The area is also in slippery condition. The personnel of the variety show “Cornzapoppin”
have completed their abbreviated tour in the Naples area and are overdue here at the base
but inclement weather prevents their transportation back to home. Seven pilots went
down to the link trainer at group to get some time on the link trainer.
10/13/44:
“A quiet evening at home with the radio, a comfortable fire in the oil drum
stove and Rucker. Rucker is the kind of worthwhile person the world needs more of. I
have just finished “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.” I am left thinking of Fae Terry. This
morning, Beasley and I made all preparations to go to Tunis with Captain Farrell, but at
Group Ops the trip was changed to Palermo. We declined going so that we might make
the trip to Tunis later, although I would like to visit Palermo. I spent the afternoon
sewing stripes and taking up my OD blouse. No mail, damn it!”
Beasley, John B. "Jack", Jr., Sgt, armament
Farrell, Robert A. "Baldy", Capt, pilot
Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament
446th BS War Diary: October 5 and 6: Regular duties in the area and on the line as no
missions are flown.
“At 0800, to Bn., checked up on shipment. Raining hard again. Packed all clothes ready
for movement into town. At 1400 moved into old nurses Quarters, handy to everything
now, but a 10 minutes walk to Red Cross. At 1600, to RC for a snack, also to pick up my
jacket (bombs being painted on) – not ready. After supper, walked down to RC with
Chudars – had a snack, also picked up my jacket – a fine job. Back to Quarters.”
Thursday, 5 October 1944 (continued)
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. Today’s training consisted of local transition.
“Awoke 7:10AM. No missions. 10/10 ceiling. Oatmeal, pancakes, tomato juice,
marmalade, bread, coffee. Working on tent, making rear extension. Roy came over about
10:15AM. We are constructing extension to rear of tent. Yours truly has the GI's plus a
headache. Feeling punk in general. Mike invited the troupe over for dinner. "Hum and
Strum" entertained. Hamburgers, tomato sauce, mashed potatoes, beets, bread, butter,
water. Feeling very weak. Went to dispensary. Medic gave me 2 aspirins and a 3-ounce
shot of Paregoric. Laid down for a spell. Felt a bit guilty in not helping on the tent.
Helped toward the end. The tent is 16 feet square, with wooden fragmentation box tops
providing the floor (72 pieces) Six foot 2 x 4's are corner posts. 1 x 8's provide the
crosspieces. 2 x 4 pyramid from each corner to form a center pole. Tarpaper covers the
outside of lumber. Chicken wire is placed atop this to prevent ripping. The tent is next
given a canvas roof and part canvas side. George Huha supervised the job and did the
majority of the work. Roast beef, gravy, peas, mashed potatoes, bread, butter, fruit salad,
coffee. Roy and the boys are in the kitchen, unknown to me. Body, head etc. beginning to
act up. After Dr Marshall finished caring for a burned arm and hand of an Italian KP,
he looked after me. Took temperature. Another dose of paregoric, 9 sulfa tablets to be
taken all at once. 12 sulfa tablets to be taken 4 every four hours, quartered and ground.
Went over to CM club where the troupe was entertaining. Bid the boys goodnight. Hit
the sack about 9:00PM. Mike came in and we discussed the CQ. Captain McLain has
outwardly accused Mike of selling coffee etc., from mess supplies. He has cursed out
Mike and all EM men in general. He seems to be constantly drunk. The boys in the
445th were mighty glad to see him go. Why was such a curse wished on us. He is also
selling combat whiskey as well as bringing any surplus from the month's supply to the
officer's club. Dozed off 9:45PM.”
Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt
Marshall, Ulysses, S. "Doc", Capt, medical
McLain, Damon I., Maj, pilot, Commander
Friday, 6 October 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 121st
Liaison Squadron, AAF MTO, moves from Pomigliano to Florence, Italy with L-4s and
L-5s ("A" Flight is at Vittel, France).
In Italy, weather cancels all operations of the medium bomber wing
and the XII Fighter Command. In France, the 34th Photographic Reconnaissance
Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command (attached to Provisional Reconnaissance Group),
moves from Dijon to Azelot with F-5s.
445th BS War Diary: “Dat ole debbil” weather just won’t let up and once again the
combat mission was scheduled with 16 crews standing by. Non-operational flights were
also stopped due to inclement weather and muddy terrain. The same seven pilots who
received some instruction on the link trainer yesterday, returned for a bit of the same
today. Eight enlisted men from the 319th Bomb Group (a B-26 outfit) were assigned to
the squadron on temporary duty to study the B-25 aircraft. It is reported that the B-26
outfits will use the B-25 in the future.
446th BS War Diary: October 5 and 6: Regular duties in the area and on the line as no
missions are flown.
“Ate chow, then town to R.C., got a shave. To PX, bought a change of underclothes and
a GI sweater. Shower. Hung around RC all day. Change our money tomorrow, a good
sign of a shipment (I hope). Chow, then back to RC for awhile.”
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. Today’s training consisted of local transition.
“Awoke 8:55AM. Feeling OK. Pancakes, bacon, wheatena, coffee. Did not go to
breakfast. Still raining. Rained hard all during night. Heavy overcast. Standby on
mission until 10:00. Stand-down. Corn beef hash, navy beans, tomatoes, bread,
marmalade, hot tea. Roy came over for negatives. Still taking sulfa tablets. Rested for
several hours this PM. Awoke feeling better and to a bright sun beating against the
canvas. Read and wrote several letters. No mail. Stew, peas, rice, fruit salad, bread,
Friday, 6 October 1944 (continued)
butter, coffee. Ike told me on the QT that our CO has been ousted. At present McLain is
in France. Construction throughout the squadron is progressing. Moderate stomach
cramps. A tent and area inspection by the colonel never came off. Writing by
candlelight. Listened to a Limey musical program. World Series being rebroadcast from
Radio Rome. Read from S-2. "Air Intelligence" branded as secret. Retired 9:00PM.
Could not sleep. Stomach cramps. Dozed off about 10:30PM. Very windy.”
McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander
Saturday, 7 October 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: "D" Flight of
the 121st Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, moves from Florence, Italy to Vittel, France
with L-4 and L-5s and joins "A" Flight.
In Italy, weather again grounds the medium bombers; fighterbombers hit guns and troop concentrations in the battle area, which extends over a wide
front S of Bologna in the region of Monte Stanco, Monte Cauala, Monte Castellaro, and
Monte Ceei, and communications to the N; the 12th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop
Carrier Group, moves from Brindisi to Pomigliano with C-47s.
445th BS War Diary: It was the same old story today with weather again cancelling the
operational mission. Four aircraft tried to buck the elements to go to the bombing range
but no bombs were dropped due to limited visibility. Lt. Baker was sent to the Capri rest
camp. The personnel of the show “Cornzapoppin” finally made it back after an 8-day
stay in the Naples area. Several aircraft were sent over around noon to bring them back
and although the weather was temperamental, no great difficulty was encountered. The
current World Series classic is in full swing and judging from the large assembly around
the radio in the S-2 office in the evening would indicate more than passive interest.
Possibly this might be due to the various pools which bled quite a bit of cash from 445th
pocketbooks.
Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt, pilot
446th BS War Diary: More promotions are posted, with Lieuts. Goff and Phillips
becoming Captains. Radio gunner Bufkin heads for the good old U.S.A.
Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., Capt, pilot
Phillips, Lowell G., Capt, navigator
“Change our Lire money for good old U.S. green backs. Felt good. To RC for coffee
and hung around all day. Packed and tagged my barracks bag and Bmbdr’s Kit, took
downstairs for shipment. Hungry, as I didn’t eat supper, so to RC for a snack. Played
Cassino with Chudars & Barbour. Read awhile before going to bed.”
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. The
following enlisted men were assigned to this Squadron from 57th Bomb Wg: Sgt Boyd L.
Ramsay, Pvt William D. Porter Jr., Pfc Benjamin H. Wood. Lt Anthony L. Muzinich was
promoted to rank of Capt, per SO 254, Hq 12th AF 4 Oct 1944. To-day’s training
consisted of local transition.
Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt, pilot
Porter, William D., Jr., Pvt, armament
Ramsay, Boyd L., Sgt, personnel
Wood, Benjamin H., PFC, ordnance
Saturday, 7 October 1944 (continued)
“John called me at 7:30AM. Partly cloudy sky. Standby on mission. Fresh fried eggs,
oatmeal, stewed apricots, bread, coffee. Stand-down on mission. Feeling better today.
Hawthorne and I discussed and reminisced over our connections with National and
Martin-Rosebury. Still reading "Good Night Sweet Prince." Pondering over an aircraft
recognition magazine. Read the "Stars and Stripes" a daily publication printed in Italy.
This Mediterranean issue is not printed on Sunday. Slight headache. Meat loaf, mashed
potatoes, gravy, canned corn, bread, marmalade, water. Feeling mokey. Ham, beans,
spinach, vanilla pudding, coffee, bread. Body racked with pain, headaches, sore chest.
Medic at dispensary gave me three pills. Retired 6:30PM.”
Hawthorne, Ralph C., Sgt, gunner
Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner
In Italy, bad weather forces medium bombers to cancel missions; XII
Fighter Command fighters are airborne to support ground forces over the battle area and
abort all missions; HQ 60th Troop Carrier Group and the 28th Troop Carrier Squadron
move from Brindisi to Pomigliano with C-47s. In France, the detachment of the 23rd
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group
[attached to 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)] operating from Dijon with F-5s
returns to base at Valence.
445th BS War Diary: With 16 combat crews standing by, the mission was again
cancelled due to cloudy weather and bad weather over the target area in Italy. This marks
the 5th straight day of enforced inactivity due to weather. Rain in the afternoon and
evening failed to dim the spirits of many of the men this evening due to a very productive
mail call and a delicious supper highlighted by baked chicken.
446th BS War Diary: October 8 and 9: Duties as usual
“Raining hard this a.m. Up for breakfast – restricted to area ready for shipment.
Reading etc. all a.m. PX rations @ 1330. Physical inspection, 1400 – ok. Watching I-ty
kids scrambling in the street for candy, gum, & cigarettes the boys were throwing them
from the windows. Long show line to sweat out. Tired, hit the sack right after supper.”
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. Pfc
Salvatore Stagnitta was promoted to the grade of Cpl per SO 177, Hq 321st Bomb Gp
(M). Usual camp duties were the orders of the day. Morning report: Officers 96,
Enlisted-Men: 344.
Stagnitta, Salvatore (NMI), Cpl, medical
“Awoke 7:00AM. Very restless night. Inconsistent rain squalls throughout the night.
Feeling better this morning, but somewhat foggy. Must be the effects of the medicine. On
today's mission. Standby. Mike Hersh (NYC) stopped in to discuss organization of a
squadron band. Bernard Bass is playing piano with the "Mitchell-airs" who have just
returned from Naples. Fresh fried eggs, stewed raisins, bread, coffee. Dreary day.
Stand-down. Steve was over this afternoon. Duplex orderly room and operations
completed. Lynn gave me some more pills for fever. Severe pains are chest, neck
stiffening. Doctor took a blood smear to test for malaria. Boiled chicken, gravy, beans,
beets, peaches and apricots, coffee. Did some reading. Neck quite stiff, slight headache.
Corn beef hash, rice, Worcestershire sauce, apricots, peaches, coffee. Lights very dim in
mess hall. Captain Farwell new CO. Played cribbage with James by candlelight.
Feeling punk. Doc says I still have fever. Gave me some capsules to take every three
hours. Damp, cloudy evening. Wish I could be with Shyrle and those at #19. Quit
smoking. Retired 8:30PM.”
Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier
Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot, Commander
Lind, Ragnar G. "Jeffery Lynn", 1Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG
Shyrle, Irving Schaffer’s future wife
Wojnolowicz, Stephen J. "Wowly", Sgt, ordnance, 445th BS
In Italy, weather again grounds the medium bombers; fighterbombers, and fighters hit roads, rail crossing, transport and other targets in the Bologna
and Sabbioso areas; the 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group
(Light), moves from Follonica to Rosignano Airfield with A-20s.
445th BS War Diary: The weather here was cloudy but over in Italy it was bad and once
again there was no combat mission. All the squadron gunners reported to the armament
shack on the line for a lecture on cleaning guns. After the lecture they went out and
cleaned their guns. Four aircraft went to the bombing range, there were three transition
flights and one ship went up to swing the compass. A number of public relations pictures
were taken out on the line this afternoon, including a shot of the armament personnel.
There was another good mail call this afternoon followed by a sumptuous beef supper.
Many of the men collect some slices of beef to take to the tent to cook later in the
evening. This, of course, is in line with the good old American practice of “midnight
snacks”.
446th BS War Diary: October 8 and 9: Duties as usual
“Still no notice on when we’re shipping. Shaved, tough job with this cold, hard water. A
lousy dinner. Moved baggage out at noontime. Drew liquor ration. Started shipments
@ 1730. We were scheduled to lve. @ 1930, had a 40 minute wait, finally off to pier in
GI trucks. 4 hour wait @ boat, waiting for Brazilian troops to unload.”
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s mission cancelled due to weather conditions. To-day’s
training consisted of a local instrument flight and practice bombing. Bombing average of
September for the 321st Bomb Gp was 90.4% as shown by bomb-strike photos.
“Awoke 7:15AM. Feeling quite chipper. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, bread, pineapple
juice, coffee. Partly cloudy, rather warm. Stand-down on today's mission. Weather over
target bad. Rome trip been trying to take off for four days. Read most of the morning.
Fresh roast beef, gravy, fresh tomatoes, peas, mashed potatoes, applesauce. Meeting of
combat men at 1:00PM. Captain Farwell (new CO) chewed us out for tardiness in
meeting time schedules. Moved a couple of shacks. Worked on the tent a bit. Made
another burner for washing clothes. John Scallion, Dorchester, Mass. moved in today.
Seven fellows from the 319th (B26 outfit) came to this squadron. Doing away with the
b26's and replacing them with b25's. They are to have several weeks of schooling.
Rather a decent chap. Lt Ned Heilich from the 340th (Joe Crider's buddy) came down.
Played cribbage. Washed beaucoup clothes. Fresh roast beef, peas, navy beans,
peaches, coffee, bread, peanut butter. Kibitzed with Nelson about semi-notorious
persons in Saratoga. Wrote by candlelight. Feeling punk, neck very stiff, slight
headache, kidney pains. Medics gave me some more dope. Retired 9:0PM.”
Crider, Eugene W., M/Sgt, engineering
In Italy, medium bombers are again grounded due to weather; fighterbombers, though also hampered by weather, manage to closely support ground forces,
particularly at Monte delle Formiche where US 85th Infantry Division elements are
stopped short of the crest, and attack communications N of the battle area in the N
Apennines; the 11th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group, moves from
Brindisi to Pomigliano with C-47s.
445th BS War Diary: The persistently inclement weather in the vicinity of the target in
Italy once again stopped combat operations. The squadron has not flown a combat
mission since the disastrous Galliate raid on the 3rd of the month. Eleven radio gunners
were given instructions on bombing procedures in line with the eventual policy of using
radio gunners as wing bombardiers. Eight engineer-gunners received instructions on
operation of the front turret. Instead of their customary position in the tail, all engineergunners will soon operate these front turret posts. Ice cream was served to the enlisted
men after chow. Although the weather is chilly, America’s favorite desert was none the
less enjoyed.
446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Higgins gets his orders to return to the states. Flight
Officer Perlman is made a Second Lieut.
Higgins, Howard A., 1Lt, pilot
Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt, pilot
“Loaded on boat @ 0100 a.m. 0130 hit the sack, plenty tired. Fine breakfast. Boat in
port all day. Watched loading of medical cases aboard. Sacked a while. Chudars,
Barbour, Bellamy, and Boatright got on in the afternoon. The boat (U.S.S. Gen’l Mann)
is now terribly congested, almost impossible to move a foot. Sweating out the mess line is
worst of all. On deck for a breath of Air, started to rain. Be glad to see the Last Of
Italy.”
Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. "Ben", S/Sgt, gunner
447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. Pvt Ellsworth M. Karrenbouer is re-classified from 901 to 59. Seven
Enlisted Men from the 319th Bombardment Group are attached to our squadron for
rations and quarters while familiarizing themselves to a B-25 type aircraft. To-day’s
training consisted of local transition and PDI runs.
Karrenbouer, Ellsworth M., Pvt, duty soldier
“CQ blowing whistle at 6:45AM. Standby until 11:00AM. Huha just coming off guard.
Bright sunny, warm AM. Feeling great. Sweated a lot during the night. Fresh fried
eggs, bacon, oatmeal, tomato juice, coffee, bread, marmalade. We always have
powdered milk for our cereal. James Herod let me borrow "God is my Co-Pilot" by
Colonel Scott. Fair day. Feeling OK. Fried spam, fresh tomatoes, boiled cabbage,
beets, bread, jelly, water. Went over to the 445th. One of the boys cut my hair (20
francs). Stanley took me to showers in squadron jeep. Water is heated, but atmosphere
chilly. Semi-cloudy sky. Stew, fresh vegetable salad, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee.
Attended "Life is That Way" Donald O'Connor, Peggy Ryan. Excellent movie. Still
taking APC capsules. Chilly evening. Lightning toward Italy. Reading in bed by
candlelight. Retired 10:45PM.”
Herod, James E. “Jim”, Sgt, radio-gunner
Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS
In Italy, despite bad weather medium bombers attack bridges and
supply dumps in the Po Valley; fighter-bombers and fighters closely support ground
forces in the Apennine Mountains between Florence and Bologna where fierce fighting
rages on Monte delle Formiche, Livergnano escarpment, Monte delle Tombe, Gesso
ridge, and Monte Battaglia; also hit are communications behind the battle area and as far
W and N as Genoa, Turin, and Savona; the detachments of the 16th and 35th Troop Carrier
Squadrons, 64th Troop Carrier Group, operating from Istres, France returns to base at
Ciampino with C-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: In spite of the loss of a plane in the lead element the crews
plowed in and laid a 100 percent pattern on the important Po/Torreberretti Road and
Railroad Bridge. Recce photos taken after the mission showed the bridge to be
completely impassable with a 300 foot chunk eaten out of it. Two spans in the Crema
Railroad bridge were knocked out by an 18 aircraft mission. Also the Romano Railroad
Bridge was smothered by a 100 percent pattern. A good day’s hunting in any man’s
language.
Po/Torreberretti Road and R.R. Bridge, Italy
Romano RR Bridge in Italy.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mission Report #: 584 Date: 11 October 1944 No A/C: 18
SQUADRONS:
445-15; 446-3
TARGET: Crema R.R. Bridge K-634508
TIME OFF: 1320
T.O.T.: 1500
TIME DOWN: 1605
AXIS OF ATTACK: 40°
HEIGHT: 11/11,500 ft.
PLANES LOST: None
BOMBS DROPPED: 68 x 1000 - .1 &.01
Returned:
3 x 1000 - Malfunction Rack
PLANES HOLED: None
ESCORT: ROUTE: Base to P-4027, K-4513, K-4820, K-4732 (IP), target, right turn to K-6744 to
K-4820 to base.
WEATHER: Enroute and return: 5/10 cumulus, tops at 8,000 ft. in Mts. Visibility
unlimited.
Target: CAVU
FLAK: None.
ENEMY AIR: None
CLAIMS: None.
RESULTS: Excellent concentration in target area, particularly on west end and
approach of bridge. Several direct hits seen.
OBSERVATIONS: 25/30 M/T heading S at K-4732 seen at 1457, large barracks and
Nissen huts along river at K-5407 - appeared to be new
installations.
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Collins and Lt. Weld.
NUMBER OF SORTIES: 18
PHOTOS TAKEN
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt., Air Corps,
Intelligence Officer
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: The plane for the Rome rest camp also got off today after being
grounded for 7 straight days. The men enjoyed a fine musical comedy at the outdoor
theater tonight. It was “Chip Off the Old Block” with Donald O’Connor and Peggy
Ryan, a versatile team.
weather finally broke long enough to allow the combat crews to get away on a mission.
15 crews participated in an attack on the Crema railroad bridge, Italy. The squadron
bombardiers received a 94.6 percent bombing accuracy for their excellent work.
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
446th BS War Diary: Two missions are flown and on the first mission one of our planes
is hit seriously over the target. Sergeant D.H. Brown bailed out over the target and the
ship had to be ditched before returning to home base. All the crew was rescued though
Sergeant Clickner and Corporal Murch were hospitalized for injuries.
Brown, Dennis H., Sgt, radio-gunner
Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl, gunner
TARGET: Po/Torreberretti Road and R.R. Bridge, Italy
DATE: 11 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 12
Lt. Jordan led the formation. Both ends of the bridge received good concentration of
bombs. Report of spans being down. Flak was intense, heavy and accurate from target
area. Lt. Peterson’s plane was badly damaged over the target, and was ditched 10 miles
NE of Cape Corse. Sgt D.H. Brown bailed out of the ship over the target and is MIA.
The others remained with the plane and were picked up by Air-Sea Rescue craft.
Fourteen other planes were holed. Lt. Epstein and S/Sgt Clickner were hospitalized as a
result of flak wounds. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 43-4052, “Lil Butch” (MACR- A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” partial
9583 - ditched at sea)
crew identified in MACR- 9583
P Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 1Lt
None
N None
B Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt
E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt
R Brown, Dennis H., Sgt
Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl
G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl
None
F None
P Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt
CP
None
N None
Epstein, Joseph H., 2Lt, bombardier
B
Clickner, Albert H., T/Sgt, engineerE
gunner
R
G
None
F None
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”,
Capt
CP
None
N None
B
E
G
None
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
446th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 9583: The remaining five (5)
members of the crew stayed with the plane, #43-4052, and were forced to ditch 10 miles
NE of Cap Corse, Corsica. All were rescued by Air-Sea Rescue Service. The tail
gunner, Cpl. George M. Murch, Jr., ASN 31242377, saw just a passing glimpse of Sgt.
Brown’s feet as he was leaving the plane. He jumped as the plane broke formation and
started the bank away because the right engine had cut out. Although no order had been
given, Sgt. Brown probably thought the airplane was out of control and was going down
and so he elected to jump.
A/C No. 43-4052, “Lil Butch” (MACR-9583 – hit by flak, ditched at sea)
P Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt – went down with ship – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
CP Reilly, John A., 1Lt – went down with ship – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
N None
B Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt – went down with ship – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt – went down with ship – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
R Brown, Dennis H., Sgt – bailed out – POW – liberated and returned to duty
G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl – went down with ship – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
F None
Eyewitness Account: Young, Robert B., 1Lt, bombardier, 448th BS
APO 650
US Army
19 October 1944
AG-360.33
1. On 11 October 1944 as I, as bombardier in aircraft No. 528, turned off the
target at Po-Torreberretti, Italy, I saw a parachute floating earthward.
2. When I first saw the parachute it was, in my estimation, at about eight thousand
feet altitude and it was drifting westward. When I last saw the chute it was still at about
five thousand feet altitude.
3. I observed that there were no enemy installations near enough under the falling
parachute for the enemy to have shot with small arms the person on the chute, and I saw
that there was not visible any small arms fire on the ground.
ROBERT B. YOUNG,
1st Lt., A. C.
(Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 19 Oct 44,
446th Bomb Sq (M)
Pilot: 1st Lt. Frederick I. Peterson, 0-761621
B-25J A/C No. 43-4052).
Incl 3.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl, gunner, 446th BS
APO 650
US Army
19 October 1944
AG-360.33
1. The undersigned was tail gunner on airplane. 43-27497 on the mission against
the Po-Torreberretti bridge, 11 October 1944. On the breakaway after dropping our
bombs I saw No. 052 fall off to the right. At about the same time I saw a chute opening
at about 4 o’clock 300 feet below. The parachutist had his back to me so it was
impossible to recognize him and I could not determine the plane he parachuted from. He
was clearly visible, though, and could be seen pulling the shroud cords to lessen the
oscillation of the chute.
2. After watching him about 5 seconds I turned away to look over the formation
and did not see his chute again until he was quite low and at about 5 o’clock. His chute
seemed to be descending normally but he was too far away for me to determine whether
or not he was alright. I did not see him land, but it looked as if he would land on or near
the Po-Torreberretti bridge.
WILLIAM H. HAXBY, JR.
Cpl., 37701642
(Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 19 Oct 44,
446th Bomb Sq (M)
Pilot: 1st Lt. Frederick I. Peterson, 0-761621
B-25J A/C No. 43-4052).
Incl 4.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 583/mission 583) Group Mission # 583:
TARGET: Crema R.R. Bridge, Italy
DATE: 11 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 3
Lt. Collins led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area. Several direct hits
seen. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Grove returned early with oil leaks. (Crew list missing)
Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
Grove, Russell V., 1Lt
None
None
“No. 5) R.R. Bridge near Alessandria. 4x1000. Ran into pretty accurate flak. Ship on
our wing hit in gas tank. One man bailed over target. The crew ditched and are all safe.
Burandt.”
446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (trip home – Day 1)
“Appr. 0730 a.m. pulled out of Naples Harbor, glad to see the end of Naples. A good
breakfast on deck, pleasant breeze, sea fairly calm so far. PX rations @ 1430. Nice
steak supper. Played cards w/Chudars. To bed early.”
447th BS War Diary: Usual Squadron Duties.
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 582/mission 582) Group Mission # 582: Six
of our ships participated in a raid on Torreberretti railroad bridge (J-776207) with Lt
Schweda leading our squadron. Excellent concentration on target with both east and west
spans knocked down resulting in a 100% mission efficiency and 100% bombing
accuracy.
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” plane
Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
None
Darrell, Franklin Lloyd Jr., 2Lt
Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt
Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 583/mission 583) Group Mission # 583: On
the second mission for the day nine of our ships participated in a raid on Romano
Railroad Bridge, with Capt Stocking leading our squadron. Several direct hits on the
west end and center of bridge. All bombs in target area and east approach was cut.
Mission efficiency 100%, bombing accuracy 100%.
P Stocking, Eugene, E., Capt
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt
None
Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
“Target: Torreberretti RR Br
Flak: HIA
Combat: 2:45
Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: None
Plane # 079 (43-4079 “Little David”)
Crew: P-Lt Dean
CP-Lt Murchland B-Lt Darrel E-SSG Partee R-TSG Alpino G SSG Mango
Both ends of bridge received good concentration of bombs. Spans reported down at both
ends of bridge. 1 plane was hit in right gas tank and did not seal. 1 crew member bailed
out over target. Plane (446th ship 43-4052 “Lil Butch”) ditched off Cape Corse.”
Darrell, Franklin Lloyd Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt, pilot
447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “64th
mission, flew with Lt. Washburn as bombardier, bombed Romano R.R. bridge, nice
bombing, no opposition, weather very rough.”
Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt, pilot
Mission 371 (582): At 1223 twenty-four (24) planes took off to bomb Po-Torreberretti
RR and RR Bridge in Italy. Six (6) planes from the 448th participated, flying as lead
second flight. No escort. The formation dropped 80 x 1000 # GP (.1 & .01) bombs from
10,500/11,200 feet. 16 x 1000 # were salvoed when plane in lead element hit by flak and
had an emergency salvo. Excellent concentrations were scored with both east and west
spans knocked down. Observations: thirty (30) RR cars in M/Y at Torreberretti. Heavy,
intense, accurate flak experienced on bomb run and initial stage of breakaway. 14 A/C
holed, 1 B-25 ditched 10 miles N.E. of Cape Corse with five members picked up by
A.S.R., one crew member bailed out over target, chute seen. Two crew members
wounded. Weather: over target – CAVU; Enroute -5/10 cumulus with tops at 8,000 feet,
visibility fifteen miles.
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
Mission 372 (583): At 1330 eighteen (18) planes airborne to bomb Romano RR Bridge
in Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th participated, flying as the second flight. No escort.
The formation dropped 72 x 1000 # .1 & .01 GP bombs from 10,000/10,500 feet. A
number of direct hits were seen on the west end and in the center of the bridge over water
and the east approach was knocked out. All bombs were in the target area. Observations:
25 round top huts five (5) miles SW of Piacenza; Crema RR bridge observed to have two
spans cut after bombing by another mission. No flak or E/A. Weather: Enroute – 5/10
cumulus tops at 8,000 feet in mountains, visibility unlimited; target – CAVU.
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
“Awoke 7:20AM. Stomach cramps. Diarrhea again. Clear, bright AM. Standby on
mission until 11:00AM. Fresh fried eggs, whole-wheat cereal, bread, jam, grapefruit
juice, coffee. Washed mattress cover, coveralls. Flight surgeon feeding me more sulfa.
Commenced "God is My Co-Pilot", Colonel Robert L Scott. Hash, mashed potatoes,
fresh mixed vegetables, hot tea, bread, jam. Couldn't eat much. Mail from Shyrle pepped
me up quite some. First in a fortnight. Intended to work on tent, but too weak. Stayed in
bed. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, onions and string beans, canned sliced pineapple,
bread, jam, coffee. Mess lines are becoming very long. Confusion and noise in mess hall
isn't my idea of dining in quiet. Couldn't eat. Felt guilty about throwing away good food.
Mild, clear and starry evening. Wrote a long letter to Shyrle. Retired at 9:00PM. Chest
and side pains. Restless.”
In Italy, medium bombers, supporting the US Fifth Army, attack
communications, supply dumps, and bivouac and barracks areas S of Bologna; fighterbombers and XII Fighter Command fighters, mainly in support of the US Fifth Army,
blast supply dumps, gun positions, troop concentrations, and communications in the high
country S of Bologna while the Desert Air Force (DAF) gives similar support to the
British Eighth Army in the Rimini area.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Only 18 aircraft of the scheduled 54 plane attack finally
reached the target due to weather difficulties but they did a fine job on the Casalecchio
Fuel Dump three miles Southwest of Bologna. 100 percent as a matter of fact.
Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy
Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Both attempts at flying a mission were abortive today due to
weather. Lt. Poteete, a spare in the second mission, returned early and on the way back
he became lost. After a roundabout trip, he finally reached the base here, logging more
time than did the ships that went on the regular mission. Squadron personnel signed the
payroll today. A large number of packages arrived today. Apple pie for desert tonight.
Poteete, Max W., 2Lt, pilot
(Crew list missing)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
(Crew list missing)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
446th BS War Diary: Three more First Lieutenants in the 446th: Lieuts. Doyle, Leith
and Schmid. A combat mission is flown.
Doyle, John D., 1Lt, pilot
Leith, William V., 1Lt, bombardier
Schmid, Kenneth L., 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy
DATE: 12 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 3
Captain Wiginton led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area, which was
covered by a large amount of black smoke. Fires reported. Flak was scant, inaccurate.
An ME-109 seen attacking a recon. A/C. (Crew list missing)
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", Capt, pilot, 447th BS
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
DATE: 12 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 9
Lt. Dossey led the formation. Turned back because of bad weather. The same formation
had also been turned back by bad weather in the morning. (Crew list missing)
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
“Up early, mess screwed up as usual. Shaved, showered, changed clothes. Hung around
deck all a.m. with Chudars and Barbour. Little trouble with my right eye, getting a sty I
think. Sacked awhile. Lifeboat drill @ 1400. Up on deck. Good supper, ice cream and
all. Up in lounge reading, to bed early.”
447th BS War Diary: 2nd Lt Vincent J. Gargiulo promoted to rank of 1st Lt per SO 258,
12th AF. Usual Squadron Duties.
Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 1Lt, bombardier
Fifteen of our ships participated in a raid on Casalecchio Fuel dumps, with Capt
Wiginton leading our Squadron. Center of target area well covered Mission efficiency
93.3%, bombing accuracy 100%. (Crew list missing)
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
Mission 373 (586): At 1310 thirty-six (36) planes took off to bomb Casalecchio Fuel
dump in Italy. Eighteen (18) planes of the 448th participated. The formation turned back
at 1455 due to 10/10 could coverage. All bombs returned to base. (Crew list missing)
P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, Capt
CP McLain, Damon I., Capt
N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt
B
E
R Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt
G
F None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
“CQ blowing whistle at 6:30AM. Feeling pert. Cloudy sky. Briefing at 7:45AM. Hardboiled eggs, bacon, oatmeal, tomato juice, coffee, bread, marmalade. Wear OD's and
sheepskin boots. Target is 3 miles SW of Bologna ammunition and supply dump. Carry
500 lb GP's. Flying as lead radio operator. 1st Lt Dossey, pilot. Smith navigator. Take
off 8:51AM. Weather closed in, returned to field. Landed 10:15AM. No interrogation.
Standing by for another mission. Cloudy sky. Jim Blackard receives a parcel. Haven't
digested such delicious fruitcake in months. Baked beans, fresh uncooked peppers,
onions, cabbage, bread, butter, coffee. Interrupted middle of meal for immediate
briefing. Weather looks bad. Same as morning mission. Take off 1:30PM. Couldn't see
to make landfall over enemy territory. When we finally did find an opening we were over
La Spezia. We immediately went into evasive action and got away from there. It is a
heavily defended harbor. We headed for Rome, called the field to tell them of our
unsuccessful mission. Made good contact. Very picturesque, overcast. Looked like huge
snow piles and billows of white smoke. Very cold. Capt McLain was co-pilot. Landed
4:00PM. No interrogation. Still showering outside. Ange, Frank and I went in Ange's
truck. Feeling great. Wesley gave me heavy cellophane for tent windows. Roast beef,
gravy, mashed potatoes, canned corn, fruit salad, bread, marmalade, coffee. Rewiring
area and putting power lines on poles. Retired 10:20PM.”
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot
Smith, Raymond (NMI), 2Lt, navigator, bombardier
In Italy, weather cancels all medium bomber operations except for
attacks on 4 targets (bridges and supply dumps) in the battle area S of Bologna; fighterbombers support US Fifth Army operations more successfully in the area, hitting gun
emplacements, troop concentrations, supply dumps, bridges, and vehicles; the 23rd
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group
[attached to 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)] moves from Valence, France to
Malignano with F-5s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: A little of everything today. One six plane nickeling mission
to the front line areas; one 3 plane Azon mission abortive due to weather; and one 36
aircraft mission to the Casalecchio Fuel Dump came back with stories of excellent
coverage against slight opposition.
Casalecchio Fuel dump in Italy
Ronca Scrivia R.R. Bridge, Italy
Casalecchio Fuel dump in Italy
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The weather was cool and cloudy today with occasional rain
falling in the afternoon and at night. Major Bounds called a meeting for all bombardiers
in front of the Operations tent today emphasizing the need for accurate bombing. This
squadron led the group last month in bombing accuracy and the Major is out for that spot
again this month. There is a rumor circulating to the effect that the outfit will move off
the island before Dec 13th. Of course there is no foundation for such a report. Plenty of
packages arrived today. There was a hamburger supper tonight, the evening of Friday the
13th.
Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander
squadron sent 13 aircraft out in an attack on the Casalecchio fuel dump, Italy. Due to bad
weather, the entire first flight was unable to drop its bombs. (Crew list missing)
Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
four planes that filled in the second flight put their bombs in the target area. (Crew list
missing)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown.
DATE: 13 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 8
Lt. Collins led the formation. Clouds over the target prevented all but three elements in
the second flight and one element of the third flight from dropping. Eleven planes
dropped through an opening in the clouds. No results observed. Flak was meager,
accurate, heavy, Radar directed from target area. Two planes holed. No fighters. (Crew
list missing)
Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
TARGET: Ronca Scrivia R.R. Bridge, Italy
DATE: 13 Oct.1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Azon.
446th Planes: 3
Major Ziglar led the formation. Did not drop due to bad weather. No flak.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
Ziglar, Frank C., Maj
Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt
Dunn, Albert W., 1Lt
Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt
Shettleworth, William E., Sgt
McKearin, William Jerome, T/Sgt
Haxby, William H., Jr., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27480
Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt
Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt
None
Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt
Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt
Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt
Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt
McCarty, Lyle (NMI), T/Sgt
A/C No. 43-4077 “Stormy Weather”
(Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little
Boy Val”)
Ingram,
William
T., 2Lt
P
CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O
N None
B Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt
E Nigrelli, Ernest J., Cpl
R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Wagner, William M., Cpl
F Wilking, Robert L., Cpl
“Sea rough today, also cold on deck. Passing by Rock of Gibraltar this a.m. PX rations
today – plenty. Bought a new pipe. Sacked awhile. Abandon ship drill @ 1330. Good
supper. Shaved.”
447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men returned from Rest Camp,
Rome, Italy: Capt Leroy Alger, 1st Lt Edward Gates, S/Sgt Ernest E. Byrn, S/Sgt Hughie
L. Curry, S/Sgt Frank J. Flowers, S/Sgt Robert P. Quintenz. The following officers and
enlisted men departed for Rest Camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt George G. VenJohn, 1st Lt
Richard L. Willis, 1st Lt Earl H. Remmel, T/Sgt Leo G. Hubert, T/Sgt Myles O.
Williamson, S/Sgt Anthony J. Abbondanza.
Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt, gunner
Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt, gunner
Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt, pilot
VenJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence
Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Willis, Richard L., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 589/mission 589) Group Mission # 589: Six
of our ships participate on a successful nickeling mission dropping 100 leaflet bombs on
Bologna, Molinelle, Imola, Forli and Ravenna, with Lt Magne leading the formation.
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl”
Burns, Robert J., 1Lt
Condit, Albert K., 2Lt
None
LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt
Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt
None listed - likely the bombardier
Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”
P Walker, Marion E., 1Lt
CP Woods, Richard J., 1Lt
N None
B Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt
E Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt
R None listed - likely the bombardier
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27779
P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt
CP Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O
N None
B Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt
E Daniels, Carl N., Sgt
G Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling
Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”)
Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt
Gould, Joe W., 2Lt
Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt
Pelak, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt
Kipp, Robert T., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil”
Manley, Ward E., 1Lt
Hall, Earl W., 1Lt
None
Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 1Lt
Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
Bauder, Harold R., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27718
Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt
Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt
None
Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt
Smith, William L., S/Sgt
None listed
McKnight, John A., Jr., Cpl
None
“Target: Nickeling Mission Gothic Line
Flak: None
Combat: 2:10
Bombs: Leaflets
Escorts: None
Plane # 779 (43-27779)
Crew: P-Lt Brown CP-FO Wentz B-SSG Mabbutt E-Sgt Daniels G-SSG Mango
Leaflets dropped successfully.”
Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Daniels, Carl N., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier
Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O, pilot
Mission 374 (587): At 1012 thirty-six planes took off to bomb Casalecchio Fuel dump in
Italy. Fifteen (15) planes from the 448th participated. The formation dropped 88 x 500 #
.1 & .025 GP bombs from 10,500/11,000 feet. 20 x 500# GP bombs returned to base due
to weather over target. Clouds over target prevented all but three elements in second
flight and one of the third flight from bombing. 11 planes dropped through a hole. No
results observed due to cloud coverage. No E/A. Heavy, moderate fairly accurate flak
from Sassuola and from Bologne holed two A/C. Weather: 7-8/10 stratocumulus at
6,000/12,000 feet over target. Overcast at 15,000 feet, visibility 2-3 miles. Enroute – 35/10 could cover at 3000/6000 feet over water, visibility unlimited. (Crew list missing)
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
P
CP
N None
B
E
R
G
F None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
448th BS: War Diary of: West, Alden A. "Bud", 1Lt, pilot
“Boarded ship at 21:30 hours from the C&O pier in Newport News, Virginia – assigned
to cabin D-18”
“Awoke 7:00AM. Feeling OK. Partly cloudy sky. Mission standby. Fresh fried eggs,
wheatena, bread, marmalade, tomato juice, coffee. Put up chicken wire around tent.
Ryan called me for detail to load gravel on truck. Didn't go as I was working on tent.
Ike was over. Has bad cold. Lozowski and Usher came down. Usher has 9 missions.
Lozowski 16. Stayed for chow. Corn beef paddies, tomato sauce, spinach, mashed
turnips, butterscotch pudding. Played blackjack at Ratcliffe's tent. Won 50 francs.
Danny Hurley secured Major Knievel's permission for jeep #4 Eleanor. This is Captain
Marrich's private jeep. Got jeep license. Received special permission to go beyond
officer's PX resulting from shooting near Ghisonaccia where 447th held a dance.
Colored troops were denied entry to the dance. They returned with arms killing a 310th
boy and injuring two from the 447th. Left area 5:15PM. Went over to 445th to see
Taylor and Smitty. Ratcliffe, Lozowski, Usher and I ate chow at 445th. Hamburgers,
tomato sauce, mashed potatoes, butterscotch pudding, bread, coffee. Lights in jeep out.
Returned to 448th. Motor pool obligingly put in two new sealed beams. Back to 445th.
Gene treated us to several drinks. Cherry brandy and orange-grapefruit juice. Beat
Lozowski in ping-pong. Raining. Sang all the way to 340th. Arrived 9:00PM. Had
coffee at Red Cross club. Met McClane at 340th, an old buddy from Scott Field. Left at
9:45PM. Picked up Walter Roguski on way back. Gene Stanley drove most of the way.
Arrived 10:45PM. Kibitzed with LaBella a spell. Mission went to Bologna, carry 500 lb
for fuel dump. Successful. Starry night. Retired 11:45PM.”
Hurley, Daniel J. “Danny”, S/Sgt, personnel
Knievel, Arthur W., Maj, executive
LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier
Lozowski, Leonard J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG
Marrich, Martin K., Capt, adjutant
Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier
Roguski, Walter E., Pvt, armament
Smith, Francis L. "Smitty", Cpl, gunner, 445th BS
Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS
Usher, C. C., Sgt, tail gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG
In Italy, bad weather cancels all medium bomber operations; 100+ fighters and
fighter-bombers pound troop concentrations, gun positions, supplies, bridges, roads, and
rail lines S, of Bologna where hard fighting is taking place in the Monterumici,
Livergnano, and Gesso ridge areas.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.
445th BS War Diary: The operational mission was cancelled as 14 crews were standing
by. Just before orders came through to cancel the mission, the bomb load was changed to
1000 pound bombs. Luxury rations were distributed to the squadron personnel today.
Some aspirants for the squadron football team were out booting the pigskin around this
afternoon. Roast beef was enjoyed by all at the evening meal.
446th BS War Diary: Duties around the area today as no flying is carried out.
“Sea fairly rough. Sleeping compartments very hot and close. Set watch back an hour
@ 1400. Reading ‘Paul Revere’. Sacked awhile. Playing cards with Chudars &
Barbour until darken ship.”
447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for to-day but due to weather conditions
it was cancelled. T/Sgt Joseph (NMI) Obrazik and Sgt Robert (NMI) O’Neil were
assigned to this Squadron. Sgt Robert C. Stokes is reclassified from 750 to 748. Today’s training consisted of local transition.
Obrazik, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt, engineering O'Neil, Robert (NMI), Sgt, communications
Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner
“Set sail at 04:00 and had breakfast at the Captain’s table – very good. Towed out by
tugs and anchored off Newport News. Sailed again at 18:30, escorted by two DDs, two
tankers.”
“Awoke 7:30AM. Interrupted night. Partly cloudy sky. Feeling OK. Standby on
mission. Fresh fried eggs (4) bacon, bread, marmalade, coffee. Gave Ike some Vick's
nose drops to help his cold. Sun came out. Feeling exceptionally fine, greeting everyone
with a melodious "hello". Hamburgers, tomato sauce, mashed potatoes, creamed peas,
bread, butter, hot tea. Picked up pictures at photo lab. Went to wing post office with
Roguski - to 310th. Picked up mail at group. Mild weather. Roast beef, gravy, mashed
potatoes, string beans, bread, peanut butter, coffee. Pulled 1st shift of guard. Very
starry evening. Guard duty is really a big job. Chilly. Retired 10:45PM.”
Roguski, Walter E., Pvt, armament
In Italy, B-25s bomb bridges in the W Po Valley; B-26s hit bridges in
the E part of the Valley, and have excellent success bombing a railway fill at Ossenigo,
trapping 300+ railway cars N of the target; fighters and fighter-bombers concentrate their
efforts toward support of ground forces along a wide front in the mountains S of
Bologna; HQ 63rd Fighter Wing moves from Bastia, Corsica to San Pietro.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: One mission to the Menton Fuel Storage Dump was abortive
due to weather but the other two missions of 18 aircraft each to bridges reported
moderate success at Romano and Pontetidone.
Monten Fuel Storage Dump and Alt Novi Ligure Fuel Dump in Italy.
Romano Di Lombardia R.R. Bridge, Italy
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: Capt. Hatcher gave a weather lecture to all pilots, informing them
of icing conditions and the kind of weather they might expect this winter. Ships were
sent to the rest camps at Rome and Capri. Reports from the Air Liaison Officer at group
indicated that the entire crew in Capt. Russell’s ship bailed out and were safe in the hands
of Italian partisans. Many of the men expect them back soon. There was plenty of mail
tonight.
Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot
squadron sent 12 ships out to help bomb the Pontetidone railroad bridge, Italy. Bombing
accuracy was below par at 63.8 percent.
A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
Weld, Willis R., 1Lt
Baker, Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O
None
Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt
Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt
Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt
Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously
“Modern Design”)
P Poteete, Max W., 2Lt
CP Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Hagerman, Willard W., 1Lt
E Wells, John R., S/Sgt
R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt
G Morisi, David D., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt
N None
B Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt
E Sycylo, Theodore W., Cpl
G Abrams, Samuel (NMI) “Sam”, Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”)
P Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt
CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O
N None
B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt
R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue
Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”)
Born, Walter E., 1Lt
Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt
None
Doherty, Charles S., Sgt
Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt
Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt
Smith, William F., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 44-28722 “Spirit of
Portchester”
Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt
Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt
None
Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt
Woody, Louie M., Sgt
Kneisel, Charles W., T/Sgt
Miller, Robert Ryal, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants”
Elliott, James R., Jr., 1Lt
Cox, Harold L., 2Lt
None
Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt
Krauk, Edward J., Sgt
Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt
Henry, William W., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
McKay, Donald I., 1Lt
Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt
None
Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt
Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt
Otterness, William B., T/Sgt
Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”
P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt
CP McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt
N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt
B Emery, Ben D., 1Lt
E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl
R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt
G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27509
P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt
CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt
N None
B Carney, Robert J., T/Sgt
E Hunsberger, William R., Cpl
R None listed
G McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 44-28928 “Heaven Can Wait”
(Wing spare - did not fill in)
P Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt
CP McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Cravey, Robert P., F/O
E Taylor, Marion R., Cpl
R Salch, Raymond F., Cpl
G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
Lewis, Max E., 2Lt
None
Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt
Stanley, Harold E. “Gene”, Cpl
Gray, John H., S/Sgt
Hope, Amos (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
Santone, Michael A., 1Lt
Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt
None
Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt
Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl
Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt
Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt
None
446th BS War Diary: Sergeant R.M. Brown gets his orders for home.
Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt, gunner
TARGET: Monten Fuel Storage Dump, Italy
DATE: 15 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 3
Captain Farwell led the formation. Did not drop due to bad weather. No flak.
Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu”
P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt
N None
B Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt
E Kreider, John L., S/Sgt
R Poorman, William H., T/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later
Darlene)
P Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt
CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt
N None
B Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt
E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt
R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 42-64549
Goodrich, John W., 1Lt
Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt
None
Law, John B., Cpl
Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt
Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt
None
TARGET: Romano Di Lombardia R.R. Bridge, Italy
DATE: 15 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 3
Captain Murray led the formation. Fair concentration. Majority of bombs in area of W
approach, possibly cut. The 446th elements mistakenly bombed a road bridge
approximately 2 miles S of target with good concentration. No flak, no fighters. Lt.
Nagel was a spare and returned early.
Murray, Richard E., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt
Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt
Gambino, Samuel F., 2Lt
Derringer, Albert J., 2Lt
Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt
Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt
Everhart, Herman E., F/O
None
Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt
Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt
McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt
Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS”
(previously PRINCESS PAOLA II)
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt
Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt
None
Beecher, Everett F., Sgt
Nigrelli, Ernest J., Cpl
Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl
Horlen, Aubrey B., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling
Ass II” (Wing spare - returned early did not fill in)
Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt
Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt
None
Leith, William V., 2Lt
Wilking, Robert L., Cpl
None
TARGET: Pontetidone R.R. Bridge, Italy
DATE: 15 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 6
Lt. Ligon led the formation. First element of 6 A/C made a second run and dropped an
excellent concentration squarely across middle of bridge. Direct hits reported. Bombs of
other elements hit NW of bridge, some crossing the RR near the W approach. No flak,
no fighters.
A/C No. 43-27732
Ligon,
Walton
M., 1Lt
P
CP Dickson, Gale Monroe, Capt
N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt
E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt
G South, William R., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27501
P Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt
CP Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt
N None
B Noel, Paul R., 1Lt
E DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt
R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), T/Sgt
G Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27660
Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt
Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt
None
Pettit, Robert H., 1Lt
Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt
Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt
Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4021
Ramsay, Lamar E., 2Lt
None
Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt
Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt
Rousos, Milton P., T/Sgt
Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Gibbons, George H., 1Lt
Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt
None
McGann, Edom K., 2Lt
Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt
Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl
Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady
- no name/lettering)
Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt
DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt
None
Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt
Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt
Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt
None
“No. 6) R.R. Bridge Near Piacenza - Milk Run. Made two passes on target. Lt.
Gibbons.”
Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot
“On deck, reading ‘Paul Revere’ – good. Trip getting monotonous, lack of anything to
do. Bought 2 new pipes today. Boat drill again @ 1330. Set clock back an hour again
@ 1400. Shaved.”
447th BS War Diary: T/Sgt Patterson, Gordon N., is assigned to this Squadron. The
following officers and enlisted men departed to Rest Camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt Irving L.
Altman, 1st Lt Harold Spilko, T/Sgt Michael P. Freisen, S/Sgt Jerome Goldman, Sgt John
E. Wall, Cpl Francis R. Haley Jr. The following Officers and enlisted-men returned from
Rest Camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt George G. VenJohn, 1st Lt Richard L. Willis, 1st Lt Earl
H. Remmel, T/Sgt Leo G. Hubert, T/Sgt Myles O. Williamson, S/Sgt Anthony J.
Abbondanza. Usual Camp Duties.
Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Altman, Irving L., 1Lt, bombardier
Freisen, Michael P., T/Sgt, supply
Goldman, Jerome (NMI), S/Sgt, Supply
Haley, Francis R., Jr., Cpl, armament
Murray, Richard E., Capt, pilot
Patterson, Gordon N., T/Sgt, engineering
Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt, pilot Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier
VenJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence
Wall, John E., Sgt, engineering
Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Fifteen of our ships participated in a raid on the Romano Railroad Bridge, with Captain
Murray leading our Squadron. Fair concentration on center of bridge with majority of
bombs in area or west approach. Bridge reported intact after bombing. Mission
efficiency 46.6%. Bombing accuracy 46.6%.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”
Hall, Earl W., 1Lt
None
Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt
Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt
None listed
Williams, James H., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt
Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt
None
Harvey, Edmund R., 2Lt
Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt
None listed
Citarelli, James E., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie”
Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt
None
Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt
None listed
None
Walker, Marion E., 1Lt
Woods, Richard J., 1lt
None
Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 2Lt
Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt
None listed
Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
Murray, Richard E., Capt
Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt
Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
Huffman, William C., 1Lt
Dawson, Roy C., S/Sgt
Toole, John F., T/Sgt
Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt
Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt
None
Hopp, Charles J., Sgt
MacNeil, Joseph W., T/Sgt
May, Frederick J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt
Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt
None
Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt
Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt
None listed
Connolly, Paul B., S/Sgt
None
Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt
Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt
Hagan, Richard E., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27718
P Gillies, John R., 1Lt
CP Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt
N
B
E
R
G
F
None
Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt
Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt
Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl”
Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt
None
Bokum, John B., F/O
Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, T/Sgt
None listed
Veid, Joseph (NMI), S/Sgt
Burns, Harry B., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27636
CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt
N None
B McFarland, John F., T/Sgt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt
G Young, Robert E., Cpl
F Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt
CP Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O
N None
B Simberg, Alvin L., T/Sgt
E Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt
G Sims, James W., Cpl
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling
Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”)
Speer, Marvin L., Capt
Meyers, Charles T., Brig Gen, 12th AF
Commander
Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt
Torrey, Francis S., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt
Brice, David W., 2Lt
None
Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt
Drew, Horace E., Cpl
None listed
Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
None
Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 1Lt
Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt
None
“Target: Romano RR Bridge Flak: None
Combat: 2:35
Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: None
Plane # 718 (43-27718)
Crew: P-Lt Gillis CP-Lt Autry BSSG Poulin E-SSG Quintenz G-SSG Mango
Fair concentration on center sections. Most bombs in area of W approach”
Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt, pilot
Gillies, John R., 1Lt, pilot
Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier
Mission 375 (590): At 0840 eighteen (18) planes off to bomb the Monten Fuel Storage
Dump and Alt Novi Ligure Fuel Dump in Italy. Fifteen (15) planes from the 448th
participated. Mission abortive due to weather and all bombs were returned to base. No
escort. No E/A or flak. Observations: four (4) small merchant vessels and possible
cruiser at Savona Harbor. Weather: 8/10 stratocumulus with tops at 4000 feet over
target.
A/C No. 44-28721 “Shug”
Farwell,
Harold S., Capt
P
CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt
B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt
E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt
G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess”
P Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt
CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt
N None
B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt
G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27523
Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt
Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt
None
Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt
Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt
Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt
Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27791
Rosenau, Gustave D., 1Lt
Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
None
Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt
Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt
Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt
DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27528
Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt
Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt
None
Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O
Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
None listed
Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable”
Grady, John R., 1Lt
Smith, Milford A., 2Lt
Freund, John F., 2Lt
Kiska, George P., 1Lt
Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt
Hulse, Donald W., S/Sgt
Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4076
Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt
Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt
None
Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt
Wright, Melvin M., Cpl
Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt
Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl
None
A/C No. 44-28940
Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt
Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt
Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt
McDonough, Thomas E., Jr. ,1Lt
Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt
Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27481
Riley, Robert L., 1Lt
Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt
None
Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt
Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt
Herod, James E. “Jim”, Cpl
Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie”
Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt
None
Brink, Richard E., 2Lt
Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt
None listed
Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27668
Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt
Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt
None
Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt
Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt
None listed
Gage, Robert L., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27726
Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 1Lt
Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt
None
Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt
Langley, Edmund P., Jr., Cpl
LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt
Dembrowski, Henry J., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”
P Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt
CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt
N None
B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 1Lt
E Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt
R None listed
G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-28081
P Bard, John A., 1Lt
CP Cook, Don W., 2Lt
N None
B Young, Robert B., 1Lt
E Reves, Louis E., Cpl
R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt
G Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27720
Tetlow, John S., 1Lt
Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt
None
Berman, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt
Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
Randall, Charles R., Jr., S/Sgt
Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt
None
“Felt a bit woozy in cabin – full blackout while running last mile nite. Learned
Margaret-Bourke-White (journalist), 21 nurses, and USO entertainers also on board.”
“What awoke me I do not know at 7:25. Hurrying and scurrying to get myself organized
as briefing was at 7:20AM. Ate a hurried breakfast. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, bread,
butter, coffee. Ran to catch trucks leaving for the line. Hailed one on highway mission
south of Turin, Italy. Carrying 500 lb GP's for oil dumps. Lt Kruse, pilot. Lead element.
Have on all my winter flying clothes. Flew over snow covered Italian Alps. Target
covered 10/10 stratus. Made two passes. Milk run. Headed for secondary. Also
covered. Landed 11:30AM with bombs. This is the first time the Red Cross has served
doughnuts and coffee on Sunday. Received rations today (2:20). 14 pkgs cigarettes, 2
cokes, 1 box vanilla snaps, 2 tropical Hershey's, 4 pkgs dentine gum, 1 box hard candy, 2
tubes peanuts, 2 pkgs gum drops, 1 peanut bar, 4 candy bars. Rations are rather snafued
as is our squadron supply. Underhanded activity is evident. Much of our equipment
designated for squadron personnel use is being disposed of for financial gain. Ham,
canned tomatoes, chocolate pudding, bread, butter, water, fresh apples. Warm and clear
today. John Scallion of Dorchester, Mass moved back to the 319th (formerly B26's).
Played the squadron football pool yesterday. Sorta hoping Wisconsin U would beat Ohio
- no luck. Been thinking about Shyrle a lot. Flew my eighteenth mission today. Roast
beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. Dozed off until
9:45PM. Capt Farwell called meeting of all radio operators at operations. Discussed
messages and frequencies. Clear, cold evening. Retired 11:00PM.”
Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt, pilot
Scallion, John, Sgt, radio-gunner, 319th BG
In Italy, medium bomber operations are cancelled by bad weather; A20s and fighter-bombers hit troop concentrations, bridges, gun positions, road, rail lines,
and vehicles in the battle area, particularly in the Monte Belmonte vicinity.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HEADQUARTERS
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)
FROM: 57 BOMB WING
TO : COMMANDING OFFICER THREE TWO ONE BOMB GP
C-460
THERE FOLLOWS A PARAPHRASE OF MESSAGE FROM GENERAL CLARK TO
GENERAL CANNON QUOTE I DESIRE TO EXPRESS TO YOU MY
APPRECIATION OF THE SPLENDID AIR SUPPORT OF OUR OPERATIONS
YESTERDAY PD UNQUOTE PD GENERAL CANNON ADDS THE FOLLOWING
QUOTE I DESIRE TO ADD MY APPRECIATION FOR THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
OF THE UNITS UNDER YOUR COMMAND IN SUPPORT OF THE FIFTH ARMY
PD CONTINUED GOOD HUNTING PD PLEASE CONVEY THIS MESSAGE TO
ALL UNITS OF YOUR COMMAND UNQUOTE
HUNTER
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt., Air Corps,
Ass’t Group S-2 Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The operational mission was cancelled today with 14 crews
standing by. The entire squadron was shocked today when they learned of an accident on
the beach near the line area when Capt. Yepez, Lt. Baldwin and Lt. Cronk drove their
weapons carrier over a land mine. Lt. Baldwin was the most seriously injured, sustaining
a broken arm and badly bruised back. Capt. Yepez suffered two broken ribs while all 3
are in the hospital. Another productive mail call pepped up the personnel this afternoon
while pork chops was on the menu for supper. A meeting for all enlisted men was held
this evening at the enlisted men’s club for the purpose of drawing a name from the hat to
determine the person to be sent home on rotation. In a stirring scene, the name of Pvt.
Jess Borck was drawn. The lucky Borck is an armorer in the squadron.
Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt, bombardier
Borck, Jess S., Pvt, armament
Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt, pilot
Yepez, Oscar W., Capt, bombardier/navigator
10/16/44:
“This evening Chaplain Irons and some of the fellows from the Northern
part of the island came down and a meeting was held at the 321st Group chapel. Eleven
members were present. Bro. Irons gave us word of encouragement on the subject of
spirituality. Myself and Lt. Merle Hacking were set apart as assistant Group Leaders to
Verle Orme. While this was going on a name was being drawn from a hat to determine
who, in the 445th Squadron, was the lucky man to go home on this month’s rotation
quota. Jess Borck, a Jew boy in turret maintenance is it and already a celebration is
underway in his tent which is adjacent to ours. The worth of the gospel looms gloriously
above everything else in my thoughts tonight. The weather is very warm, with very little
rain, although nearly every day the mission is “stand down” before noon and great black
clouds rise above the mountains to the west. Today several of our officers were getting a
load of sand from the beach. The weapons carrier drove over a land mine and they were
all blown about, but no one was killed, fortunately. Also we received word that Captain
Russell and crew were safe in the ranks of partisans in northern Italy. Guard tonight.”
Borck, Jess S., Pvt, armament
Hacking, Lauerle T., 1Lt, pilot, 379th BS, 310th BG
Orme, Verle W., Cpl, 487th BS, 340th BG
446th BS War Diary: October 16 and 17: Squadron duties as weather does not permit
any flying. Lieut. Jordan makes Captain and Major Cooper returns from a visit to Paris.
Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander
Jordan, Henry L., Capt, pilot
“Same old monotonous routine, sunning on the deck, bull session, etc. Sure be glad to
get off of this boat. Latest rumor has us getting in next Friday – hope so. Hot as heck.
Showered.”
447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for to-day, but was cancelled due to
weather conditions. 1st Lt Edward Krafka returned from 15th Field Hospital to this
Squadron. Usual Squadron Duties. Local training flights.
Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
“CQ blowing whistle 7:45AM. Briefing at 8:15AM. Sunny morning. Pancakes,
wheatena, bacon, grapefruit juice, coffee. Fred Jacobson was grounded on 55 missions.
Mission for today is stand-down. Meeting at operations at 9:00AM. Meeting was for
gunners to clean guns at line. Stomach cramps and diarrhea. Spam paddies, fresh
tomatoes, mashed potatoes (dehydrated), spinach, bread, marmalade, water. No
appetite. Swapped Joe Creighton 2 cokes for 6 pkgs cigarettes. Went out to see Capt
Hayes at ordnance. Checked out on tail and top turret. Read and slept. Clear day.
Showered. Commenced building portable bookstand for reading in bed. Roast pork,
succotash, canned tomatoes, rice pudding, coffee, bread, butter. Met Lt Bechtle, a distant
relation of Kirsten Flagstad. Commenced Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Received mail
from Geraldine and Shyrle. Retired 10:00PM.”
Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt, pilot
Creighton, Joe, 389th BS? 340th BG
Hayes, Elzie N., Jr., Capt, armament
Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Schaffer, Geraldine, Irving Schaffer’s sister
In Italy, weather cancels all medium bomber operations and limits
fighter-bombers to limited sorties in the battle area S of Bologna, hitting roads, rail lines
and bridges; A-20s during the night of 16/17 Oct on armed reconnaissance over the Po
Valley bomb targets of opportunity and cause explosions on N edge of Ravenna.
445th BS War Diary: Fourteen crews again were standing by but the mission was
cancelled. The weather this month has been very poor and so far only 5 missions have
been flown. This is a new low for the squadron which is accustomed to flying regularly.
A Sergeant who escaped from the Po valley area gave an escape lecture to the combat
crews this evening. Some material to construct a Nissen hut arrived today. The show
“Cornzapoppin” was dragged out of the moth balls and put on at the 340th group tonight.
446th BS War Diary: October 16 and 17: Squadron duties as weather does not permit
any flying. Lieut. Jordan makes Captain and Major Cooper returns from a visit to Paris.
Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander
Jordan, Henry L., Capt, pilot
“Up on deck all a.m., sunning and watching flying fishes. Retard clock 1 hr. @ 1400.
Read the ‘Yearling’ – good. As usual, lights out early – hit the sack. Very hot all day –
getting slightly cooler now.”
it was cancelled. 1st Lt Charles G. Wakeley returned to the Squadron from the 15th Field
Hospital. T/Sgt Joseph J. Parisi transferred to Detachment of Patients, 40th Station
Hospital. Training for to-day consisted of local transition and training flights.
Parisi, Joseph J., T/Sgt, photographer
Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt, pilot
“DQ blowing whistle at 6:55AM. Standby on mission until 9:00AM. Cloudy morning.
Fried powdered eggs, wheatena, tomato juice, bread, marmalade, coffee. Nelson spent
the day in the mountains yesterday. Stuffed peppers, fresh salad of tomatoes, onions and
peppers, peas, canned sliced pineapple, water. Huha and I built door for tent. Slightly
cloudy. Sanford Wellington Will, North Plains, Oregon, stopped in. Sanford is about
six-three, slightly stooped. A daily part of his dress is a beret obtained from a
Frenchman. He likes to talk about his drunks. As an individual he is outstanding for his
gold trimmed front teeth and odd way of expression with his lips. Stew, fresh onions,
tomato and pepper salad, kidney beans, butterscotch pudding, coffee. One of the tents
caught fire this evening. Attended "Background for Danger" with Ben Moleski of Gary,
Indiana. Ben is about 5'9" - 150 lbs and of Polish extraction. Likes to dress
ostentatiously. Talks about many things of which he knows little or nothing. Goes out of
his way to associate with officers and the cream. Does a lot of brown-nosing. Does a lot
of bull throwing. He is a clean liver. Good habits. Retired 10:00PM.”
Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Sgt, gunner
Will, Sanford Wellington, Sgt, engineering
In Italy, most medium bomber missions are aborted because of
weather, but B-26s effectively hit Castel San Pietro dell'Emilia warehouses and a railroad
bridge at Padua; fighters and fighter-bombers, operating on restricted schedule due to
weather, offer effective close support to ground forces in the mountains S of Bologna and
hit communications targets in the Bologna and Modena areas; during the night of 17/18
Oct A-20s on armed reconnaissance bomb lights and vehicles E of Bologna.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: An attempt was made to bomb the Road Bridge at Galliate
but the 50 planes had to turn back at the IP because of adverse weather conditions.
Galliate RR Bridge, Italy
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary:
Construction was initiated on the Nissen hut for operationsintelligence. Work is being done by the grounded gunners with that reliable work-horse
Sgt. Stanford and his assistant Cpl. Pinson leading the way. Fresh frankfurters for
supper. They were too tough.
Pinson, John B., Cpl, carpenter
Stanford, Hirman P., Sgt, Carpenter
Twelve ships from the squadron joined the group to hit the feared Galliate road bridge,
Italy. Due to weather conditions, no bombs were dropped.
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”
P Kendall, Wayne E., 1Lt
CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt
B Skebey, Robert J., 1Lt
G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-27509
Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt
Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
None
Cravey, Robert P., F/O
Freiler, Walter C., Sgt
McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt
Bates, Leonard H., Sgt
None
CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt
N None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 1Lt
R Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt
G None listed
F None
A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Glasford, Loren G., 1Lt
CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt
N None
E Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., T/Sgt - filling B & R
positions
G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo”
P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt
CP Miron, Leno L., 2Lt
N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt
B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), S/Sgt
R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt
McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt
None
Emery, Ben D., 1Lt
Kofmehl, James J., S/Sgt
Gray, John H., T/Sgt
G
F
Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt
None
None
Barton, Samuel V., 1Lt
Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt
None
Moore, William H., Jr., 1Lt
McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt
None
Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
Salch, Raymond F., Cpl
Walburn, John A., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 44-28928 “Heaven Can Wait”
Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt
Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt
None
None
Portchester”
Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr. F/O
None
Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt
Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt - filling B &
R positions
None
P Born, Walter E., 1Lt
CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O
N None
B Gifford, Robert H., 1Lt
R Otterness, William B., Cpl
F None
(DROPPED WINDOW BEFORE
FORMATION)
P Spencer, Charles F., 1Lt
CP Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O
N None
B Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt
R Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”
Lewis, Max E., 2Lt
None
Rockett, James J., T/Sgt
Sycylo, Theodore W., Cpl
None
446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Gambino is made a First Lieutenant. A mission is
flown after several days of inactivity.
Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt, bombardier
TARGET: Galliate RR Bridge, Italy
DATE: 18 Oct.1944
446th Planes: 13
Captain Farwell led the formation. Turned back just short of I.P. because of bad weather.
Flak was heavy, meager, inaccurate observed near Asti. Lt. Matthews was a spare and
returned early.
Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Jordan, Henry L., Capt
Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt
Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt
Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt
Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt
McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt
Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt
None
Ingram, William T, 2Lt
Sherline, David M., 2Lt
None
South, William R., S/Sgt
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Ass II”
Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt
Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt
None
Noel, Paul R., 1Lt
Poorman, William H., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little Admiral”
(later Lady Jane)
Ramsay, Lamar E., 2Lt
None
Gilligan, John W., 1Lt
Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt
Rousos, Milton P., T/Sgt
Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt
Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt
Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt
Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt
Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt
McKearin, William Jerome, T/Sgt
Ritger, Frederic Charles, 1Lt
None
A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt
Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt
None
Leith, William V., 1Lt
Nigrelli, Ernest J., Cpl
McCarty, Lyle (NMI), T/Sgt
Bryan, Dwight L., S/Sgt
None
None
Mygrant, Robert F., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt
Schmid, Kenneth L., 1Lt
None
Horlen, Aubrey B., Cpl
DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt
Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
None
Law, John B., Cpl
Kreider, John L., S/Sgt
Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt
None
Pad”
Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt
CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt
N None
B Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt
E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt
R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
previously “Miss Dallas”) (Lead spare did not fill in)
P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt
CP Panning, Robert F., 2Lt
N None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 1Lt
E Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt
R Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Wagner, William M., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”
Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt
None
Demmitt, Henry H., Cpl
Flasher, Henry F., Cpl
None
Darlene) (Window Ship)
None
Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt
None
“Cool out today, sea a little choppy. Same old routine. Reading a book of short stories.
Raining. Mess getting poorer. Shaved.”
447th BS War Diary: The following Officers and enlisted men have returned to the
Squadron from Rome Rest Camp: 1st Lt Irving L. Altman, 1st Lt Harold Spilko, T/Sgt
Michael P. Freisen, S/Sgt Jerome Goldman, Sgt John E. Wall, Cpl Francis R. Haley Jr.
Sgt Richard H. Perl reclassified from 747 to 748.
Freisen, Michael P., T/Sgt, supply
Goldman, Jerome (NMI), S/Sgt, Supply
Haley, Francis R., Jr., Cpl, armament
Perl, Richard H., Sgt, gunner
Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier
Wall, John E., Sgt, engineering
Thirteen of our planes participated in a raid on Galliate Road Bridge, in Italy, with Capt
Speer leading our Squadron. Due to weather conditions, cloud coverage, all bombs were
returned to the base.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27785
Hall, Earl W., 1Lt
None
Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt
Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt
None listed
Williams, James H., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs.
Runyon)
Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt
Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt
None
Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt
None listed
Sims, James W., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie”
Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt
None
Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt
None listed
None
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
Woods, Richard J., 1Lt
None
Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt
None listed
Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt
None
Speer, Marvin L., Capt
Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt
Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
Huffman, William C., 1Lt
Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
Torrey, Francis S., T/Sgt
None
Aloysius”
Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt
Satterwhite, Henry C., 2Lt
None
May, Frederick J., S/Sgt
None
None
Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt
None listed
Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 2Lt
Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt
None
CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt
N None
B McFarland, John F., T/Sgt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt
R None listed
G Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Cpl
F None
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt,
None
Bokum, John B., F/O
Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, T/Sgt
None listed
Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt
None
None
None
(Lead spare)
Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt
None
Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt
None
Mission 376 (593) (50) planes took off to bomb the Galliate Road Bridge in Italy.
Twelve planes from the 448th participated. The formation did not drop any bombs due to
adverse weather and all bombs were returned to the base. No escort, no opposition.
Observations: 1 B-25 left formation and followed a B-25 in distress about 15 miles
North of Calvi. B-25 was followed around Cape Corse and at 1700 hours 7 chutes were
seen about 10 miles north of Bastia. Air Sea Rescue Walrus was seen in area. Weather:
9/10 stratocumulus at 8000 feet, visibility 15 miles.
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27720
Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt
Cook, Don W., 2Lt
McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt
None listed
Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27523
Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt
Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt
None
Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt
Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt
Randall, Charles R., Jr., S/Sgt
Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess”
P Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt
N None
B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt
G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27528
P Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt
CP Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt
N None
B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
R None listed
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
P Grady, John R., 1Lt
CP Smith, Milford A., 2Lt
N None
B Kiska, George P., 1Lt
E Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt
R Hulse, Donald W., S/Sgt
G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt
Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt
None
Martin, James M., 1Lt
None
A/C No. 43-27791
Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
None
Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
Blackard, James, R., T/Sgt
DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27481
None
None
Farwell, Harold S., Capt
Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt
Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt
McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt
Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt
Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
None
Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt
Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt
None listed
None
A/C No. 43-27726
P Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt
N None
B Berman, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt
E Langley, Edmond P., Jr., Cpl
R None listed
G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None
None
Haack, Cecil J., T/Sgt
Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt
None
“CQ blowing whistle over PA system (just recently repaired at the Signal Corps).
Briefing at 8:35AM. Clear, sunny AM. Raisin fritters, whole-wheat cereal, apple butter,
coffee. Mission standby until 10:35AM. Mission stand-down. Meal loaf, gravy,
shredded cabbage, applesauce, bread, peanut butter, hot tea. Immediate standby on
mission. Briefing at 12:45. RR bridge west of Milan. Carry 1000 lb GP's. This is to be a
hot target. Take off 1:50PM. Very heavy cumulous. Target area 10/10. Inaccurate flak.
Did not drop. Instructed to stay with ship in distress at 4:58PM. Watched 7 chutes open
between Cape Corse and Bastia. Crash and PT boats out. Sea Gull (air sea rescue flying
boat) over area. Continued circling area spotting chutists in water. Lt Kruse excellent
pilot. Circled area until everyone was picked up. Do not know of ship or its crew. Seen
smoke flares. We departed in the dark for our field. Salvoed bombs on way. Sweating out
gas consumption. Landed 6:30PM. Greeted by CO and Captain Moss. Rumor about that
they were practice chutes. Ate a few sandwiches and hot dogs. Having a party at club.
321st band is playing. 1st Sgt Iseldyke’s father died on Flt 6. Received telegram and
letter today. Mitchell-Aires, led by Capt (flight surgeon) Smith of 445th, Corsican girls,
about fifteen, were secured. Sandwiches, cake, doughnuts and orange juice. Bar did not
have any American liquor. Yours truly left about 9:00PM. No drinking. Boys feeling
high. George Parsons, Master Sgt in charge of communications told me I am to act in
capacity of Chief radio operator. Retired 10:00PM (very windy).”
Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt, pilot
Moss, Raymond W., Capt, pilot
Parsons, George M., Jr., M/Sgt, communications
Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, Flight Surgeon, 445th BS
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Twelfth AF redesignates
HQ XII Fighter Command as HQ XXII Tactical Air Command following a
reorganization period during which the XXII Tactical Air Command was temporarily
referred to as "X" Tactical Air Command and "X-Ray" Tactical Air Command, to
distinguish it from HQ XII Fighter Command around which it was formed.
In Italy, B-26s attack the Mantua causeway, a railway fill at
Ossenigo, and bridges at Calcinato and Peschiera del Garda; a Luftwaffe fighter attack
NW of Mantua accounts for 2 B-26s lost and 1 missing; at least 2 of the attacking fighters
are destroyed; B-25s attack bridges in the Milan area at Lonate Pozzolo, Cameri, and
Magenta; fighter-bombers of the XXII Tactical Air Command hit targets in support of
ground forces, concentrating on the Monte Grande area, and attack rail lines and bridges
N of the battle zone. On the night of 18/19 Oct A-20s hit targets of opportunity during
armed reconnaissance in the Genoa and Bologna areas.
445th BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled for today as 13 crews stood by in vain.
A plane was sent to Catania for liquor and foodstuffs. News was received which had a
sobering effect on the men concerning Capt. Russell and crew. It was learned that only
Lt. Martin was safe in the hands of partisans. Capt. Russell and the others are now
prisoners of war. There was no training today as strong cross-winds prevented aircraft
from taking off. The Mitchell-Aires serenaded the 447th squadron tonight.
Martin, John W., 1Lt, pilot
446th BS War Diary: October 19 and 20: More idle days as no missions are able to get
away due to weather.
“Retard clocks 1 hr. @ 1400 (Zone 3). Nice out today. Hung around deck with Chudars
and Barbour. Sacked awhile. Hurricane reported ahead, making preparations by
lashing lifeboats, etc. Read awhile.”
it was cancelled. 1st Lt Hubert P. J. Jensen, T/Sgt Robert R. Vineski, relieved from
assignment and transferred to 7th Replacement Depot for transshipment to U.S. Officers
celebrated a party in the Officer’s Club with Colonel R.H. Smith, Commanding Officer,
321st Bomb Gp (M) in attendance.
Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt, pilot
Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander
“Awoke 6:10AM. Very restless evening and night. Standby on mission until 9:00AM.
Very windy, but clear. Still have diarrhea. Club and mess hall a mess from party last
night. French toast, oatmeal, coffee. Briefing at 10:00AM. Same target as yesterday.
Strong cross winds on runway causing standby. Canned corned beef, fried onions, fresh
boiled potatoes, canned tomatoes, applesauce, bread, butter, hot cocoa. Meeting in mess
hall at 12:45. Ike asked for voluntary contributions of $2 per man to organize squadron
band. To purchase instruments. Spoke about athletic committees for basketball and
touch football. 2 sand buckets in front of each tent a fire precaution. Stand-down on
mission. Over to group communications inquiring about air-sea rescue. Showering
outside. Steak, fresh mashed potatoes, canned corn, fruit salad, peanut butter, water.
Wind has quieted down. Very cold. Getting a cold. Clear and starry night. Retired
9:30PM.”
In Italy, the weather clears, permitting for the first time in several
days a maximum effort by medium bombers which attack 12 bridges and railroad fills in
the Po Valley; fighter-bombers of the XXII Tactical Air Command, operating on full
scale, blast gun positions, troop concentrations, supply dumps, and communications
targets in close support of the US Fifth Army's drive on Bologna from the S; the fighterbombers concentrate on approaches to the Monte Grande area to prevent counterattacks.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: 50 aircraft (including two which dropped the anti-flak chaff
device) made a determined run against the Galliate Road Bridge and despite the heavy,
intense, accurate flak which shot down one ship and holed 29 others, laid a devastating
pattern of 1000 pounders right into the bridge and succeeding in knocking two spans
down.
Galliate Road Bridge in Italy
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Major Bounds presented some Air Medals and several awards of
the Distinguished Flying Cross in the squadron area this afternoon. Sgt. H. G. Zimmer,
who went to the Medical Disposition Board at Florence, is now on his way to the USA.
In another drawing held at the enlisted-men’s club, the name of S/Sgt. Hirman P.
Stanford was drawn and the squadron’s hard-working carpenter will go home soon on the
30-day rotation plan.
Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander
Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt, pilot
Stanford, Hirman P., S/Sgt, Carpenter
Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt, gunner
445th squadron helped gain sweet revenge on the Galliate area today as they went out to
weather an intense and accurate flak barrage to smash the road bridge there with many
direct hits, knocking out two spans with 100 percent bombing accuracy. There were 3
single-engine landings, including Lt. Eatherly from this squadron, but no planes were lost
nor was anyone injured seriously.
A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo”
Jeffery, James C., 1Lt
Miron, Leno L., 2Lt
Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt
Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt
Poirier, Andre (NMI), S/Sgt
DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt
Miller, Robert Ryal, S/Sgt
None
P Born, Walter E., 1Lt
CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O
N None
B Gifford, Robert H., 1Lt
R Otterness, William B., Cpl
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 44-28928 “Heaven Can
Wait”
Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt
Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”
Lewis, Max E., 2Lt
None
Rockett James J., T/Sgt
Sycylo, Theodore W., Cpl
None
Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt
McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt
None
Emery, Ben D., 1Lt
Kofmehl, James J., S/Sgt
Gray, John H., T/Sgt
Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”
P Kendall, Wayne E., 1Lt
CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt
B Skebey, Robert J., 1Lt
G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl
F None
CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt
N None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 1Lt
R None listed
G Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Glasford, Loren G., 1Lt
CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt
N None
E Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., T/Sgt - filling B & R
positions
G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Portchester”
Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O
None
Gonzales, Alfred R,, T/Sgt
None listed
None
A/C No. 43-27509
Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt
Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
None
Cravey, Robert P., F/O
Freiler, Walter C., Sgt
McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt
Bates, Leonard H., Sgt
None
None
Barton, Samuel V., 1Lt
Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt
None
Moore, William H., Jr., 1Lt
McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt
None
Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
Salch, Raymond F., Cpl
Walburn, John A., S/Sgt
None
(DROPPED WINDOW BEFORE
FORMATION)
Spencer,
Charles
F., 1Lt
P
CP Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O
N None
B Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt
R Garrett, Ray E., S/Sgt
F None
446th BS War Diary: October 19 and 20: More idle days as no missions are able to get
away due to weather.
TARGET: Galliate Road Bridge, Italy
DATE: 20 Oct.1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (12 ships) Window (1 ship)
446th Planes: 13
Lt. Dossey led the formation. Several elements scored direct hits on center and W end of
bridge. One span on W and Two spans in center observed down. Both approaches well
hit. Flak was meager, inaccurate, moderate and out of range, on the way out. Moderate
to intense on bomb run. One plane missing, last seen in target area. Lt. Pietrowski was a
spare and returned early.
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt
Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt
Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt
Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt
Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt
Glendening, George F., S/Sgt
None
Ingram, William T., 2Lt
Sherline, David M., 2Lt
None
South, William R., S/Sgt
None
Pad”
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt
N None
B Derringer, Albert J., 1Lt
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
G Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little Admiral”
(later Lady Jane)
P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt
CP Ramsay, Lamar E., 2Lt
N None
B Gilligan, John W., 1Lt
E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt
R Rousos, Milton P., T/Sgt
G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt
F None
previously “Miss Dallas”)
Matthews,
John Walker, Jr., 1Lt
P
CP Panning, Robert F., 2Lt
N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt
B Lippy, Harvey W., 1Lt
E Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt
R Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt
Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt
None
Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt
Freiler, John L., S/Sgt
Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt
None
None
Mygrant, Robert F., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
None
Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt
Beecher, Everett F., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
None
Law, John B., Cpl
DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt
Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt
None
Ass II”
Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt
None
None
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
P Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt
CP Everhart, Herman E., F/O
N None
B Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt
E Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt
R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
Darlene) (Window Ship)
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt
DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt
None
Noel, Paul R., 1Lt
Poorman, William H., T/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”
Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt
None
Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt
Flasher, Henry F., Cpl
None
A/C No. (only pilot identified -ship and
crew unknown) (Spare - returned early did not fill in)
Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt
None
None
“No. 7) Galliate R.R. Bridge. Loads of flak. Blew out stack and made large hole in
stabilizer. Single engine back from target. Fontaine pilot.”
Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (trip home – Day
10) “Same old routine. Hottest day, really sweltering. Retard clock 1 hr. @ 1400.
Captain’s inspection @ 1400. Out on deck most of the day trying to get relief from the
heat.”
447th BS War Diary: Pfc Richard N. Helwig returned to the Squadron from the 15th
Field Hospital.
Helwig, Richard N., PFC, engineering
Eleven of our ships participated in a raid on the Galliate Road Bridge, in Northern Italy,
with Lt Rice leading our Squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs on target, scoring
direct hits on the center and west end knocking two spans down in the center and one
span at the west end. Strings also hit both approaches. Bombing accuracy, 100%.
Mission efficiency, 62%. 1 plane failed to return. 1st Lt Richard L. Willis (MIA), 2nd Lt
Edmund R. Harvey (MIA), F/O James I. Wentz (MIA), S/Sgt Anthony J. Abbondanza
(MIA), S/Sgt William T. Mabbutt (MIA).
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Gillis, John R., 1Lt
Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt
None
Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt
Harris, Jack J., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt
None
Bokum, John B., F/O
None listed
Veid, Joseph (NMI), S/Sgt
Burns, Harry B., Sgt
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde”
(shot down)
Willis, Richard L., 1Lt
Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O
None
Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt
None listed
Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt
None
Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt
Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt
None
Netzel, Carl F., Cpl
Young, Robert E., Cpl
None
Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt
Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt
Thomas, Robert E., Capt
Gould, Joe W., 2Lt
Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt
Dawson, Roy C., S/Sgt
None
Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt
Drew, Horace E., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie”
Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt
Gies, Donald W., F/O
None
Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt
Sims, James W., Cpl
None
A/C No. 43-27636
Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt
Condit, Albert K., 2Lt
None
Toole, John F., T/Sgt
Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27785
P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 1Lt
N None
B Barksdale, Phillip L., S/Sgt
E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
G Williams, James H., Sgt
F None
None
Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt
Connolly, Paul B., S/Sgt
None
Aloysius” (Lead spare - returned - did
not fill in)
Marchant,
Wendell
E., 1Lt
P
CP Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt
N None
B Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt
E Hopp, Charles J., Sgt
R Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt
G Kipp, Robert T., Cpl
F None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt
Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt
None
Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs.
Runyon) (Spare - returned - did not fill
in)
Woods, Richard J., 1Lt
None
Perl, Richard H., Sgt
None listed
McKnight, John A., Jr., Cpl
None
447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 9442: Craft received flak in right
wing near engine; left engine began throwing oil, and attempts to feather it failed. Loss
of altitude was indicated and at 6,000’ bail-out orders were given. Abbondanza, who
believes he was first to bail, left craft at 3500’ closely followed by Wentz; neither saw
any other chutes while descending. Both members state none of the crew had been
injured in the craft. Difficulty was encountered with flak-damaged escape hatches and
only the rear hatch was successfully forced open. Abbondanza’s last view of the plane
was at its point of fall into a dive; then an explosion was felt. Wreckage was never seen
by sources.
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” (MACR-9442 – hit by flak - crashed)
P Willis, Richard L., 1Lt – remained in plane – KIA – buried 21 Oct 44, Cemetery
Piave Albignola Field 2, Row 9, Grave 6
CP Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O – MIA – POW returned
N None
B Harvey, Edmund R., 2Lt – remained in plane – KIA – buried 21 Oct 44, Cemetery
Piave Albignola Field 2, Row 9, Grave 7
E Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt – MIA - evaded enemy - returned to USA (interviewed by
Intelligence Service, Army Service Forces, New York Port of Embarkation,
Brooklyn, New York on 16 Dec 44)
R None
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt – MIA – POW returned
F None
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Eyewitness Account: Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
APO 650
US Army
22 October 1944
AG-360.33 Willis, R. L. and crew.
TO
: Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels).
1. I was Co-Pilot flying left wing in the second element of the third Flight on the
mission on October 20, 1944. Lt. Willis’ plane was flying right wing of the same
element.
2. Just after breaking away from the target our plane was forced to go on single
engine when flak sheared our right throttle control cable. When we were about ten miles
clear of the target we had lost about 1500 feet of altitude and were at about 10,500 feet,
flying about 170 mph. We were clear of the flak.
3. It was there that I last saw Lt. Willis’ plane. He was on our right about 100
feet below us. Both engines were running and his plane seemed to be in full control,
flying faster than ours. Lt. Willis’ ship passed under ours going to the left. Our heading
was approximately South. Lt. Willis was flying either South or slightly Southwest and
toward our lines. This was the last time I saw him. He was alone, without escort.
HELMUT K BUECHNER,
2nd Lt., Air Corps,
Pilot
(Attachment to MAC Rpt
dtd 22 Oct 44, 447th Bomb Sq (M)
Pilot: 1st Lt. Richard L. Willis,
0-755485, B-25 D-1 A/C No. 43-3403).
J. MAURICE WIGINTON,
Captain, Air Corps,
Operations Officer.
Incl 3
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission 377 (594): At 1011 fifty planes took off to bomb Galliate Road Bridge in Italy.
Twelve planes from the 448th participated, flying as the lead squadron. The formation
dropped 152x1000# .1 & .01 GP bombs. Two planes dropped chaff. 20x1000# GP
returned due to malfunction of racks. 16 were salvoed by planes hit by flak and in
difficulty. No escort. Excellent concentration of bombs observed on target with direct
hits on the center and west end of the bridge. Two spans were knocked down in the
center and one span at the west end. Strings also hit both approaches. Observation:
Much smoke and many fires in Milan, 50/75 RR cars in M/Y at Voghera. Opposition:
Heavy, scant, inaccurate flak from San Margherita. Heavy, moderate, out of range flak
from Alessandria. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from Vigevano. Heavy moderate, fairly
accurate from Vercelli & Torreberretti. At the target the flak was moderate to intense at
the beginning of the bomb run and became more intense through the run. Heavy, intense
flak on the breakaway. One plane missing, last seen in target area. Twenty-nine (29)
planes holed and three (3) crew members wounded. Weather: CAVU.
A/C No. unidentified (heavy flak
damage)
P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt,
CP Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt
B Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt
G Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Kirk, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt
N None
B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1lT
E Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt
R Hulse, Donald W. S/Sgt
G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt
F None
A/C No. 43-28081
Bard, John A., 1Lt
Cherry, Raymond (NMI), 2Lt
None
Young, Robert B., 1Lt
Reves, Louis E., Cpl
Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, S/Sgt
Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27791
Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt
None
None
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27720
Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt
Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt
None
Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O
Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
None listed
Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27668
Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt
Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt
White, Joseph John, S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27726
Smith, Milford A., 2Lt
None
Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt
Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt
Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt
None
A/C No. 43-27481
None
Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt
Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt
None listed
None
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
Norris, Grafton R., 1Lt
Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt
None
Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt
Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt
None
Tetlow, John S., 1Lt
None
Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt
Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
None listed
None
Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt
Garrett, Thaddeus D., 1Lt
None
Kiska, George P., 1Lt
Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt
Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt
None
Burks, Richard W., Capt
Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt
None
Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt
Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt
Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt
None
“Nelson awoke me at 7:40AM. Tent rather cold inside. Very sunny, cloudless AM.
Briefing at 9:00. Same mission as yesterday. Pancakes, whole wheat cereal, apple
butter, orange juice. Target is Galliate Road Bridge. Carrying 1000 lb GP. To be a hot
mission. Might encounter fighters. Take off 10:10AM. Flying lead radio operator. Lt
Dossey, pilot. Lt McKinley, navigator. Lt Comfort, bombardier, Anderson, co-pilot.
Bowman, top turret. Bergstrom tail turret. Throwing window from ship out of camera
hatch as we have not special chute. Very clear. Flak on bomb run. Tail gunner hit.
Flak hit in bomb bay. Rudder shot up, wings hit. Radio shot out. Hydraulic system shot
out. Hole in Bergstrom's jacket. Called pilot informing him of a possible injury and
removing his chute etc. Blood showed as I peeled off his clothes. Hole about the size of
a nickel in his back just below kidney. Bleeding not very heavy. Ran into more flak.
Yours truly was missed by inches. Applied sulfa - nullified powder and compress.
Removed my clothing to make a comfortable bed for Bergstrom and keep him warm.
Didn't let him know seriousness of injury. He is a real scout, no complaining or fear.
Injected complete morphine surety in arm. Broke formation and tailed for home.
Preparing to land at Ghisonaccia for 15th field hospital. Could only lower 1 wheel 45
degrees. Prepared Bergstrom for crash landing. Bowman slightly injured. Engineer
managed to pump to hydraulic system and get landing gear down and locked. Pilot
unable to lower flaps. Called on interphone inquiring as to whether he intended to lower
flaps. Said he couldn't. Yours truly ranked down flaps mechanically from radio
operator's room. Got full flap. Beautiful landing. Doctors, ambulances greeted us. The
medics took over. Bergstrom walked out. What a brave guy. Ship completely shot up.
While waiting two hours for ride, flight surgeon came out and told us the flak lodged
between his heart and lung missing both. Condition is good. Doctor complimented me
on first-aid measures. 100% hit on target. Bowman grounded on 62nd. Took my first
shot of liquor since being in combat. Interrogated by Capt Lichtward. Had a snack at
kitchen. Feeling OK aside from chest cold. Steak, beans, string beans, fruit salad,
peanut butter, bread, coffee. Attended "Beautiful But Dumb" at theater with Jerry Kurs.
Very cold night. Heavy chest cold. Taking aspirin. Retired 10:30PM.”
Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt, pilot
Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt, gunner
Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt, bombardier
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot
Kurs, Jerome H. "Jerry", T/Sgt, operations
Lichtward, Frederick W., Capt, intelligence
McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt, bombardier, navigator
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): B-26s, in the day's only
medium bomber mission
In Italy, attack Nervesa della Battaglia railroad bridge and causeway;
fighters and fighter-bombers operate in close support of US Fifth Army forces S of
Bologna and fighter-bombers also hit communications in N Italy as far N as Verona and
as far W as Turin; during the night of 20/21 Oct A-20s bomb targets of opportunity
during intruder missions N of battle area.
445th BS War Diary: Thirteen crews were standing by for the mission but it was finally
cancelled. Weather also grounded all training. Lt. Wolfe, on the latest Cairo trip,
returned on a 448th plane to report that Lt. Dyer would weather-in on his trip from Cairo.
The entire crew was delayed at their departure due to the fact that Lt. Place was
hospitalized with many cuts on his face due to a scrape with British sailors. All
contestants in the bout were under the influence of alcohol and thus it is believed that all
that British-American relations are still amicable. Another rumor cropped up today to the
effect that all Allied troops must be off the island of Corsica by December 10. The
rumor-mongers are really trying to get the outfit off the island. The combat crew gunners
and Sgt. Stanford are putting the finishing touches on the Nissen hut. The Mitchell-Airs
entertained this evening at the Officers club.
Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt, pilot
Place, Winston R., 1Lt, pilot
Stanford, Hirman P., Sgt, Carpenter
Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt, pilot
446th BS War Diary: Private Webber is made a Private First Class.
Webber, Frank B., PFC, personnel
446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (trip home–Day 11)
“During the nite got up and showered & shaved. Ran into quite a storm, getting cooler,
ship really rocking & rolling. Expect to pull into Hampton Roads @ 1430. Got in as
scheduled, had to wait until 2100 before tug took us into dock. On deck most of the time.
Didn’t debark as planned – SNAFU! Tomorrow a.m.”
447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for to-day but due to weather conditions,
it was cancelled. Sgt Realus W. Shattles placed on TD with Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M). Cpl
Gino C. Franzi and Cpl Price F. Harris relieved from assignment and transferred to 7th
Replacement Depot for transshipment to U.S., per SO Hq 12th AF, dated 15 Oct 1944
(rotation). The following enlisted men were promoted to grade of T/Sgt: S/Sgt Robert J.
Balling, S/Sgt John A. Keefe. The following enlisted men were promoted to grade of
S/Sgt: Sgt Smith B. Applegarth, Sgt Harold R. Bauder, and Sgt Harry B. Burns. The
following enlisted men were promoted to grad of Sgt: Cpl Carl F. Netzel, and Cpl Robert
E Young. 1st Lt Svend P. Olson returned to the Squadron from Laredo Gunnery School,
Laredo, Texas.
Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt, gunner
Balling, Robert J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Bauder, Harold R., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Burns, Harry B., S/Sgt, photographer
Franzi, Gino C., Cpl, intelligence
Harris, Price F., Cpl, armament
Keefe, John A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Netzel, Carl F., Sgt, gunner
Olsen, Svend P., 1Lt, navigator
Shattles, Realus Webster, Sgt, communications
Young, Robert E., Sgt, gunner
“CQ blowing whistle 6:10AM. Briefing at 7:25. Cold and clear. Fresh fried eggs,
whole wheat cereal, grapefruit juice, bread, marmalade, coffee. Standby on mission as
weather is closing in. Raining. Lt Tilton stopped over. Gave complete report to
intelligence on yesterday's mission. Stand-down on today's mission. Canned turkey,
string beans, potatoes, fruit salad, bread, apple jelly, coffee. Harold Phares who just
arrived on Corsica from the states is in 447. Knew him from gunnery school. Flying as a
private, he was busted at Greenville for letting a buddy use his pass. Salmon salad, fresh
vegetable salad, string beans, potatoes, bread, apple butter, coffee. Major Knievel gave
me jeep to visit Bergstrom at 15th field hospital. Poteet, Reeves, Knauss and I met some
other boys at hospital. He is doing OK. Very nervous. Cannot eat and must remain in
one position. Returned to squadron 8:15PM. Fair evening. Stove assembled today.
Throwing good heat. Cold about the same. Retired 9:30PM.”
Knauss, Charles F., Sgt, gunner
Knievel, Arthur W., Maj, executive
Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Pvt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier
Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt, pilot
In Italy, bad weather grounds all medium bombers and A-20s;
fighters and fighter-bombers, flying less than 20 sorties, hit rail lines and trains in N Italy;
the 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, moves from Galera Airfield to
Brindisi with C-47s.
445th BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled today due to bad weather which was
rainy, cloudy and cold. The plane from Cairo returned today and Lt. Place’s face was
swathed in bandages. Capt. James O. Jackson, Intelligence Officer, left for the United
States today on the 30-day rotation plan, having been the lucky winner of the draw held
for the ground officers in the squadron. Lt. Lowman will act as S-2 Officer until Capt.
Jackson returns. Fresh frankfurters were enjoyed for supper. There was quite a bit of
drinking at the club tonight after the Cairo special returned this afternoon. A large
number of squadron personnel are complaining about the overabundance of mice in many
of the tents. A number of rat traps have been procured and a big haul already is reported.
Corporal Chris “Galom” Beccarelli especially is fearful of the pesky rodents and has
taken elaborate pains at preventing their interference with his sleep. His defense includes
a mosquito net which is drawn taut around his bed at night.
Beccarelli, Christopher (NMI) "Doc", Cpl, engineering
Jackson, James O., Capt, intelligence
Lowman, Robert S., 2Lt, intelligence
Place, Winston R., 1Lt, pilot
10/22/44:
“I discovered this morning that I have been promoted to Sergeant. It
means very little to me, but causes me to feel somewhat better about things.
Encouragement is welcomed by everyone and should not be overlooked in the problem of
getting along with men who have unpleasant work to do. Also Lt. Lowman called me in
to get the facts connected with my assisting an injured pilot from a crashed plane. He
acted as though he planned to send in a recommendation for some sort of medal. I did
not ask him what it was for but tried to emphasize the fact that Art Hanna had as much to
do with the rescue as I did. I went to church at Ghisonaccia this morning. Our meetings
each week have proved a real factor in helping me to live the Gospel. Going on Guard
now.”
Hanna, Arthur M. "Art", Sgt, engineering
Lowman, Robert S., 1Lt, intelligence
446th BS War Diary: October 22 and 23: More days with no combat flying because of
inclement weather over the mainland.
446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (trip home–Day 12)
“F.S. Pay ceases. Up early, had a breakfast of K-rations. Fine way to hit the States!
Debarked @ 0900, on a train to Camp Patrick Henry. Arrived @ Patrick Henry @
1030, band led us to the theater, orientation lecture. Assigned barracks, then had a
wonderful duck dinner. Sent telegram to Ma. To Main PX, bought a new gabardine
trench coat. Sharp! Showered, shaved, & cleaned clothes. Went to show, Kay Kyser in
‘Carolina Blues’ – good. To Officer’s Club for a snack. Cold and damp.”
447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for to-cay but due to weather conditions
was cancelled. The following named Officers and Enlisted-Men were transferred to 7th
Replacement Depot, on rotation, to U.S.: 1st Lt Wayne A. Manz, 1st Lt Orval L.
Schnoebelen, S/Sgt Elmon P. Harriman, S/Sgt Clifford A. Rose, Cpl Aloysius E.
Coggins. Usual camp duties.
Coggins, Aloysius E., Cpl, engineering
Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt, gunner
Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot
Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt, gunner
Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot
“CQ (Danny Hurley - Dorchester, Mass) blowing whistle at 6:45. Cloudy AM. Standby
on mission for 10:00AM. Fresh fried eggs, bacon, oatmeal, bread, butter, coffee. Fill out
PRO form at S-2. Blackard and I put up radio antenna. Boys came back from Cairo and
Rome. Meatloaf, gravy, canned peas, fresh mashed potatoes, fresh tomatoes, fruit salad,
bread, hot tea. Checked out on tail and top turret at line. Using energizer. Raining.
Visited Harold Phares at 447th. Fresh frankfurters, tomato sauce, fresh boiled potatoes,
fresh tomatoes, fruit salad, coffee. Bad cold. Medics gave me more pills and spoke of
possibly grounding me. Played casino with George. Retired 9:45PM.”
Hurley, Daniel J. "Danny", S/Sgt, personnel
Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Pvt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
In Italy, bad weather grounds medium bombers; fighters and fighterbombers, although cancelling many operations, cause much damage to transportation,
destroying or damaging numerous locomotives, railroad cars, and motor transport, and
damaging vessels in the Savona, Turin, Padua, and Genoa areas; HQ 86th Fighter Group
and the 526th Fighter Squadron move from Grosseto to Pisa with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx
(W): redesignated # 652 on 1 Jan 45:
Weather Recce
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS War Diary: The weather this morning was clear but it was bad in Italy. Then
this afternoon the weather got into the proper spirit and went bad again as rain fell. The
operations-intelligence section moved to the new Nissen hut and a heating unit was set up
to warm the structure. The unit, used to heat airplane engines, throws hot air through the
hut. O.D. clothing was distributed by the supply department today.
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W):
redesignated # 652 on 1 Jan 45:
446th BS War Diary: October 22 and 23: More days with no combat flying because of
inclement weather over the mainland.
“Nearly froze during the nite, had to get up & eat. Got hold baggage. Shipped out bags
to go on baggage car @ 0800. Down to PX, coat not ready as yet, had to go back for it
in the afternoon. Good job and fit. To Post Office to cash a money order. No Money!
Tired as heck, sacked a few hrs. Sent a telegram to Alice. To Officer’s Club with
Barbour & Chudars.”
446th BS: War Diary of: Ritger, Frederic Charles., 2Lt, pilot: letter home (approximate
date): “Dear Gang,
I received my first letter from the old homestead today and it sure was welcome.
It proved to me that the U.S. is still there. The letter was from Pop (Ritger) dated
October 16. I guess by this time you should have a few letters from me so you know the
answers to the questions in the letter.
As for Christmas packages I suppose I will see those moccasins about Easter
time. Oh well could use rubber boots more, about now anyway (this is not a request). It
is raining buckets and a regular river is running through our tent. “Fitz” is busy
sweeping the water out the front as fast as it comes pouring into the back. He is fighting
a losing battle.
Fitzgerald, John (NMI) "Jack" "Fitz", 1Lt, pilot
I suppose Paul (Ritger) is knocking the babes in the local neighborhood slightly
goo goo just about now. I hope he got my letter before he came home.
I have been working very easily these last couple of weeks and I can tell you I am
going to lead a rather enjoyable life over here. We have a radio in the tent now and
manage to get beaucoup music, football games and such. Our morale is sky high.
I am sitting in front of the fire with my feet up on the stove with a bottle of beer in
one hand and a pen in the other. What a way to fight a war! Yep I said a bottle of beer.
We get three bottles of good old U.S. Jacob Ruppert’s every week talk about rough.
There is big news coming over the radio now about the big naval battle out in the
Pacific. Gosh it always seems that I am where the action aint. Oh well maybe I should
be happy.
I will say good night and see what happens in the next week.
Love to all
Fred
Mom: are you learning to cook yet? Now don’t get mad (its all in fun).”
447th BS War Diary: The following named Officer and EM, MIA over Galliate were
dropped from rolls: 1st Lt Richard L. Willis, 2nd Lt Edmund R. Harvey, F/O James I.
Wentz, S/Sgt Anthony J. Abbondanza, S/Sgt William T. Mabbutt. Usual Squadron
duties. Morning Report: Officers, 90, EM, 340.
Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Harvey, Edmund R., 2Lt, bombardier
Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O, pilot
One of our planes participated in a weather reconnaissance mission.
(Weather ship)
P Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt
CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt
N None listed
B None
E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt
R See, Russell K., T/Sgt
G None listed
F None
“High seas and gale blowing in AM – bright sunshine, turning overcast at dusk. Slept ‘til
2:30, showered (cold) shaved and cleaned up. We left rest of convoy about 19:00. Seas
running with heavy swells – they say we should pass of Rock of Gibraltar tonite, and
have mine fields, all around us. Sighted a B-24 at 16:00. Wrote Bet. Ship had engine
trouble and rejoined our convoy.”
“John awoke me at 7:40AM. Very uncomfortable night. Clear and warm this AM.
Mission standby 10:00AM. Scrambled egg cheese omelet, oatmeal, tomato juice, coffee.
Stand-down on mission. Stuffed peppers, kidney beans, canned corn, bread, peanut
butter, coffee. Cold. Visited boys at 445th. Schell taught me to play chess. Stayed for
supper. Roast beef, canned corn, tomato sauce, string beans, bread, canned peaches,
coffee. On 1st shift of guard. Lt Wyman of S-2 called me in for additional information on
Saturday's raid. Raining. Relieved at 10:00PM. Retired 10:30PM.”
Schell, Stewart I., Sgt, radio-gunner
Wyman, 2Lt, S-2, I&E Officer
In Italy, weather grounds the medium bombers; 300+ XXII Tactical
Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers attack targets in support of the US Fifth
Army S of Bologna and hit communications and shipping in the Turin-Genoa and E Po
Valley areas, destroying 14 locomotives and 100+ railroad cars; during the night of 23/24
Oct A-20s attack targets of opportunity in the Po Valley.
445th BS War Diary: Weather stepped in again to stop operational plans and thirteen
crews who were standing by returned to their tents for the day. However, there was some
training and some bombardiers spent some time on the bomb trainer. Lt. Col. Cassidy
conducted an inspection of the squadron area today. Material for a pre-fabricated hut
arrived today. New plans now have operations-intelligence moving into the pre-fab with
the Medics while supply is to take over the Nissen hut now occupied by operations. The
6-man touch footfall team representing the enlisted men and officers of this squadron
tangled this afternoon in a practice scrimmage. Capt. Yepez, who was injured in the
accident recently when his weapons carrier ran over a land mine, returned to the squadron
today nursing some broken ribs – still an extremely lucky man.
Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, pilot, 321st BG
Yepez, Oscar W., Capt, bombardier/navigator
446th BS War Diary: Lucky men heading for home include Lts. Meier and Vancil plus
EM Burrow, Jacob, Kane, Larson, Ricke and Zelnick.
Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt, gunner
Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt, gunner
Meier, Donald J., 1Lt, communications
Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt, gunner
Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt, pilot
Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
“Had chow @ 0630, all packed ready to go. Cleaned up barracks marched to train @
0845. Train lve. 0930. On a troop train, poor accommodations and lousy chow. A
regular GI chow. Nice riding in an American train tho. Short stop in NY, got a few
sandwiches.”
was cancelled. The following named Officers and EM were placed on TD, with Capri
Rest Camp: 1st Lt Wendell E. Marchant, 1st Lt Robert W. Mulholland, 2nd Lt Albert K.
Condit, S/Sgt Robert W. Engels, S/Sgt Jack Yates, Cpl Lawrence I. Kearney, Pfc Arnold
W. Vollbrecht. To-day’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing.
Condit, Albert K., 2Lt, pilot
Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt, gunner
Kearney, Lawrence I., Cpl, engineering
Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt, pilot
Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier
Vollbrecht, Arnold W., PFC, engineering
Yates, Jack (NMI), S/Sgt, intelligence
“Still in the Atlantic – will go thru Straits early AM Wed. Saw B-24’s, Blimps and
Sunderlands – also sub-chasers that took over next to our ship. Tanker going in to
Casablanca about 18:00. Talked with Jim Turner and Holt – played records and wrote
some more.”
Holt, John A., Sgt, gunner, 448th BS
Turner, James H., Sgt, gunner, 448th BS
“Awoke 7:30AM. Feeling OK. Standby on mission until 9:00AM. Cloudy. Pancakes
and syrup, whole wheat cereal, orange juice, coffee. Finished filling in foxhole. John
and George left for the mountains. Took majority of contents from Sullivan's package
from home (Sullivan went down over Verona on July 26th) to sell in mountains. Also
took mattress cover. Stand-down on mission. Turnips, fresh vegetable salad, macaroni
and tomato sauce, peas, bread, marmalade, fruit salad, coffee. Camiel Goethals and I
visited Daniel Bergstrom at hospital. Doing OK. Hospital moving near Bastia. Going to
transfer Dan to a general hospital on the mainland. On Rome schedule for rest camp.
Beaucoup mail. Roast beef, lima beans, fried onions, gravy, peas, bread, butter, coffee.
Fair evening. Issued OD's, overcoats, heavy underwear today. Cold better. John and
George brought back walnuts. Ate my first fresh apple since leaving states. Packed.
Retired 10:45PM.”
Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Sullivan, James G., Sgt, engineer-gunner
In Italy, weather again grounds medium bombers; fighter-bombers
blast guns, vehicles, and communications in the battle area S of Bologna while fighters
destroy 20+ locomotives in the Piacenza area; the 10th Troop Carrier Squadron moves
from Brindisi to Pomigliano with C-47s.
445th BS War Diary: Combat missions and training flights were off definitely today due
to a torrential downpour of rain which continued all day really flooding the area. Plans
are being laid for a football league in the group. Teams from each squadron – both
officer and enlisted men – together with headquarters and ordnance will participate. Sixman football is the brand to be played. Hamburgers were served for supper tonight. At
night, the Mitchell-Aires serenaded at the enlisted men’s club.
446th BS War Diary: October 25 and 26: A pair of no-flying days once more and all
departments catch up on a bit of maintenance work.
“Arrived at Fort Devens @ 0630. Taken to Casual Bar. Washed, had chow. Processed
@ 0830, ration ticket, new dog tags, show coupon, got a 25 day lve. Order. To PX, buy 3
shirts, hat, belt, shoes. When I got back to barracks found my B4 bag missing. Plenty
mad. Hung around hoping it would show up. By a matter of elimination decided it was
taken by mistake by a Lt. Glinnin of Arlington. Took a cab home @ 1500. Joyous
reunion…”
it was cancelled. The following named Officers and EM were assigned and joined from
57th Bomb Wing, per Par 1, SO 187, Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M): 2nd Lt Paul R. Peck (P), 2nd
Lt John W. Yerger (P), 2nd Lt Vernon L. Schmoke (B), Pvt Harold Phares Jr., (RC), Sgt
Daniel P. McMenamin Jr., (EG), Cpl Samuel E. Fromm (AG). Usual Squadron Duties.
1st Lt Merlin Hueppchen, shot down behind enemy lines 28 May 1944, returned to
Squadron 25 Oct 1944 vial 12th AFHQ.
Fromm, Samuel E., Cpl, aerial gunner
Hueppchen, Merlin O., 1Lt, pilot
McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., Sgt, engineer-gunner Peck, Paul R., 2Lt, pilot
Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Pvt, radio-gunner
Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt, bombardier
Yerger, John W., 2Lt, pilot
“Sighted lighted town on the African coast at 06:00 – a silhouette of the Spanish
Moroccan Coast now visible. Passed Tangiers about 09:00 and got buzzed by Catalina
flying boats as we passed through the international straits about 12 miles wide. Our
escort carrier pulled into Gibraltar about 11:00 when we passed it. Moorish Coast all
along with tops of sheer rock cliffs of Africa. We are following 20 miles off African Coast
at sunset at 19:00. Wrote Liz tonight.”
“Awoke 8:10AM. Continual downpour. Rome trip canceled today. Missed breakfast.
Started stoop. Very damp. Felling OK. Baked beans, peas, string beans, chocolate
pudding, hot tea, bread, apple butter. Still raining. Put on weather strips around door.
Erected half shelter over door to keep rain out. Finished bookstand for reading in bed.
Supply was robbed last night. (4 pairs new shoes and beaucoup OD's were stolen) No
clues. Cold much better. Spaghetti and tomato sauce, string beans, fresh boiled potatoes
in jackets, apple sauce, bread, marmalade, coffee. Yours truly has quit drinking java as
it gives me diarrhea. Borrowed fifty dollars from Nelson for the Rome trip (2000 francs,
1000 lire). Read in bed awhile. Retired 11:00PM.”
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather suspends all
operations. The 527th Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Group, moves from Grosseto to Pisa,
Italy with P-47s.
445th BS War Diary: The rainy weather which has plagued the group all month set in
again today and again there was no mission. Rain fell hard in the morning, then let up for
a while in the afternoon to permit a practice scrimmage between the officers and enlisted
men. However, it began late in the afternoon and continued the remainder of the day.
The runway and taxi-strips together with many hard-stands are in a semi-flooded
condition. Construction was begun on the pre-fabricated hut to be shared by operationsintelligence and the Medics. Sgt. Stanford once again is head man on the job. There is a
great deal of interest shown in the squadron concerning the big naval battle taking place
off the Philippines at present.
Stanford, Hirman P., S/Sgt, Carpenter
446th BS War Diary: October 25 and 26: A pair of no-flying days once more and all
departments catch up on a bit of maintenance work.
was cancelled. To-day’s training consisted of local transition, instrument flights and
practice bombing. Usual Squadron Duties.
“Sticking close to Coast – passed ORAN at 04:30 am – always lights visible all along
coast and a brilliantly lit up Airport seen on shore. Weather bad today with heavy swells
rocking boat steeply as nite comes on. Saw waterspout pass thru our convoy about
17:00; passed Algiers at 18:00 – saw that thru porthole on our D deck cabin at 20:00 –
wrote lots of V-mails.”
“Awoke 7:30AM. Raining. Feeling OK. Fried powdered eggs, bacon, wheatena,
grapefruit juice, coffee. Rome trip canceled due to weather. Sgt Charles Wimberly,
Baird, Moleski and I going to Ajaccio to pick up released GI prisoner at stockade. Left
in reconnaissance car at 8:50. Stopped in mountains at officer's rest camp where
Charles used to work. Met Madame, owner of hotel. Treated us to a drink of real rum.
Ascended to about 10,000 feet. In and above clouds. Mountains snow capped. Roads
very rough. Mountain streams swollen from recent rains. Drove part way. Arrived
Ajaccio 12:43PM. Stockade moved to Bastia. Ate at MP's transient mess. Purchased
deux kilos of apples at cinq francs a kilo ($1.60). Took pictures including Napoleon's
monument. Charles stopped at friend's home on return trip. Ben, Jim and I helped some
mademoiselles gather fall chestnuts. Ate at a cafe‚ in Ghisoni. Soup, rye bread, steak,
french fries. (Cinquante francs - 50) Very enjoyable. Had a shot of cap-corse at Romano
Bar. My Italian and French is steadily improving. My opinion of these people has
greatly changed since seeing how well some live. The scenery through the mountains is
beautiful. The chasms and dangerous precipices made travel hazardous. Returned to
camp at 8:30PM. Clear evening. Very tired and sore from such a long jogging trip.
Retired 10:00PM.”
Baird, James (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier
Wimberly, Charles G., Sgt, intelligence
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather curtails
operations; fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance in the Genoa-Novi Ligure-Turin
area hit communications and transportation targets.
445th BS War Diary: The mission was again postponed due to wet grounds, as baseball
critics put it. The squadron’s combat crews attended a lecture held at group and heard the
importance of propaganda leaflets discussed. There was a great deal of discussion
throughout the squadron today concerning the plane lost by the 446th on a routine trip to
Rome today. More than passive interest was shown due to the fact that the ship was
formerly in this squadron and that a number of the passengers were buddies of men in
this squadron. Two men were lost at sea and one died later in the hospital. There was a
gun inspection held today. Plenty of mail arrived today to bolster rain-soaked moral.
446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Tragedy struck at the squadron today as the plane to
Rome rest camp was forced to ditch under extreme emergency. First Lieutenant Paul R.
Noel and Master Sergeant Homer Holm were killed during the ditching and all personnel
were sent to the hospital after Air/Sea Rescue was sent out. Promotions are posted for
Sergeants Cifuni, Davis and Shettleworth to Staff and new Sergeants are Huntoon and
Wilking.
Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt, gunner
Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Holm, Homer E., M/Sgt, engineering
Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Sgt, turret gunner
Noel, Paul R., 1Lt, bombardier
Shettleworth, William E., S/Sgt, gunner
Wilking, Robert L., Sgt, gunner
P
CP
E
R
PAX
PAX
PAX
PAX
PAX
PAX
PAX
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl - no name/lettering) (MACR-15562 –
ditched at sea)
Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt, pilot – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Holm, Homer E., M/Sgt, engineering – killed in crash
Huntoon, Stuart Layne., Sgt, turret gunner – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt, pilot – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Noel, Paul R., 1Lt, bombardier – killed in crash
Adams, Udell Isaac, Cpl, communications – wounded, Rescued by Air Sea Rescue,
died 28 Oct 44
Dudley, Jasper E, Sgt, ordnance – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Rhodes, Noah F. "Dusty", M/Sgt, engineering – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Sommer, Willard V., S/Sgt, communications – rescued by Air Sea Rescue
Excerpt from: 1st Emergency Rescue Squadron War Diary: The first action in three
days. Lt Murray of C Flight flew a mission with his crew for the spotting of a B-25 that
ditched between Rome and Corsica. Lt Murray spotted the crew in two dinghys and
although the ocean swells were extremely large a successful landing was made. The
downed crew was picked up and an attempted take-off failed with the result that an HSL
towed the Catalina back to Bastia, Corsica. The rescued men were:
Adams, Udell Isaac, Cpl, communications
Dudley, Jasper E, Sgt, ordnance
Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot
Huntoon, Stuart Layne., Sgt, turret gunner
Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt, pilot
Rhodes, Noah F. "Dusty", M/Sgt, engineering
Sommer, Willard V., S/Sgt, communications
Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt, pilot
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Excerpt from Aircraft Accident Report 110, dated 7 November 1944:
445th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)
APO 650
7 November 1944
SUBJECT: Certificate.
TO
: Operations Officer, 321st Bombardment Group (M), APO 650, US Army.
While flying from Catania to Solenzara Airdrome, Corsica, 27 October
1944, at 1140 hours, approximately 40 miles east and slightly south of Solenzara, the
undersigned heard the following call on “B” Channel:
“HELLO, DENTIST TOWER, THIS IS 519, MAYDAY, MAYDAY.”
The message was repeated and I heard no more. I reported the call to DENTIST and
continued to the field, landing at 1150 hours.
SAMUEL M. DICKERSON,
Captain, 0-433656.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Excerpt from Aircraft Accident Report 110, dated 7 November 1944: (brief narrative
of accident. Include statement of responsibility and recommendation for action to
Prevent repetition)
On October 27, 1944, airplane No. 43-27519, piloted by 1st Lt. Eugene A.
Fontaine, Jr., took off from Solenzara A/D, Corsica, at 0950 hours to ferry personnel to
Rome, Italy, to rest camp. Upon arrival at Rome it was found that all fields were closed,
whereupon the pilot circled and headed for his home base. Approximately half way
home at least one and possibly two cylinders were blown off, went through the cowling,
and hit the vertical stabilizer, which caused loss of rudder control. At the time the
airplane was flying just as the base of the clouds at approximately 1500 feet and visibility
was approximately forty (40) miles. With no rudder control it was impossible to keep the
airplane airborne on a single engine and so the pilot was forced to ditch it.
In the ditching the impact was terrific and the airplane broke into three (3) parts
and sank almost immediately. All of the crewmembers and both dinghies were thrown
clear of the wreckage, but two (2) of the crewmembers, apparently fatally injured by the
impact of the crash, did not survive. The one (1) dinghy was badly punctured and would
only hold two (2) men. The other dinghy held seven (7) men until they were rescued.
All members properly braced and had their life preservers on.
Power plant malfunction was determined to be the cause of the accident. The
pilot is relieved of all responsibility.
It is recommended that all crews be thoroughly briefed in the use of parachutes,
life rafts, mae west vests, interphone communication, ditching and bailing out procedure,
etc., before taking off on any flight.
___________________________
(Investigating Officer)
Lt. Col. CHARLES F. CASSIDY
___________________________
Lt. Col. PAUL T. COOPER
___________________________
Major ROBERT H. NEUMAN
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for to-day but due to weather conditions
it was cancelled. The following named Officers and EM are placed on TD to Cairo,
Egypt: 1st Lt Grover C. Brown Jr., 1st Lt Gordon J. Brule, 1st Lt John R. Gillis, 1st Lt Eric
A. Johnson, 1st Lt Henry J. Magne, S/Sgt Dale G. Miller, S/Sgt Robert P. Quintenz, T/Sgt
Albert V. Hanley, Sgt Cornelius J. Sexton. T/Sgt Joseph J. Parisi is placed on TD with
Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M). Sgt Robert O’Neil transferred to 313th Signal Corp, Per SO 160,
Hq 57th Bomb Wg. The following EM were promoted to grades indicated per Par 2, SO
190, Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M), dtd 26 Oct 1944: Leo J. Martin, T/Sgt, Robert R. Plutchak,
S/Sgt, George D. Merrill, S/Sgt. Usual Squadron Duties.
Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt, bombardier
Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot
Hanley, Albert V., T/Sgt, transportation
Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt, pilot
Magne, Henry J., 1Lt, pilot
Martin, Leo J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Merrill, George D., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt, gunner
O'Neil, Robert (NMI), Sgt, communications
Parisi, Joseph J., T/Sgt, photographer
Plutchak, Robert R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Sexton, Cornelius J., Sgt, operations
“Clear weather today, but heavy sea swells. Coast of Tunisia visible and small freighter
passed us abut 16:00 – had good supper tonight. Left coast of Africa around Bizerte for
Sicily – looks like a rock formation as most coasts do. Finishing letter to Liz and other vmails also. We are due in Naples tomorrow.”
“CQ blowing whistle at 7:00AM. Cold, clear AM. Pineapple pancakes, oatmeal,
grapefruit juice, coffee. Standing by on Rome trip. Capt McLain made major. Lt Dossey
made captain. Vienna Sausage, beans, onions, peas, fruit salad, bread, butter, hot tea.
Stand-down on Rome trip. George and I loaded weapons carrier with roots to be used
for firewood in stove. Attended lecture on propaganda leaflets. Capt Hargrave was in
charge. Raining. Noticing change in men about area. Rest camp at Rome to be
canceled if VD rate continues to increase in returning men. Boiled beef, fresh mashed
potatoes, gravy, fruit salad, bread, apple butter, coffee. Danny Hurley (CQ) and I played
checkers and chess. Beat me in both games. Read in bed. Retired midnight.”
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, Capt, pilot
Hargrave, Frederick M., Capt, Allied Liaison Officer, HQ 321st BG
Hurley, Daniel J. "Danny", S/Sgt, personnel
In Italy, bad weather again grounds the medium bombers, and
restricts the XXII Tactical Air Command; fighter-bombers and fighters, flying 65 sorties,
attack vehicles and trains in the Turin-Milan-Genoa area.
445th BS War Diary: For a delightful change, the weather was beautiful today but not
so for the weather in Italy and the mission was again cancelled. Lts. Coale and Wren,
who left the squadron several months ago on 30-day rotation, returned today and were
warmly greeted by their buddies. They answered quite a few questions concerning latest
conditions in the good old USA. Luxury rations were distributed to the men late this
afternoon. “Beaucoup” mail arrived today. The 445th officers and enlisted men opened
up activities in their respective leagues with a bang today and there was good and bad
news to be revealed after the day’s play had been completed. On the good part of the
ledger, Lt. Robson’s fleet 445th officers edged out the officers of the 448th, 6-0 while the
squadron’s enlisted men dropped a heart-breaker to the headquarters enlisted men, 12-7.
Coale, Julian R., 2Lt, pilot
Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt, bombardier
Wren, Frank J., 2Lt, pilot/bombardier
446th BS War Diary: Corporal Udell I Adams dies of injuries suffered in the ditching of
the 27th.
Adams, Udell Isaac, Cpl, communications
it was cancelled. A formation was held by our Squadron at 0500 hours and General
Robert D. Knapp presented the awards to the men who had won them in combat. DFC’s,
Air Medals, Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Hearts, and Bronze Stars were awarded. T/Sgt
Edmond Schwegmann placed on DS with 42nd Bomb Wing, per SO 159, Hq 57th Bomb
Wing. The following EM shot down 28 May 1944 returned to Squadron 26 Oct 1944 via
AFHQ: S/Sgt Leo J. Martin, Sgt Robert R. Plutchak, Sgt Geo D. Merrill, upon return
were promoted. Usual Squadron Duties.
Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, 57th BW Commander
Martin, Leo J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Merrill, George D., S/Sgt, aerial gunner
Plutchak, Robert R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Schwegmann, Edmund D., T/Sgt, communications
“Water very calm – only six ships of our original convoy now. Sighted Isle of Capri
(beautiful) at 11:00 – also Italian mainland. Arrived in harbor of Naples at 15:00 –
docked at 17:00. Destruction of unbelievable intensity witnessed by wreckage in Harbor
– 4 ships bottoms up along docks where we will be debarking. City seems pretty well
intact – large number of Naval vessels tied up in Port. Tonite we pack and will debark
early in AM. Eureka, we have arrived to perform our assigned mission.”
“Awoke 6:30AM. Stomach cramps. Cold, clear AM. French toast, bacon, wheatena,
orange juice, grapefruit juice, apple butter, coffee. Rome trip canceled. 3 bottles beer, 2
cokes, 4 pkgs gum, 2 large Hershey's 2 small Hershey's, 1 pkg gum drops, 1 bar soap, 3
cigars, 2 Clark Bar, 2 Zagnuts, 1 box cheese, tidbits. Moleski picked up my rations.
Nelson used to pick up tent rations. As time goes on he appears to be a very stubborn
individual. His actions are very obvious. Some of his activities are subversive. Clear,
warm day. Hash, diced carrots, fresh potatoes, butterscotch pudding, bread, butter,
water. Spoke with Blackard about his civilian life. Was married at 18. Didn't graduate
high school. Looks about 25 and acts it. Intelligent, good clean looking chap. 445th and
448th played touch football. Yours truly acted as lineman for a while. We were defeated
6-0. Met Lt Crinnion of 446th at theater. 446th lost ship on rest camp trip to Rome
yesterday. After being refused a landing, the ship returned to Corsica with its eleven
occupants. On way over a cylinder broke loose from the right engine hitting the rudder.
Ditched the ship. Two enlisted men went under with ship. There were not enough Mae
Wests to go around. One GI was keeping a bombardier afloat with just his own effort.
This GI had no life vest. Bombardier was released. He afterwards floated by the life raft
face down. Catalina landed, picked up crew but could not take off due to rough water.
PT boats picked up crew members from Catalina. Attended "The Unwired". Dealt with
the supernatural. Picked up a heavy parka at tech supply. Very clear, cold evening.
Lost eight out of the eleven men. Canned salmon, boiled onions, kidney beans, string
beans, bread, peanut butter, coffee. Herman DeGeorge, 212 Shrewsbury Ave, Red Bank,
NJ, recently grounded armory gunner on 64 missions. Small fellow about 5'3", age 25.
Quite cocky. Doesn't smoke. Has an Atabrine appearance. Read in bed awhile. Retired
10:00PM.”
Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
In Italy, weather again restricts operations; XXII Tactical Air
Command fighter-bombers fly 15 sorties against railroad targets in the Po Valley.
445th BS War Diary: There was nothing unusual about the cancellation of today’s
combat mission due to weather. The men are becoming quite accustomed to it. Some of
the line personnel, notably the armorers and bomb-loaders, welcome the weather as it
gives them a well-earned rest from their wearying and monotonous task of hoisting heavy
bombs into B-25 bomb bays day after day and night. Once again, operations and
intelligence moved their quarters, taking up their present spot in the pre-fabricated hut
which they are sharing with the medics. Squadron supply wasted no time in taking over
the Nissen hut. There was plenty of training flown today. Meat loaf was enjoyed for
supper.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx
(W): redesignated # 653 on 1 Jan 45:
Weather Recce
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W):
P
CP
N
B
E
R
G
F
A/C No. 43-27509 (Weather ship)
Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt
Mitchell, Robert F., 2Lt
None
Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt
Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt
Hafner, Duane H., S/Sgt
Dimiceli, Alphonse G., 1Lt (weather
officer)
446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Duties about the area and on the line.
447th BS War Diary: To-day’s training consisted of transition and practice bombing.
The following named Officers and EM were relieved from assignment and assigned to 7th
Replacement Depot (on rotation) for transshipment to U.S.: Capt Leroy Alger, 1st Lt
Irving L. Altman, 1st Lt Ivan E. Dean, 1st Lt Gerald E. Fisher, 1st Lt James M. Rosenbledt,
1st Lt Harold Spilko, 1st Lt Marvin L. Spruill, 1st Lt Walter N. Vieser, 1st Lt James A.
Webb, T/Sgt Joseph D. Alpino, T/Sgt Aubrey W. Chatters, T/Sgt Paul L. Free, T/Sgt Leo
G. Hubert, T/Sgt Edward S. Korzeniowski, T/Sgt William E. Mathews, T/Sgt William H.
Pierce, S/Sgt Leonard W. Ford, S/Sgt John Jaskowski, S/Sgt Watson L. Partee, S/Sgt
Arthur Schwartz, S/Sgt L.E. Sheppard, S/Sgt Frederick J. Tarra. Usual Squadron Duties.
Chatters Aubrey W., T/Sgt, gunner
Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt, bombardier
Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Free, Paul L., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt, gunner
Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt, gunner
Mathews, William E., T/Sgt, gunner
Pierce, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt, bombardier
Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier
Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt, gunner
Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt, bombardier
Webb, James A., 1Lt, bombardier
“Awoke 7:30AM. Very clear and warm AM. Pancakes, oatmeal, grapefruit juice,
marmalade. Ike, Ryan, White, Benchowski were soused last night. Roaming about the
area around 1:00AM singing. Stopped in our tent to do a bit of serenading. Rome trip
canceled again. Boys came down from island bakery to purchase liquor. John left for
mountains again. Meatloaf, peas, fresh potatoes, stewed cut apples, bread, butter, hot
tea. Fair day. Group having a simulated bombing of bridge. Putting up fifty ships.
Watched touch football game between ordnance and group officers. Boiled beef, canned
corn, canned peaches, bread, peanut butter, coffee. On first shift of guard. Raining.
Blackard and I played cribbage, casino, gin rummy in shack at 805th. Very cold. Nelson
did not open club tonight. No heat. Been wondering about Shyrle. Her correspondence
is not very consistent. I do miss her. Retired 11:00PM.”
Benchowski, John H., T/Sgt, engineering, crew chief
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 16th
Reconnaissance Squadron (Heavy, Special), AAF, MTO, begins a movement from
Foggia, Italy to the US; the squadron flew combat in the MTO and ETO with B-17s as a
radar detection and countermeasures unit from Sep 43 to Sep 44.
In Italy, weather again grounds the medium bombers and limits XXII
Tactical Air Command fighter-bombers and fighters to 51 sorties against scattered targets
in the Po Valley. In France, the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air
Command (attached to Provisional Reconnaissance Group), moves from Dijon to Azelot
with F-6s.
445th BS War Diary: No mission once again due to inclement weather but there was
quite a bit of training. Plenty of mail arrived today. Tonight was mischief night and
appropriately enough Cpl. Angelo Kangas came through with some well-planned and
executed mischief. It seems that three new combat crews arrived today – 10 officers and
11 enlisted men – and one of the obviously new and uninformed men inquired as to the
prospects of procuring lumber immediately and also as to the possibilities of a detail to
erect same into a tent. The O.D. passed the event on to Kangas who immediately hatched
the plot that sent one of the new officers down to group and various other squadrons in
the search of some promised lumber which never appeared. Sgt. Yoa was his chauffeur
and was eventually the one to slip and allow the prank to be exposed. No hard feelings
were harbored by anyone. After all, the men are new and it was mischief night.
Kangas, Angelo J., Cpl, operations
Yoa, Harry, Sgt, gunner
446th BS War Diary: Flight Officer Gallagher is made a Second Lieutenant.
Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: The first foot-ball game of the season was played on our field
between the Officers of our Squadron and the Officers of Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M), final
score: Hq 321st: 0, 447th Bomb: 18. Pvt Harold Phares Jr. was promoted to the grade of
Corporal. Morning Report: Officers: 83, EM: 320. Usual Squadron Duties. The
following named Officers and EM were assigned and joined from 57th Bomb Wing Per
SO 192, Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M): 2nd Lt Frederick Smith, 2nd Lt Richard C. Briggs, 1st Lt
Joseph G. Boyle Jr., 2nd Lt Norman I. Rose, F/O Lester W. Volkmann, F/O Shelby D.
Wallis, 2nd Lt George S. Fairchild, Cpl Halt, John A. Cpl Carroll G. Appleman, Pvt Bruce
M. Ferrell, Pvt Harry A. Keenan, Cpl Paul W. Finnegan, Cpl Frank W. Hunsaker. 1st Lt
William E. Levine was promoted to rank of Captain, per SO 277, Hq 12th AF. 2nd Lt Joe
W. Gould was promoted to rank of 1st Lt per SO 280, Hq 12th AF. 2nd Lt Frederick E.
Loewus was assigned and joined from 57th Bomb Wing.
Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl, gunner
Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
Briggs, Richard C., 2Lt, pilot
Fairchild, George S., 2Lt, pilot
Ferrel, Bruce M., Pvt, gunner
Finnegan, Paul W., Cpl, gunner
Gould, Joe W., 1Lt, bombardier, navigator
Halt, John A., Cpl, gunner
Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Cpl, gunner
Keenan, Harry A., Pvt, gunner
Levine, William E., Capt, intelligence
Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 2Lt, pilot
Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Cpl, radio-gunner
Rose, Norman I., 2Lt, pilot
Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt, pilot
Volkmann, Lester W., F/O, bombardier
Wallis, Shelby D., F/O, pilot
448th BS: War Diary of: West, Alden A. “Bud”, 1Lt, pilot
“Spent nite at Replacement Depot at Marcianise Airport and were picked up on the 30 th
by a B-25D for 1 hour and 20 minute flight to Solenzara; home of the 321 st Bomb Group
on Corsica.
P.S. It has been a month long Odyssey since leaving Hunter Field, Georgia by
train on 30 September, 1944.”
“Awoke 7:30AM. Cold, cloudy AM. Fried powdered eggs, bacon, oatmeal, orangegrapefruit juice, coffee. Stand-down of Rome trip. Worked on detail changing latrine.
Used lime to kill odor. Corn beef hash, navy beans, canned tomatoes, bread, soup.
Played chess with Schell at 445th. John Gray cut my hair (20 francs). Ate at 445th.
Taylor, Smitty and I attended "You Can't Ration Love". Clear, cold evening. Mail
coming in fine. Read Shyrle's letters over and over. Mike Kocsis stopped in. Mike
worked for the Decca Record Corp in Bridgeport, Conn three years previous to being
drafted. He tested master records and made duplicates for sales release. Retired
11:30PM.”
Gray, John H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 445 BS
Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt
Schell, Stewart I., Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS
Smith, Francis L. "Smitty", Cpl, gunner, 445th BS
In Italy, B-26s hit a bridge and causeway at Nervesa della Battaglia
and bridges at Montebello and Piazzola sul Brenta; fighter-bombers attack guns and
positions in the battle area S of Bologna in the Apennines, and communications and
shipping targets in the Po Valley and on the Po River.
445th BS War Diary: Ten combat crews were standing by for the mission today but bad
weather in Italy stopped operations again. The squadron hasn’t flown a mission since the
20th of this month and today marks the 11th consecutive idle day as far as combat flying is
concerned. The crews are very restless and “eager” to resume flying but the weather just
won’t break. This lull in combat activity represents one of the longest prolonged spells of
inactivity yet experienced by the squadron since it came into combat. Today was payday
for all the men. Lt. Rigler and Sgts. Chambers, Johnson and Andrews returned from the
States today following their 30-day prolonged sojourn in “God’s Country”. They were
enthusiastically greeted by the men. Football practice was held again today. Pork chops
was the highlight at supper tonight.
Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt, gunner
Chambers, Jimmie, Sgt, engineer-gunner
Johnson, John E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rigler, Edward J., 2Lt, pilot
10/31/44:
“Payday. We hauled gravel and prepared forms for pouring a concrete
floor in the Armament tent. I enjoyed doing a little heavy work for a change. We have
flown one mission in three weeks. Every day clouds rise and, until two days ago, rain fell
constantly. At nights the sky is clear and lighted by a glorious moon. With each storm,
fresh snow falls on the mountains. So far the temperature has been damp but pleasant.
There is pretty good evidence that we will be here a long time and I have made
arrangements to take some Armed Forces Institute courses. Our long stay here is
beginning to show on some of the fellows who have taken to drinking quite heavily. J.
Beasley just came in to tell me Capt. Farrell is going to Tunis in the morning. We plan to
go with him for a day.”
Beasley, John B. "Jack", Jr., Sgt, armament
Farrell, Robert A. "Baldy", Capt, pilot
446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Hurley and Sergeant E.M. Leary return from the states
on combat leave after flying their missions. Report reaches the squadron that Staff
Sergeant A.P. Valenti, who was MIA since January 13, 1944, is a prisoner of Germany.
Hurley, John R., 1Lt, pilot
Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
“Awoke 7:30AM. Cloudy AM. Pancakes, whole-wheat cereal, apple butter, tomato juice,
coffee. Worked on detail constructing new mail tent. Rome trip stand-down. Completed
my adjustable bed lamp. Two stoves made of fifty-gallon drums installed in club.
Canned chicken and spaghetti, canned tomatoes, fresh boiled potatoes, diced carrots and
onions, bread, butter, water. George Huha attended high school at the Sewickley High
Township about two and one half miles from Hutchinson. He graduated. Worked on the
railroad previous to coming in army. Couldn't get a defense job due to being in the first
draft. Received 7240 francs in pay line ($144.80). Paid back John $50.00. Spaghetti
and tomato sauce, spinach, boiled onions, chocolate pudding, bread, jelly, coffee. Clear,
moonlit Halloween evening. A newcomer to our tent is a pup - 16 days old. George is
caring for him. Feeds him condensed milk on his finger. Two new crews came in.
Feeling OK. Little worried about Shyrle and her anti-Semitic problem at the University.
Boys had a 20 franc limit at Moleski's tent. Did not play. Drank most of a quart of capcorse. Feeling slightly tipsy. Make french fries with coffee and bread. Brusa assisted.
Returned to tent at 11:00PM. Retired 11:30PM.”
Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
October 1944
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for October 1944:
STRENGTH: (As of 31st October 1944) OFFICERS: 27
ENLISTED MEN: 65
A not-so-grand total of 19 missions were flown this month. Scarcity of missions
and miserable flying weather generally were the only high-lights of the month. Bombs
were dropped on only seven bridges -- and four of those seven were rendered completely
impassable with spans knocked down! The fact that we lost three planes on those seven
missions gives some indication of the opposition received from the Hun. With their
Italian held territory slowly dwindling, the Germans have intensified their flak defenses
around fewer targets and as a result very few missions are the “milk-runs” that were quite
frequent in the past. With an informal policy established that a Group keeps going after
the same bridge until it is destroyed the aircrew members were definitely happy to see the
“hot” targets of Torreberretti and Galliate put out of commission by our bombs.
In spite of the poor weather over the mainland, the days, generally, were clear in
Corsica and with stand-down after stand-down coming in the latent energies of quite a
few of the men were directed toward an accelerated athletic program. Basketball courts
cropped up in several of the squadrons, and the true fall sport, football, took a spurt when
two leagues were formed and excellent crowds at the games attest to their popularity.
The winners of the Enlisted Men’s and Officer’s Leagues will meet in that famed Turkey
Day Classic -- the Finger Bowl Game on the Group Field at Solenzara, Corsica.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------THE RAID OF THE MONTH
October, 1944
This month the Group Staff Bombardier, Capt. M. Anders Anderson selects the
one raid that from photo coverage and interpretation and relative importance has been
outstanding during the month.
This month’s selection:
GALLIATE ROAD BRIDGE
Attacked: 20/10/44
FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Dossey, 448th Bomb. Squadron
Lt. Ligon, 446th Bomb. Squadron
Lt. Rice, 447th Bomb. Squadron
Lt. Jeffery, 445th Bomb. Squadron
NUMBER OF PLANES OVER TARGET: 50 (4 flights of 12 plus 2 planes which
dropped the anti-flak chaff.
October 1944 (continued)
SITUATION: Next to the targets over the Po River, the bridges over the Ticino River
were top priority objectives as set forth by Tactical Air Force orders. The Galliate Bridge
carried the main highway from Turin to Milan over the Ticino and its importance is best
indicated by the number of heavy anti-aircraft which flanked its approaches. Although it
had been attacked before, the High Command wanted the bridge destroyed and to the
321st Assigned the job.
RESULTS: Several elements scored direct hits on center and west end of bridge. One
span on West end observed down and two spans in center down after the attack. Both
approaches were crossed by several strings of bombs.
OPPOSITION: Heavy, intense, accurate flak caught the formation on the bomb-run and
breakaway -- one plane lost. Twenty-nine planes were holed and three men wounded.
INCIDENTIA: It was on this mission that Lt. Greene of the 448th Squadron leading an
element had the nose of his plane shot off by a direct hit of flak from the Lake Trasimeno
area. The bombardier and navigator were both killed as a result. Lt. Greene salvoed his
bombs but flew along with the formation to the target and most of the way back. The
five remaining men in the ship bailed out near the base since it was impossible to safely
land the aircraft in its disabled condition. (This entry is in error - the incident with Lt
Greene actually occurred on 13 Jun 44 - The Navigator was 2Lt Henry (NMI) Olszewski,
the Bombardier was 1Lt Rene P. Petit, and the ship was B-25J 43-27640 )
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
That about which we had been warned when we first arrived on these Corsican shores
finally happened – namely, mine explosions on the beach adjacent to our field. A
weapons carrier containing three men of the 445th Squadron backed off a much-travelled
beach path while looking for firewood and detonated a German teller-mine which
practically blew off the truck’s rear end and spilled the men over the terrain. Damages: 2
broken ribs; one broken arm and a broken leg. A sapper found no more mines in the
immediate area.
MEDICAL HISTORY
321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP
APO #650, U. S. Army
1 October 1944
Quarterly period 1 July 1944 to 30 September 1944.
1. Previous History.
The 321st Bombardment Group (Medium) was activated 1 August 1942, at
Columbia, South Carolina and began operations overseas, 15 March 1943. This group
served with an admirable record through the North African, Sicilian, Italian, Balkan and
Southern France campaigns. The medical section of this group performed its duties
efficiently, and solved effectively the myriads of problems that arose in respect to the
various phases of the campaigns; new locations, rotations, changes in personnel, training,
examinations, evacuations, etc.
2. Present History.
a. During July, August, and September this group has led all other groups of
comparable type of aircraft in this theatre in bombing. A great deal of this is due to the
new commanding officer, who took over the group in March 1944. Below is the
percentage scores of bombing accuracy since that time.
April
May
June
- 52%
- 63%
- 74%
July
August
Sept.
- 78%
- 82%
- 90.4%
September is an all high record of accuracy in pinpoint objective bombing for any theatre
during this war.
b. During July a commendation was received from the Commanding General,
Twelfth Air Force, for the maintenance of air operations in support of ground operations
against enemy installations, 17 July to 26 July 1944.
A Presidential Unit Citation was also received during July for outstanding
performance of duty in action against the enemy in the Mediterranean Theatre of
Operations, 8 October 1943.
On 1 August 1944, Organization Day was celebrated. This was the second
anniversary of the forming of the group and was celebrated by a formation, speeches and
the presentation of awards by the Commanding General of the 57th Bombardment Wing.
Later there were parties in the unit clubs.
The invasion of southern France was supported on August 15th.
The type of bombing done by this group is illustrated in the following two
instances:
(1) In response to a call from the ground forces that fire from the ships in Toulon
Harbor was interfering with the progress toward town, on 18 August, in spite of heavy,
intense and accurate flak (twenty-seven of thirty-six aircraft holed and eleven crewman
injured) one battleship, cruiser and submarine were destroyed.
(2) The bridges at the west end of the Po River, at Pavia, Italy, represented the
last remaining escape and supply route for the Germans. The nicety of the operation of
bombing these bridges was enhanced by the fact that the famous Pavia Cathedral and
Basilica of San Michele were just North of these bridges. On 4 September, thirty-six
planes of this group, completely demolished the R.R. bridge (all five spans) rendered the
west road bridge permanently impassable and the east road bridge temporarily
impassable. No bombs were dropped North of the River.
ROSTER OF MEDICAL PERSONNEL IN 321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M), APO
650, 1 JULY 1944.
NAME
RANK
ASN
DATE
FLIGHT
DUTY
OF
SURGEON
RANK
Silver, George A.
Major 0-360264
3/8/44
Yes
Gp Surgeon
McMechen, Charles R. Capt.
0-477528 1/23/43
No
Dental
NAME
Meskimen, Hershel C.
Zeliff, Gerald (NMI)
Fidell, John W.,
Cheek, Luther M.
NAME
Smith, William C.
NAME
Beeler, Howard N.
Nickell, John B.
Porter, Harland G.
Matthews, Clifford K.
Bass, Ralph I.
Prince, John T.
Allen, Herman (NMI)
Dupre, Walter J.
ASN
37110272
32301321
33161377
18003212
RATING
T/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Pvt
445th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-381441 9/30/42
ASN
17056578
39386261
37145476
36232323
34178676
37134379
37134596
14025146
CLASSIFICATION
673
855
855
409
FLIGHT
SURGEON
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
Cpl
Pvt
Yes
DUTY
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
501
861
861
409
699
699
699
NAME
Warren, Joseph E.
446th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-487220 9/27/43
NAME
Ballway, John L.
Mattioli, Elio R.
Doyle, Charles F.
Markel, Lawrence E.
Barritt, Wayne W.
Lowery, Newland F.
Spooner, Lawrence M.
NAME
Hamilton, John M.
ASN
15090268
36231995
36231997
36166754
36232177
35265797
36162728
NAME
Marshall, Ulysses S.
NAME
Lind, Clarence F.
Konczak, Louis A.
Dehn, Monroe O.
Webb, Ernest F.
Wiles, Marvin R.
Dahl, Jack A.
Wade, Avery (NMI)
ASN
17052589
36108988
17049060
36232284
36166113
36232211
32234666
36232321
Sqdn Surgeon
FLIGHT
SURGEON
Yes
DUTY
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
861
409
501
861
409
669
409
FLIGHT
SURGEON
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Cpl
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
DUTY
CLASSIFICATION
673
861
501
861
699
409
409
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
448th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-492553 12/20/43
ASN
36318717
36166384
36524076
36168730
36165776
36232204
35254490
Yes
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
447th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-481410 7/13/42
NAME
Morton, James M.
Whipple, James H.
Rankin, Charles H.
Korenich, Joseph B.
Johnson, Eldon F.
O’Donnell, Lester D.
Stagnitta, Salvatore (NMI)
Sarberg, George F.
FLIGHT
SURGEON
No
DUTY
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
861
851
409
409
861
669
ROSTER OF MEDICAL PERSONNEL IN 321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M), APO
650, 30 SEPTEMBER 1944.
NAME
RANK
ASN
DATE
FLIGHT
DUTY
OF
SURGEON
RANK
Silver, George A.
Major 0-360264
3/8/44
Yes
Gp Surgeon
McMechen, Charles R. Capt.
0-477528 1/23/43
No
Dental
NAME
Meskimen, Hershel C.
Brooks, William E.
Hagen, Walter F.
Zeliff, Gerald (NMI)
Fidell, John W.,
NAME
Smith, William C.
NAME
Beeler, Howard N.
Nickell, John B.
Porter, Harland G.
Matthews, Clifford K.
Bass, Ralph I.
Prince, John T.
Dupre, Walter J.
NAME
Warren, Joseph E.
NAME
Ballway, John L.
Mattioli, Elio R.
Doyle, Charles F.
Markel, Lawrence E.
Barritt, Wayne W.
Lowrey, Newland (NMI)
Spooner, Lawrence M.
ASN
37110272
35109331
37041943
32301321
33161377
RATING
T/Sgt
S/Sgt
Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
445th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-381441 9/30/42
ASN
17056578
39386261
37145476
36232323
34178676
37134379
14025146
FLIGHT
SURGEON
Yes
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
Pvt
446th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-487220 9/27/43
ASN
15090268
36231995
36231997
36166754
36232177
35265797
36162728
CLASSIFICATION
673
501
501
855
855
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
501
861
861
409
699
699
FLIGHT
SURGEON
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
DUTY
Yes
DUTY
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
861
501
861
699
409
409
NAME
Hamilton, John M.
447th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-481410 7/13/42
NAME
Morton, James M.
Whipple, James H.
Korenich, Joseph B.
Johnson, Eldon F.
O’Donnell, Lester D.
Stagnitta, Salvatore (NMI)
Sarberg, George F.
NAME
Marshall, Ulysses S.
ASN
17052589
36108988
36232284
36166113
36232211
32234666
36232321
ASN
36318717
36166384
36524076
33061583
37015255
36168730
3616577
36232204
35254490
Yes
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
Pfc
448th SQUADRON
RANK
ASN
DATE
OF
RANK
Capt
0-492553 12/20/43
NAME
Lind, Clarence F.
Konczak, Louis A.
Dehn, Monroe O.
Sink, Dennis L.
Taylor, Grover A.
Webb, Ernest F.
Wiles, Marvin R.
Dahl, Jack A.
Wade, Avery (NMI)
FLIGHT
SURGEON
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
861
501
861
409
669
409
FLIGHT
SURGEON
RATING
S/Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Sgt
Sgt
Cpl
Cpl
Pfc
Pfc
DUTY
No
DUTY
Sqdn Surgeon
CLASSIFICATION
673
861
851
861
861
409
409
861
669
3. Administrative History.
a. Personnel Matters.
(Roster of Medical personnel 1 July 1944 is shown on page 1A)
During the quarterly period the following changes took place.
Herman (NMI) Allen, 37134596, Pvt., transferred from 445th squadron to the
personnel center No. 6, PBS, for transshipment to the Zone of the Interior.
Luther M. Cheek, Pfc., 18003212, transferred from headquarters section to 340th
Bombardment Group (M).
Monroe O. Dehn, Cpl, 36524076, 448th squadron medical section transferred from
medical to air corps.
Walter F. Hagen, Sgt., 37041943, and William E. Brooks, S/Sgt., 35109331,
assigned to headquarters section, this group.
Dennis L. Sink, Sgt., 33061583, and Grover A. Taylor, Sgt., 37015255, assigned
to 448th squadron, this group.
Charles H. Rankin, Cpl., 17059060, transferred from 447th squadron to personnel
center No. 7, for transshipment to the Zone of the Interior.
(Roster of Medical personnel 30 September 1944, is shown on page 1B)
No other change took place in the medical personnel of this group during the third
quarter of the year.
b. Changes in Station.
There was no change of station during the quarterly period. The present at
Vix, North of Solenzara, proved satisfactory from the angles of comfort, health and
convenience, and the permanent buildings used as clubs by all units were winterized and
made very comfortable. All tents and living quarters, as well as administrative buildings
and dispensaries were also winterized.
c. Functional activities of the medical department.
(1) Headquarters and each squadron maintained and operated by the medical
section, a dispensary and prophylactic station, in each area, during this period. Quarters
tents were available but seldom used due to the proximity of a field hospital.
(2) Schedules were followed for medical officers and ambulances with medical
personnel to adequately care for medical casualties on the airfield during flying hours. In
addition to litters and crash units, each ambulance was equipped with splints, large first
aid kits, plasma and fluids. Some ambulances, equipped with radio, were used for tracing
crashes and men who bailed out of damaged planes.
(3) Schedules were also posted for disposition of personnel during an air raid and
for any type of emergency that might arise, accidental or otherwise.
(4) Physical inspections were carried out twice monthly and food handlers were
examined weekly. Sanitary and tent inspections in all units were made weekly.
(5) Immunizations each month were kept up to date in all units.
(6) First aid kits and packets in planes, vehicles, and at strategic points
throughout the area were constantly checked and kept ready for emergencies.
(7) A daily hospital transportation system was maintained.
(8) Form 63 examinations for ground personnel, Form 64 examinations for flying
personnel and eye refractions, as necessary, were carried out locally throughout the
period.
(9) Emphasis through training within the group, was placed on accident and
disease prevention, and the rates for the three month period were gratifyingly low.
(10) Training courses for all personnel were carried out and training films were
secured for all phases of accident and health as it could possibly relate to this group.
(11) Sanitation throughout the group was maintained at a high level throughout
the period. D.D.T. solution sprayed throughout all messes, clubs, latrines, and buildings
proved to be a boon as an insecticide.
d. All medical personnel throughout the period received reiteration or repeats
in the following courses:
(1) Venereal Disease – cause, course, prevention and cure.
(2) Malaria Control.
(3) First Aid – general, for combat casualties and for chemical warfare casualties.
(4) Sanitation, including insect control.
4. Environmental History.
The bivouac area on Corsica at Vix, north of Solenzara, having been carefully
selected for height of ground and drainage, distance from marshes and for shade, was
fairly comfortable both during the hot weather and during the raining weather. A lumber
mill back in the hills was operated by the group and aided materially in the winterizing of
all buildings and tents. The area was adaptable to sanitation and little difficulty was
experienced in keeping the area clean and free of pest insects. Malaria was well
controlled throughout the period, Venereal disease, moderately low throughout the
period, was almost entirely traceable to the mainland, particularly Italy. Recreational
facilities, previously constructed, were well utilized. A group band was organized and
became very proficient at playing for local parties. A quartermaster shower was operated
some two miles from the area, although some units constructed their own showers. As
the weather began to get cooler and nuts fell from the trees, boar hunts were organized,
and successful. Barbecue pits were constructed in some areas. Duck, pigeon and quail
hunting was also engaged in, with profit. Fishing, previously good, began to slacken off
in September.
5. Operational History.
a. Over the quarterly period the group was located less than fifteen miles from
a field hospital, which made for facile and efficient evacuation of casualties.
b. At least six training films per month on subjects directly, or indirectly,
relating to the medical department, were shown to all personnel at the local theatre. This
included, besides first aid, sanitation, malaria, and venereal disease control, such subjects
as the flak suit, ditching, bailing out, living under arctic and tropical conditions, and uses
of new equipment.
c. No major problems were presented to this group during the quarterly period
regarding hospitalization or disease epidemiology. Combat casualties were efficiently
cared for and medical control over activities was maintained. Rest camps at Capri and
Rome were operative for both ground and air crews and selected combat crews were sent
to the Cairo area.
d. Morale among ground and flying crews was higher over the quarterly period
than it had been for about a year previously. A so-called “guide” was published from
Twelfth Air Force for rotation of combat personnel, and with an efficiently working
Medical Disposition Board, the rotation of combat fliers was made easier and more
efficient. The average number of missions flown by combat men at time of rotation was
62.1 for the period. The rumors of a new rotation policy for ground forces raised the
morale of those men. At the end of the period the rumors were still unfounded on fact.
The ability to secure awards and promotions more quickly also aided morale.
e. During the quarter there were many instances when combat men rendered
first-aid to wounded fellow crew members. Two were outstanding and resulted directly
in the saving of lives. One involved a severe compound fracture of the femur with
severed popliteal artery caused by flak, over the target. Pressure dressing, tourniquet and
temporary splint were expertly applied before the plane landed. The other involved a flak
wound of the axilla with severed brachial artery. Here again, the application of a
pressure bandage preserved the man’s life. An analysis of wound resultants in combat
crews of this group, over the period showed that 100% of combat personnel were, or
devised in lieu of wearing, protective clothing equipment while on combat mission. A
great many, mostly superficial wounds, resulted to the extremities and face,
approximately 11% from flak and the rest from flying fragments of broken plexiglass.
New goggles were used and no severe injuries to the eyes occurred. Where missiles
struck protected portions of the body 30% received no injury, 45% received minor injury
that would otherwise have been quite serious, and 25%, in spite of the flak suit, were
either killed or received severe injury due to the size or force of the flak fragmentation or
because of an explosive shell.
f. During the three month period, attached personnel included a detachment of
twenty (20) naval aviation officers. Their work embraced medium and low level
reconnaissance and night interception. Their medical care involved no unusual problems.
g. The ability to secure penicillin for use locally, during this period, aided
immeasurably in reducing time lost from venereal disease.
h. Summary of the Care of Fliers Report for the three month period follows
on page 4 A.
i. Dental activities of the 321st Bombardment Group (M) for quarter.
Total Admissions
Total Sittings
Total Treatments
Restorations
Gum Treatments
197
1304
1506
541
298
Prophylaxis
Calculus Removed
Extractions
Tooth Treatments
Prosthetic Procedures
21
40
72
479
None
The above dental operations were performed under field conditions.
Approximately 43% of the 541 restorations inserted involved two or more surfaces and
157 of them required cement bases. The 72 extractions which were done represent
approximately 11% of the total number of teeth restored.
Twelve cases of Vincents infection were treated during this period. Nicotinic acid
in daily doses of 50 to 100 mg. in addition to local treatment proved helpful in clearing
up some of the more difficult cases. An effort is made to teach patients suffering from
Vincents infection or gingivitis the most effective of oral hygiene. Dental supplies have
been adequate.
Summary of Care of Flier Reports for Quarter.
A. Strength of Flying
personnel
Officers
Enlisted Men
Flight Surgeon’s (not
indl. In strength)
B. Aircraft Accidents
Due to Combat
Not Due to Combat
K.I.A.
M.I.A.
C.
E.
W.I.A.
Disorders Due to
Flying
Functional Nervous
Aerotitis
Aero Sinusitis
Disorders not due to
flying
Functional Nervous
Nasopharyngitis
Cystitis
V.D.
Others
Flying personnel on
Rest Leave.
JULY
676
AUGUST
698
SEPTEMBER
677
337
335
4
362
332
4
350
323
4
0
1
3
0
0
0
0
13
0
1
0
7
TOTAL
0
2
3
20
Patients
13
Days
Lost
74
P
21
DL
182
P
13
DL
217
P
47
DL
473
36
3
0
551
100
0
19
5
0
234
91
0
23
10
0
289
115
0
78
18
0
1074
306
0
0
3
0
4
11
131
0
20
0
15
131
982
0
1
0
0
13
31
0
9
0
0
160
155
1
0
1
1
20
199
12
5
4
4
193
1137
1
4
1
5
44
361
12
34
4
19
484
2274
F.
Operational
Information
Total Individual Sorties
for Month
Total Individual
Operational hrs. for mo.
Total Individual NonOperational hrs. for mo.
Total Flying Personnel
Transferred out
Total Flying Personnel
Assigned
Men departing for Zone of
the Int.
Men returning from Zone
of the Int.
JULY
5206
AUGUST
5623
SEPTEMBER
5853
TOTAL
16682
13677:45
18125:05
17873:00
49675:50
7149:00
7764:25
7433:20
22346:45
50
50
116
216
18
73
95
186
6
0
0
6
5
8
2
15
6. Statistical Historic Material follows:
a. Sick and Wounded reports.
(1) Admission rates per 1000 per annum.
All Disease
Injury
Battle Casualty
Intestinal
* Venereal Disease
* Neuro-psychiatric disease
Common Respiratory
Malaria
Hepatitis
F.U.O.
Others
July
August
September
Hosp
Qtrs
Hosp
Qtrs
Hosp
Qtrs
182:70 105:40 122:23 71:90 162:30 27:05
14:38 27:10 28:76 28:76
5:41 21:64
49:18
7:02 14:38 14:38 10:82 00:00
00:00 14:05 00:00 00:00 00:00
5:41
00:00 42:15 00:00
7:19 00:00 16:23
00:00 115:04 00:00 50:33
5:41
5:41
7:19 35:95 14:38 43:14 10:82 00:00
21:57 43:14 21:57 21:57
5:41 10:82
00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00
5:41 00:00
21:57 00:00
7:19 00:00 21:64 00:00
136:61 14:38 79:09 00:00 113:61 10:82
* Neuro-Psychiatric cases and Venereal diseases were not kept in quarters but are figured
in quarters column to show number of cases.
(2) Patients treated.
Patients to Hospital
Patients treated quarters
Number of out patients
Out-patients treatments administered
Days lost in quarters
July
33
20
793
1101
213
August
23
16
720
1222
215
September
33
9
816
1464
188
July
1
20
12
14
2
5
August
1
5
17
12
2
5
September
1
5
10
17
2
4
July
192
161
4
675
0
August
39
41
6
56
0
September
108
96
2
77
1
July
793
20
33
August
730
16
23
September
861
9
33
(3) Physical Examinations.
Total Dental Surveys
Refractions
Form #64
Form #63
Physical Inspection
Food Handlers
(4) Immunizations.
Small Pox
Typhoid
Tetanus Toxoid
Typhus
Tetatun Antitoxin
(5) Admission to sick report, etc.
Admissions to sick report
Number admitted to quarters
Number admitted to Hospital
(6) Venereal Disease.
Total days lost due to V.D.
Total cases of V.D.
Average No. Days lost per Venereal
Pt.
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
Chancroid
July
10
8
1.25
August
0
3
0
September
0
3
0
1.25
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
7. Evacuation.
No unusual problems occurred during this period as to evacuation of
casualties. All cases were handled efficiently by ambulance to the nearest supporting
hospital.
8. Medical Supplies.
Medical Supplies and equipment were maintained at 100% the entire period
until the new T.B.A. was distributed. No equipment on this schedule was ordered during
the period, and equipment on September 30th was 100% of old T.B.A. Extraneous
circumstances, as weather had no influence on equipment or supplies. Vaccines, serums,
plasma and other perishables were kept under refrigeration.
GEORGE A. SILVER,
Major, Medical Corps,
Group Surgeon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for October 1944
HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M)
APO 650
15 November 1944
SUBJECT: Historical Records
TO
: Command General, 57th Wing, APO 650.
1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period October1st to October 31st.
a. Present Designation: 445th Sq., 321st Group, 57th Wing, 12th Command.
b. Changes in organization.
1. 1st Lt. Thomas W. Ashton, assistant S-2 Officer to 321st group with 1st Lt.
Ragnar G. Lind coming from group to this squadron.
2. 2nd Lt. Kenneth E. Ireland, assistant Armament Officer to 321st group with 1st
Lt Wendell C. Horne coming from group to this squadron.
c. Strength commissioned and enlisted.
1. Month of October, 1944.
(a) 446 at beginning.
(b) 16 net increase.
(c) 462 at end.
d. Stations.
1. Solenzara Air Field.
e. Movements.
1. None
f. Operations:
1. During the Month of October, the squadron participated in 116 Sorties and 10
Missions.
g. Command Officers in important missions.
On October 11 Operations Officer Capt. Leon F. Hatcher was in the lead plane of a
large formation of B-25s sent out to attack the Crema railroad bridge, pin-point span in
northern Italy. The results of this mission were very successful. A number of direct hits
were reported with bombing accuracy set at 94.6 percent.
h. Losses in action.
1. Two squadron aircraft and 13 personnel were listed as “missing in action”
following an attack on the Galliate road bridge, Italy.
a. Aircraft No. 43-27740, leading the squadron’s flight, was hit and gradually
lost altitude and crew members all bailed out. They include: Capt. Lawrence L. Russell,
pilot; 1st Lt. John W. Martin, co-pilot; Capt. Robert R. Casaburi, navigator; 1st Lt. Daniel
(NMI) Galindo, bombardier; S/Sgt. William R. Hickey, engineer-gunner; T/Sgt. John M.
Plott, radio-gunner; and Cpl. Joseph A. Tronolone, turret gunner.
b. Aircraft No. 42-27553 was hit and seen to go down in flames and later was
reported to have exploded. The crew was 1st Lt. Robert R. Frank, pilot; 1st Lt. Donald C.
Reed, copilot; 1st Lt. Joseph M. Voelker, bombardier; Cpl Emanuel (NMI) Miller,
engineer-gunner; T/Sgt. Olin (NMI) Davis, Jr., radio-gunner; S/Sgt Thomas J. Bricen, Jr.,
turret gunner.
i. During the month of October, the following men received the Distinguished Flying
Cross: 1st Lt. Allen L. Daggett (pilot), 1st Lt. Robert H. Dyer (pilot), 1st Lt. Lloyd L.
Finkhouse (bombardier) who also received an oak leaf cluster to his DFC, 1st Lt.
Sigmund M. Fisher (navigator), 1st Lt. Donald M. Hadsell (pilot), 1st Lt. Robert J. Klein
(bombardier), 1st Lt. Lawrence L. Lyons (pilot), 1st Lt. Samuel A. Monger, Jr. (pilot), 1st
Lt. Henry D. Moore (pilot), 1st Lt. Richard W. Palmer (bombardier), 1st Lt. Earl E.
Rehrig (pilot), 1st Lt. Harry F. Sides (bombardier), 1st Lt. Raymond (NMI) Smith
(navigator). Capt. Lawrence L. Russell (pilot) was awarded the 1st oak leaf cluster to his
DFC. Major Robert H. Neumann (pilot) was awarded the Silver Star. Award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross also went to S/Sgt. William W. Henry (gunner). In addition,
there were 33 Air Medals and 655 oak leaf clusters to the Air Medal awarded during the
month.
For the Commanding Officer:
1 Incl.
Incl (1) – War Diary
ROBERT G. LOWMAN,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Asst. S-2 Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MEDICAL HISTORY
445th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)
9 October 1944
Period 1 July to 30 September 1944.
a. Personnel Matters. No changes in personnel have been made during this
period. Rest leaves were given to all enlisted personnel of the medical section.
b. Functional Activities of the Medical Department.
(1.) Training program for enlisted personnel was maintained throughout
the period. Classes were included in first aid, malaria and venereal disease control,
nursing care, management of sick call, pharmacy, and other pertinent subject. The
instruction was augmented by one of the Flight Leaders in the squadron, who was in
civilian life a pharmacist and chemist.
(2.) Aeronautical and vehicle first aid kits were checked weekly and
replaced and sealed as necessary.
(3.) Immunization records were carefully checked and maintained.
(4.) Lectures and discussions were held on treatment of casualties while in
the air.
(5.) Malaria control measures were strictly adhered to, the necessity of
which was explained to the squadron personnel in a series of lectures.
(6.) Physical inspections were held on the entire personnel twice monthly
and kitchen personnel weekly. Sanitary inspections of the area were made weekly.
a. The location has remained the same. Swimming, volleyball and outdoor
sports have continued in full swing until the last two weeks of the period. Climatic
conditions have now curtailed this activity to a marked degree. The personnel have
recently been expending much time and energy preparing their quarters and clubs for the
winter season.
a. Analysis of Wound Resultants in Combat Crew Personnel of 445th
Bombardment Squadron.
ANOTOMIC LOCATION
Head
Neck
Body
Extremities
WOUNDED IN ACTION
0
0
1
_3_
4
KILLED IN ACTION
0
0
0
_0_
0
STUDY INVOLVING PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Wearing Flak Suit
Not Wearing Flak Suit
WIA
4
_0_
4
PERCENT
0
_0_
0
KIA
0
_0_
0
PERCENT TOTAL
100
4
0
_0_
100
4
PERCENT
100
0
100
a. Number of individuals wearing body armor who were struck by missiles
in the area covered by the armor.
Six (6)
b. Number uninjured because of protection afforded by the armor.
Two (2)
c. Number of slightly wounded who escaped injury or even death because
of this protection.
None.
armor.
d. Number killed because of penetration of missiles through the body
None.
body armor.
e. Number of individuals killed that may have been saved had they worn
None.
f. Number of individuals wounded who may have escaped injury had they
worn body armor.
None.
g. The one (1) wound in the area covered by armor was a penetrating flak
wound of the thorax in the mid-axillary line. The individual was a radio-operator and
gunner and would probably have been uninjured if the armor suit had been more closely
or accurately fitted.
4. Evacuation.
a. There has been very little battle casualty evacuation from our own
airdrome. The pilots are briefed as to emergency landing locations from
which the patients can be more conveniently, comfortably, and quickly
evacuated than they can be from this particular base.
5. Medical Supplies.
a. Medical supplies have been adequate and punctually obtained. There has
been a shortage of aerosol bombs for mosquito control, but it has been made
up for by the use of “Fly-Tox” with hand-sprayers. DDT has proved a highly
satisfactory insecticide when applied in a fine spray, particularly in mess halls,
kitchens, latrines, and aircraft. It has been most effective on the small insects.
6. Miscellaneous.
a. The enlisted personnel have organized a stage show of comedy and music,
which has proven to be an excellent source of recreation and a lift for the
morale of this organization as well as surrounding organizations.
W. C. Smith
Captain, MC
.
446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF
321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
1 November 1944
446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR OCTOBER 1944
A. Original Unit
1. 446th Bomb Sqdn (M), 321st Bomb Gp (M) AAF
2. Organized August 1, 1942
3. Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, S.C.
4. Activated at Barksdale Field, La. June 23, 1942
5. Personnel obtained by transfer from other units, training schools and replacement
centers.
B. Strength, Commissioned and Enlisted:
1. 1 October 1944
104 Officers, 349 Enlisted Men
2. Net Increase
None
None
3. Net Decrease
4 Officers
9 Enlisted Men
4. 31 October 1944
100 Officers, 340 Enlisted Men
D. Commanding Officer in important engagements
1. Engagements:
Piacenza, Italy
2. Major Paul T. Cooper (pilot)
E. Losses in action:
1. Sgt D.H. Brown bailed out over Po Torreberretti, Italy and is (MIA)
F. Former or present members of the Squadron who have distinguished themselves in
action:
1. The D.F.C. was awarded to the following Lieutenants:
John E. Chapman (1Lt, navigator)
Raymond W. Gittings (1Lt, pilot)
John (NMI) Fitzgerald (1Lt, pilot)
Paul J. Ivankovig (1Lt, pilot)
Robert G. Hipson (1Lt, pilot)
Walton M. Ligon (1Lt, pilot)
John W. Matthews Jr. (1Lt, pilot)
Gus J. Mexal (2Lt, bombardier)
Harry A. Swanson (2Lt, pilot)
Frederick I. Peterson (1Lt, pilot)
Connally O. Briles (1Lt, pilot)
Charles E. Nagel (1Lt, pilot)
Donald D. Rackley (1Lt, pilot)
Robert D. Wallace (1Lt, pilot)
Paul R. Noel (2Lt, bombardier)
Stanley E. Wozniak (1Lt, pilot)
Walter (NMI) Wojcik (1Lt, pilot)
2. The Bronze Star Medal was awarded to:
Sgt Anthony J. Antonelli (engineer-gunner) S/Sgt John A. Dechert (engineering)
Sgt Arvid R. Byman (engineering)
T/Sgt Anthony J. Mancuso (engineering)
Sgt Ralph J. DuCharme (engineering) T/Sgt Wallace (NMI) Mioduszewski (engineering)
M/Sgt Gerald T. Tucker (engineering)
M/Sgt Council T. Walker (engineering)
T/Sgt Ralph E. Western (engineering)
3. Awards of Air Medal on following page:
1st Lt. William V. Leith (bombardier)
1st Lt. John D. Doyle (pilot)
F/O Harold P. Vannah Jr. (bombardier)
2nd Lt. William T. Ingram (pilot)
2nd Lt. Jacob L. Perlman (pilot)
2nd Lt. Edward V. Crinnion (pilot)
nd
2 Lt. Lowell A. Carlson (pilot
2nd Lt. Joseph S. DiNorma (pilot)
2nd Lt. Arnold P. Kimble (pilot)
2nd Lt. Glenn S. Crisp Jr. (pilot)
nd
2 Lt. Carl D. Fisher (pilot)
S/Sgt Virgil F. Davis (gunner)
Sgt William H. Haxby Jr. (gunner)
Sgt Wilbur G. Cornelius (gunner)
Sgt Robert L. Wilking (gunner)
G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
Office of the Surgeon
9 October 1944
Subject: Squadron Medical History--1 July to 30 September 1944.
To
: Group Surgeon, 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF, APO 650, United States
Army.
a. Screened mess installations, administrative housing and latrines sprayed at
weekly intervals with DDT and daily with insecticide. Insecticide made available for
individual tents as needed. Flies were minimal and there were very few cases of diarrhea
and no specific dysenteries.
b. Malarial control program carried out as directed. Malaria discipline officer
was quite helpful in enforcement of program and in carrying out inspections. Insecticide
powder and mosquito repellant were distributed to individual tents weekly by medical
personnel. Four individuals developed malaria and two of these were recurrent from
previous year. Other two cases were kitchen personnel, in whom incidence is highest in
this unit, and one of these did not use suppressive medication.
c. Winterization of individual tents and administrative installations has begun
and is proceeding satisfactorily.
a. High bombing accuracy and good operational weather plus recreational
activities in summer months have kept morale high in this organization. Morale has
declined gradually during the last two weeks with decreasing operations and limited
recreation due to weather changes.
b. There have been five cases of gonorrhea during this period. All cases were
treated with penicillin, one in the hospital, and four on a duty status. Results were
excellent with no recurrence. Discharge persisted for two to three days, but smears were
negative. One case had slight recurrent discharge at two weeks, but smears have been
consistently negative. One case of Syphilis was treated with penicillin and lesion has
healed with a good primary result. All cases of V. D. were contracted on the Italian
mainland. Control of V. D. by lectures on prophylaxis and providing of prophylactic
facilities have lowered rate considerably below previous rate.
c. First aid lectures have been given monthly and benefits of protective
clothing emphasized. There has been only one serious injury, flak wounds of the lower
extremities, during this period. Injury was prevented by the helmet in two cases and
photos were posted to emphasize protection afforded. There were five minor injuries of
the extremities during this period. Lectures on ditching have been given by Personal
Equipment Officer. Winter flying clothing has been issued to combat crew members.
Only three cases have been referred to Medical Disposition Board. Two of these were
anxiety reactions to traumatic flying experiences before attainment of sufficient
operational hours, and one was a mistaken classification with disqualifying visual defect
prior to assignment to this organization. This low rate of Medical Disposition Board
cases is accounted for by low casualty rate, high morale, and complete confidence in
leader. Only one case, other than Medical Disposition Board cases, has been rotated with
less than sixty missions during August and September. Individual evaluation and
cooperation with command and operations sections has kept rotation problems at a
minimum. Changing policies have been explained carefully and have caused minimum
confusion. Rest camps during strenuous operations was a great help in attainment of high
number of operational hours. Morale is lower in enlisted men due to having practically
no duties in the air. Promotions and awards have increased the incentive in a large
number of cases. Pentothal narcosynthesis in selected cases has been quite beneficial in
evaluation. Incidence of acute Coryza is increasing, but interference with operations has
been minimal as a result of early treatment and use of vaso-constrictors (Ephedrine,
orally, nasal sprays, and Benzedrine inhalers) to prevent complications.
d. Ground personnel morale has been stationary with tendency to decline due
to dearth of outside activities. Rest camp and arrangement of one day cross countries has
been beneficial. Procurement of supplemental foods has helped sustain morale.
Swimming and fishing were helpful activities during the summer months. Movies and
stage shows have been welcome diversions. Poor mail service during the past month has
been a detriment. Rotation has helped to stimulate morale, and careful selection has
avoided many complaints.
J. E. WARREN,
Captain, M. C.
Squadron Surgeon
447TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)
321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)
APO 65
SUBJECT: Historical Records.
31 October 1944
TO
: Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing.
Attention: Historian.
1. Outline History of the 447th Bombardment Squadron for the period October 1 to
October 31, 1944.
a. 447th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st bombardment Group (M).
(1) 447th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57th
Bombardment Wing, 12th Air Force.
(2) Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, South Carolina.
(3) 23 June 1942
(4) G.O. 145, Hq. 11 AF, 23 June 1942
(5) Transferred from other units and Selective Service.
b. Changes in Organization.
(1) No Change
(2) Echelons or units.
(a) Transferred
1 Officer trfd to 40th Sta Hosp, Det of Patients.
3 EM trfd to 40th Sta Hops, Det of Patients.
13 Officers trfd to 7th Replacement Depot.
20 EM trfd to 7th Replacement Depot.
1 EM trfd to 313th Sig Co.
(b) 10 Officers placed on TD to Cairo, Egypt.
11 EM placed on TD to Cairo, Egypt.
7 Officers placed on TD to Rome, Italy.
11 E/M placed on TD to Rome, Italy.
3 Officers placed on TD to Capri.
4 EM placed on TD to Capri
3 EM on TD with Hq 321st Bomb Gp (M)
1 EM on DS with 42nd Bomb Wing.
1 EM on DS to USA.
3 Officers MIA
2 EM MIA
(c) No Change.
(3) No change in commanding officers during the month
(4) No Change in staff officers during the month
(5) No Change
c. Strength, Commission and enlisted.
(1) Month of October 1944.
(a) At Beginning. 93 officers; 338 enlisted men
(b) Net increase.
(c) No decrease.
2 officers 2 enlisted men
(d) At end:
91 officers; 336 enlisted men
d. Stations of units or echelons.
(1) Name of station
(a) Solenzara Air Field, Corsica.
May 3, 1944
(b) Still at the same station.
e. Movement of units or echelons.
(1) No movements during the month of October 1944.
f. Campaigns.
(1) Italian
(2) From October 1 to present date.
g. Operations.
(1) Italian campaign.
(2) Objective Bombing
(3) 11 missions, 111 sorties
(4) Results of the most important missions.
(a) Galliate Road Bridge.
1. The target was important because it was the enemy’s medium of
communication and transportation between two industrial cities of Turin
and Milan
2. The bridge was destroyed
3. The success of the mission disrupted communications and transportation
between the two cities.
4. Aerial photographs showed direct hits on the target.
5. The enemy lost the use of the bridge.
(5) The unit was subjected to heavy, accurate and intense anti-aircraft fire during the
entire month.
h. During the month the commanding officer did not fly with our squadron.
i. Losses in action
(1) Mission.
(a) Killed. None.
(b) Wounded. None
(c) Missing: 1st Lt Richard L. Willis (pilot), 2nd Lt Edmund R. Harvey
(bombardier), F/O James I. Wentz (pilot), S/Sgt Anthony J. Abbondanza
(gunner), S/Sgt William T. Mabbutt (engineer-gunner), over Galliate Road
Bridge
(d) Taken prisoner. None
j. During the month of October many awards have been earned and presented to the
combat personnel.
k. No photographs are being submitted.
2. Enclosed are War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 October 1944
to 31 October 1944. No Special Accounts for the month; Squadron Statistics for the
month of October1944.
For the Commanding Officer:
3 Incl:
Incl – 1 War Diary.
Incl – 2 Special Account (none in October)
Incl – 3 Squadron Statistics
Missions Flown: 11
Bombs dropped (weight): 308,000 lbs.
Planes lost: 1
Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): 0
WILLIAM E. LEVINE,
Captain, A.C.,
Historian.
Sorties Flown: 111
Nickels: 1 mission
Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: 0
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------OFFICE OF THE SURGEON
447th BOMB SQUADRON
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP
Apo 650
1 October 1944
Subject: Quarterly Medical History Report.
To
: Group Surgeon, Headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group.
1. Quarterly report for July, August and September, 1944. Previous history
included in consolidated Group Report submitted July, 1944.
2. GENERAL: In the quarter under consideration, as always during our time
overseas, the operation of the squadrons have been conducted as a unit and on the same
airdrome. Similarly, the Medical activities of this squadron have been integrated with
those of Group.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL: The squadron has been at the same location
continuously during the past three months. This location is a coastal area on the east side
of Corsica near the town of Solenzara. The season was uniformly dry; the climate
favorable. The civilian population is sparse, their mode of living primitive. Contact with
civilians has been meager. Their habits have not affected the health and welfare of the
personnel of the squadron. In the squadron area proper, land drainage was not a problem.
In the adjacent region, drainage and other malaria control efforts were well taken care of
by U. S. Army Malaria Control Unit.
4. MEDICAL DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL AND DUTIES: There was no
change in Medical Department Personnel during the quarter. Medical Enlisted Men
received monthly instruction in first-aid, sanitation, care of gas casualties, and venereal
prophylaxis. Combat personnel, Officers and Enlisted Men received monthly instructions
on first-aid.
5. INSPECTIONS: Monthly inspection of sanitation and health conditions were
made by the Group Surgeon. During the period under consideration, two inspections
were made by Air Force Surgeons, one by Lt. Col Heavey, one by Lt Col Doaks. On 15
September 1944, Maj Gen Cannon visited the area.
6. OPERATIONS: During the quarter, there were many instances when combat
men rendered first-aid to wounded fellow crew members. Two were outstanding and
resulted directly in the saving of lives. One involved a severe compound fracture of the
Femur with severed popliteal artery caused by flak over the target. Pressure dressings
and tourniquet were expertly applied. The other involved a flak wound of the axilla with
severed brachial artery. Here again, a well applied pressure dressing preserved a life.
During the three month period, attached personnel included a detachment of twenty (20)
Naval Aviation Officers. Their work embraced medium and Low level reconnaissance
and night interception. Their medical care involved no unusual problems.
7. Average number of mission flown by combat men completing their tours in the
quarter:
July
August
September
Officers
0
Officers
61
Officers
63
Enlisted Men
51
Enlisted Men
62
Enlisted Men
61
JOHN M. HAMILTON
Capt., M. C.
Squadron Surgeon
448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for October 1944:
October 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of 1 October 1944, was 99 Officers and 342
Enlisted Men. Adverse weather greatly hampered aerial operations during the month,
permitting the squadron to fly only twelve (12) missions, four (4) of which were
abortives due to the complete coverage of the targets by clouds. However, the missions
completed were very effective, with five (5) 100% bombing accuracy flights scored,
greatly contributing to the steady choking for the enemy’s supply and transportation
lines. During the first period of the month Second Lieutenant Bennett, Technical
Sergeant Kicklighter, Corporals Miller and Riley were assigned and joined the Squadron.
Captain Armstrong, Lieutenant Schlenk and Staff Sergeant Crow happily returned to the
United States. One fatal casualty was added to our past list of fatalities when Staff
Sergeant Jimmie L. Davis was killed in action over Piacenza, Italy on 1 October 1944.
Sergeant Bass returned to duty from temporary duty in Naples and Private Woodward
returned from DS at the 341st Service Squadron. Lieutenants Shear, Shaw, Cooper, and
Sergeants Ratcliffe, Hulse and Moleski were returned to the base after crash landing their
plane at a friendly landing strip in Italy while on the Nickeling mission of 30 September
1944. Lieutenant Furey was promoted to Captain and Sergeant Rappaport promoted to
Staff Sergeant. Football was the predominating sport during this period and many hotly
contested games were played. Officers and Enlisted Men alike continued to enjoy the
rest camps at Capri and Rome.
Armstrong, Donald R., Capt, pilot
Bass, Bernard G., Sgt, gunner
Bennett, Samuel J., 2Lt, engineering
Cooper, James W., 2Lt, pilot
Crow, Roscoe J., S/Sgt, gunner
Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt, gunner
Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot
Hulse, Donald W., Sgt, gunner
Kicklighter, Myrl W., T/Sgt, personnel
Miller, Herbert (NMI), Cpl, communications
Rappaport, Louis (NMI), S/Sgt, photographer
Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., Sgt, gunner
Riley, Andrew J., Cpl, communications
Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt, bombardier
Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt, bombardier
Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt, pilot
Woodward, Theodore B., Pvt, duty soldier
October 8 – 15 – 44: Rainy weather descended upon the Island and everyone was busily
engaged in waterproofing their tents. Many new frames sprung up and some very
durable tents were built despite a few cuts, bruises and an occasional smash in the head
caused by the furious hammering. During this period Second Lieutenant Garrett and
Sergeant Wimberly were assigned and joined the Squadron. Lieutenant Garrett is one of
the veterans of the outfit, having completed one tour of duty with the Squadron early in
1943 in Africa. Lieutenant Page left for the United States. Lieutenant Bearden was
assigned to the 57th Fighter Group and Staff Sergeant Reno left on temporary duty to the
6660th Signal School Company. Captains Furey and Joyce, Lieutenants Blackwell and
Bongiovanni, Sergeants Bardell, Bixler, Clark, R.S., Hersh, and Weyeneth departed for
temporary duty at Cairo. Second Lieutenant Bennett was promoted to First Lieutenant.
Beer and liquor, always great morale builders, were available during this period and each
man was eager to quench his thirst. Many parties were given for both Officers and
Enlisted Men with excellent attendances, both local and otherwise, including a large
number of the feminine sex.
Bardell, Kenneth E., Sgt, engineering
Bearden, James E., 2Lt, bombardier
Bennett, Samuel J., 1Lt, engineering
Bixler, Frederick F., Sgt, gunner
Blackwell, Robert G., 2Lt, pilot
Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt, navigator
Clark, Raymond S., Sgt, gunner
Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt, pilot
Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Joyce, Robert W., Capt, bombardier
Page, Joseph A., 2Lt, intelligence
Reno, William F., S/Sgt, communications
Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt, engineer
Wimberly, Charles G., Sgt, intelligence
October 16 – 23 – 44: The middle of the month ushered in cold weather and each
morning the sounds of chattering teeth were clearly audible. However, stoves were
quickly set up, fires built and winterizing completed. At night one would find most of the
men hovered around the roaring fires reading the many good books found in the clubs.
Despite the cold weather, the many movies shown each week attracted large attendances.
Lieutenant Moose was assigned and joined the outfit and Lieutenant Meyers returned
from the United States with great tales of luxury and ease. Corporal Levin was assigned
from the 57th Wing and placed on TD to the 321st Bombardment Group (M). Lieutenant
Greiff was assigned to the 12th Air Force. Captain Marrich, Lieutenants Duncan, Feeley,
and Greene and Sergeant Lotton beamingly departed for the luxuries of the United States.
Sergeant Bergstrom was severely wounded in action during the distinctive Galliate raid
of 20 October 1944. Captains Furey and Joyce, Lieutenants Blackwell and Bongiovanni,
Sergeants Bardell, Bixler, R.S. Clark, Hersh, and Weyeneth returned from TD at Cairo,
eagerly recounting their interesting experiences in the Egyptian wonderland.
Bardell, Kenneth E., Sgt, engineering
Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt, gunner
Bixler, Frederick F., Sgt, gunner
Blackwell, Robert G., 2Lt, pilot
Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt, navigator
Clark, Raymond S., Sgt, gunner
Duncan, George F., 1Lt, navigator
Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Greene, Louis P., 1Lt, bombardier
Greiff, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt, intelligence
Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt, gunner
Joyce, Robert W., Capt, bombardier
Levin, Jerome K., Cpl, photographer
Lotton, Arville A., Sgt, operations
Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt, pilot
Moose, Roy C., 2Lt, intelligence
Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt, engineer
October 24 – 31 – 44: The last period of the month was noted for its many new faces
and deserving promotions. Captain D.I. McLain, Squadron Commanding Officer, was
promoted to the rank of Major. Other promotions were: Lieutenant Dossey to Captain
and Flight Officers Duggan and Lesser to Second Lieutenants. The many new men
assigned to the Squadron and joined during this period were: Second Lieutenants
Wilson, Zakopcsan, Steely, Bartlett, West, Fleming, Sutton, Allendorph, and Gardner;
Sergeants Biernachi, Sullivan, Hammerschmiedt, and Magers; Corporals Gorden, and
Weese; and Privates Hourahan and Turner. Sergeant Kicklighter was transferred to the
310th Bombardment Group (M) and Technical Sergeant Goldstein was assigned to the
40th Station Hospital. Food continued to be good and PX rations adequate. At the close
of the month the Squadron was fully prepared to meet the coming cold weather and was
enjoying the very highest morale and Esprit-de-Corps.
Allendorph, John B., 2Lt, bombardier
Bartlett, Thomas M., 2Lt, pilot
Biernachi, Stanley (NMI), Sgt, operation
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, Capt, pilot
Duggan, Raymond E., 2Lt, pilot
Fleming, George B., 2Lt, pilot
Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt, bombardier
Goldstein, George (NMI), T/Sgt, gunner
Gorden, Robert L., Cpl, gunner
Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt, gunner
Hourahan, William F., Jr., Pvt, gunner
Kicklighter, Myrl W., T/Sgt, personnel
Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt, bombardier
Magers, Marshall P., Sgt, gunner
Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt, bombardier
Sullivan, Timothy V., Sgt, gunner
Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier
Turner, James H., Pvt, gunner
Weese, Charles F., Cpl, gunner
West, Alden A., 2Lt, pilot
Wilson, James M., 2Lt, pilot
Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt, pilot
The month of October ushered in cold and rainy weather, greatly hampering aerial
operations against the enemy. The adverse weather limited the Squadron to only twelve
(12) missions, four (4) of which were abortives due to complete cloud coverage of the
targets. However, the missions completed were highly effective, with five (5) 100%
bombing accuracy flights scored.
One of the outstanding feats of the Squadron in the steady choking of the enemy’s
supply and transportation lines was the raid against the Galliate Road Bridge in Northern
Italy on 20 October 1944. The 448th Bomb Squadron led the Group of fifty (50) B-25’s
against this heavily defended target. Through the hail of heavy, intense, and accurate
anti-aircraft fire encountered, the 448th Bombardment Squadron spearheaded the attack
upon their chosen objective. Although twenty-nine (29) planes were riddled, one
knocked out of the sky, and three crew members wounded, the Squadron was unmoved in
its determination to destroy this vital bridge. An excellent piece of precision bombing
was accomplished, with 100% bombing accuracy attained against the pin-point target.
Photographs revealed that two spans were knocked down in the center and one span
demolished at the west end of the bridge.
However, the excellent results obtained on the October missions were not without
casualties, due to the increased volume of anti-aircraft fire thrown up by the enemy. Staff
Sergeant Jimmie L. Davis was killed and First Lieutenants Tilton, McDonough, and
Malec, and Staff Sergeants Bergstrom and Bowman sustained injuries. A number of the
planes were repeatedly holed by the desperate opposition.
Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt, gunner
Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt, gunner
Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt, gunner
Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt, bombardier
McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier
Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt, pilot
With the cold weather came the sounds of chattering teeth in the mornings.
Spurred on by the chilly nights everyone hurried to complete the winterizing of their
tents. Many new frames sprung up and some very durable tents were built despite the
few cuts, bruises and occasional smashes in the head caused by the furious hammering.
Stoves were quickly set up and fires built. At night one would find most of the men
hovered around the roaring fires reading the many good books available in the clubs.
Football hit its peak during the chilly autumn weather, and many hotly contested
games were played. Interest mounted over the exciting college games played in the
United States and each man volubly praised his favorite team.
The Capri and Rome rest camps continued to be enjoyed by both Officers and
Enlisted Men. A lucky few were sent to Cairo and returned, eager to relate their many
interesting experiences in that Egyptian wonderland. A number of the very fortunate
happily departed for the luxuries of the United States and the companionship of their
loved ones. Beamingly they left, bidded “Bon Voyage” by the envious ones left in the
Squadron.
Offsetting the loss of the men who returned to the Zone of Interior were the many
new faces that joined the Squadron. One of the men that came in during the month was
Lieutenant Garrett, an old timer with the 448th back in Africa. Having completed one
tour of duty he returned to the United States in 1943. After a year of instructing he
requested another tour of duty and was assigned to the 448th Bombardment Squadron, his
Alma Mater.
Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt, pilot
Many deserving promotions were received by the personnel, including our
Commanding Officer, Captain D.I. McLain, who was promoted to the rank of Major.
Lieutenant Stannard assumed the duties of Squadron Adjutant, replacing Captain Marrich
who returned to the United States for a well-earned leave of absence.
Stannard, Lewis J., Jr., 2Lt, B.S.M., Adjutant
Entertainment was abundant during the month with the many parties given at the
Officers’ and Enlisted Mens’ clubs. There were excellent attendances, both local and
otherwise, including a large number of the feminine sex. Beer and liquor, always great
morale boosters, were available and the men were eager to quench their thirst. The many
movies shown each week attracted large audiences despite the cold weather. One day
jaunts to Bastia and Ajaccio and trips into the mountains were enjoyed by men on their
days off.
War flashes from the various fronts were followed with much interest. The
campaign in the Philippines and the Pacific situation highlighted the news. The breakthrough at Aschen and the penetration of the vaunted Siegfried line in Germany was
received with much speculation. On the Italian front the situation steadily improved
despite the soggy and muddy terrain that made the going difficult. Feeling very close to
this campaign, the men carefully followed the Allies gradually converging on Bologne.
At the close of the month the Squadron was readily prepared for the cold and wet
weather ahead and enjoyed the highest morale and Esprit-de-Corps.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MEDICAL HISTORY
448th BOMB SQUADRON (M)
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP
Apo 650, US Army
31 September 1944
Period 1 July to 31 September 1944.
a. Personnel Matters. Two (2) medical enlisted men were assigned to this
squadron September 18, 1944. Sink, Dennis L., Sgt., 33061583, Classification 861,
Taylor, Grover A., Sgt., 37015255, Classification 861. No other change in personnel.
b. Functional activities of the Medical Department.
1. Physical examinations on all squadron members were held twice
monthly and food handlers weekly. Sanitary, malarial prevention and tent inspections
were made weekly.
2. Monthly immunization records were maintained and kept up to date.
3. Medical first aid packets and kits were checked weekly in combat
planes and vehicles being replaced and sealed as necessary.
4. First aid lectures and informal discussions were held to officers and
enlisted men monthly especially as concerns emergency care while in the air. Examples
were taken of existing cases when possible.
5. Malarial disciplinary measures were constantly called to the attention of
the men during this period. Bed nets, atabrine, insect repellent and exposure were
stressed. Oil was placed on all standing water in and about the area.
a. Essentially unchanged as to location but preparation for winter was started
on all the tents as to walls, floors and etc. Tents were re-aligned to give more
compactness to the squadron for winter activity.
a. Body Armor Report.
ANALYSIS OF WOUND RESULTANTS IN COMBAT CREW
PERSONNEL OF 448TH BOMB SQUADRON.
THREE (3) MONTH PERIOD ENDING 31 September 1944.
ANATOMIC
LOCATION
Head
Neck
Body
Extremities
STRUCK BY
MISSILES
2
1
5
_27_
WOUNDED IN
ACTION
2
1
0
_27_
35
KILLED IN
ACTION
0
0
1
_0_
30
1
STUDY INVOLVING PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Wearing Helmet
Not Wearing Helmet
WIA
2
_0_
2
PERCENT
100%
_0_
100%
KIA
0
_0_
0
PERCENT TOTAL
0
2
_0_
_0_
0
2
PERCENT
100%
_0_
100%
Wearing Flak Suit
Not Wearing Flak Suit
WIA
0
_0_
0
PERCENT
0
_0_
0
KIA
1
_0_
1
PERCENT TOTAL
100%
1
_0_
_0_
100%
1
PERCENT
100%
_0_
100%
a. Number of individuals wearing body armor who were struck by missiles
in the area covered by the armor.
Seven (7)
b. Number uninjured because of protection afforded by the armor.
Two (2)
1. One (1) of these prevented severe injury to the left shoulder.
2. The other one would have sustained more severe injury than he
received had he not had on the armor. Only exposed areas were injured.
c. Number slightly wounded and who escaped serious injury or even death
because of this protection.
One (1)
d. Number killed because of penetration of missiles through the body
armor.
One (1)
1. An exploding gun shot wound into the left hip, buttocks and left
side of pelvis with marked avulsion of muscle and bone. The exact direction of entrance
of missile could not be determined due to varied positions of the bombardier and intensity
of the destruction.
e. Number of individuals killed that may have been saved had they worn
body armor.
None.
f. Number of individuals wounded who may have escaped injury had they
worn body armor.
None.
g. Of the twenty-seven (27) wounds of the extremities, twenty-two (22)
were caused by flying plexiglass fragments and five (5) by enemy flak.
4. Evacuation. Two (2) battle casualty cases were returned to our own hospital
evacuation system from the east coast of Italy. Pilots are briefed as to nearest and
convenient evacuation in case of seriously injured personnel.
5. Medical Supplies. DDT has been very effective in our control of insects about
the mess halls, kitchens and latrines. Bomb sprays were lacking at times for malarial
control.
U. S. MARSHALL,
Capt., M. C.,
Squadron Surgeon.

October 1944 - 57th Bomb Wing

Transcription

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