Air Force, 57Th Bombardment Wing 321St Bombardment Group History: September 1944

12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing 321st Bombardment Group History: September 1944

------For my dad, Colonel John “Jack” Fitzgerald, U.S. Army (deceased)

“Lil Butch” John T. Fitzgerald, SMSgt, U.S. Air Force (retired) ------

12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing 321st Bombardment Group History: September 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-radio- gunner, 447th BS 1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th BS Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)

Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th BS John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th BS Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th BS 1st Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 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

Aircraft information - serial #, name, etc Sometimes used P Pilot Bomb/Nav Bombardier-Navigator CP Co-pilot BN Bombardier-Navigator N Navigator EG Engineer-gunner B Bombardier RG Radio-gunner E Engineer-gunner TG Turret gunner R Radio-gunner AG Aerial gunner G Gunner PH Photographer F Photographer AP Aerial photographer CL Cannon Loader (on B-25G) CC Crew Chief O Observer

Acronyms & Abbreviations

A/C: Aircraft M/G: Machine Gun A/D: Aerodrome MIA: Missing In Action AE: Aerial Engineer M/T: Motor Transport (Truck) A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery) M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel abs: absent M/Y: Marshalling Yards AGL: Above Ground Level MC: Maintenance Crew ALO: Allied Liaison Officer NARA: National Archives and Records Administration ALW: Alive and Well NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air Force AMGOT: Allied Military Government for NATC - Northwest African Training Occupied Territories Command A.R.C.: American Red Cross NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of Operations USA ASC: Air Support Command Nav: Navigator ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel) N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards Assg: Assigned NC: Nurse Corps. ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar) NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer ATA: Actual Time of Arrival Nickels: propaganda Leaflets ATC: Air Transportation Command (NMI): No Middle Initial ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army NOK: Next Of Kin Telegraph Service Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb) NRO: National Reconnaissance Office BC: Bomber Command OAF: Occupation Air Forces BIC: Bruised in Crash OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab Bmb: Bombardier OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster Bn: Battalion OTU: Operational Training Unit B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory PAX: Passengers BSM: Bomb System Maintenance PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator CA: Heavy Cruiser POE: Point of Embarkation CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited POW: Prisoner of War (also PW) C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical Prophylactic packet C/D: Coastal Defense PW: Prisoner of War (also POW) CE: Circular Error PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch CEP: Circular Error Probable PX: Post Exchange Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure: QBB: Base of cloud tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Window CL: Cannon Loader QDM: Course to steer CO: Commanding Officer QM: Quarter Master CG: Commanding General R/B: Road Bridge CP: Command Post RC: Red Cross

CQ: Charge of Quarters R/J: Road Junction C/S: Call Sign R/Y: Railroad Yards CWS: Chemical Warfare Service Repl: Replacement D/H: Direct Hit RMC: Returned to Military Control DD: Destroyer RON: Remain OverNight DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains RR/B: Railroad Bridge found Demo: Demolition RR/J: Railroad Junction DL: Dead List RR: Railroad DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle RTD: Returned To Duty DOW: Died Of Wounds. R/V: Rendezvous DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in S-1: Administration Action DS: Detached Service S-2: Intelligence E/A: Enemy Aircraft S-3: Operations E/F: Enemy Fighter S-4: Supply EM or E/M: Enlisted Men SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival SD: Special Duty ETIR: Estimated Time In Route S/E: Single Engine (plane) EUS: Evacuated to the United States S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran) E/V: Enemy Vessel S/F: Siebel Ferry F Boat: Flying Boat sk: sick F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader S/M: Submarine FO or F/O: Flying Officer SO: Special Order FOD: Finding Of Death SOI: Standard Operating Instructions? Frag: Fragmentation S/P: Sea Plane F.S.: Flight Section Sq: Squadron GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK) Sqdn: Squadron GO: General Order SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action GP: General Purpose/Gun Position T/A: Target Area GTC: General Time Convention (railroad) T/C: Troop Concentration HE: High Explosive T/E: Twin Engine (plane) IAS: Indicated Air Speed TAC: Theater Allied Command I & E: Information & Education TBF: Tactical Bomber Force I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe TD: Temporary Duty (i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name) TDY: Temporary Duty IP: Initial Point TLC: Tactical Landing Craft KNB: Killed Not Battle TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical Order, and Transportation Officer KIA: Killed In Action T/O: Table of Organization L/A: Landing Area TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target LC: Landing Craft Trfd: Transferred L/G: Landing Ground TWX: Teletypewriter Message Lox: Liquid Oxygen u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue L/S: Landing Strip UNRRA: United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration

L/V: Large Vehicle Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun LST: Landing Ship Tank VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding Officer Ltr: Letter WC: Water closet LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action W.O.: Warrant Officer MACR: Missing Air Crew Report WIA: Wounded In Action MATS: Military Air Transport Service Window (British term): Radar countermeasure: tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Chaff WP: White Phosphorus (bombs) WT, W/T: Watch Tower XC: Cross Country ZI: Zone of Interior (U.S.A.)

Friday, 1 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO:

In France, the flight of the 72nd Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, operating from Caserta, Italy with L-5s returns to base at Brignoles; and the 121st Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, based at Pomigliano, Italy sends "A" Flight to operate from St Tropez with L-4s and L-5s. During Sep, the detachment of the 16th Reconnaissance Squadron (Heavy, Special), AAF, MTO, operating from Borgo, Corsica with B-17s, returns to base at Foggia, Italy (the squadron serves as a radar detection and ECM unit in the MTO until 26 Sep 44).

` In Italy during the night of 31 Aug/1 Sep A-20s hit gun positions and targets of opportunity in the W Po Valley; weather grounds B-26s during the day but B- 25s score excellent results against road and railroad bridges N and NE of Venice; fighter- bomber and fighters bomb and strafe roads, troop concentrations, supply dumps, and German HQ in the battle area N of Florence, and fly armed reconnaissance from Ventimiglia along the coast to La Spezia; and the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, moves from Pomigliano to Rosignano with Mosquitos leaving a detachment at Pomigliano. In France, the 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group [attached to 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)] and based at Borgo, Corsica with F-5s begins operating from Le Luc; the 314th and 315th Fighter Squadrons, 324th Fighter Group, move from Le Luc to Istres with P-47s; and the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing, moves from Solonzara, Corsica to Le Vallon with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Continuing our “Operation Strangle” to isolate the German forces on the Gothic Line, the Group with 24 A/C attacked the Feltre RR and Rd. bridges on the supply route in from Austria. The RR bridge was smothered with 100% coverage while the Rd. bridge was missed by the six plane Azon deal which dropped 12 x 1,000 pounders.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 527/mission 527) Group Mission # 527: Feltre, Italy Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 528/mission 528) Group Mission # 528: Feltre Road Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Friday, 1 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: No operational mission was scheduled for today. Nine new gunners arrived today as replacements. Seven officer-bombardiers were promoted to the grade of First Lieutenant today. The usual bomb training was in effect today including transition, formation and flights to the bombing range. The mail call was very slim today.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 527/mission 527) Group Mission # 527: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 528/mission 528) Group Mission # 528: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown. Lts. Clausen and Matthews are made First Lieutenants. Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt, bombardier Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 527/mission 527) Group Mission # 527: Squadron Mission 375 TARGET: Feltre, Italy Railroad Bridge DATE: 1 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Wiginton led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area with several direct hits on bridge one span of which was reported down before bombing. No flak, no fighters. Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” Pad” P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt N None None B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt E Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt F None None

Friday, 1 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” Darlene) P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt CP Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt N None None B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt E Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical (observer) A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N None None B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt G Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) (Did not take off - electrical trouble) P Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Bove, Anthony P., S/Sgt G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 528/mission 528) Group Mission # 528: Squadron Mission 376 TARGET: Feltre Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 1 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (Azon) 446th Planes: 6 Major Cooper led the formation. Bombs to S and two near misses at center of bridge. No hits. No flak, no fighters. (Crew list missing)

Friday, 1 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Rec’d a letter from Alice – wrote. Another day with not a thing to do, monotonous as heck. Reading ‘Cross Creek’ – fair. Took B-4 bag down to Tech Supply to be repaired. Sacked awhile, but too hot. Rec’d another letter from Alice. To show, ‘Her Primitive Man’ – good.”

447th BS War Diary: Today’s training consisted of local transition. No change. Usual squadron duties.

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 527/mission 527) Group Mission # 527: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Feltre RR Bridge (B-442190), with Lt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Excellent concentration in target area with several direct hits on bridge. Mission efficiency 100 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

Friday, 1 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt Morton, William C., 1Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Windler, John H., Capt E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R McFarland, John F., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27636 P Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None None B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt G May, Frederick J., Sgt Young, Robert E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt CP Mims, Nathan (NMI), 1Lt Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt N None None B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B James, Robert M., 1Lt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E Tollefson, Walter F. K.,S/Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt R Pierce, William H., T/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt F Simms, Cleo W., S/Sgt None

Friday, 1 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt N None B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt F Shand, Arthur T., S/Sgt

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 528/mission 528) Group Mission # 528: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “51st mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Feltre R.R. Bridge (I), nice bombing, no opposition.” Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot,

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 527/mission 527) Group Mission # 527: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 528/mission 528) Group Mission # 528: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:53AM. It's Friday, the first day of September. . Corn pancakes, oatmeal, coffee, grapefruit juice. Washed sun tans. Played blackjack for a spell. Sauce and spaghetti, peas, diced carrots, cocoa, bread and butter. Steve Wojnolowicz 152 Front St. Schenectady was over for chow. Clarence Donovan Schaffner 51 Olean St, Bolivar, New York and I hiked through a narrow rocky winding trail to the village of Ventiseri. About 12 kilometers from camp. Village is situated on side of mountain about 7,000 feet high. Stopped at the cafe‚ for water. Una mademoiselle and deux French soldats were there. Colored troops. Intermingled sexually with the Corsican whites. Malaga and blue grape vineyards dot the hillside. Fig trees, sassafras, thimbleberries and cork trees dominate the heavier wooded sections. Peasant women still laboring although 80 years of age. From this village of Ventiseri, one can plainly see the 321st airdrome in the valley. Native villages are up in the mountains to keep out of the mosquitoes reach and malaria. Viewed an ancient graveyard and monastery. The church bell is atop a high stone tower ranging about 75 feet in height. 15-foot ladder sections are the path, which the bell ringer uses to reach his objective. Small American school in village. At the village water spring we met the priest. Commenced our return journey at 4:20PM.

Friday, 1 September 1944 (continued)

Arrived at Travo at 6:10PM. Jeep picked us up for remainder of 1 miles to camp. Pork chops, mashed potatoes, peas, bread and marmalade, coffee. Our motor at the shower was stolen. Showering at Steve's of the 445th. Fragmentation bombs being loaded for tomorrow's mission. Celebrating Schaffner's being grounded on his 62nd mission. 4 other radiomen were grounded. Sure will miss Charles. Retired at 11:45PM. Feeling somewhat inebriated.” Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Wojnolowicz, Stephen J. "Wowly", Sgt, ordnance, 445th BS

Saturday, 2 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72d Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from Brignoles to Grenoble, France with L-5s.

In Italy, B-25s bomb 3 bridges in the Po Valley, following a raid during the night of 1/2 Sep by A-20s which hit a pontoon bridge and targets of opportunity in the Valley; and fighter-bombers blast roads, bridges and gun emplacements in Po Valley, docks at Savona, and shipping off shore. In France, fighter- bombers, hampered by poor weather, hit barracks and rail lines in the Lyon area; and HQ 324th Fighter Group moves from Le Luc to Istres.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Stood down – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Thirteen crews were scheduled for a mission today but it was cancelled. 10 bombardiers received some good training on the rate machine while 6 others spent some time on the bomb trainer. The squadron bombardiers are going through a rigorous training schedule. Hamburgers were enjoyed for supper tonight after the afternoon mail call had again proved disappointing to the men.

446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties are performed.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Policed & cleaned up tent for inspection by Maj. Cooper. Ok. Hung and sacked all day. Hot as heck. Gathering of the clan in the club. Middle of the nite, heavy rainstorm with thunder and lightning.” Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled but cancelled due to weather conditions. 1st Lt. William E. Kibler in on DS, 320th Service Group per SO-121 57th Bomb Wing. A meeting was held at 9:30 hours at the 447th Squadron Orderly Room with Staff Officers and enlisted men Section Heads present regarding the possibility of moving in the near future. Consequently rumors are thick. Today’s training consisted of local transition and bombing practice. Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke at 7:35AM. Boys informed me I am on the morning's mission. Pancakes, oatmeal, prunes and apricots, bread and jelly, coffee. Mission canceled, standing by. Operations called. Seward, La Bella and myself to go up for practice camera mission using k20 aloft for 1 3/4 hours. Pilot Lt Ovard will see results tomorrow. Canned corn beef, many beans, fruit salad, bread and butter, water. Slept for 1-1/2 hours. Haircut and shave at the barber shop. Dirt floor, four foot wooden side, mosquito netting, canvas

Saturday, 2 September 1944 (continued) roof. Box with back support for chair. Read "Young Man Axelbrod" by Sinclair Lewis. Day is very clear. George Huha, Hutchinson, Mine, Hermansi, Pennsylvania informed me that Master Sgt. George Parsons has appointed me chief radio operator. Fried hot dogs, kidney beans, canned corn, fruit salad, bread, iced tea. Visited Taylor and Smitty at 445th. They have three missions. One quart of beer per man at club. Charge - 20 francs. On tomorrow's mission as cameraman, carrying 1000-lb demolition bombs. Retired 10:00PM. Thunderstorm awoke us at 2:00AM. We let down and secured flaps. Unable to fall asleep for some time.” Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt, gunner Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt, pilot Parsons, George M., Jr., M/Sgt, communications Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Sunday, 3 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers pound railroad and road bridges in the W Po Valley while fighter-bombers blast motor transport and rolling stock in the Turin area; and on the night of 2/3 Sep A-20s on armed reconnaissance, start fires in Genoa harbor.

In France, fighter-bombers blast German vehicles retreating up the Rhone Valley; the capture of Lyon is completed by French elements of the US Seventh Army; and the 316th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Le Luc to Istres with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Azon mission of 6 A/C missed the Ronca Scrivia RR bridges, mainly because of the target being obscured by shadows. However, the 36 planes attacking Po/Torreberretti bridge reported both approaches well hit on the RR bridge with the road bridge completely demolished.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 529/mission 529) Group Mission # 529: Po/Torreberretti Road and Rail Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 530/mission 530) Group Mission # 530: Ronca Scrivia Railway Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Two bombardiers went to the Capri rest camp which is still available for rest purposes. 2 ships went to the bombing range, 5 ships went on transition while 3 planes went on cross-country flight.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 529/mission 529) Group Mission # 529: The squadron sent 9 ships to join the formation which attacked the Po-Torreberretti road and railroad bridge, Italy. The squadron bombardiers displayed fine form probably gained in the practice bombing by hanging up a perfect mission – 100 per cent bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, James B., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) “Modern Design”) P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N None None B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt N None None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, SS/Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt E Leith, Douglas L., 1Lt Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt Weld, Willis R., 1Lt CP Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N None None B Cravey, Robert P., F/O Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 530/mission 530) Group Mission # 530: (445th BS did not participate)

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/03/44” Attended services again at Ghisonaccia. We had an attendance of eleven, two of whom were non-members. The time was given over to testimony bearing and was well used. Hughes came down from Bastia. For several days the weather was rather warm. Last night a terrific electrical storm broke up in the mountains, which got everyone out to fasten down the sides of the tent, and although very little rain fell here, today is cool and pleasant. The fields and woods are green and fresh. I notice since cutting their crop of hay the farmers have devoted the fields to pasturage for many fine looking horses and cattle. I am expecting to soon load our last bombs in this theater. I rather expect the war to end sometime this month with us still on the island. I want very much to go to France. I doubt I will get to go home from this theater. The camp is rife with rumors and speculation.” Hughes, Francis, (from Mesquite, NV)

446th BS War Diary: Two missions with 14 of our ships are flown. Promotions to 1st Lieut. Come to the following: Briles, Gittings, Grove, Higgins, Jaksic, Ligon, Lippy, Nagel, Peterson, Pietrowski, Rackley, Trosky, White, Wozniak. Lts. Vancil and Noel plus EM’s Mabe, Mowry, Slezak, Lamacchia go to Rome rest camp. Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt, pilot Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt, pilot Grove, Russell V., 1Lt, pilot Higgins, Howard A., 1Lt, pilot Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt, bombardier Lamacchia, Peter T., Sgt, Supply Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt, pilot Lippy, Harvey W., 1Lt, bombardier Mabe, John Ivan, T/Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt, pilot Noel, Paul R., 2Lt, bombardier Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt, pilot Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt, pilot Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt, pilot Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt, gunner Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt, pilot Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt, pilot White, Frank B., 1Lt, pilot Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 529/mission 529) Group Mission # 529: Squadron Mission 377 TARGET: Po/Torreberretti Road and Rail Bridge, Italy. DATE: 3 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Wagner led the formation. A number of direct hits reported with good coverage of middle and both ends of bridge. Some over to N and some short. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate, six planes holed. No fighters. Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” P Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt G South, William R., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” Pad” P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt N None None B Derringer, Albert J., 2Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Kreider, John L., S/Sgt R Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt G Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Gibbons, George H., 1Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt CP Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt Ingram, William T., 2Lt N None None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt E Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt G Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) dropped from nose art) P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt N None None B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt F None None

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt N None Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt B Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt G Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 530/mission 530) Group Mission # 530: Squadron Mission 378 TARGET: Ronca Scrivia Railway Bridge, Italy DATE: 3 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 2 1000 lb. Azon, 2 1000 lb. GP per ship 446th Planes: 5 Lt. Dickson led the formation. Because target was obscured by shadow of hill bombs were aimed at rail siding and a bridge approx. 200 yds. S of target. Hits on tracks and group of buildings to S. Possible hits on first bridge S of intended target. Flak was light, scant and inaccurate. No fighters.

A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27745 P Dickson, Gale Monroe, 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt Gambino, Samuel F., 2Lt E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt R Miles, Walter J., Jr., Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4077 “Stormy Weather” A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little - no name/lettering) Boy Val”) P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt CP Ziglar, Frank C., Maj Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt F Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27480 P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N None B Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt E Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt G Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt F None

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Hawkes & Burandt got a ship to go to Sardinia. T.O. 1000; landed 1130 @ Villacidro. Spent all day @ 17th BG, 37th BS with Horvath, Lynch, Love, Wright, etc. Went to Mass with Horvath @ 1600. T.O. @ 1800, land 1430. Read ‘Without Orders’ – excellent. Ship # 349, B-25. Solenzara Villa to Solenzara. Flying time: 03:00 hrs.” Burandt, Charles Lawson "Chuck", 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 37th BS, 17th BG (M - B-26) personnel: Horvath, James "Jim", 1Lt, Love, Lloyd, 1Lt, Lynch, Joseph, 1Lt Wright, 1Lt

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Hubert P.J. Jensen; 1st Lt Guy M. Washburn; T/Sgt. Edward S. Korzeniowski; T/Sgt. Walter J. Bilski; S/Sgt. Elmon P. Harriman; S/Sgt. Frederick J. Tarra. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. William F. Heitman; 1st Lt. Marvin L. Spruill; T/Sgt Frank J. Reynolds; T/Sgt. Aubrey W. Chatters; T/Sgt. Sidney Orloff; S/Sgt. Ralph Sinclair. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. Robert W. Mulholland; 1st Lt. Edwin E. Wallace; T/Sgt. Joseph D. Alpino; S/Sgt John Jaskowski. Morning report: Officers 91; Enlisted Men 335. Today’s training consisted of local transition. The following officers and enlisted men are on DS – Cairo: 1st Lt. Anthony L. Muzinich; 1st Lt. Richard E. Murray; 1st Lt. William C. Huffman; 1st Lt. Harold N. Lindell; S/Sgt. Robert W. Engels; S/Sgt. Eugene C. Cowart; S/Sgt. George Mercea; S/Sgt. Grant W. Baldridge; Sgt. Roy C. Dawson; Sgt. Joseph Veid; M/Sgt. Fred Pate. The following officers were promoted to the rank of first lieutenant per SO 226, H1 12th AF: 2nd Lt. Robert J. Burns; 2nd Lt. Earl W. Hall; 2nd Lt. Lester W. Robinson; 2nd Lt. Richard L. Willis. Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt, gunner Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Chatters Aubrey W., T/Sgt, gunner Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dawson, Roy C., Sgt, engineer-gunner Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt, gunner Burns, Robert J., 1Lt, pilot Hall, Earl W., 1Lt, pilot Harriman, Elmon P., gunner, S/Sgt

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt, gunner Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt, pilot Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt, gunner Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Pate, Fred (NMI), M/Sgt, engineering Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt, gunner Robinson, Lester W., 1Lt, pilot Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt, gunner Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt, aerial gunner Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt, pilot Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt, pilot Willis, Richard L., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 529/mission 529) Group Mission # 529: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Torreberretti RR and Road Bridge (J-776207) with Lt. Stocking leading the squadron. All bombs short of the target area. Mission efficiency 100%; Bombing accuracy 0 %. (447th crew list unreadable)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” plane and crew identified in Mango war diary P Stocking, Eugene E., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot CP Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt, pilot N None None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt, navigator B Altman, Irving L., 1Lt, bombardier E Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, engineer- gunner R See, Russell K., S/Sgt, radio-gunner G Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 530/mission 530) Group Mission # 530: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 41) “Target: Torreberretti RR Br Flak: HMA Combat: 2:30 Bombs: 1,000 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 520 (43-27520 “Amorous Anne”) Crew: P-Lt Krafka CP-Lt Gates B-Lt Altman N-Lt Rye E-SSG Clyne R-SSG See G-Sgt Mango Number of direct hits reported w/good concentration on both ends of bridge” Altman, Irving L., 1Lt, bombardier Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt, navigator See, Russell K., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 529/mission 529) Group Mission # 529: Mission 338 (529): At 15:55 36 planes off to bomb Po/Torreberretti Road and Railway Bridge, Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last element of the flight. Twenty-six (26) aircraft dropped 104 x 1000 G.P. from 10,500/12,000 feet. 36 x 1000 GP bombs returned due to rack malfunction and pilot’s error. A number of direct hits were reported with good coverage of middle and both ends of bridge. Heavy moderate, and accurate flak from battery ½ mile SW of bridge. 6 planes holed. Weather CAVU. A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27528 P Farrell, Harold S., Capt Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt CP Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt F None Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27508 P Burks, Richard W., Capt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt CP Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Greene, Louis P., 1Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt R Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt Brusa, Robert P., Sgt G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt F Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl None A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt N None None B McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., Cpl R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., Cpl G Penhale, Walter B., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-4076 P Warren, William F., 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt CP Kuoni, Charles F., Jr. 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt 0N None None B Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., Cpl Berman, Samuel (NMI), Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Dembrowski, Henry J., S/Sgt

Sunday, 3 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27523 P Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt B Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt E Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 530/mission 530) Group Mission # 530: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “PA system called us at 6:30AM for a 7:25AM briefing for today's mission. 6:35AM mission canceled. Pancakes, coffee, tomato juice. Smitty, Taylor and I attended Protestant services. Chaplain (Captain) Johnson presided. Went over to photo lab. Results of practice mission were fair. Received our rations for two weeks consisting of 5 cans of beer, 1 coke, 15 pkgs cigarettes, 8 candy bars, 1 box gum drops, 1 tooth brush, 1 tube toothpaste, 1 jackknife, $3.30. Hot mashed potatoes, sliced beets, spinach, bread and butter, coffee. Called in for briefing at 3:55PM. Target 30 miles north of Genoa, Italy. 23 span railway bridge and highway. Acting as photographer using K20. Take off 4:10PM. Encountered flak about 5:31PM. 5 minutes before target. First element hit target, snapped 3 photos. Didn't salvo our 1000-lb GP. Landed 7:05PM. Several ships hit, but returned safely. I had no fear on my first mission, but my stomach felt very strange. Fred Bixler of Indianapolis, radio operator was most helpful. Using Schaffner's flack helmet. Flack suit and sitting on frequency meter. Altitude 12000 feet, about 45 degrees F. Clear weather. Interrogated by S-2. Stew, stewed tomatoes, lima beans, vanilla pudding, bread and coffee. Schaffner, Huha and I ate cheese sandwiches and drank a can of beer each. On tomorrow's mission. Flew on "Cheery Fizz" today. 29 missions. Retired 11:30PM.” Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Johnson, E. V. (i.o.), Capt, Chaplain, HQ 321st BG Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Monday, 4 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, B-25s and B-26s hit several road and railroad bridges and tunnel in the Po Valley while fighter-bombers strike pontoon bridges, roads, bridges, and motor transport in preparation for an Allied ground assault on the Gothic Line; during the night of 3/4 Sep A-20s on armed reconnaissance of the Po Valley bomb vehicles in the Turin-Milan areas; fighters fly armed reconnaissance and offensive patrols in the Po Valley and the Rhone Valley in France.

In France, the 85th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Poretta, Corsica to Salon with A-20s; and the detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, operating from Tarquinia returns to base at Rosignano with Mosquitos.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On a very successful mission the 3 Pavia bridges were simply smothered with beautiful concentrations by 18 A/C on each. Recce showed all 5 spans down on the RR bridge and both road bridges badly damaged.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 531/mission 531) Group Mission # 531: ------321st BG MISSION No: 531 DATE: 4 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-9 446-9 447-0 448-0 TARGET: Pavia E. Road Bridge K-196328 TIME OFF: 0902 T.O.T.: 1101 TIME DOWN: 1215 AXIS OF ATTACK: 115° HEIGHT: 12/12,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 72 x 1000 GP - .1 & .025 PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-5033; K-0705; J-8035; J-9743 (IP), target, right turn to J-9320 to P- 5033 to base. WEATHER: CAVU entire route. FLAK: None ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: All bombs in target area. Several direct hits on center of bridge. One report of bridge collapsed at S end. Some bombs N of bridge on land. OBSERVATIONS: 20 car train moving west at J-9627 at 1055 hrs. Bridge 5 miles S. of Pavia out; 100/150 RR cars in M/Y at Voghera (K-0813) 100 RR cars and a locomotive in M/Y at Serravalle 0-9384; 200 RR cars in Alessandria M/Y; Pavia - 100 RR cars, Stationary in M/Y. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Burandt and Collins. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN. S P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Asst Intelligence Officer. ------

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 532/mission 532) Group Mission # 532: ------321st BG MISSION No: 532 DATE: 4 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 19 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-10 448-9 TARGET: Pavia W. Road Bridge K-192328 TIME OFF: 0902 T.O.T.: 1102 TIME DOWN: 1230 AXIS OF ATTACK: 115° HEIGHT: 11,200/11,600 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 68 x 1000 GP. 4 x 1000 salvoed malft. 4 x 1000 returned malft. PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-5033; K-0705; J-8035; J-9743 (IP), target, right turn to J-9320, P- 5033 to base. WEATHER: CAVU. FLAK: None ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: All bombs in target area. Excellent concentration from center to south bank. ¾ direct hits observed. OBSERVATIONS: 12 M/T at K-0611, going east, 1110 hours. Novi Ligure, O-88889, 50/60 RR cars and one engine. FLIGHT LEADERS: Capt. Farwell and Lt. Alger. NO. OF SORTIES: 19 PHOTOS TAKEN. WILLIAM E. LEVINE, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer. ------

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 533/mission 533) Group Mission # 533: ------321st BG MISSION No: 533 DATE: 4 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-6 446-6 447-3 448-3 TARGET: Pavia RR Bridge (K-182332). TIME OFF: 0902 T.O.T.: 1102 TIME DOWN: 1245 AXIS OF ATTACK: 115° HEIGHT: 10,500/10,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 63 x 1000 GP .1 & .025 9 x 1000 returned malft. PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-5033; K-0705; J-8035; J-9743 (IP), target, right turn to J-9320, P- 5033 and base. WEATHER: CAVU. FLAK: None ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: 4/5 direct hits seen on bridge. Several reports of spans down from center to north end. All bombs in target area with excellent concentration reported on bridge itself. OBSERVATIONS: Indications of pontoon bridge being built across Po River at K- 0423. 3 car train moving south at P-0070 (Ronco Scrivia). FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Wagner and Vivas. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN. S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer. ------

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Squadron personnel took turns traveling to the beaches behind the line area for the purpose of firing carbines at targets on the beach. This was accomplished in compliance of an order posted on the bulletin board. There was a satisfactory mail call this afternoon and the men’s faces reflected their jubilant feelings.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 531/mission 531) Group Mission # 531: The squadron sent out 9 aircraft with the formation that attacked the Pavia railroad bridge, Italy. This squadron came through with its second straight 100 per cent bombing accuracy mission.

A/C No. 43-27740 (flight leader) A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House Mouse” P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Malloy, Edward J., Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Frank, Robert R., 1Lt CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 1Lt 0N None None B Hagerman, Millard W., 1Lt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Taylor, Marion R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” P Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O Elliott, James R., Jr., 2lt N None None B Cravey, Robert P., F/O Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27509 P Weld, Willis R., 1Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt R Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously “Modern Design”) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt Jeffery, James C., 1Lt CP Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None None B Doherty, Charles S., S/Sgt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt R Gray, John H., S/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 532/mission 532) Group Mission # 532: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 533/mission 533) Group Mission # 533:

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” (flight A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” leader) P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), T/Sgt R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue (later “Winnie Mae”) Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 1Lt CP Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt R None listed Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) P Richardson, John S., 1Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl F None None

446th BS War Diary: September 4 and 5: Two missions are flown each of these days.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 531/mission 531) Group Mission # 531: Squadron Mission 379 TARGET: Pavia E. Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 4 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Burandt led the formation. All bombs in target area. Several direct hits on center of bridge. One report of bridge collapsed at S end. No flak. Lt. Wozniak spare returned early.

A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” Darlene) (flight leader) P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Perlman, Jacob L., F/O N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt CP Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N None None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt E Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt G Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt CP Chandler, Walter W., 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt N None None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt G Burrow, Isom F., T/Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” Ass II” P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt N None None B Johnson, Henry W., 2Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., S/Sgt G Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64549 A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt CP Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt N None Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., S/Sgt G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 532/mission 532) Group Mission # 532: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 533/mission 533) Group Mission # 533: Squadron Mission 380 TARGET: Pavia Railroad Bridge, Italy DATE: 4 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th Planes: 6 Lt. Wagner led the formation. 4-5 direct hits seen on bridge. Several reports of spans down from center to N end. All bombs in target area with excellent concentration on bridge itself. No flak. Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) (flight dropped from nose art) leader) P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart” P Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt N None None B Robertson, Charles W., Capt Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt N None None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “To Finance Office to exchange Francs for Lires. Sacked and hung around tent all day. Letter from Mary Mooney. Showered & shaved. Meeting all officers @ 1745, a lot of promotions & Air Medal Clusters given out. To show, Kay Kyser ‘Around the World’ – good, except generator cutting out.”

447th BS War Diary: The following officers are relieved of assignment and transferred to Replacement Depot No. & for transshipment on rotation to the United States per orders from 12th Air Force: Captain John H. Windler; 1st Lt. Merton K. Matthewson; 1st Lt. Melville R. Bastin. Today’s training consisted of local transition. A formation took place at officers area of the 447th Squadron at 1830 hours for the presentation of awards and decorations to a large number of combat officers and enlisted men. Colonel R.H.

Smith addressed the formation and presented 87 Air Medals, 9 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 8 Oak Leaf Clusters, 8 Purple Hearts and a Silver Star to 1st Lt. Eric A. Johnson. Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt, pilot Matthewson, Merton K., 1Lt, navigator Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 531/mission 531) Group Mission # 531: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 532/mission 532) Group Mission # 532: Ten of our ships participated in a raid on the Pavia RR Bridge K-182332 with Lt. Alger leading our squadron. All bombs in target area with an excellent concentration on bridge scoring several direct hits. Mission efficiency 58.3 % Bombing accuracy 100%.

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Runyon) Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) (flight leader) P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt CP Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Rosenblatt, James M., 1Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Smith, William L., S/Sgt Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” P Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt N None None B Toole, John F., T/Sgt Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt G Lejman, George T., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” P Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt Jensen, Hubert P., J., 1Lt CP Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt Burns, Robert J., 1Lt N None None B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27492”Reddie Teddie” P Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Morton, William C., 2Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt G Miller, Dale G., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt F Burns, Harry B., Sgt None A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” (Lead spare - filled in with 448th BS) P Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt Spear, Marvin L., 1Lt CP Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None None B Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt R Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 533/mission 533) Group Mission # 533: Three of our ships participated in a raid on the Pavia East Road Bridge with the 446th squadron. All bombs in target area, scoring several direct hits. Lt. Krafka led our squadron. Mission efficiency 88.8 % Bombing accuracy 88.8 %.

A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Woods, Richard J., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Walker, Marion E., 1Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt B Gargiulo Vincent J., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 1Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt None A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27718 (Wing spare - returned - did not fill in) P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Gillis, John R., 1Lt CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O N None None B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 1Lt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., S/Sgt R Pierce, William H., T/Sgt Free, Paul L., T/Sgt G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt F Shand, Arthur T., S/Sgt None

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 532/mission 532) Group Mission # 531: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 532/mission 532) Group Mission # 532: Mission 339 (532): At 0902 19 planes off to bomb W. Pavia Road Bridge, Italy. Eight (8) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the lead element of the flight. The formation dropped 68 x 1000 GP from 11,200/11,600 feet. 4 x 1000 GP bombs returned due to rack malfunction. All bombs in target area and 3/4 direct hits were observed. No flak encountered. Weather: CAVU.

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” (flight A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” leader) P Farwell, Harold S., Capt Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt CP Moss, Raymond W., Capt Riley, Robert L., 1Lt N Duncan, George F., 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F None Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-4076 P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt N None None B Judy, Philip R., 1Lt Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt Berman, Samuel (NMI), Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27528 P Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt Grady, John R., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt N None Hickey, William O., 1Lt B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O Kiska, George P., 2Lt E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., Cpl R Brusa, Robert P., Sgt Hulse, Donald W., Cpl G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-28081 P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny” 1Lt CP Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt N None None B McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt R Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt F Dembrowski, Henry J., S/Sgt None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not A/C No. 43-27791 (Returned early - no Out” (Returned early - no credit) (only credit) (only ship and pilots identified) ship and pilots identified) P Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N None None B E R G F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 533/mission 533) Group Mission # 533: Mission 340 (533): At 09:02 18 planes off to bomb Pavia Railroad Bridge, Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as last element of the first flight. The flight dropped 63 x 1000 GP bombs from 10,500/10,000. 9x1000 GP bombs returned due to a malfunction of the bomb rack. 4/4 direct hits were observed on the bridge. Several reports of spans down from center to north end. No flak encountered. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt CP Burks, Richard W., Capt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt N McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt None B Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt E Veeck, Richard W., 1Lt Qualls, Thomas B., Sgt R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Randall, Charles R., Jr., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Hawthorne, Ralph C., Sgt F None LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-27481 (Returned early - no credit) (only ship and pilots identified) P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt CP Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt N None None B Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, Sgt G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt F None None

Monday, 4 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:10AM. It may be Labor Day, but you would never know it on this island. French toast, orange marmalade, coffee. Pre-brief and briefing. 3 bridges at Pavia, 1000 lb. GP. 6 nine ship formation. Altitude 9, 10, 11,000 feet. Take-off 9:13AM. Over target 11:02. 100% hit. No flak - P47 escort. Landed 12:20PM. Did not get any photographs (my fault). Lieut (1st) Rogers pilot. Flew on "Silver Belle" (43-27706) which has 39 missions. Felt much better on my second mission. Red Cross served doughnuts, coffee, lemonade at interrogation. Salmon (canned) spaghetti, diced carrots, peas, bread and marmalade, iced tea. First shift of guard 6 to10PM. Full moon. Chilly evening. On tomorrow's mission. Schaffner brought me a roast pork sandwich. Retired 11:00PM.” Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, pilot Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Tuesday, 5 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers again strike, with excellent results, road and rail bridges in the Po Valley while fighter-bombers blast rail lines and rolling stock S of the river; A-20s hit the Milan and Genoa areas during the night of 4/5 Sep and attack ammunition stores during the day; fighters support the limited ground force advance in preparation for a major assault on the Gothic Line.

In France, fighters fly sweeps through the Rhone Valley; the 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group [attached to 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)] moves from Borgo, Corsica to Valence with F-5s (the squadron is operating from Le Luc); the 84th and 86th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), move from Poretta Airfield, Corsica to Salon with A-20s; the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from St Raphael to Valence with F-6s; and the 314th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Istres to Amberieu with P-47s. The 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 63rd Fighter Wing, moves from Alghero, Sardinia to Borgo, Corsica with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Back to the Pavia Rd. bridges to knock them completely down, 12 A/C knocked an 18 foot hole in the West bridge and 12 blew the tip off the East bridge, almost demolishing it. 18 A/C each on the Polesella and Legnago bridges also reported “buono” concentrations which statement was borne out by the pictures. The flight to the Polesella RR bridge was unusual in that it was attacked by 4 enemy aircraft. One of our planes was holed by a 20mm shell, while the gunners accounted for one ME-109 which was seen going down smoking.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 534/mission 534) Group Mission # 534: ------321st BG MISSION No: 534 DATE: 5 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-7 446-0 447-0 448-5 TARGET: Pavia E. Road Bridge (K-196328). TIME OFF: 0853 T.O.T.: 1032 TIME DOWN: 1150 AXIS OF ATTACK: 115° HEIGHT: 9,800/10,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 48 x 1000 - .1 & .025 PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-5033; K-0705; J-8035; J-9743 (IP), target, right turn to J-9320, P- 5033 and base. WEATHER: Enroute: 7/10 cirrus at 20,000 ft. throughout route. 4/10 in Po Valley. Visibility unlimited. Target: 7/10 cirrus at 20,000 ft. Visibility unlimited. Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

FLAK: None ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Excellent concentration on bridge from center to the S. approach. Several direct hits seen. No wild bombs. OBSERVATIONS: Usual M/Y activity along route. FLIGHT LEADERS: Capt. Moss NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN. S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t Intelligence Officer. ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 535/mission 535) Group Mission # 535: ------321st BG MISSION No: 535 DATE: 5 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-6 447-6 448-0 TARGET: Pavia W. Road Bridge (K-192328). TIME OFF: 0853 T.O.T.: 1035 TIME DOWN: 1205 AXIS OF ATTACK: 115° HEIGHT: 10/10,200 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 40 x 1000 GP - .1 & .025 8 x 1000 ret. malfunction PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-5033; K-0705; J-9035; J-9743 (IP), target, right turn to J-9320, P- 5033 and base.

WEATHER: Enroute: 7/10 cirrus at 20,000 ft. throughout route. 4/10 in Po Valley. Visibility unlimited. Target: 7/10 cirrus at 20,000 ft. Visibility unlimited. FLAK: None ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Excellent concentration on bridge from center to the S. approach. Several direct hits seen. No wild bombs. OBSERVATIONS: 20/30 M/T near Mortara (J-8855) heading E on road just SW of town. 40/50 M/T stationary at K-9403, on main road to NE; 10 M/T heading N. from Pavia spaced about 100 yds apart. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Wiginton NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN. S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t Intelligence Officer. ------

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 536/mission 536) Group Mission # 536: ------321st BG MISSION No: 536 DATE: 5 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-9 446-9 447-0 448-0 TARGET: Polesella RR Bridge at G-222033. TIME OFF: 0936 T.O.T.: 1133 TIME DOWN: 1315 AXIS OF ATTACK: 260° HEIGHT: 11/11,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 36 x 1000# GP - .1 & .025 32 x 1000# Returned-malfunction. 4 x 1000# Salvoed-malfunction. PLANES HOLED: 4 flak. 1 E/A ESCORT: Area Cover. Non existent. ROUTE: Base to R-8940, S-1877, G-8615, G-4708 (IP), target, right turn to G-1613, F-9701, L-2380, P-5018 and home. WEATHER: CAVU with slight haze. FLAK: Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate from Rovigo A/D--extreme range on bomb-run and breakaway. ENEMY AIR: 4 ME-109’s attacked formation 10 miles N. of Ferrara at 1137 hrs. Several aggressive passes made from 5 to 7 o’clock and below, breaking away from B-25’s at 300 yards. T/A shooting 20mm--no tracers seen.

Attacked singly and in pairs. 1 ME-109 damaged--seen going down in smoke. RESULTS: Lead 6 A/C did not drop due to malfunction in lead ship. 9 A/C dropped on first run then remained with formation leader who made another run in an attempt to release bombs. Good concentration on center and N. end of bridge. Several D/H seen. Few bombs over to west. OBSERVATIONS: None. FLIGHT LEADERS: LTS. Russell and Hawkes. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN.

S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer. ------

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 537/mission 537) Group Mission # 537: ------321st BG MISSION No: 537 DATE: 5 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-9 448-9 TARGET: Legnago RR Bridge F-893257. TIME OFF: 0938 T.O.T.: 1130 TIME DOWN: 1300 AXIS OF ATTACK: 346° HEIGHT: 10,500/11,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 68 x 1000# GP .1 & .025 4 x 1000# GP Returned. PLANES HOLED: One by E/A. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-5018, L2380, F-9701 (IP), target, right turn to F-9927, F-9701 and home. WEATHER: CAVU. FLAK: None. ENEMY AIR: 4 FW-190’s at 1135 hrs. 10,700’ alt. E/A trailed formation to just north of Reggio. Made one pass high at 6 o’clock. CLAIMS: None. RESULTS: Good concentration on center of bridge. Some D/H’s seen; One element hit NE approach. Other bombs just NE of bridge. Center span believed out.

OBSERVATIONS: 75 RR cars at L-2082. 40 RR cars at Parma. 20/30 RR cars at Villafranca. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Stocking and Furey. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN.

WILLIAM E. LEVINE, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer. ------

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: The weather was cloudy most of the day with showers in the morning. There was a rumor circulating in the squadron to the effect that Germany had capitulated. The source of the rumor, it was reported, was the Belgian radio. This gorgeous rumor was really never taken seriously and at the end of the day it was appropriately buried.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 534/mission 534) Group Mission # 534: Seven aircraft of the squadron joined another squadron for the group to attack the Pavia east road bridge, Italy. This squadron just missed another perfect mission, destroying the bridge with a 97.2 per cent bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”

“Modern Design”) P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 1Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt N None None B Emery, Ben D., 1Lt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Taylor, Marion R., Cpl R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Richardson, John S., 1Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None None B Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Lemke, Leslie J., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt CP Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O N None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt R Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl F None

445th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 535/mission 535) Group Mission # 535: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 536/mission 536) Group Mission # 536: Note: 1 ME-109 claimed, per HQ 321st BG (per 448th BS radio-gunner Cpl Irving J. Schaffer’s diary, it was an FW-190

A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” (flight A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” leader)

P Russell, Lawrence L. “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt N Napple, Francis S., 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., S/Sgt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27509 (later “Winnie Mae”) P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt CP McKay, Donald I., 1Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House Mouse” P Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt N None None B Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt R Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) P Weld, Willis R., 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt CP Santone, Michael A., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt N Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt E Smith, William F., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” (Lead spare - Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) did not fill in)

P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt E Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt F None None

445th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 537/mission 537) Group Mission # 537: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: September 4 and 5: Two missions are flown each of these days.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 534/mission 534) Group Mission # 534: (446th BS did not participate)

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 535/mission 535) Group Mission # 535: Squadron Mission 381 TARGET: Pavia W. Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 5 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th Planes: 6 Lt. Wiginton led the formation. Excellent concentration on bridge from center to the S approach. Several direct hits seen. No flak. Lt. Ivankovig was a spare and returned early. Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt CP Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt E Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt G Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later

Ass II” Darlene) P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Ingram, William T., 2Lt N None None B Derringer, Albert J., 2Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt G Glendening, George F., Jr., S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart” P Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt White, Frank B., 1Lt CP Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt Perlman, Jacob L., F/O N None None B Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt G Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt E Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt F None

446th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 536/mission 536) Group Mission # 536: Squadron Mission 382 TARGET: Polesella Railroad Bridge, Italy DATE: 5 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Russell led the formation. Lead six planes did not drop due to malfunction in lead ship. Nine aircraft dropped on first run and then remained with formation leader who made another run in an attempt to release bombs. Good concentration on center and N end of bridge. Several direct hits seen. Flak was heavy, moderate and fairly accurate.

Four ME-109’s attacked the formation. Several aggressive passes made. One ME-109 damaged, seen going down smoking. Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” (flight leader) P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Leith, William V., 2Lt E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Grove, Russell V., 1Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt N None None B Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt G Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt N None None B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt R Brown, Dennis H., Cpl Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) Pad” P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N None None

B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt CP Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt N None B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt G Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 537/mission 537) Group Mission # 537: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Checking clothes, etc. to turn in. B-4 bag repaired ok, packed woolens. Copied operations list of my missions, time, etc. Boys had a rough mission today. Guess Chudars saw the light. Meeting of all combat personnel @ 1600, Group theatre. Very interesting lecture on escape procedure in France & Italy. Rec’d a letter from Ma. Boys of the Group put on a stage, pretty good show.” Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Today’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing.

447th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 534/mission 534) Group Mission # 534: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 535/mission 535) Group Mission # 535: Six of our ships participated in a raid on the Pavia Road Bridge West, K-192328, with Lt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Excellent concentration from center to south approach with several direct hits. Mission efficiency 66.6%; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” (flight leader) P Walker, Marion E., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt

CP Woods, Richard J., 1Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O N None None B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt E Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt R Pierce, William H., T/Sgt Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, T/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) P Robinson, Lester W., 1Lt Gates, Ralph (NMI), 2Lt CP Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt Toole, John F., T/Sgt E Netzel, Carl F., Cpl Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., T/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, S/Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 536/mission 536) Group Mission # 536: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 537/mission 537) Group Mission # 537: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Legnago RR Bridge F-893257, with Lt. Stocking leading the squadron for the second mission of the day. Excellent concentration from center to south approach with several direct hits. Mission efficiency 86.1 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” (flight leader) P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Stocking, Eugene E., 1Lt CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt

N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Smith, William L., Sgt S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt G Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27793 “The Melting Pot” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None None B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt G Lejman, George T., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27798 P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt Willis, Richard L., 1Lt N None None B LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt R Hague, Curtis A., Cpl Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt G Burns, Harry B., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Speer, Marvin L., 1Lt CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt R Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in on mission) P Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt Condit, Albert K., 2Lt N None None B Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Altman, Irving L., 1Lt

E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt G Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 42) “Target: Legnago Road & RR Bridge Flak: None Combat: 3:00 Bombs: 1,000 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 079 (43-4079 “Little David”) Crew: P-Lt Magne CP-Lt Bullion B-Lt Fischer E-SG Partee R-SSG Pelak G-Sgt Mango Good concentration on center of bridge. Some direct hits seen. Center span believed out. 2nd flight attached by 4 FW-190. 4th OLC to AM pending” Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt, pilot Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt, bombardier Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “52nd mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Pavia Rd. bridge, nice bombing, no opposition.” Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot,

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 534/mission 534) Group Mission # 534: Mission 341 (534): At 08:53 12 planes off to bomb Pavia E. Road Bridge, Italy. Five (5) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the lead element of the flight. The formation dropped 48 x 1000 GP from 9,800/10,000 feet. Excellent concentration on bridge from center to W approach. Several D/H seen. No flak encountered. Weather: 7/10 cirrus at 20,000 enroute, visibility unlimited. (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 43-27791 plane & partial crew (flight leader) identified in Schaffer war diary P Moss, Raymond W., Capt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt CP N None None B E R Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl G F None None

A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 535/mission 535) Group Mission # 535: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 536/mission 536) Group Mission # 536: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 537/mission 537) Group Mission # 537: Mission 342 (537): At 19:48 18 planes off to bomb Legnago RR Bridge, Italy. Nine (9) of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated. 68 x 1000 GP from 10,500/11,000 feet. 4 x 1000 GP returned due to malfunction of bomb rack. Good concentration on center of bridge with center span believed out. One plane holed by E/S. No flak encountered. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27720 (flight leader) A/C No. 43-28081 P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Bard, John A., 1Lt CP Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Young, Robert B., 1Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt Berman, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., F None LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27668 P Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt

N None None B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt R Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt G Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27528 P Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N None None B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., Cpl Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 5 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” Sadie” P Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N None None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt None A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt CP Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt N None B Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt E Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt G Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt F White, E. T., S/Sgt

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “PA system awoke us at 6:00AM. Cold Tuesday morning. Canned grapefruit, powdered scrambled eggs, bread, apple jelly, coffee. Attended 7:50AM briefing. 1 hour standby. Same target as yesterday. Jerries making repairs. Take off 8:50AM. Over target 10:33AM. Reconstruction in progress. Dropped 1000 GP bombs. Direct hit. Milk run.

Saw snow covered Alps. Everything looks very peaceful below. Flew at 10,000 feet. Pilot Lt. Kruse 28 missions on ship 43-27791. Using K20, took some good photos. Interrogated. Red Cross serving. Every day of a mission, combat crews are entitled to a shot of whiskey. Navy beans, spaghetti, carrots and peas, chocolate cake, tea, bread and apple butter. Feeling very tired. 445th encountered fighters in Po Valley. Shot down one FW-190. Attended lecture on "escape and evasion" by a Captain from the underground. (Llenard). The group theater is open air. Individual 12" square metal stools are placed together. The hill is inclined about 30 degrees. The screen on a 25 x 15 wooden stage is in the pit. Enlisted men have one side reserved, officers the other. Due to the inconsistency of the power supply (energizer) the show is usually interrupted. Commenced "The Seventh Cross", Anna Seghers. Vienna sausage, tarter sauce, mashed potatoes, string beans, canned pears, coffee, bread and apple jelly. Nelson gave us some fresh tomatoes he bought in Solenzara. Meeting of all enlisted men at 7:15AM at enlisted men's club. Major Bell broke down as soon as "Ike" called upon him. A new CO has been appointed. They say Major Bell was the best CO we ever had. Read a bit. Retired at 9:30PM.” Bell, Albert R., Maj, pilot, Commander Iseldyke, LeRoy J. “Ike”, Sgt, gunner, 1st Sgt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt, pilot Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner

Wednesday, 6 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, during the night of 5/6 Sep A-20s attack targets of opportunity in the Savona and Milan areas.

In France, during the day, weather grounds XII Tactical Air Command aircraft except for a few fighters based in France which fly armed reconnaissance over the Belfort, Dijon, and Colmar areas, destroying or damaging numerous motor transport and railroad cars and several locomotives, field guns, trailers, and a tank; HQ 324th Fighter Group and the 315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons move from Istres to Amberieu with P-47s; and the 35th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, based at Ciampino, Italy, begins operating from Istres with C-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

------HEADQUARTERS 321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) APO 650

TO: Commanding Officer, 321st Bomb Gp (M)

FROM: General Knapp

“6 Sep 44 0950 Hours CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR EXCELLENT BOMBING FOR LAST TWO DAYS. P.R.U. REPORTS PAVIA RR BRIDGE DISTROYED. PAVIA WEST ROAD BRIDGE DISTROYED. PAVIA EAST ROAD BRIDGE BADLY DAMAGED AND BLOCKED. POLENELLA AND LEGNAGO RR BRIDGE APPROACHES CUT.”

A Certified True Copy

S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Asst. Group S-2. ------

445th BS War Diary: Inconsistent weather conditions forced a postponement of the mission. Capt. McLain, a flight leader in the squadron, was transferred to the 448th Squadron where he assumed command of the squadron. The S-2 office was crowded all day today as personnel in the squadron took a sudden interest in the fast-moving war in Europe. Fresh frankfurters were on the menu for supper and were enjoyed by all. “Doc” Smith and his “Mitchell-Aires” played for the men in the evening. McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon

Wednesday, 6 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Promotions came to the following: to Technical Sergeant, Brugioni, Holder; to staff, Leeper, Leary. Brugioni, Dino A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer Holder, Paul T., T/Sgt, gunner Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt, gunner Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “To PX to pick up rations. Turned in all flying equip. (except A-10 jacket) to Tech Supply. Turned in Revolver & misc. junk to Supply. John Naynik and Al Boggie dropped in from Sardinia. Good to see them again. Few of the boys feeling good tonite. Letter from Alice. Wrote Alice. Burandt out - had to put him to bed.” Burandt, Charles Lawson "Chuck", 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather conditions. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp Rome, Italy. 1st Lt. William F. Heitman; 1st Lt. Marvin L. Spruill; T/Sgt. Frank J. Reynolds; T/Sgt. Aubrey W. Chatters; T/Sgt. Sidney Orloff; S/Sgt. Ralph Sinclair. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Captain Robert W. Manly departed for Rome Italy. Chatters Aubrey W., T/Sgt, gunner Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot

Manly, Robert W. "Horse”, Capt, intelligence Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt, gunner Sinclair, Ralph, S/Sgt, gunner Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Cloudy Wednesday. Pancakes, stewed apricots, wheaties, coffee. Stand-down on this morning's mission. The showers are about five miles down the road along a stream about 50 feet wide. A gasoline pump draws the water to a 500-gallon tank. From here it passes through large coils that are heated, then to the shower. There are 20 overhead sprinklers in two rows. The ceiling is the sky with six foot burlap walls surrounding the spot. Our drinking water is drawn from the same water supply to a large water bag atop a 30 foot wooden tower. The bag is open on top and canvas side. Holds 500 gallons. Chlorine is mixed in and water trucks are refilled to bring aqua to the various squadrons. Hash paddies, lima beans, canned tomatoes, bread, coffee. New CO Captain Damon McLain took charge today. Tent and area inspection tomorrow. Schaffner and I went hiking up in the mountains. Tried to reach an ancient structure about 3 miles up the mountain. After several hours we were unable to reach objective. On return we picked grapes, berries and peaches. Figs are still green, as are the olives. Snitched 7 ears of corn from a farm. Mike Kocsis (Mess Sgt) brought a huge cake over Wednesday, 6 September 1944 (continued) for Schaffner's birthday. Smitty and Taylor bought a motorcycle. Listened to a few musical programs and read. Retired 10:45PM.” Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Thursday, 7 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather cancels all flying in France and Italy except for weather reconnaissance by a few P-47s.

In France, HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and the 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light) move from Poretta, Corsica to Salon with A-20s; the 16th and 18th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 64th Troop Carrier Group, based at Ciampino, Italy begin operating from Istres with C-47s; and the 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group [attached to 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)] ceases operating from Le Luc and returns to base at Valence; at the same time, a detachment begins operating from Satolas-et-Bonce with F-5s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Thirteen crews were scheduled for the mission today but it was finally cancelled. Lt. Santone, pilot who was on detached service to the 3rd Air Base area, returned to the squadron today. He was happy to return, he said, and ready to pile up some missions. There was a fair mail call today. Pork chops were served at the evening meal. Santone, Michael A., 2Lt, pilot

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/07/44: 22:00 hours “Just came in from guard duty. I rather enjoyed the four hours of solitude, sitting under the plane watching the deepening shades of evening take over from the sinking sun. In the distance I could hear the roll and rush of the waves as they died on the beaches. The stars were bright and fascinating. Everyone talks constantly of the imminent collapse of Germany and the demobilization to follow.”

446th BS War Diary: September 7 and 8: Regular duties in the area.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Wrote Ma. Packing clothes. Lewis returned from Rome. Showered & shaved. Sacked awhile. A lot of fun kidding Burandt and Hawkes about their escapades of last evening. To show ‘Bermuda Honeymoon’ – good.” Burandt, Charles Lawson "Chuck", 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today but cancelled due to weather conditions. Sergeant Boyd T. Oltesvig was reduced to the grade of private for misconduct. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Hyman Niedleman; 1st Lt. Grover C. Brown Jr.; T/Sgt. Carl M. Carlson; S/Sgt. Arthur Schwartz; S/Sgt. Leonard W. Ford; S/Sgt. Leonard T. Payne. Today’s

Thursday, 7 September 1944 (continued) training consisted of local transition. A congratulatory message was received from Brig. General R.K. Knapp for the excellent bombing of the last two days. Brown, Grover C., 1Lt, pilot Carlson Carl M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Ford, Leonard W., Sgt, engineer-gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, 57th BW Commander Oltesvig, Boyd T., Pvt, mess Niedleman, Hyman (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Payne, Leonard T., Sgt, gunner Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Fried powdered eggs, tomato juice, bread, apple jelly. Schaffner's 29th birthday. Stand by on today's mission. Corned beef hash, navy beans, fruit salad, bread, apple butter, tea. "Ike" got weapons courier, 10 of us started for Bonifacio. Narrow winding mountain roads. Bridges were blown by Germans. Railway line on Corsica put completely out of commission. Passed through Port Vecchio where 321st landed. Viewed castle with drawbridge. 500 years old at Bonifacio. Bombed freighter still in harbor. Took photographs. Very hilly. Drank cap corse and muscatel wine. Joe Ryan really played the women - no luck. Ate at cafe in Bonifacio. Vegetable soup, French rye bread, tomatoes, pepper eggplant and ground meat. French-fries, fresh peaches and figs for dinner. Kibitzed with several prostitutes. Inhabitants are not very clean. Streets are of cobble stones and about 15 feet wide. Typical of book reading. Fork as souvenir from Bonifacio. Returned by Port Vecchio, very similar to Bonifacio. Joe Creighton drove back. Arrived camp 8:30PM. 22 new men came in today. Lemonade, coffee, doughnuts brought over to the tent by Mike Kocsis, 150 Lenox Avenue, Bridgeport, Conn. Starry sky, beautiful evening. Stand down on today's mission. Retired 11:30PM.” Iseldyke, LeRoy J. “Ike”, Sgt, gunner, personnel, 1st Sgt Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt Ryan, Joseph C. "Joe", Sgt, personnel, (detail Sgt) Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Friday, 8 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72nd Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from Grenoble to Lons-le-Saunier with L-5s. In France, A-20s fly supply missions to an airfield near Lyon; fighters strafe the Belfort area, hitting 10 trains with good results, and blast a horse-drawn vehicle convoy near Strasbourg; the 17th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, based at Ciampino, Italy begins operating from Istres.

In Italy, bad weather grounds B-25s and B-26s; P-47s on armed reconnaissance in the Po Valley area attack 2 pontoon bridges and several barges, cut a road, and hit several vehicles and other targets of opportunity; HQ 350th Fighter Group moves from Corsica to Tarquinia; the detachment of the 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group [attached to the 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)] ceases operating from Le Luc with F-5s and returns to base at Valence.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Thirteen crews were standing by for the combat mission and 3 other crews were alerted for a nickeling mission. Tricky weather conditions in Italy grounded both missions for the day. It’s now Captain J. O. Jackson, Intelligence Officer, who received notification today of his promotion. Lt. Shynshka also received word of the promotion to Captain. Four combat crew members left the squadron to start the rotation trip back home today. Included was Lt. Alfred B. Smith who completed 70 combat missions. Jackson, James O., Capt, intelligence Smith, Alfred B., 2Lt, pilot Shyshka, Lubomir P. "Cross Country", Capt, pilot

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/08/44: “I spent the day writing letters and reading. Day has been cool and cloudy. I have decided to obtain a book in which I can keep notes on all the books I read. Beasley borrowed some of my negatives and out of kindness made some very excellent prints for me. Friends are wonderful. Received a letter from Lynne Empey.”

446th BS War Diary: September 7 and 8: Regular duties in the area.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Did a little more packing, just abut all ready to go now. DFC came back approved. To Group to pick up UCFC’s letter. All flying cancelled due to weather. Sacked. Cleaned up tent. Letter from J. Mac – answered. Maj. Cooper told me I’m leaving the day after tomorrow. To Solenzara to pick up laundry. Wrote MJC, Ma, Alice.” Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander

Friday, 8 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather conditions. In addition to his other duties 1st Lt. George G. VenJohn is appointed Squadron Alternate Voting Officer. 1st Lt. Lester W. Robinson was relieved of assignment and transferred to Headquarters 12th Air Force. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Robinson, Lester W., 1Lt, pilot VenJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Dismal and dreary morning. Oatmeal, pancakes, grapefruit juice, coffee. Stand down on today's mission. (Nickeling mission) Picked up 5-A from Crisp at 446th. Visited Rudy, Taylor. Stew, diced carrots, navy beans, beets, chocolate pudding, bread and marmalade. (Low ceiling) John Nelson, 14 Greenridge Place, Saratoga Springs, NY. Oldest tent member? Smitty and I took a trip down to Solenzara on his motorcycle. Beef and gravy, green beans, mashed potatoes, canned applesauce, bread and butter, coffee. Evening shower. Weather turning. Sgt Kerr brought back watermelon, cantaloupe and tomatoes from Solenzara. Very enjoyable. Chilly evening. On tomorrows nickeling mission. Retired 9:45PM.” Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS DiFulvio, Rudolph A. "Rudy", 2Lt, bombardier Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner, Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Saturday, 9 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, B-26s achieve excellent results against rail bridges in the E Po Valley while B-25s bomb troop concentrations and supply points S of Bologna; fighter-bombers and fighters attack railways and roads in the Po Valley and from Genoa to Turin; motor transport and rolling stock are bombed and strafed in N Italy and E France, with particular success in the Belfort-Mulhouse-Freiburg, France areas; and the detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, operating from Pomigliano with Mosquitos, returns to base at Rosignano.

In France, the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Valence to Satolas-et-Bonce with F-6s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: In an attempt to drive the enemy out of the Gothic Line we flew two 24 plane missions against defense positions N & E of Borgo San Lorenzo. Photos showed target areas well covered. 6 plane nickeling mission to the Spezia area was completed without mishap. Major Haven, Group S-2, leaves for the States to be discharged on over-age basis. Haven, Malcolm D., Maj, intelligence, S-2 Officer

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 538/mission 538) Group Mission # 538: Defense Positions near Borgo San Lorenzo, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 539/mission 539) Group Mission # 539: Supplies and Barracks areas S. of Firenzuola, Italy (Q-907984) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 540/mission 540) Group Mission # 540: Nickeling Mission to Borgo and San Marcello areas, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: There was quite a bit of interest shown by the “old boys” in the squadron when 14 new enlisted ground crew replacements arrived today. An officer and 6 enlisted combat crew members all left the squadron today headed for the good old U.S.A. A few crew members left for the rest camp at Rome.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 538/mission 538) Group Mission # 538: (445th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 539/mission 539) Group Mission # 539:

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Richardson, John S., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt Rossi, Sam J., Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None Smith, Richard H. “Red”, Col, pilot, 321stBG Commander (observer) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Weld, Willis R., 1Lt Frank, Robert R., 1Lt CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 1Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue “Modern Design”) Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 1Lt CP Born, Walter E., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N None None B Emery, Ben D., 1Lt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Taylor, Marion R., Cpl R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., T/Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” P Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt CP Santone, Michael A., 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt E Smith, William F., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt G Woody, Louie M., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in) P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt CP Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O N None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt R Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 540/mission 540) Group Mission # 540: Three of the squadron’s aircraft went out on a nickeling mission to drop leaflets in the Borgo, San Marcello areas in Italy.

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” (later “Winnie Mae”) P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Cox, Harold L., 2Lt N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27509 P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt CP Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt N None B Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt F None

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/09/44: “A very beautiful autumn day. A blue haze suspends a few fleecy clouds over the mountains to the west, and the air has an exhilarating crispness.”

446th BS War Diary: A twelve plane mission is flown with success.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 538/mission 538) Group Mission # 538: Squadron Mission 383 TARGET: Defense Positions near Borgo San Lorenzo, Italy DATE: 9 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb. Frags. 446th Planes: 12 Captain Annear led the formation. Two separate concentrations—one had good coverage on target area, the other was short. Target difficult to identify. Four ME-109s sighted but did not attack. No flak. Lt. Gibbons was a spare and returned early. Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt, pilot, 448th BS

A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” Ass II” P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt CP Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj, Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt HQ 321st BG N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Sgt R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl F None None

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” Pad” P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O Reilly, John A., 2Lt N None None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., S/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later dropped from nose art) Darlene) P White, Frank B., 1Lt Grove, Russell V., 1Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt N None None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt G Beets, Frank T., Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” P Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt CP Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt N None None B Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) previously “Miss Dallas”) P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N None None B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt G Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt N None B Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt E Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 539/mission 539) Group Mission # 539: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 540/mission 540) Group Mission # 540: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot Pilot/Co-Pilot: unknown Douglas C-47 Skytrain Mission: unspecified. Training? Flying Time: 5:00 (123rd mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Almost completely packed, all set to leave tomorrow. Rec’d DFC from Maj. Cooper, (16374) Hung around tent all afternoon. Had a swell lobster supper. Letters from Ma & J. Mac. Got my orders to leave tomorrow. To show ‘Smith of Minnesota’ – Lousy.” Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Leeland A. Mesna; 1st Lt. Gordon A. Ramey; T/Sgt. Leo G. Hubert; T/Sgt. William H. Pierce; T/Sgt. Myles O. Williamson; Sgt. Paul B. Connolly. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy. 1st Lt. Hyman Niedleman; 1st Lt. Grover C. Brown Jr.; S/Sgt. Leonard T. Payne; T/Sgt. Carl M. Carlson; S/Sgt. Leonard W. Ford; S/Sgt. Arthur Schwartz. The following officers were promoted to the rank of captain: 1st Lt. LeRoy Alger; 1st Lt. Eugene E. Stocking; 1st Lt. Maurice Wiginton. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Alger, LeRoy (NMI), Capt, pilot Brown, Grover C., 1Lt, pilot Carlson Carl M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Connolly, Paul B., Sgt, aerial gunner Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Hubert Leo G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt, bombardier Niedleman, Hyman (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt, gunner Pierce, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Ramey, Gordon, A., 1Lt, pilot Schwartz, Arthur, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Stocking, Eugene, E., Capt, pilot Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt, pilot Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 538/mission 538) Group Mission # 538: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 539/mission 539) Group Mission # 539: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on supplies and barracks area (Q-907984), with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Good pattern in target area. Mission efficiency 12.6 &; Bombing accuracy 90 %.

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), Capt CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., S/Sgt G Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Toole, John F., T/Sgt Altman, Irving L., 1Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Hague, Curtis A., Cpl G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt F None Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” Runyon) P Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt CP Wentz, James L., F/O Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt E Curry, Hughie L., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt G Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt F None None

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt Condit, Albert K., 2Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt G Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” P Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt Speer, Marvin L., 1Lt CP Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None None B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt F Mathews, William E., T/Sgt Burns, Harry B., Sgt A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” P Burns, Robert J., 1Lt Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 1Lt N None None B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” (Wing spare - returned - did not fill in) P Woods, Richard J., 1lt CP Walker, Marion E., 1Lt N None B Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt E O’Neil, James R., Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 540/mission 540) Group Mission # 540: (447th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 43) “Target: Borgo San Lorenzo Barracks & Supply dump Flak: HIS Combat: 2:25 Bombs: 100 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 751 (43-27751 “MMR”) Crew: P-Lt Schnoebelen CP-FO Wentz B-Lt Gargiulo E Sgt Curry R-SSG Schnaars G- Sgt Mango Good concentration in target area” Curry, Hughie L., Sgt, engineer-gunner Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt, bombardier Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot Wentz, James L., F/O, pilot

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “53rd mission, flew with Lt. Washburn as bombardier, nice bombing; a mile north of Borgo San Lorenzo supply & barracks area, one fighter seen, some flak.” Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 538/mission 538) Group Mission # 538: Mission 343 (538): At 16:48 24 planes off to bomb Defense Position in Northern Italy. Twelve (12) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated. 224 x 100 Inst. Nose .025 tail. Bombs dropped plus 132 x 20# frags from 10,500/11,000 feet. Two separate concentrations had good coverage on target area. The other was short. Target identification difficult. No flak. Four ME-109’s, unaggressive, closed to 700 yards without a pass. Weather: CAVU. A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” P Grady, John R., 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt CP Burks, Richard W., Capt Farwell, Harold S., Capt N None Duncan, George F., 1Lt B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., Cpl Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt, 446th BS, F None None A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not A/C No. 43-27791 Out” P Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt CP Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt N None None B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt McKinley, Robert H., , 1Lt E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Parham, James E., T/Sgt R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt, 446th BS Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt F None None

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-27508 P Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O Berman, Samuel (NMI), Sgt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt, 446th BS Brusa, Robert P., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-27726 P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt CP Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4076 P Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 1Lt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Randall, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt G White, E. T., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27668 P Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt N None None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 539/mission 539) Group Mission # 539: (448th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 9 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 540/mission 540) Group Mission # 540: Mission 344 (540): At 17:30 6 planes off to bomb Spezia and Carrara, 3 A/C; 3 on Borgo and San Marcello, Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated. The formation dropped 101 nickel bombs on the respective targets. No flak encountered and no E/A. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine A/C No. 43-27528 Sadie” P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt CP Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O N None None B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt F Silver, George A., III, Maj, medical None (observer) A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Bard, John A., 1Lt CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt N None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt G Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:50AM. Damp Saturday morning. Pancakes, syrup, coffee, oatmeal. Standby on "Nickel Mission". This is a mission on which pamphlets are enclosed in a bomb, timed to explode 10 seconds after release. Information regarding war news and to continue fighting is useless. Secured "Citizen Tom Paine" by Howard Fast. Very clear and warm. Open buns chicken a la king, peas, potatoes, bread and marmalade, canned pears, coffee. Tracy reported prisoner of war. Take off 5:30. Flew at 15,000 feet. Very cold. Flew tail position as gunner became sick. Dropped "nickels" at 6:35PM. No fighters, no flak. Landed 7:50PM. Vienna sausage, navy beans, sauerkraut, canned tomatoes, bread, orange marmalade, coffee. Jim Blackard returned from Rome. 1st mission returned OK. Retired 10PM. Nelson staggered in at midnight. Quite sick. Schaffner and I put him to bed. Awake until 3AM.” Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Tracy, William G., Sgt, engineer-gunner

Sunday, 10 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers continue the campaign against railroad bridges in the Po Valley and execute 4 attacks against supply and ammunition dumps; fighter-bombers hit dumps and communications as the ground assault on the Gothic Line commences during the early morning.

In France, XII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers blast communications in the Belfort and Dijon areas, cutting railroads and hitting several trains.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Only one 36 A/C mission today and it recorded a 99.4% accuracy against the Nazzaro Command Post and Ammunition Supply area, SE of La Spezia.

------HEADQUARTERS 57th BOMBARDMENT WING

APO 650, US Army, 10 September 1944.

SUBJECT: Congratulatory Message TO : Commanding Officer, 321st Bombardment Group.

The following message from Headquarters, Twelfth Air Force is paraphrased for you information.

“THE FIFTH ARMY TODAY CELEBRATES SALERNO DAY AND THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF OUR LANDING ON THE MAINLAND OF ITALY. I WANT TO TAKE THIS OCCASION TO EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE TO YOU AND THE MEMBERS OF YOUR STAFF FOR THE SUPERIOR SUPPORT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO THE FIFTH ARMY THROUGHOUT THIS LONG AND ARDUOUS CAMPAIGN. WE CAN ALL BE GRATEFUL TO HAVE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY A PART IN BRINGING ABOUT THE DEFEATS THAT THE GERMAN ARMIES ARE NOW SUFFERING. PUBLISH TO ALL YOUR UNITS WITH MY PERSONAL “WELL DONE!” LT. GENERAL CLARK

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

General Cannon has replied to General Clark as follows:

“CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR CELEBRATION FIRST SALERNO DAY ANNIVERSARY. YOUR GRACIOUS MESSAGE IS APPRECIATED. FROM MYSELF PERSONALLY AND FROM ALL ECHELONS OF THE TWELFTH AIR FORCE PLEASE ACCEPT THIS EXPRESSION OF OUR GRATIFICATION IN HAVING BEEN ABLE TO TAKE PART IN THE VICTORIOUS ASSAULT UPON THE GERMAN STRONGHOLD IN ITALY BY GIVING AIR SUPPORT TO YOUR GALLANT COMMAND.” MAJOR GENERAL CANNON

For the Commanding General:

J. H. PATTERSON, Major, Air Corps, Adjutant.

A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:

S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer. ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 541/mission 541) Group Mission # 541: Nazzaro Command Post and Ammunition Supply area, SE of La Spezia. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The usual training schedule was in effect again today. It is paying off as the squadron now leads the group in bombing accuracy. A few letters and packages arrived today making life a bit easier for Mail orderly Sgt. Sergeant. Sergeant, William A. "Buck", Sgt, mail clerk

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 541/mission 541) Group Mission # 541: The squadron dispatched 12 aircraft to help bomb the Nazzaro command post and ammunition storage dump, Italy. The 445th bombardiers hit the bulls- eye with a perfect 100 per cent bombing accuracy for the mission.

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy “Modern Design”) Pants” P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House Mouse” P Kendall, Wayne, E., 2Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N None None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” P Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O N None None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Weld, Willis R., 1Lt McKay, Donald I., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O Frank, Robert R., 1Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt, E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Hunsberger, William R., Cpl R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt G Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N None None B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl Walther, Henry W., Sgt R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None None B DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” (later “Winnie Mae”) (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in) P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Lieutenant Levine is transferred to 447th S-2; he was a valued member of our Intelligence section for a number of months. Levine, William E., Lt, intelligence

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 541/mission 541) Group Mission # 541: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown AT-6C Mission: unspecified. Flying Time: 0:45 (124th mission in MTO)

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown Douglas C-47 Skytrain Mission: unspecified. Flying Time: 5:45 (125th mission in MTO) 446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown Douglas C-47 Skytrain Mission: unspecified. Flying Time: 1:00 (126th mission in MTO) 446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J Mission: unspecified. Flying Time: 2:00 (127th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Up early, all packed and ready to go. Said goodbye to all the boys. B25C # 549, Pilot – Ligon. T.O. for Marcianise @ 09:30; land 1130. Landed wrong field. T.O. from Marcianise @ 1150, land Pomigliano @ 1210. Had chow @ transit mess. Had to wait around for truck to pick up. Arr. @ (Repl. Dept) Staging Area #7 @ 1545. Signed in, assigned tent with Sacker, Taylor, Robertson & Barbour. Issued blankets and mess gear. Got PX rations. Flying time: 02:20 hrs.” Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt, pilot Robertson, Charles W., Capt, bombardier Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Captain R.W. Manly Squadron Intelligence Officer, was relieved of his duties and transferred to Group Headquarters, where he has taken over Major Haven’s duties as Group Intelligence Officer. 1st Lt. William E. Levine has been assigned to our squadron and has taken over Captain Robert W. Manly’s duties as Squadron Intelligence Officer. Lt. Levine was formerly Intelligence Officer of the 446th Squadron. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Morning report: Officers 95; Enlisted Men 334. Haven, Malcolm D., Maj, S-2 Officer, intelligence Levine, William E., 1Lt, intelligence Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Stocking, Eugene, E., Capt, pilot

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 541/mission 541) Group Mission # 541: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on the Nazzaro Command Post and Ammo Dump (P-840049) with Captain Stocking leading our squadron. Excellent concentration in target area causing large explosion in the north part of area and direct hits on the large building. Mission efficiency 100 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” P Walker, Marion E., 1Lt Stocking, Eugene E., Capt CP Woods, Richard J., 1Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj, HQ 321st BG N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., T/Sgt G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 1Lt N None None B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt F None Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” P Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Gillis, John R., 1Lt CP Condit, Albert K., 2Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None None B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., S/Sgt R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Free, Paul L., T/Sgt G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O N None Rye, William T., Jr., 1Lt B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt R Hague, Curtis A., Cpl LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt G Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt F None Burns, Harry B., Sgt

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” P Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt CP Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, Gould, Joe W., 2Lt S/Sgt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, T/Sgt G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27701 P Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Burns, Robert J., 1Lt CP Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt N None None B Toole, John F., T/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt E Curry, Hughie L., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt G Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) (Wing spare - returned - did not fill in) P Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt N None B Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt G Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt F None

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 44) “Target: Nazzaro CP & Ammo Dump (La Spezia) Flak: HMA Combat: 2:00 Bombs: 100 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 079 (43-4079 “Little David”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Heitman, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-TSG Mathews, G-Sgt Mango F-SSG Pelak Good coverage of area w/frags and 100 pounders. Large explosion and fire and several small fires seen.” Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Mathews, William E., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt, photographer Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “54th mission, flew with Lt. Washburn as bombardier, bombed Nazzaro C.P. & Ammo S., very nice bombing, heavy flak.” Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 541/mission 541) Group Mission # 541: Mission 345 (541): At 12:42 36 planes off to bomb Nazzaro C.P. & Ammo Storage, Italy. Twelve planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated leading the second flight. The formation dropped 480 x 100# Inst. Nose .025 tail and 1440 x 20# frags from 10,400/12,500 feet. Good coverage of target area of both 100 pounders and frag bombs. Large column of smoke and large fire observed. Heavy moderate inaccurate flak. Two planes holed. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27726 P Farwell, Harold S., Capt Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt CP Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Grady, John R., 1Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Conover, Donald C., 2Lt E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt G Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” P Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt F Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not Out” P Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt CP Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt E Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt Rockwell, Steward R., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt CP Riley, Robert L., 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt N Hickey, William O., 1Lt None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt CP Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt N None None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27481 P Warren, William F., 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt CP Cook, Don W., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt N None None B Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., Sgt Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt R Randall, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F White, E. T., S/Sgt Dembrowski, Henry J., S/Sgt

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:25AM to check mission. Not on today. 100 lb demos up in Adriatic sector. Soft boiled eggs, wheatena, bread, marmalade, coffee. Clear morning. There are five cots in our tent. Wooden floor and table in center. "frag" boxes act as locker trunks. Wash from a helmet. Drinking water in canteens. 60 watt bulb from energizer. Most of the time it remains very dim. Radio inoperative due to lack of power. Nelson is really under the weather this morning. Just scheduled for today's mission. Flying 791 (43-27791) Lt Lonsdorf pilot. Target is ammunition dump and command post about 25 miles north of La Spezia. Take off 12:32PM. 13:55PM encountering heavy moderate inaccurate flak. Over target 1400. Hit target squarely. Could see explosion. Threw window out "Escape hatch" to allude radar detection. (stencil) Had quite a mess with "window". Using K20

Sunday, 10 September 1944 (continued)

#11. Took some good photos. One of formation. Interrogated. (Landed 1505) Stuffed peppers, boiled onions, beans, bread, marmalade, coffee. 1st shift guard 6 to 10. Quite chilly. Very starry night. On tomorrow's mission. Met the new CO, Captain McLain at the club. Bought him a drink. Retired 10:00PM.” Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt, pilot McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner

Monday, 11 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, B-26s hit defensive positions as US Fifth Army elements push through N Italian mountain passes toward Gothic Line defenses; B-25s bomb railroad bridges at Vigevano and Canneto sull'Oglio and supply areas; fighter-bombers and fighters attack roads, railroads, guns, supply areas, bridges, and other targets at Vernio, and in the Alessandria, Turin, Piacenza, and Milan areas; and the 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons, 57th Fighter Group, move from Alto, Corsica to Ombrone, Italy with P-47s. The 522nd Fighter Squadron, 27th Fighter Group, moves from Salon to Loyettes, France with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Back to the barracks, gun and supply areas in the Gothic Line sector we racked up 94 and 77.9% missions. Against the communications target and after 3 runs due to weather, a 100% “swab-job” against the Canneto Rail bridge was added to our growing list of perfect missions this month.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 542/mission 542) Group Mission # 542: Gun Positions, Q-897977 (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 543/mission 543) Group Mission # 543: Canneto Rail Bridge, Italy (Alt) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 544/mission 544) Group Mission # 544: Barracks and Supply area, Q-907984 (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron participated in two missions. A large number of packages and plenty of mail arrived today. The men are starting to gripe about the food situation. The food contains poor quality and is entirely inadequate, they complain. The Mitchell-Aires serenaded the enlisted men tonight and after the musical session, doughnuts were served.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 542/mission 542) Group Mission # 542: In the first one, 6 ships joined the group to bomb gun positions near Borgo close to the front lines in Italy. This squadron achieved 87.5 bombing accuracy.

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 1Lt CP Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N Napple, Francis L., 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., T/Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt N None None B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Frank, Robert R., 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 1Lt N None None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt E Hunsberger, William R., Cpl Butler, Russell J., Sgt R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 543/mission 543) Group Mission # 543: In the second mission, the squadron sent out 9 aircraft to help bomb the Canneto railroad bridge, Italy. It resulted in another 100 per cent mission for this squadron.

A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt CP Smith, Richard H. “Red”, Col, 321st BG Santone, Michael A., 2Lt Commander N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House Mouse” P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” P Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt CP Place, Winston R., 1Lt Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N None None B Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, William F., S/Sgt R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Kintly, James J., T/Sgt G Bricen, Thomas T., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Richardson, John S., 1Lt CP McKay, Donald I., 1Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously “Modern Design”) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt CP Young, William J. “Dusty” F/O Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O N None None B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt E Woody, Louie M., Sgt Taylor, Marion R., Cpl R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt G Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 544/mission 544) Group Mission # 544: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/11/44: “Last evening being Sunday, Chaplain Irons came down from his base near Bastia according to our tentative plans from the week before to hold services with as many boys as could be gotten together. With him were Frances Hughes and two others, one of whom was a non-member. At about seven we convened at the 321 theater area on the hillside and although a hoard of mosquitoes siphoned off considerable of the blood of Israel, we had a very satisfying meeting. Chaplain Iron’s remarks were very pertinent to the problems of a soldier trying to live and teach our religion. Cpl. Verl Orme was set apart as Group Leader in the Corsican area. Each of the boys expressed themselves and as usual with a Mormon gathering the bull session that followed was projected far into the night. Hershel Hafen was also there and we had a good visit.” Hafen, Herschel W. Hughes, Francis, (from Mesquite, NV) Orme, Verle W., Cpl, 487th BS, 340th BG

446th BS War Diary: More lucky personnel head for home: Lts. McRae, Taylor, Sacker, Captain Robertson and Technical Sergeant Mitchell. F/O Derringer is made a Second Lieut. Derringer, Albert J., 2Lt, bombardier McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Robertson, Charles W., Capt, bombardier Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 542/mission 542) Group Mission # 542: Squadron Mission 384 TARGET: Gun Positions, Q-897977 DATE: 11 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb. Frags. 446th Planes: 6 Lt. Wagner led the formation. All bombs in target area. Several reports of large fires and smoke. Twelve burst of flak. Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt G Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated Admiral” (later Lady Jane) lady - no name/lettering) P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt N None None B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., S/Sgt G Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” P Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt N None None B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt E DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 543/mission 543) Group Mission # 543: Squadron Mission 385 TARGET: Canneto Rail Bridge, Italy (Alt) DATE: 11 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Major Cooper led the formation. Primary target obscured, alternate bombed. Concentrations on S and N approaches and N half of bridge. Several direct hits Owing to scattered clouds, first flight dropped on second run and second flight on third run. Flak was heavy, moderate and inaccurate.

A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” Ass II” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt CP Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt 321st BG N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 1Lt E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt CP Grove, Russell V., 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt N None None B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” Pad” P Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt E Murray, Thomas A., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 Darlene) “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt E Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt G Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” (Wing dropped from nose art) spare - did not fill in) P White, Frank B., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N None None B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt R Holder, Paul F., T/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., T/Sgt G South, William R., S/Sgt Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 544/mission 544) Group Mission # 544: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Nearly froze last nite, cold and how. Shaved, got a haircut. Hanging around tent waiting orders. No news all day about shipment. Drew 3 more blankets. To show ‘Minstrel Man’ – Lousy. Lot of fun swapping the latest rumors. Hawkes address: 926 39th St. Ogden, Utah.” Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men were relieved of assignment and transferred to the Replacement Center No.7, on rotation, for transshipment to the United States: Capt. Herbert J. Banks; Capt. George B. Nelson; Capt. Glannin A. Cloward; 1st Lt. Forrest T. Nettles; 1st Lt. Nathan Mims; 1st Lt Robert H. Swanson; T/Sgt. Walter J. Bilski; T/Sgt. Sidney Orloff; T/Sgt. Frank J. Reynolds; S/Sgt. Cleo W. Simms; S/Sgt. Joe T. Blalock; S/Sgt. John Corkill; S/Sgt. Theodore M. Fisher; S/Sgt. Raphael E. Morrissey; S/Sgt. Charles M. Richards; S/Sgt. Ralph Sinclair; S/Sgt. Walter F.K. Tollefson. The following enlisted men are assigned to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing: Sgt. Leonard P. Burlowski; Sgt. John F. Lenahan; Cpl. Floyd B. Bennett; Cpl. Ferrer Piazza; Cpl Lewis O. Stone; Cpl. Robert L. Miller; Cpl. Warren J. DeRuyter; Cpl. Eugene J. Siedlecki; Cpl. John T. Williams; Pvt. Curtis A. Freeman; Pvt. James E. Sommers; Pvt. John M. McMinn; Pvt. Louis S. Ciranny. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Banks, Herbert J., Capt, pilot Bennett, Floyd B., Cpl, armament Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt, gunner Burlowski, Leonard P., Sgt, armament Ciranny, Louis S., Pvt, engineering Cloward, Glannin A., Capt, pilot Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner DeRuyter, Warren J., Cpl, engineering Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt, gunner Freeman, Curtis A., Pvt., engineering Lenahan, John F., Sgt, engineering McMinn, John M., Pvt, engineering Miller, Robert L., Cpl, ordnance Mims, Nathan (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Nelson, George B., Capt, bombardier Nettles, Forrest Truett, 1Lt, pilot Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Piazza, Ferrer (NMI), Cpl, mess Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt, gunner Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt, turret-gunner Siedlecki, Eugene J., Cpl, transportation Simms, Cleo W., S/Sgt, gunner Sommers, James E., Pvt, engineering Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Stone, Lewis O., Cpl, engineering Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt, pilot Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt, gunner Williams, John T., Cpl, transportation

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 542/mission 542) Group Mission # 542: (447th BS did not participate)

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 543/mission 543) Group Mission # 543: Three of our ships participated in a raid on the Canneto Rail Bridge flying with the 446th Squadron, with Lt. Speer leading our squadron. Target area well covered. Weather at the primary target, Palazzolo RR Bridge, prevented bombing the target, necessitation the bombing of the alternate Mission efficiency 100% Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Speer, Marvin L., 1Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None None B Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Altman, Irving L., 1Lt S/Sgt E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt R Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” (Wing spare - returned - did not fill in) P Burns, Robert J., 1Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None None B LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt E Netzel, Carl F., Cpl Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt R See, Russell K., S/Sgt Free, Paul L., T/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt F None None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 544/mission 544) Group Mission # 544: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on barracks and supply area Q-907984, with Capt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Target area well covered. Mission efficiency 99.9; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt CP Hall, Earl W., 1Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 1Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” P Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None None B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27701 P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt CP Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt N None None B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt G Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Runyon) Aloysius” P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Toole, John F., T/Sgt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt F Balling, Robert J., Sgt None A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in) P Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Heitman, William F., 1Lt N None None B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt E Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt Magne, Curtis A., Cpl G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “55th mission, flew with Wigs, dropped frags on same place as 53rd mission, some flak.” Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 542/mission 542) Group Mission # 542: Mission 346 (542): At 17:57 18 planes off to bomb Barracks and Supply area (Target #1- area “B”), Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated as lead position of the flight. The formation dropped 72 x 500 # Inst. & .025, 1079 x 20# frags and 1x20# frag. jet over water. Target area well covered both by GP8s and Frags. Scant to moderate flak heavy bursting north of target during breakaway. No planes holed. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-27791 P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt CP Burks, Richard W., Capt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N Hickey, William O., 1Lt None B Harris, Stephen C., 1Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt Rockwell, Steward R., Sgt G Holloway, Gerald (NMI), Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 42-4076 P Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt R Campbell, James R., T/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27523 P Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt CP Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt N None None B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Conover, Donald C., 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., Cpl Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F None Dembrowski, Henry J., S/Sgt

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt N None None B Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt G Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt F Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt None A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Grady, John R., 1Lt CP Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N None B Kiska, George P., 2Lt E Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., Cpl R Hulse, Donald W., Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 543/mission 543) Group Mission # 543: Mission 347 (543): 18 planes off to bomb Gun Position area in northern Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated as the last element of the flight. The formation dropped 72 x 500- Inst. & .o25 and 960 x 20 lb. Frags. 120 x 20 lb frags were salvoed due to a malfunction. All bombs in target area. Several reports of large fires and heavy smoke. 12 bursts of flak on breakaway. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (Anti- A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Riley, Robert L., 1Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt CP Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt N None None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 11 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27726 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Bard, John A., 1Lt CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt N None B Young, Robert B., 1Lt E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Berman, Samuel (NMI), Sgt G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F White, E. T., S/Sgt

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 544/mission 544) Group Mission # 544: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle awoke me at 5:30AM. Standby for 6:30AM. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, bread, marmalade, coffee. Briefing at 6:50AM. Target is supplies. North of Borgo San Lorenzo. Take off 7:35AM. Carry light 500lb GP bombs. At 9:00AM encountered flak. (moderate) Fighters were in vicinity but did not make a pass. Did not drop bombs. Over target at 9:20 AM on second run over target. Hits looked good (75%). 6th mission. Landed 10:30AM. Red Cross served doughnuts. Interrogated. Photos should be OK. James R Blackard, 4081 Boulevard, Indianapolis, Indiana (tent mate) also flew as cameraman. Flew on 791 (43-27791). Stew, fresh cucumbers, onion, beets, canned tomatoes, pineapple, bread and marmalade, water. Over at photo lab, Sgt Sheldon said one of my photos would be used for public relations (ammunition dump). Collecting additional per diem (Marrakech). Rode with Smitty on motorcycle to showers. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, vegetable salad, chocolate milk, chocolate ice cream, bread and marmalade. Attended "Presenting Lily Mars." Very clear, starry sky. Retired 11:00PM.” Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Sheldon, Victor W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS

Tuesday, 12 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Brigadier General Benjamin W Chidlaw assumes command of the XII Fighter Command.

In Italy, B-26s blast defended positions in the C battle sector of the Gothic Line; B-25s pound Po River railroad bridges and attack guns and strongpoints in the battle zone as the enemy falls back to prepared Gothic Line defenses and the rapid Allied advance halts; fighter-bombers strike at guns, troop concentrations, strongpoints, and flak positions in the Genoa and Milan areas; and HQ 57th Fighter Group and the 64th Fighter Squadron move from Alto, Corsica to Ombrone Airfield with P-47s.

In France, French-based fighter-bombers cut tracks in the Belfort, Basel, and Freiburg areas; and the 417th Night Fighter Squadron, 63rd Fighter Wing, arrives at La Valon from Borgo, Corsica with Beaufighters; and the 523rd and 524th Fighter Squadrons, 27th Fighter Group, move from Salon to Loyettes with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Three separate formations of 12 A/C each kept up the relentless pounding of the German first lines of defense and photos showed excellent coverage of supplies, gun positions, and troop concentrations.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 545/mission 545) Group Mission # 545: ------321st BG MISSION No: 545 DATE: 12 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-12 446-0 447-0 448-0 TARGET: Troop Concentration L-904074 TIME OFF: 0830 T.O.T.: 1001 TIME DOWN: 1055 AXIS OF ATTACK: 345° HEIGHT: 11,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 44 x 500 - Inst & .025. 720 x 20 lb frags. 4 x 500 ret’d (Malfunction) PLANES HOLED: None ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to Q-9469, Q-9786 (IP), target, right turn, L-9604, Q-9469 and home. WEATHER: Enroute: CAVU. Target: Clouds - 3/10 stratocumulus, Visibility--unlimited. FLAK: Heavy, scant, inaccurate from west of target area. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Good concentrations of 500 pounders between bldg and road to the west in target area. Building was destroyed. Smoke and clouds prevented accurate results of frags. Target area believed well covered. OBSERVATIONS: None.

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

FLIGHT COMMANDER: Col. Cassidy FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Russell NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN. ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Gp. S-2 Officer. ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 546/mission 546) Group Mission # 546: ------321st BG MISSION No: 546 DATE: 12 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-12 447-0 448-0 TARGET: Gun Positions at L-896073 (Area #8- -NW of Firenzuola, Italy. TIME OFF: 0825 T.O.T.: 1000 TIME DOWN: 1105 AXIS OF ATTACK: 345° HEIGHT: 11,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 48x500# Inst & .025. 708x20# Frags. (1 a/c carried only 108 frags. 5 a/c carried 120) PLANES HOLED: Two. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to Q-9469, Q-9786 (IP), target, right turn, L-9604, Q-9469 & home. WEATHER: Enroute: CAVU. Target: Clouds--3/10 stratocumulus, Visibility--unlimited. Tops--5000’. FLAK: Heavy, moderate, inaccurate to accurate starting at bombs away and tracking along breakaway. Light, moderate, inaccurate, several miles north of Vecchio (IP). ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Good concentrations both sides of buildings in center of area, and some GP’s in southeast corner. Frags caused immediate explosion and column of black smoke. (Target identification hampered by stratocumulus). Report of explosion and fire in area #10, hit by 445th Squadron. OBSERVATIONS: Possible dinghy off Pianosa Island with one B-25 circling. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Hawkes. NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN. RAGNAR G. LIND, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t.. S-2 Officer. ------

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 547/mission 547) Group Mission # 547: ------321st BG MISSION No: 547 DATE: 12 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-12 448-0 TARGET: Gun Area at L-894062 TIME OFF: 0830 T.O.T.: 1003 TIME DOWN: 1115 AXIS OF ATTACK: 345° HEIGHT: 12,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 40x500# Inst & .025 8x500# salvoed over water. B/E. 624x20# frags. 96x20# frags. Salvoed--malfct. PLANES HOLED: 1 A/C. 1 man wounded. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to Q-9469, Q-9786 (IP), target, right turn, L-9604, Q-9469, base. WEATHER: Enroute: CAVU. Target: Clouds--3/10 stratocumulus, Visibility--unlimited. FLAK: Heavy, scant, to moderate, inaccurate from known positions west of target becoming more accurate while tracking at breakaway. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Good coverage of east half of target area with 500# bombs, and of west half with frags. All bombs, but one or two clusters of frags which were across river to north, appeared to be in target area. One explosion and one small fire observed. OBSERVATIONS: None FLIGHT LEADERS: Capt. Alger. NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN. ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Gp. S-2 Officer. ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron personnel signed the payroll today and had but 18 days to “sweat out” the good old pay day. The cast of “Off the Cob” put on another show lasting exactly one hour and a half at a nearby camp.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 545/mission 545) Group Mission # 545: The squadron bombed troop concentrations and gun positions at Firenzuola, Italy with 100 per cent bombing accuracy again.

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 4-3631 “FAN - IT” (flight A/C No. 4-27733 “Porky’s Baby” leader) P Russell, Lawrence L. “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt CP Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt 321st BG (flight commander) N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Cormier, Emory O., 1Lt N None None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Taylor, Marion R., Cpl Walter, Henry W., S/Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt CP Santone, Michael A., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 1Lt N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Smith, William F., S/Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, S/Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” P Weld, Willis R., 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Cox, Harold L., 2Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue (later “Winnie Mae”) Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt R Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” Mouse” P McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt Lewis, Max E., 2Lt N None None B Doherty, Charles S., Sgt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt R Gray, John H., S/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) (Wing spare - did not fill in) P McKay, Donald I., 1Lt CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None B Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Hunsberger, William R., Cpl R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 546/mission 546) Group Mission # 546: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 547/mission 547) Group Mission # 547: (445th BS did not participate)

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: More men get those “going home” orders: Captain Kerr, Lt. Church, Hollingsworth, Lewis, Mottley, and EM DeBari, Howe, Bellamy, Boatright, Britton, Casper and Zeman. Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt, gunner Church, Edwin A., 1Lt, pilot DeBari, Dominick R., T/Sgt, gunner Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Howe, Frank M., Jr, Sgt, gunner Kerr, John C., Capt, pilot Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Mottley, John F., 1Lt, bombardier Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 545/mission 545) Group Mission # 545: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 546/mission 546) Group Mission # 546: Squadron Mission 386 TARGET: Gun Positions at Firenzuola, Italy DATE: 12 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. And Frags. 446th Planes: 12 Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Good concentration. Frags caused immediate explosion and column of black smoke. Flak was heavy, moderate and inaccurate. Lt. Ivankovig was a spare and returned early.

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later (flight leader) Darlene) P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Pivo, Robert (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., S/Sgt G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., F/O N None None B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Dickson, Gale Monroe, 1Lt Grove, Russell V., 1Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt R Brugioni, Dino A., T/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” Pad” P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt N None None B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt R Cohen, Irwin (NMI), T/Sgt Holder, Paul F., T/Sgt G Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” P Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt N None None B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O N None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 547/mission 547) Group Mission # 547: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Up early, still no news about shipment. Tried to get PX ration ticket. Told we were to move to the 541st area tomorrow @ 0900 a.m. We all left for Naples, had dinner in the transient mess. Hung around PX and Red Cross all afternoon, met Burandt and Briles there. Chiseled more PX rations. Went out to the Orange Club with Sacker and Taylor, fine dance band there.” Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt, pilot Burandt, Charles Lawson "Chuck", 1Lt, pilot Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. Robert T. Cunningham; 1st Lt. Ernest C. Rice; S/Sgt. Harold W. Scarberry; Sgt. Jack Bowman; Sgt. Ernest E. Byrn. The following officers and enlisted men were assigned to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing: 2nd Lt. Robert K. Murchland; 2nd Lt Franklin L. Darrell; 2nd Lt. Edmund E. Bardy Jr.; F/O Donald W. Gies; Sgt. James E. Citarelli; Sgt. Michael M. Maslyar; Sgt. James H. Williams. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. Robert W. Mulholland; 1st Lt. Edwin E. Wallace; T/Sgt. Joseph D. Alpino; S/Sgt. John Jaskowski. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Orval L. Schnoebelen; 1st Lt Harold Spilko; T/Sgt. Robert R. Vineski; S/Sgt. Russell K. See; Sgt. Millard C. Freeman; Sgt. Theodore Fiocca. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt Leeland A. Mesna; 1st Lt. Gordon A. Ramey; T/Sgt. Leo G. Hubert; T/Sgt. William H. Pierce; T/Sgt. Myles O. Williamson; Sgt. Paul B. Connolly. Today’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing. Alpino, Joseph P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt, aerial gunner Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt, engineer-gunner Citarelli, James E., Sgt, gunner Connolly, Paul B., Sgt, aerial gunner Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot Darrell, Franklin L., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt, radio-gunner Freeman, Millard C., Sgt, engineer-gunner Gies, Donald W., F/O, pilot Hubert Leo G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt, gunner Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt, bombardier Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt, gunner Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt, pilot Pierce, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Ramey, Gordon, A., 1Lt, pilot Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt, pilot Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt, gunner Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot See, Russell K., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt, pilot Williams, James H., Sgt, gunner Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 545/mission 545) Group Mission # 545: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 546/mission 546) Group Mission # 546: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 547/mission 547) Group Mission # 547: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on Gun area L-894062 with Captain Alger leading the squadron. Good concentration on western half of target area with G.P.’s and eastern half with frags. Nearly all bombs hit in target area. Mission efficiency 83.3 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %. Cpl. Curtis A. Hague was wounded in action.

A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” (flight leader) P Woods, Richard J., 1Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), Capt CP Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Brice, David W., 2Lt N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt B Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt R Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 1Lt N None None B Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt F None Burns, Harry B., Sgt

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt N None None B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 2Lt Toole, John F., T/Sgt E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Curry, Hughie L., Sgt S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt G Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt Williams, James H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Blonde” Aloysius” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 1Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt R Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B O’Neil, James R., Sgt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt F None Matthews, William E., T/Sgt A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” P Walker, Marion E., 1Lt Jensen, Herbert P. J., 1Lt CP Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None None B Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt E Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Hague, Curtis A., Cpl G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Netzel, Carl F., Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 12 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in) P Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt N None B Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt R McFarland, John F., T/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl F None

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 545/mission 545) Group Mission # 545: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 546/mission 546) Group Mission # 546: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 547/mission 547) Group Mission # 547: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:00AM. Stand down on today's mission. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, bread, marmalade, coffee. Clear and warm. Bonifacio pictures came out badly. Replacements came in today. Pork and beans, spinach, sliced cheese, cake, iced tea. Truck ride down to a small French estate about one mile past "Travo". Bought one and one half kilo of tomatoes at twenty francs a kilo. Capt McLain asked Nelson to open bar at club at 3:00PM. Meat paddies, beans, canned tomatoes, chocolate pudding, bread, marmalade, eggnog. Received a letter from Shyrle (quite a bracer). Attended "GI Pie" show presented by a British troupe. Brawl over at club. Retired at 11:30PM.” McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Shyrle, Irving Schaffer’s future wife

Wednesday, 13 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, B-25s destroy a bridge at Peschiera del Garda, cutting the Milan-Verona line; B-25s and B-26s bomb guns and defensive positions N of Florence; fighter-bombers attack railroads, rolling stock, and bridges in N Italy, although a heavy overcast hampers operations in the NW.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Four formations of 12 A/C each pounded the Gothic Line --- this time in the Mt. Oggioli area. Again good concentration with no losses.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 548/mission 548) Group Mission # 548: Target #1, Mt. Oggioli, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 549/mission 549) Group Mission # 549: Target #2-Mt. Oggioli, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 550/mission 550) Group Mission # 550: Gun Positions at Firenzuola, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 551/mission 551) Group Mission # 551: Target #5-Mt. Oggioli, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The day was generally cloudy and cool. There seems to be a minor epidemic of colds running through the squadron. Squadron Doctor Captain Smith lays the outbreak of colds to lack of resistance by men due to inadequate vitamin diet. A small amount of mail arrived today. Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 548/mission 548) Group Mission # 548: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 549/mission 549) Group Mission # 549: (445th BS did not participate)

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 550/mission 550) Group Mission # 550: The squadron sent out 12 ships in a formation from the group which attacked gun emplacements 4 miles northwest of Firenzuola, Italy. This squadron achieved a 95.8 per cent bombing accuracy to help maintain its high average for the month.

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously “Modern Design”) P Russell, Lawrence L. “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N Napple, Francis L., 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt CP Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., S/Sgt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt R Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt CP Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt N None None B Tarr, Charles F., Jr., Sgt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt E Kofmehl, James J., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt R Rockett, James J., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Walburn, John A., Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt N Yepez, Oscar W., 1Lt None B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Smith, William F., S/Sgt Walter, Henry W., S/Sgt R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue (later “Winnie Mae”) Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?” P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 1Lt CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Taylor, Marion R., Cpl R Scott, Aurelias, M., T/Sgt Plott, John M., T/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” P Frank, Robert R., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 2Lt CP Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N None None B DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., Cpl Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House Mouse” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt CP Lewis, Max E., 2Lt N None B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Woody, Louie M., Sgt R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 551/mission 551) Group Mission # 551:

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Richardson, John S., 1Lt CP Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27509 P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: Cairo vacationers include Lt. Fontaine, Gittings, Lippy and Derringer and EMs Mills, Bruner, Cohen, McKearnin, Petrella and Wiacek. Two missions are flown and Dusty Rhodes is made a Master Sergeant. Bruner, Edward (NMI), Sgt, gunner Cohen, George (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Derringer, Albert J., 2Lt, bombardier Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt, pilot Lippy, Harvey W., 1Lt, bombardier McKearnin, William J., Sgt, gunner Mills, Robert E., Sgt, engineering Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt, gunner Rhodes, Noah F. "Dusty", M/Sgt, engineering Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 548/mission 548) Group Mission # 548: Squadron Mission 387 TARGET: #1, Mt. Oggioli, Italy DATE: 13 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. and Frags. 446th Planes: 12 Lt. Vivas led the formation. Clouds obscured accurate results of first flight. Bombs believed to have hit among buildings. Second flight was uncertain about target. No flak. Lt. White returned early because of loose cowling.

A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) lady - no name/lettering) (Turned back - loose cowling) P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt White, Frank B., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Ingram, William T., 2Lt N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Reeves, Charles F., M/Sgt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N None None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, dropped from nose art) previously “Miss Dallas”) P Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt CP Pivo, Robert (NMI), 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt N None None B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt E DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt G Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt R Holder, Paul F., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., Sgt G Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” Pad” P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N None None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” P Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Everhart, Herman E., F/O N None None B Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., T/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling Ass II” P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt N None B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 549/mission 549) Group Mission # 549: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 550/mission 550) Group Mission # 550: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 551/mission 551) Group Mission # 551: Squadron Mission 388 TARGET: # 5 Mt. Oggioli, Italy DATE: 13 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Capt Dickerson led the formation. Good concentration in immediate target area. Second box of six with Frags. Did not bomb because of weather at target. No flak. Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt, pilot, navigator, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N None None B Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt Gambino, Samuel F., 2Lt E Kreider, John L., S/Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4021 P Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt N None B Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt E Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt G Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt F None

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Moved into the 541st Bn Area. Got processed (fill out papers etc.) After chow went to Base Censor had 201 file and personal papers censored. Got more PX rations. Showered. Went to USO show, also saw ‘Step Lively’ with Frank Sinatra – good.”

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men returned from Cairo, Egypt: 1st Lt A.L. Muzinich; 1st Lt. R.E. Murray; 1st Lt. W.C. Huffman; 1st Lt. H.N. Lindell; M/Sgt. Fred Pate; S/Sgt. G.W. Baldridge; S/Sgt. George Mercea; S/Sgt. E.C. Cowart; S/Sgt. R.W. Engels; Sgt. R.C. Dawson; Sgt. J. Veid. Today’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing. Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt, gunner Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dawson, Roy C., Sgt, engineer-gunner Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt, gunner Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot Pate, Fred (NMI), M/Sgt, engineering Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt, aerial gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 548/mission 548) Group Mission # 548: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 549/mission 549) Group Mission # 549: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 550/mission 550) Group Mission # 550: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 551/mission 551) Group Mission # 551: Three of our ships participated in a raid on Mt. Oggioli Target No. 5, with Lt. Manz leading the squadron. No bombs were dropped, couldn’t pick up target.

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” P Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt CP Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt B Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt G Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F None Burns, Harry B., Sgt A/C No. 43-27701 P Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt CP Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt N None B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt R Hubert, Leo G., S/Sgt G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt F None

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 548/mission 548) Group Mission # 548: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 549/mission 549) Group Mission # 549: Mission 348 (549): At 19:30 12 planes off to bomb target #2-Mt. Oggioli, Italy. Squadron 448 was the only participant in this attack dropping 56 x 500 – Inst. & .025 and 600 x 20 lb frags. Good concentration on center and north half of target area. Identification difficult. 3 planes holed from premature explosion of frag bomb beneath formation. Heavy, scant and accurate flak SE of target. Weather Enroute haze and visibility 12 miles.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” P Farwell, Harold S., Capt Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt CP Kruse, Milfred E., 1Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 1Lt E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt Parham, James E., T/Sgt G Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27668 P Warren, William F., 1Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt CP Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt R Randell, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt E Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt Brusa, Robert P., Sgt G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27523 P Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt N None None B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Baird, James (NMI), F/O Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., Cpl R Bass, Bernard G., Cpl Hulse, Donald W., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not Out” P Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt CP Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt N None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt G Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt F None

Wednesday, 13 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 550/mission 550) Group Mission # 550: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 551/mission 551) Group Mission # 551: Mission 349 (551): At 09:49 12 planes off to bomb target #5-Mt. Oggioli, Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last element of the flight. The formation dropped 48 x 500 lb – Inst. & .025 and 720 x 20 frags returned because weather interfered. Good concentration of 500 lb bombs in immediate target area. No flak encountered. Weather: Haze and high overcast at 18,000 feet, 3/10 stratocumulus visibility 12 miles.

A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27726 P Burks, Richard W., Capt Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N None None B Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt Berman, Samuel (NMI), Sgt E Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt G White, E. T., S/Sgt Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27720 P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt CP Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt N None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle at 6:30AM for 8:55AM briefing. On a "frag" mission. Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, ground sausage, tomato juice, bread, marmalade, coffee. Take off 9:40AM. Target is troops and supplies fifteen miles northwest of Borgo S Lorenzo. Fighters - did not make a pass. No flak. Over target 11:00AM. Made three runs. Hit target. Landed 12:40. 1st Lt Bard, pilot. Flew as radio-photographer. Good photos. Seventh mission. Canned corn beef, kidney beans, canned corn, peach pie, lemonade, bread, marmalade. Nelson went to Catania, Sicily. Gray, a radio gunner of 445th, cut my hair. Graduated from U of Kentucky. (Bachelor of Science) Read all evening. Received mail today. Clear and starry evening. On tomorrow's mission. Retired 10:00PM.” Bard, John A., 1Lt, pilot Gray, John H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner

Thursday, 14 September 1944

321st Bomb Group Headlines:

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers attack defensive positions in the E and C parts of the Gothic Line as the enemy fiercely resists, especially at Il Giogo Pass and on Monte Altuzzo; fighter-bombers continue strikes against communications and movement in the Po Valley. In France, bad weather limits fighters to a few sweeps in the S; and HQ 17th Bombardment Group (Medium) moves from Sardinia to Corsica.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: One mission this date --- but a 48 plane one. It was in direct support of the 8th Army trying to push their way through troops and defenses in the Rimini area. We covered the area with 100% concentrations in spite of the fact that the flak was terrific, holing 27 A/C, forcing one plane to crash land, and injuring 7 men. General Cannon, Commanding General of the 12th Air Force made a long inspection of the Group this date accompanied by General Knapp.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 552/mission 552) Group Mission # 552: Crumpet #2, Area A, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The cigars were really being passed out today as some of the squadron “wheels” put on the “railroad tracks”. Lts. Wagner, Hatcher, Russell, Yepez and Casaburi all were notified of their promotion to Captain. There was a meeting held for all officer and enlisted combat crew members this evening where insurance was discussed. Casaburi, Robert Roland, Capt, navigator Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", Capt, pilot Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot Yepez, Oscar W., Capt, bombardier/navigator

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 552/mission 552) Group Mission # 552: The squadron sent out 12 ships to join the group in bombing gun positions and defenses southwest of Rimini. Braving an intense and accurate flak barrage, the squadron bombardiers did it again with 100 per cent bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Cormier, Emory O., 1Lt CP Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O Martin, John W., 2Lt N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue (later “Winnie Mae”) Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 1Lt CP Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N None None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, Sgt E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., T/Sgt G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 1Lt CP Lewis, Max E., 2Lt Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt N None None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt E Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt Otterness, William B., Cpl G Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House Mouse” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, F/O N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Sgt R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl Hunsberger, William R., Cpl R Rockett, James J., T/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P McKay, Donald I, 1Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Cravey, Robert P., F/O Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Groose, William R., “Bud”, 1Lt CP Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. LeClair, squadron operations officer, is made a Captain. LeClair, Edward R., Capt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 552/mission 552) Group Mission # 552: Squadron Mission 389 TARGET: Crumpet #2, Area A, Italy DATE: 14 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: Frags and 500 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 12 Captain Wiginton led the formation. Target area well hit with Frags. Numerous fires started. Good concentration of 500 lb. also. Fires and explosions seen. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. 27 planes holed, 7 crew members wounded. One plane crash- landed at base, two of the crew bailed out over field rather than ride the ship in. Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt, pilot, 447th BS

A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 Pad” “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt White, Frank B., 1Lt CP Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Ingram, William T., 2Lt N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Reeves, Charles F., M/Sgt E Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt G Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N None None B Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Kreider, John L., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N None None B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Sgt R Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little dropped from nose art) Admiral” (later Lady Jane) P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt N None None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., S/Sgt G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued) A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N None None B Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt N None B Kiernan, Noble J., 2Lt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt F None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J Mission: Test Hop Flying Time: 0:45 (128th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Officers call @ 0800, check assignment of tents, etc. To Naples with Taylor. Having blouse altered at the Red Cross. Dinner at the transient mess. Walked around town. Had a most pleasant evening. Oh, Boy. Had a snapshot taken with Taylor.” Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Bruce Lowery returned to the squadron after a short leave to the United States. A pre-fabricated hut is being erected to accommodate S-1; S-2; S-3. Lowery, Bruce, 1Lt, armament

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 552/mission 552) Group Mission # 552: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on “Crumpet No.2 area “a” Troops and Defenses, with Capt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs in target area resulting in a 100 % Mission efficiency and 100 % bombing accuracy. Seven of our planes were holed by flak and Lt. Fisher, Lt. Gates, Capt. Alger, S/Sgt. Baldridge were slightly wounded. Lt. Walker flying plane #701 made a crash landing when the hydraulic system was hit by flak. Lt. Vieser and Sgt. Byrn bailed out over our base field.

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt CP Hall, Earl W., 1Lt Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd Jr., 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt E Dawson, Roy C., Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R Pierce, William H., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Williams, James H., Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 1Lt N None None B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt F None Burns, Harry B., Sgt A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Willis, Richard L., 1Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt N None None B Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 2Lt E Netzel, Carl F., Cpl Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt R Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27701 A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” P Walker, Marion E., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt B Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt Altman, Irving L., 1Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt G Payne, Leonard T., S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt F None Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” P Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt CP Gies, Donald W., F/O Alger, LeRoy (NMI), Capt N None None B Toole, John F., T/Sgt Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt R Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt McFarland, John F., T/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt F None Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in) P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Woods, Richard J., 1Lt CP Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt N None None B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt R Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt G Miller, Dale G., Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “56th mission, flew with Wigs, bombed troops with frags near Rimini, buku flak, 25 holes in ship, nice bombing.” Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 552/mission 552) Group Mission # 552: Mission 350 (552): At 08:21 48 planes off to bomb Crumpet #2-Area “A”-Troops and defenses, Italy. 12 planes (12) of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the lead squadron. The flight dropped 3587 x 20 lb. frags., 48 x 500 – Inst. - .025. Returned 600 x 20 due to obscured target. Target area well hit and numerous fires started. Heavy intense and accurate from known positions. Planes holed 27 and 7 men wounded and 1 plane crashed on base with the crew safe. Weather: Haze, clouds 8/10 altocumulus, visibility 15 miles.

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-27726 P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt CP Bard, John A., 1Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N Hickey, William O., 1Lt None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt F None LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” Sadie” P Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt G Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” P Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Burks, Richard W., Capt CP Smith, Milford A., 2Lt Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Young, Robert B., 1Lt E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, Sgt Brusa, Robert P., Sgt G Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt CP Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt N None None B Conover, Donald C., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt E Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt Herod, James E. “Jim”, Cpl G Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Cpl F Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt None

Thursday, 14 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-28081 P Ovard, Glenn S., 1Lt Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt CP Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Schlenk, Henry O., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt E Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., Cpl G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, Cpl F None White, E. T., S/Sgt A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 1Lt CP Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N None None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt R Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt F None Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:35AM. Briefing at 7:40AM. Very clear. Pancakes, hot cereal, coffee. Troop concentration and gun emplacement on the "Gothic Line" just above Rimini at the Adriatic Sea. Fighters at 3 and 6 o'clock - did not make a pass (friendly). First element dropped bombs. We didn't drop. Pictures of fighters and heavy flak to our rear. One ship in our formation hit. Making emergency landing in Italy. Several bombardiers were slightly cut. Holes in several ships. Weather slightly cloudy 3/10th. Seen the island of Monte Cristo. Landed 11:50 with bomb load (500). Hamburgers, beans, diced beets, canned tomatoes, fruit salad, bread, marmalade. Ship in distress at 12:45 over field. Hydraulic system shot up, crew bailed out. Pilot crash landing ship. On another mission this afternoon. Troops and ammunition dump at the "Gothic" line. 48 ship formation. Briefed at 2:00PM. All set to take off. Mission stand down. Public relations to publish my photo of target (bridge) and B-25 showing destruction of target at La Spezia. Back aching quite a bit. General Cannon, General Knapp inspected the squadron. Rode to showers with Jeffery Lynn (Hollywood actor). Colonel Smith from Washington spoke on personal affairs. (National Life Insurance) On tomorrow's mission. Frank Julio, Italian interpreter for Catherine Cornell and Brian Aherne, Ethiopian Governor joined our outfit. Very clear night. Had a Tom Collins at club. Retired 9:30PM.” Cannon, John K., Maj Gen, 12th AF Commander Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Lind, Ragnar G. “Jeffrey Lynn”, 2Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG

Friday, 15 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAFMTO: "A" Flight of the 121st Liaison Squadron, AAFMTO, moves from St Tropez to Lyons, France with L- 5s (squadron is based at Pomigliano, Italy). HQ 87th Fighter Wing, 47th Bombardment Group (Light), 57th and 86th Fighter Groups, and several other units are transferred from HQ XII Tactical Air Command to HQ XII Fighter Command; HQ XII Tactical Air Command, based in S France, remains assigned to the Twelfth AF but is put under operational control of the Ninth AF.

In Italy, all medium bomber missions are cancelled or aborted due to weather; fighter-bombers, though restricted by weather, carry out armed reconnaissance against enemy communications and defensive positions in the Milan-Genoa- Modena- Pistoia areas, as Allied forces (joined on this date by elements of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force) attempt to penetrate enemy strongholds in the N Apennines; HQ XII Fighter Command moves from Caserta to Florence; HQ 62nd Fighter Wing moves from Naples to Antignano; and the 347th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, moves from Sardinia to Tarquinia with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: There was no combat mission today. The Red Cross came through this morning by distributing doughnuts and coffee to area personnel. Eight combat crew gunners were promoted to staff sergeant. Lt. Bruce Lowery returned from the States and was assigned to this squadron as Armament Officer. Lt. Smith, navigator, was transferred to the 448th. A big celebration was held at the enlisted club tonight in honor of M/Sgt Patrick B. Lockwood, venerable line chief, who leaves for the U.S.A. tomorrow. Speeches were made by old 445th “alumni”, including Major Gaffney, Lt. Gregory, Major Larson, Capt. Anderson and others. All hailed the great work done by Sgt. Lockwood and his engineering personnel. Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy”, Capt, bombardier Gaffney, Charles, H., Maj, Executive Officer Gregory, Samuel J., 1Lt, Adjutant Lockwood, Patrick B., M/Sgt, engineering Larson, Harold W., Maj, navigator Lowery, Bruce (NMI), 2Lt, armament Smith, Raymond (NMI), 2Lt, navigator

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/15/44: “Yesterday we had a bit of excitement. A plane from the 447th Squadron was shot up. Two of the crew bailed out and the plane bellied in. No one was hurt. I pulled guard from 03:30 to 07:00 hours this morning. If everything goes according to plan Gil and I will go to Rome on the 18th. Enjoyed reading the Improvement Era last evening. Don Revord asked for a Book of Mormon this morning after reading an article on Joseph Smith, the Prophet. I loaned him one.” Inman, Gilbert E. “Gil”, Sgt, armament Revord, Donald D., Sgt, armament

Friday, 15 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Newest promotions are to Technical Sergeant Felmer, Corporal Welch. Felmer, Carl M., T/Sgt, gunner Welch, Edwin S., Cpl, communications

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Got back to base @ 0900. Had to censor a few letters. Showered and sacked awhile. Had a typhus shot @ 1430. Into town with Taylor to get cleaning, picked up my blouse at Red Cross, did a fine job of altering. Ice cream @ R.C., supper @ Transient Mess. Snapshot taken with Taylor, Robertson, and Hollingsworth. Back to camp early, a good USO show and movie ‘Mr. Winkle Goes to War’.” Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Robertson, Charles W., Capt, bombardier Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today but cancelled due to weather conditions. 2nd Lt. Harlan N. Tulley (N) and 2nd Lt. Donald J. Colgan (B) were assigned to this squadron per 57the Wing. The following officers and enlisted men were relieved of assignment and transferred on rotation to Replacement Depot No. 7 for transshipment to the United States: 1st Lt. William E. Neiman; 1st Lt. Robert M. James; 1st Lt. Salvatore P. Casarella; 1st Lt. Hyman Niedleman; M/Sgt. James B. Henderson; T/Sgt. John P. Gaydos; S/Sgt Arthur T. Shand; Sgt. Ora E. Holmes. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. C.B. Christian; 1st Lt. G.E. Fisher; 1st Lt. M.L. Speer; M/Sgt. W.H. Perry; T/Sgt. R.E. Bruns; T/Sgt. H.C. Niemann; Sgt. J.A. Wade; Sgt. J.J. Harris; Cpl R.D. Lahman; Pfc. Frank H. Dorrel; Pfc. G.J. Sarberg. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. O.L. Schnoebelen; 1st Lt. H. Spilko; T/Sgt. R.R. Vineski; S/Sgt. R.K. See; Sgt. M.C. Freeman; Sgt. T. Fiocca. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Bruns, Robert E., T/Sgt, engineering Casarella, Salvatore P., Jr., 1Lt, intelligence Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt, pilot Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt, bombardier Dorrel, Frank H., PFC, intelligence Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt, radio-gunner Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt, bombardier Freeman, Millard C., Sgt, engineer-gunner Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt, armament-gunner Harris, Jack J., Sgt, armament Henderson, James B., M/Sgt, communications Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt, photographer James, Robert M, 1Lt, bombardier Lahman, Robert D., Cpl, ordnance Neiman, William E., 1Lt, pilot Niedleman, Hyman (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Niemann, Harry C., T/Sgt, engineering Perry, Woodrow H., M/Sgt, armament Sarberg, George J., PFC, medical Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot See, Russell K., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Shand, Arthur T., S/Sgt, photographer Speer, Marvin L, 1Lt, pilot Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Tulley, Harlan N., 2Lt, navigator Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Wade, Jarrel A., Sgt, engineering

Friday, 15 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle at 5:45. Still dark. 9/10th coverage. French toast, oatmeal, grapefruit juice, coffee. Stand by until 2:00PM. Schaffner leaving for Rome at 8:30AM. After briefing, which is held in an all-metal portable bomb shelter, trucks transport us to the line. Gunners, radioman, pilot, etc., make a last minute preflight. Bombs are loaded the evening before by ordnance. About five minutes before engine time, we first put on whatever clothing necessary. Next comes our "Mae-West" or life preservers. Over this is our parachute harness. The takeoff is somewhat rough due to an earthen runway. We sweat out man takeoffs with a bomb load. After the formation has assembled and reached flight altitude, we set course. As we approach the Italian coast, flak suits are donned, plus a flak helmet. A flak suit is composed of small individual squares of metal linked together. The back, front and lower front are individual sections snapped together. In emergency, the pulling of the front cord will dismantle the three units. The flak helmet is of medium metal. Hinged earflaps are held in place with a strap under the chin, holding the helmet in place. At this point, one is quite weighted down. As we approach our IP (initial point) where we begin our bomb run, the human tension becomes quite alive. Eyes pierce the sky, expecting fighters, flak, ships in trouble, etc. Once we leave our target, the crew finds relaxation. However until we departed Italian soil, maximum effort is required. Each man is entrusted with an escape kit consisting of money, maps, compass. Escape kits are to be used should you land in enemy territory. Meat loaf, canned tomatoes, mashed potatoes, (dehydrated) peas, fruit salad, iced tea, bread, marmalade. Slight drizzle. Taylor and I purchased tomatoes, Spanish melon, cantaloupes at a small French market. Nelson returned from Catania. Boiled beef, beans, canned tomatoes, fruit salad, coffee, bread, marmalade. Listened to British heavyweight fight for title Jack London (champion) Fred Mills (contender). Ate a piece of Spanish melon. Rum coke at club. Retired 9:30PM.” Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Saturday, 16 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers attack fuel and supply dumps and defensive positions in the Bologna and Rimini areas while fighter-bombers and fighters bomb and strafe rail and road targets N of the battle areas in the N Apennine Mountains as US Fifth Army forces struggle to break through strong enemy defenses in the hills N of Prato, along the main Monte Altuzzo ridge, on Monte Veruca, Monte Monticelli, and other mountain positions; the 85th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Salon, France to Follonica with A-20s; and the 526th Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Group, moves from Poretta, Corsica to Grosseto with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Trepidation was rampant when the crews learned at briefing that the target for 36 A/C was the Casalecchio Fuel Dump in the Bologna area, north of the Gothic Line. However, the flak failed to materialize, the target received a 100% “snow-job” and only 4 ships were holed by the scant flak. Azon is back again --- they missed their target --- the Ronco Scrivia RR bridge with 4 bombs dropped by 3 A/C.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 553/mission 553) Group Mission # 553: Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 554/mission 554) Group Mission # 554: Ronco, Scrivia Rail Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The mail situation has slowed down again and the men are registering plenty of discontent not only with that but the continued poor food served in the squadron.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 553/mission 553) Group Mission # 553: Nine aircraft from the 445th joined the group formation attacking the Casalecchio fuel dump near Bologna, Italy. Once again, this squadron received 100 per cent bombing accuracy in the bomb-fall plot.

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt CP Santone, Michael A., 2Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O N Napple, Francis L., 1Lt None B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., S/Sgt R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Walburn, John A., Sgt F None None

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 2Lt Richardson, John S., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Hagerman, Millard W., 1Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt N None None B Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt Carney, Robert J., T/Sgt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Taylor, Marion R., Cpl R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Otterness, William B., Cpl G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Cpl F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) (later “Winnie Mae”) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt CP Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Doherty, Charles S., Sgt Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 554/mission 554) Group Mission # 554: (445th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Two missions are flown.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 553/mission 553) Group Mission # 553: Squadron Mission 390 TARGET: Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy DATE: 16 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb. Frags. and Incendiaries 446th Planes: 9 Captain Wagner led the formation. Good concentration, all bombs in target area. Several fires, one especially large, seen. Flak was scant moderate, inaccurate, and heavy, accurate. Four aircraft holed. Lt. Hively was forced to make a single-engine landing at base. Lt. Pietrowski, spare, returned early. Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling Ass II” P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt CP Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt N None Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt N None None B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 2Lt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” P Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt CP Everhart, Herman E., F/O Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N None None B Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt E Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt R Wilking, Robert L., Cpl Brown, Dennis H., Cpl G Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt CP Doyle, John D., 1Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Vannah, Harold P., Jr. F/O E Kreider, John L., S/Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl G Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) dropped from nose art) (Spare - returned without filling in) P Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 1Lt N None None B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Leith, William V., 2Lt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 554/mission 554) Group Mission # 554: Squadron Mission 391 TARGET: Ronco, Scrivia Rail Bridge, Italy DATE: 16 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP and Comp “B” Azon 446th Planes: 3 Lt. Goff led the formation. Two bombs hit along RR 400 feet S of target. One bomb hit just to N and S end of bridge. One bomb hit 400 feet E of target along road and on E bank of river. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate. Two aircraft were holed.

A/C No. 43-4077 “Stormy Weather” A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs. C” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Ziglar, Frank C., Maj Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt Anderson, Melvin Anders, Capt, HQ 321st BG B Gambino, Samuel F., 2Lt Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt E Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt Leary, Gwynn M, S/Sgt F None Fellmer, Carl M., T/Sgt

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued) A/C No. 43-27745 P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Cassidy, Warren J., S/Sgt R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt G McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt F None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 65, Co-Pilot) Pilot: Grove, Russell V., 1Lt B-25J 43-27497 “Barbara” Mission: Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy Flying Time: 3:10 (129th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Met Otto Hunter this a.m. A bull session. Hung around tent all a.m. Into Naples after dinner with Taylor & Sacker. Lot of fun kidding the Red Cross Girl. Coffee, etc. @ R.C. Ate @ transient mess. After supper out to Orange and Rotunda Clubs. Sacker a riot. Hitching back hard.” Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Bruce Lowery is relieved of his assignment to this squadron and transferred to the 445th Squadron. All clocks, watches and sundials will be retarded one hour at 3:00 A.M. Sunday Sept. 17, 1944. S-1; S-2; S-3; have moved into the newly erected pre-fabricated hut. In addition to his other duties 1st Lt. William E. Levine has been appointed Squadron EFM Officer and Squadron Summary Court Officer. Levine, William E., 2Lt, intelligence Lowery, Bruce, 1Lt, armament

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 553/mission 553) Group Mission # 553: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Casalecchio Fuel Dump, with Lt. Muzinich leading our squadron. All bombs in target area with the heaviest concentration in the central and south third of target area. Mission efficiency 100%; Bombing accuracy 100%.

A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Smith, William L., Sgt S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt F None None

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” P Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Burns, Robert J., 1Lt Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O N None None B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Colgan, Donald J., Dawson, Roy C., Sgt E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl Bauder, Harold R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt CP Gies, Donald W., F/O Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt B Huffman, William C., 1Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., T/Sgt G Williams, James H., Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt F Keefe, John A., S/Sgt None A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in) P Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 1Lt N None None B Darrell, Frank Lloyd, Jr., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt E Curry, Hughie L., Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt F O’Neil, James R., Sgt None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 554/mission 554) Group Mission # 554: (445th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 553/mission 553) Group Mission # 553: Mission 351 (553): At 07:47 36 planes off to bomb Casalecchio Fuel Dump, Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last box of 9 in the flight. The formation dropped 2039 x 20# frags and 144x500# M-77 Incend. 121x20# frags returned due to malfunction. All bombs in target area. Several fires, one especially large with billows of black smoke up to 1500 feet observed. Light and heavy flak on breakaway. Weather: Clear, haze, visibility 8/10 miles into sun.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-4027 “Cherry Fizz” P Farwell, Harold S., Capt Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt CP Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, Sgt G Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None White, E. T., S/Sgt A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-4037 P Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt N None None B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt F None Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt CP Smith, Milford A., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt N None None B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt Young, Robert E., 1Lt E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Goldstein, George (NMI), T/Sgt Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt G Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 16 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27668 P Stevens, Ray B., 1Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt CP Cook, Don W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Qualls, Thomas B., Sgt R Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt Randall, Charles R., Jr., Sgt G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Hawthorne, Ralph C., Sgt F LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, Sgt None A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Swanson, Earl G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt N None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt F Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 554/mission 554) Group Mission # 554: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., Cpl, radio-gunner: “SQ blowing whistle over PA system at 5:50AM. Briefing 6:45AM. Very clear morning. A bit of diarrhea. Pancakes, oatmeal, coffee. Carry 500-lb amiable incendiaries. Target fuel dump 3 miles SW of Bologna. Over target 9:31AM. Good hit. Good photos. Flak was moderate and inaccurate. Pictures of Florence and ship "Cherry Fizz" (43-4037). Landed at 11:10AM. Very cold upstairs (12000) right wing lead element. Mission (9) a bit nervous. Hash, eggplant, canned beans, fresh tomatoes, cake, coke, coffee, marmalade. Received rations - 9 bottles beer, 4 packages gum, 2 cokes, 3 cigars, 14 pkgs cigarettes, 9 bars candy, 3 bars soap, 1 face powder, 1 pipe, 2 cartons tobacco, 1 towel. Washed coveralls in gasoline. Captain McLain inspecting area. Slafkes, Davey left for the states. Stew, fresh tomatoes, onion, cucumbers, bread, butter, coffee. Stomach feeling punk. Not on tomorrow's mission. Retired 9:15PM.” Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, gunner McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt, gunner

Sunday, 17 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In France, the US Seventh Army's French II Corps makes contact with the US Third Army's French 2nd Armored Division near Bains-les-Bains; and the 314th and 315th Fighter Squadrons, 324th Fighter Group, move from Amberieu to Tavaux with P-47s. In Italy, B-25s hit troop concentrations in the British Eighth Army battle area in the vicinity of Rimini; B-25s pound rail bridges in the W Po Valley, while fighter-bombers operating in the Po Valley attack rails, roads, rolling stock, road bridges, motor transport and other targets; in the mountains S of the Po Valley US Fifth Army forces break through the Gothic Line at Il Giogo Pass, take Monte Altuzzo and Pratone, finish clearing Monte Veruca, and gain the crest of Monte Monticelli; and HQ 86th Fighter Group and the 527th Fighter Squadron move from Poretta, Corsica to Grosseto with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: 54 A/C to the gun and troop concentration area at Rimini smothered the target with 100% bombing. Fragmentation and 500 lb. bombs were used on three separate missions.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 555/mission 555) Group Mission # 555: Troop Concentration NQ of Rimini, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 556/mission 556) Group Mission # 556: Troop and Gun concentration Area, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 557/mission 557) Group Mission # 557: Troop and Gun Concentration Area, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: One of the squadron’s best flight leaders – Capt. Shyshka – left today for his trip to the States on rotation. Pvts. Abrams and Morisi were promoted to Corporal today and were automatically put on flying status, something they both had been pulling for a long time. Two new Officer and enlisted men were assigned today as combat replacements. A party was held tonight at the headquarters Officer’s club in honor of Major Larson, former 445th navigator, who leaves for the States tomorrow. Abrams, Samuel, Cpl, gunner (photographer) Larson, Harold W., Maj, navigator Morisi, David D., Cpl, engineer-gunner Shyshka, Lubomir P. "Cross Country", Capt, pilot

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: In two separate missions, the 445th squadron sent out a total of 12 ships to strike hard at troop concentrations northwest of Rimini. The squadron bombardiers continued their brilliant streak of masterful precision bombing by achieving 100 per cent bombing accuracy in both attacks.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 555/mission 555) Group Mission # 555:

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt CP Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt Lewis, Max E., 2Lt N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House “Modern Design”) Mouse” P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt N None None B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., Sgt E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27502 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Born, Walter E., 2Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N None None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt F None None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Richardson, John S., 1Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt Cox, Harold L., 2Lt N None None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 1Lt CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N None None B Doherty, Charles S., Sgt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Miller, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Otterness, William B., Cpl G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 556/mission 556) Group Mission # 556: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 557/mission 557) Group Mission # 557:

A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27509 P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt N Sides, Harry F., 1Lt None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt CP Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N None None B DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 1Lt E Woody, Louie M., Sgt Smith, William F., S/Sgt R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt Plunk, Charles B., T/Sgt G Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt F None None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/17/44: “There were nine present at services this morning, two of whom were non- members. I took over the class in the absence of Bro. Hacking who had the lesson, and being unprepared I discoursed on the Book of Mormon. I thought it appropriate for the new-comers and I now believe my choice of subjects was a wise one. Tomorrow Gil and I are going to Rome. We haven’t had mail for quite some time. Weather splendid.” Hacking, Lauerle T., 1Lt, pilot, 379th BS, 310th BG Inman, Gilbert E. "Gil", Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: Nick Bianculli gets long awaited orders to go home. Bianculli, Nicholas (NMI), Sgt, cook

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # 555: Squadron Mission 392 TARGET: Troop and Gun Concent, Rimini Area, Italy DATE: 17 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb Frags. and 500 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Major Cooper led the formation. All bombs in target area, good coverage. No flak. Lt. Wozniak, spare, returned early.

A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” Ass II” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt CP Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt G Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” Pad” P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt N None None B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Cornelius, Wilbur G., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) P White, Frank B., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt N None None B Reeves, Charles F., M/Sgt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Knapp, Walter E., T/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., T/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., S/Sgt G South, William R., S/Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” P Dickson, Gale Monroe, 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, PFC G Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt N None None B Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt Noel, Paul R., 2Lt E Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 556/mission 556) Group Mission # 556: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # 557: Squadron Mission 393 TARGET: Troop and Gun Concent, Rimini Area, Italy DATE: 17 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb. Frags. and 500 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Captain Stocking led the formation. All bombs in target area. Concentrations in E end. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, inaccurate. Stocking, Eugene, E., Capt, pilot, 447th BS

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., F/O N None None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt CP Higgins, Howard A., 1Lt N None B Finney, Preston F., S/Sgt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt F None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 66, Co-Pilot) Pilot: Cooper, Paul T., Maj B-25J 43-36224 probably “Hauling Ass II” Mission: Troop and Gun Concentrations, Rimini Area, Italy Flying Time: 2:55 (130th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “A few of us had a meeting @ 1000, got reamed out by an Inf. Major for dirty tent – what an outfit. Chaplain really a riot, have to punch his ticket. To Supply to see about our Liquor ration, pick it up tomorrow a.m. Sacked awhile. Sacked, shaved, and showered all afternoon. To show, very good.”

447th BS War Diary: Private Verlin L. Wadlow is promoted to the grade of corporal. Morning report: Officers 91; E/M 335. Wadlow, Verlin L., Cpl, communications

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 555/mission 555) Group Mission # 555: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 556/mission 556) Group Mission # 556: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on Troop and Gun Concentration area, R-835988, R- 784986, R-784994, M-820000, with Lt. Murray leading our squadron. All bombs in target area. Western section of target area well hit with concentration in center. Mission efficiency 55.5 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Murray, Robert E., 1Lt CP Hall, Earl W., 1Lt Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt R Pierce, William H., T/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt G Williams, James H., Sgt McKnight, John A., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Walker, Marion E., 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Dale G., Sgt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), Sgt G Smith, William L., Sgt Young, Robert E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” P Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt CP Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt N None None B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Coward, Eugene C., S/Sgt E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt R Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt G Connolly, Paul P., Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt None A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Gies, Donald W., F/O N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” P Burns, Robert J., 1Lt CP Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt N None B LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt R See, Russell K., S/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt F Burns, Harry B., Sgt

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 557/mission 557) Group Mission # 557: Six of our ships participated on a second mission for the day, with Capt. Stocking leading our squadron. Excellent concentration in target area. Mission efficiency 100 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt Stocking, Eugene F., Capt CP Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt N None None B Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Citarelli, James E., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” P Woods, Charles D., 1Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt CP Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt N None None B Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt S/Sgt E Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt F None None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 45) “Target: Rimini Guns & Troop concentration Flak: HMI Combat: 2:35 Bombs: frags Escorts: None Plane # 079 (43-4079 “Little David”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Hennessey, B-Lt Gargiulo, E-Sgt Partee, R-TSG Alpino, G- Sgt Mango All bombs in target area. Concentrations in E end and center. 5th OLC to AM pending” Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt, bombardier Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “57th mission, flew with Lt. Washburn as bombardier, nice bombing, some flak, troops at Rimini.” Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 555/mission 555) Group Mission # 555: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 556/mission 556) Group Mission # 556: Mission 352 (556): At 07:38 18 planes off to bomb Troop and Gun concentration Area, Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the lead squadron. The formation dropped 1080x20# frags and 40x500# Inst. And .025. 24x500# Returned as element did not pick up target and 8x500 Ret. Due to pilot error. All bombs in target area. Target identification difficult. Heavy scant, inaccurate flak holed one plane. Weather: 3/10 stratocumulus at 5000, visibility unlimited.

A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-27791 P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt CP Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt N McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Conover, Donald C., 2Lt E Carter, Eugene F., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, S/Sgt G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl F None None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-27508 P Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt CP Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., Cpl Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl Markiewicz, Edward B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine A/C No. 43-27481 Sadie” P Reedy, Walter W. 1Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt CP Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O Judy, Philip R., 1Lt E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Campbell, James R., T/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt None A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” P Warren, William F., 1Lt Grady, John R., 1Lt CP Cook, Don W., 2Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt R Randall, Charles R., Jr., S/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., S/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27726 P Bard, John A., 1Lt CP Smith, Milford A., 2Lt N None B Young, Robert B., 1Lt E Reves, Louis E., Cpl R Herod, James E. “Jim”, Cpl G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 557/mission 557) Group Mission # 557: Mission 353 (557): At 08:03 18 planes off to bomb Troop and Gun Concentration Area, Italy. Six (6) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated as lead for the second flight. The formation dropped 1080 x 20# frags and 72 x 500# inst. And .025. All bombs in target area. Heavy moderate, to intense, inaccurate on breakaway. No planes holed. Weather: 3/10 stratocumulus at 5000 feet visibility unlimited. A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not Out” P Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt CP Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt N None None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt R Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., Sgt Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl F None LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27668 P Stevens, Ray B., 1Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt E Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., S/Sgt F None None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:45. This Sunday morning, clocks were set back one hour. Was disturbed about 10:15PM last evening from a lot of jabbering in the tent. New combat man sleeping in Charles bunk for night. Commenced Alexander Woollcott’s "As You Were". Retired 12:30. Bright and clear morning. Corn fritters, grapefruit juice, coffee. Assisted the "Chief" in reassembling club after a night of fury. Major Bell was over. On detail to pick up cement below Bastia at Casanova. Left 10:45. IR - 600 lb cans of cement (10 1/2 tons) Arrived at camp 4:30PM. Traveled about 70 kilometers. Light rain on return.

Sunday, 17 September 1944 (continued)

Stopped to pick grapes along way. Farmer came out with shotgun. Took a couple of eggplant sandwiches. Some of the boys left for the mountains to observe the holidays starting at sundown. Made S/Sgt today (Sept 15, 1944) Roast beef, mashed potatoes, canned corn, onions and beets, coffee, bread and marmalade. Over at the club awhile. Killed a bottle of beer. Mike stopped in, has infected hands. Clear evening. Retired 9:00PM.” Bell, Albert R., Maj, pilot, HQ 321st BG Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner

Monday, 18 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAFMTO: The 72d Liaison Squadron, AAFMTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from Lons-le-Saunier to Vesoul, France with L-5s.

In Italy, B-25s continue to hit troop concentrations and gun positions, in support of the British Eighth Army forces which open an assault on defenses in the Rimini area; despite bad weather B-26s and P-47s maintain attacks on bridges, rail lines, and transportation in the Po Valley; HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) moves from Salon, France to Follonica; HQ 320th Bombardment Group (Medium) moves from Decimomannu, Sardinia to Alto, Corsica with B-26s; and the 525th Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Group, moves from Poretta, Corsica to Grosseto with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Three 18 A/C missions against the Rimini troop and gun area reported 100% coverage of the target, which statement was borne out by the photos.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 558/mission 558) Group Mission # 558: Rimini Gun and Troop/C area, Italy One A/C was lost over the target from flak described as scant and very accurate. Three chutes were seen to land in German territory 4 miles N of Rimini. The plane crashed into the sea. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 559/mission 559) Group Mission # 559: Rimini Gun Position and troop area bounded by R-820002, R-835988, and R-784986 (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 560/mission 560) Group Mission # 560: Rimini Gun Position and Troop area bounded by R-82-0002, R-835988, R-784986 (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 558/mission 558) Group Mission # 558: The squadron sent 15 aircraft out to help bomb troop concentrations northwest of Rimini, Italy. They ran into a terrific flak barrage and one aircraft piloted by Lt. Richardson was lost over the target. Another piloted by Lt. Payne landed at Grosseto, Italy with one engine shot out. A third piloted by Lt. Moore landed at Ghisonaccia field with a punctured tire. Sgt. Sauer, radio gunner in Lt. Dyer’s plane was wounded in the side by flak. Despite the many difficulties, the squadron’s deadeye bombardiers achieved a 99.8 bombing accuracy for the mission. (Crew list missing)

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew (MACR-8779 shot down) (landed at Grosseto, with one engine out) P Richardson, John S., 1Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt CP Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt N None B DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt E Marinucci, Andrew J., S/Sgt R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt, F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew (landed at Ghisonaccia field, with punctured tire) P Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt, pilot CP N B E R Sauer, Carlton F., Sgt, radio-gunner G F A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew (# A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew 2 position in 2nd flight) P CP N B E Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G F A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

445th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 8779:

A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” (MACR-8779 down in flames in Adriatic Sea) P Richardson, John S., 1Lt – POW, returned CP Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt – POW, returned N None B DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy” , 2Lt – went down with ship – KIA E Marinucci, Andrew J., S/Sgt – POW, returned R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt – POW, returned G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt – POW, returned F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl – POW, returned ------Eyewitness Account: Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt, navigator, 446th BS

445th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF Office of the Operations Officer APO 650, 21 September 1944 AG-360.33 – Richardson, John S. (0) and crew. SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report.

1. “I was the navigator in the bomber flying in the lead of the second flight of the formation which followed immediately behind the aircraft in question on the mission of 18 September 1944.” 2. “While we were on the bomb run, I observed three parachutes to open below and to the left of our formation. After seeing the chutes, I looked for and found the bomber from which they had jumped. It was heading in a northerly direction toward the sea. The plane was burning but seemed to be under control. The flames appeared to be coming from the wings and not the fuselage but were too far away to be positive. It looked to me as though the parachutists would land behind enemy lines. I did not see the airplane crash nor did I see more than three chutes open.”

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

JOHN E. CHAPMAN, 1st Lt, 0-699134, Navigator. (Attachment to MAC Report, Richardson, John S. (0) and crew, B-25J, Aircraft 43-27792, 21 September 1994.

Incl 4. ------Eyewitness Account: Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS

1. “I was the radio-gunner of the aircraft in number two position of the same flight in which Lt. Richardson was flying. During the bomb run I was watching the concerned plane to see the bombs drop. There was a flak burst to the rear of our element at our altitude and another which seemed to burst just below Lt. Richardson’s plane as the bombs were dropping from the bomb bay. There was a large orange flash followed by brown smoke which may have resulted from a direct flak hit in the falling bomb load. I judged it to be a flak burst because of its similarity to the first which burst behind our element. I observed the right landing gear to lower and the right engine aflame. The plane seemed to falter for about five seconds and then began to lose altitude, slowly at first and then more rapidly. I lost sight of the plane when we peeled off the bomb run. The tail gunner reported seeing one chute. I saw the parachutist at 6000 feet. The parachute opened about ten or fifteen seconds after the plane was hit. I regained sight of the aircraft and saw it hit the water just off the coast. Judging from my observations of the splash, the plane did not make a controlled landing. It appeared to me that the airplane came to the surface again and seemed to be in tact.” OLIVER C. PARLETTE, T/Sgt., 11072713, Radio-gunner. (Attachment to MAC Report, Richardson, John S. (0) and crew, B-25J, Aircraft 43-27792, 21 September 1994.

Incl 5. ------

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

Eyewitness Account: Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

1. “I was the tail gunner of the aircraft in number two position, first element of the same flight in which Lt. Richardson was flying. On the bomb run, while the plane concerned had its bomb bay doors open, I observed the landing wheels to lower and could see that the right engine was aflame. The plane, apparently under control, began to lose altitude rapidly. It appeared as though the pilot headed his bomber toward the sea. I observed a parachute to open, which was probably from the rear of the crippled bomber, at approximately 7000 feet. The parachute drifted in the direction of the town of Gatteo. I did not see the plane hit the water but I saw the splash. We were too far away to observe whether the bomber was afloat.” HARRY (NMI) YOA, S/Sgt., 14053361, Engineer-Gunner. (Attachment to MAC Report, Richardson, John S. (0) and crew, B-25J, Aircraft 43-27792, 21 September 1994.

Incl 6. ------

Eyewitness Account: Hickey, William R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

1. “I was the tail gunner of the aircraft in number two position of the second element, flying directly in front of the aircraft concerned. While on the bomb run, I was looking directly at Lt. Richardson’s plane to watch his bombs fall away. Just as the bombs were dropping from the bomb bay, there was a huge orange flash about five or ten feet below the bomb bay of the bomber. I believe this was due to an explosion of a frag

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued) bomb because I did not observe any flak with the exception of a few bursts about a half mile or more ahead of the formation. The plane fell off to the left and began to descend rapidly but under control. I saw one chute come out and a few seconds later another. The plane turned to the right and began to head in the direction of the sea as it continued downward. When the plane dropped to approximately 300 feet above the sea, it nosed over into the water out of control about three-fourths of a mile off the coast.”

WILLIAM R. HICKEY, S/Sgt., 16169957 (Attachment to MAC Report, Richardson, John S. (0) and crew, B-25J, Aircraft 43-27792, 21 September 1994.

Incl 7. ------

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 559/mission 559) Group Mission # 559: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 560/mission 560) Group Mission # 560:

A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy “Modern Design”) Pants” P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt CP Cronk, Ronald W., 1Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27509 P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt McKay, Donald I., 1Lt CP Martin, John W., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt N None None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 1Lt E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl R Rockett, James J., T/Sgt DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt G Walburn, John A., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt F None None

446th BS War Diary: Two combat missions are flown and successful results are reported.

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 558/mission 558) Group Mission # 558: Squadron Mission 394 TARGET: Rimini Gun and Troop/C area, Italy DATE: 18 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb. Frags. and 500 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Captain Russell led the formation. All bombs in target area, aiming point well covered. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate, accurate. One B-25 shot down and crashed in water. Three chutes seen. Three planes holed, one landed at Grossetto, with wounded crew member. (Crew list missing) Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", Capt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew unidentified crew (Lead position in 2nd flight) P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt CP N None Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 559/mission 559) Group Mission # 559: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 560/mission 560) Group Mission # 560: Squadron Mission 395 TARGET: Rimini Gun and T/C area, Italy DATE: 18 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 20 lb. Frags. and 500 lb. 446th Planes: 5 Lt. Burandt led the formation. Bombs started between road and river and continued through target area with good coverage of W central portion. No flak. Lt. Hively returned early because nose wheel would not lock. Landed on tail skid.

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., Cpl G Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic Pad” P Grove, Russell V., 1Lt White, Frank B., 1Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Gambino, Samuel F., 2Lt Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) Ass II” (Turned back without completing mission - nose wheel malfunction) P Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 1Lt Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt N None None B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Kreider, John L., S/Sgt R Wilking, Robert L., Cpl Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 67, Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J 43-4052 “Lil Butch” Mission: Rimini Gun and Troop/C area, Italy Flying Time: 2:50 (131st mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Into town early, with Taylor & Barbour, went MATS & ATC offices in Naples to see about air priority home. No can do. Out to Capadochina, saw Capt. McKay about taking a war-weary B-25 home. No soap. Met a bunch of boys @ the transient mess. Went to show @ 1330, ‘The Canterville Ghost’ fine. RC for coffee, etc. Lousy evening, returned to camp @ 2200.” Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 2nd Lt. Frederick J. Hiller, bombardier, and Corporal Zigmond Klimkowicz have been assigned to this squadron per order from 57th Wing. Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt, bombardier Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Cpl, gunner

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 558/mission 558) Group Mission # 558: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 559/mission 559) Group Mission # 559: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Rimini Gun Position and troop area bounded by R-820002, R-835988, and R-784986, with Lt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Good coverage in west central position of target area with strings starting south of road and walking thru area. Mission efficiency 99.4 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %. (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 560/mission 560) Group Mission # 560: Four of our ships participated in a raid on Rimini Gun Position and Troop area bounded by R- 82-0002, R-835988, R-784986 with Lt. Ramey leading our squadron. Good coverage of target area with bombs starting just north of the river and walking thru target area. Mission efficiency 100 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %. (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden” plane and crew identified in Mango war diary P Ramey, Gordon, A., 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt N None None B Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt E Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt F None None

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 46) “Target: Rimini Guns & Troop concentration Flak: HMI Combat: 2:30 Bombs: frags Escorts: None Plane # 082 (43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” - “Modern Maiden”) Crew: P-Lt Dean CP-Lt Murchland B-Lt Mulholland E-SSG Partee R-TSG Alpino G Sgt Mango F- Sgt Burns Good coverage. Bombs started between river and RR and walk through target area. Several fires and much smoke observed. 1 Plane from 1st flight was hit in right engine by a frag from above element. 3 crew members bailed out and were machine gunned by German troops. Remaining 3 crew members were blown up w/plane.” Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 558/mission 558) Group Mission # 558: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 559/mission 559) Group Mission # 559: Mission 354 (559): At 08:06 18 planes off to bomb Rimini Gun and T/C Area, Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last box of nine. The formation dropped 1073x20# frags. and .025. 7x20# frags salvoed into sea due to malfunction. Good coverage. Bombs started between river and railroad and walked through target area. Slight to moderate flak holing one A/C. Weather: 5/10 stratocumulus over land tops at 6,000 with visibility 10 miles. (Crew list missing)

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27481 plane & partial crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew identified in Schaffer war diary P Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt CP N None None B E R G F Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 560/mission 560) Group Mission # 560: Mission 355 (560): At 08:36 18 planes off to bomb Rimini Gun T/C area, Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last element of the second flight. The formation dropped 1080x20 # frags and 72 x 500 # Inst. and .025 from 12/13,000 feet. Fires started over target area, black smoke observed. Observations: 3 medium vessels heading north. No flak encountered. Weather: 5/10 stratocumulus over land, tops at 6000 feet.

A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27508 P Leonard, Lee V., 1Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt CP Smith, Milford A., 2Lt Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Judy, Philip R., 1Lt Berman, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Reves, Louis E., Cpl R Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not A/C No. 43- 27668 (Turned back - did Out” not complete mission) plane & partial crew identified in Schaffer war diary P Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt CP Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N None B Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt

Monday, 18 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 5:15AM. Briefing at 6:35AM. Sky 4/10 coverage. Scrambled powdered eggs, oatmeal, grapefruit juice, bread, marmalade, coffee. Target, troops and supplies northwest of Rimini. Pilot Lt Moyer (43-27481) Takeoff 8:10. Over target 9:29. 100% hit. Flak - moderate inaccurate. P47 dive-bombers. 5/10 clouds. Very cold. Flew at 12,000 feet. One ship 445th went down - bombardier, DiFulvio. Hit over target. Three parachuted but were being fired upon by German ground forces. Eating early chow for another mission this PM. Stuffed peppers, onions and beets, kidney beans, butterscotch pudding, iced tea, marmalade, bread. Briefing at 12:35PM. Same as this morning's target. Lt Swanson (43-27668). Takeoff 1:45PM. Lead ship 2nd element. Turned back at coast of Italy. 10/10 at 10,000. Landed 3:10PM. Capt Neprash gave me another photo which is to be published. Feeling knocked out after knowing of Rudy's ultimate fate. Dreary day. Received 10 letters. Used K-8A for both missions. On 1st shift of guard. Comfortable evening. Prayed for Rudy. Schaffner returned from Rome. Stuffed pepper, canned tomatoes, canned peaches, bread, butter, coffee. Feeling blue. Retired 10:30PM.” DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy”, 2Lt, bombardier, 445th BS Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt, pilot Neprash, Sergius P., Capt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt, pilot

Tuesday, 19 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, bad weather grounds medium bombers; fighter-bombers hit guns and defensive positions along the Gothic Line and attack roads and bridges in the Bologna area; the 86th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), move from Salon, France to Follonica with A-20s; the 95th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 17th Bombardment Group (Medium), moves from Villacidro, Sardinia to Poretta, Corsica with B-26s; and the 441st and 444th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Decimomannu, Sardinia to Alto, Corsica with B-26s. In France, HQ 64th Fighter Wing moves from St Tropez to Dole.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Bad weather forced a cancellation of both the combat mission and flight training. 13 crews were standing by for the mission. Occasional rains today turned the area into a sloppy mud-hole. A fair amount of mail arrived this afternoon. Late in the afternoon a torrential downpour almost flooded the area, filling foxholes and slit trenches up to the top. Cool weather followed the rains. The men couldn’t complain about tonight’s supper. It consisted of fresh beef with especially delicious gravy.

446th BS War Diary: September 19 and 20: Regular duties are performed about the bivouac area.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Officer’s muster @ 0850, check on tent assignments, etc. Over to subsistence @ 1000 to draw monthly ration of liquor. Into town, saw ‘Andy Hardy’s Double Trouble’ – very good. To Red Cross, then ate @ transient mess. Back to Repple Depot.”

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today but cancelled due to weather conditions. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. LeRoy Alger; 1st Lt. Marvin L. Speer; M/Sgt. Woodrow H. Perry; T/Sgt. Robert E. Bruns; T/Sgt. Harry C. Niemann; Sgt. Jarrel A. Wade; Sgt. Jack J. Harris; Cpl. Robert D. Lahman; Pfc. Frank H. Dorrel; Pfc. George J. Sarberg. Captain Marshall C. Strenger is promoted to the rank of Major per SO 240, 12th AF, dated 17 Sept. 1944. Alger, LeRoy (NMI), Capt, pilot Bruns, Robert E., T/Sgt, engineering Dorrel, Frank H., PFC, intelligence Harris, Jack J., Sgt, armament Lahman, Robert D., Cpl, ordnance Niemann, Harry C., T/Sgt, engineering Perry, Woodrow H., M/Sgt, armament Sarberg, George J., PFC, medical Speer, Marvin L, 1Lt, pilot Strenger, Marshall C., Maj, pilot, Commander Wade, Jarrel A., Sgt, engineering

Tuesday, 19 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle over PA at 5:50AM. Raining but clear in the east. Briefing 7:05AM. Pancakes, grapefruit juice, coffee, hot cereal. Stand by on mission. Rain is continuing. Laying in sack, reading from "As You Were" (Edgar Allan Poe) (Ring Lardner). Cement and tarpaper coming in for winterizing tents. Sides to be built up with lumber from frog boxes. Meatloaf, string beans, sliced cabbage, mashed potatoes, fruit salad, hot tea, bread, butter. Working on roof of club. Still raining. Continual gab session in progress. Stand-down on mission. Roast beef, beans, canned corn, rice pudding, coffee, bread, marmalade. Learned to play cribbage and gin rummy. Very windy, rainy, cold. Secured tent. Retired 9:00PM. Awoke 10:15PM. Heart burn, feeling punk. Drank two canteens water. Up several times urinating. Retired 11:30PM.”

Wednesday, 20 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, the 27th and 79th Fighter Groups are added to HQ XII Fighter Command which on this day begins operations in support of the US Fifth Army; weather again grounds medium bombers and severely restricts fighters which fly uneventful reconnaissance missions; the 427th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth AF (attached to 62nd Fighter Wing), departs Pomigliano for India with P-61s.

In France, HQ 324th Fighter Group and the 316th Fighter Squadron move from Amberieu to Tavaux with P-47s; the 437th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 319th Bombardment Group (Medium), moves from Decimomannu, Sardinia to Serragia, Corsica with B-26s; and the 442nd and 443rd Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Decimomannu, Sardinia to Alto, Corsica with B-26s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Sixteen crews were scheduled for today’s mission but once again poor weather conditions caused a postponement and all flight training was cancelled as the bad weather continued all day. Another fair amount of mail arrived this afternoon. Another heavy downpour of rain occurred shortly before supper and the area resembles a quagmire. Another delicious beef supper was enjoyed for chow this evening. The writers of “Off the Cob” have rewritten their show and now call it “Cornzapoppin”. Together with the “Mitchell-Aires” they plan to make a short tour of the Naples area in a week or so. The entire cast staged a rehearsal tonight in the Officers club.

446th BS War Diary: September 19 and 20: Regular duties are performed about the bivouac area.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Raining very hard. Over to processing to see about shipment, have to wait until the 1st. Into town with Taylor & Sacker. PX rations. Hot shower, shave, & haircut @ RC. Got us an apartment in town, mighty fine. To show, Kay Kyser, ‘Around the World’ – fine.” Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather conditions. T/Sgt. Edmund D. Schwegmann is assigned to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing. Sgt. Aleis Betmarik Jr. is reduced to the grade of private for misconduct. Betmarik, Aleis (NMI), Jr., Pvt, communications Schwegmann, Edmund D., T/Sgt, communications

Wednesday, 20 September 1944

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle 5:15AM. Briefing 6:00AM. Slight rain. Carrying 1000 lb GP's. Railroad bridge 50 miles northwest of Valero at Citta Della, Italy. Powdered eggs in pancake form, stewed prunes, coffee, bread. Played cribbage, read, kibitzed. Stand-down on mission. Steel runway mats coming in. Boys are repairing club. Spamburgers, carrots and onion, canned tomatoes, applesauce, bread, butter, coffee. Very heavy rain. Rain ceased 3:30PM. New roof being put on club. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, cabbage, beans, fruit salad, coffee, bread, marmalade. Went to see Smitty and Taylor. Frag exploded causing Rudy's ship to go down. B26 outfit claims they saw 6 chutes open. Flak missed Taylor's head and his radio-gunner was put out of commission with a slug in his right side. (7 on lead ship). Rudy's wife to have baby next week. Read Ring Lardner's "Some Like Them Cold" and Edgar Allan Poe's "Murders in the Rue Morgue." Retired 8:50PM.?” DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy”, 2Lt, bombardier, 445th BS Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Thursday, 21 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, bad weather and unserviceable landing grounds cancel all operations; and the 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Follonica to Florence/Peretola with F-5s (a detachment is operating from Malignano).

In Corsica, HQ 42nd Bombardment Wing (Medium) moves from Elmas, Sardinia to Borgo; HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) and the 439th and 440th Bombardment Squadrons move from Decimomannu, Sardinia to Serragia with B- 26s; and the 34th, 37th and 432nd Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 17th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Villacidro, Sardinia to Poretta with B-26s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W): redesignated # 651 on 1 Jan 45: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The weather here in Corsica was clear but atmospheric conditions over in Italy were unfavorable and another stand-down order was posted to the chagrin of 16 crews which were standing by anxious to get this oft-postponed mission completed. Some mail arrived this afternoon but it was confined strictly to the power men in the squadron. Most of the men in the area have procured a large supply of lumber and are “winter-izing” their tents in anticipation of a winter in Corsica. Cement is available in the area for the purpose of improving the two clubs and is also ready for use by any personnel desiring to cement their tent floors. There were no lights in the area tonight due to a faulty energizer. Another rehearsal of the show “Cornzapoppin” was held at the Officers club tonight.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W): redesignated # 651 on 1 Jan 45: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: No Missions. Private Huntoon, turret gunner, is promoted to Corporal. Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl, turret gunner

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W): redesignated # 651 on 1 Jan 45: (446th BS did not participate)

Thursday, 21 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Back to Repple Depot, got some clothes, etc, took back into town. Raining hard. Hung around all a.m. To R.C. lot of fun again. Met Levine and Locke. To bed early, nothing doing.” Levine, William E., 1Lt, intelligence Locke, Jacob (NMI) "Jack", 2Lt, intelligence

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today but was cancelled due to weather conditions. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Major Marshall C. Strenger departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the grade of technical sergeant: S/Sgt. Eugene C. Cowart; S/Sgt. Andrew Pelak; S/Sgt. Alvin L. Simberg; S/Sgt. Joseph W. MacNeil; S/Sgt. Russell K. See; S/Sgt. Francis S. Torrey. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the grade of staff sergeant; Sgt. Anthony Abbondanza; Sgt. George W. Currey; Sgt. Hughie L. Curry; Sgt. Herbert Dimondstein; Sgt. Millard C. Freeman; Sgt. James R. O’Neil; Sgt. William L. Smith; Sgt. Glenn S. Thomason; Sgt. Frederick J. May; Sgt. Jack Bowman; Sgt. Paul B. Connolly; Sgt. Roy C. Dawson; Sgt Frank J. Flowers; Sgt. Vincent A. Mango; Sgt. Dale G. Miller; Sgt. Robert P. Quintenz; Sgt. Joseph Veid. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the grade of corporal: Pfc. Norman C. Bulfinch; Pfc. Herbert B. Held. Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner Bulfinch, Norman C., Cpl, intelligence Connolly, Paul B., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Currey, George W., S/Sgt, communications Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt, gunner Dawson, Roy C., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Held, Herbert, B., Cpl, gunner MacNeil, Joseph W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Mango, Vincent A., S/Sgt, aerial gunner May, Frederick J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt, gunner O'Neil, James R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Pelak, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner See, Russell K., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Simberg, Alvin L., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Smith, William L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Strenger, Marshall C., Maj, pilot, Commander Thomason, Glenn S., S/Sgt, engineering Torrey, Francis S., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Veid, Joseph (NMI), S/Sgt, aerial gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W): redesignated # 651 on 1 Jan 45: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Thursday, 21 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxx (W): redesignated # 651 on 1 Jan 45: Take-off: 0600 Landing: 0830 Flight Time: 2:30

A/C No. 44-28721 “Shug” P Moss, Raymond W., Capt CP Farwell, Harold S., Capt N Hickey, William O., 1Lt B None E Luedtke, Claron William, T/Sgt R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt G None listed F Dimiceli, A. G., 1Lt (weather officer)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle at 6:00AM. First day of autumn. Feeling like a million. Briefing at 7:20AM. Fried powdered eggs, wheatena, bread, marmalade, coffee, grapefruit juice. Stand-down. Hitched to the 340th with Smith, Stanley. Found Lozowski in 486Sq (Usher, Stevenson, McLaren, Carter, Thomas, Lt Bahen, Horton also in 340th group.) Ate chow at 340th. Headquarter tent, metal stools and board covered boxes to form table. Dirt floor. Area very scattered. Visited Lt Bain and Lt Horton. Lt Ivory from 448th was also at 340th. Spoke about Rudy. Complete crews fly on transition flight. Very clear day (Hash, canned tomatoes, rice pudding, bread and peanut butter, grapefruit juice - 340th meal) Lozowski came back with me to 448th. Joe Creighton’s friend, Lt Ned Reilly came down from 340th (489th). Leonard and Ned stayed for supper. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, shredded cabbage, fried eggplants, bread, marmalade, coffee. We went through the chow line twice. Killed a bottle of Jamaique Rum. None for yours truly. Used squadron jeep to drive the boys back. Removed our caps and zipped our jackets up and drank with Ned at the 340th officer's club. Edith (Red Cross) acting bartendress. Sampled every drink. Creighton drank consistently (American whiskey and gin). Met Captain Taylor. Ned removed three cases of Rupert’s beer for Joe and me. Tried to leave at 9:00PM. Finally departed at 11:00PM. Joe very stinko. Yours truly drove back. Arrived camp 12:15AM. Very tired. Clear night. Stumbled on way in tent. Chief (John Nelson) kidding me about being inebriated. Retired 12:30AM.” Bahen, A. L., 1Lt, bombardier, 486th BS, 340th BG Carter, B. D., Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG Creighton, Joe, 389th BS, 340th BG DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy”, 2Lt, bombardier, 445th BS Horton, C. A., 2Lt, pilot, 486th BS, 340th BG? Horton, R. H., 1Lt, pilot, 486th BS, 340th BG? Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS Lozowski, Leonard J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner, 448th BS

Thursday, 21 September 1944 (continued)

Reilly, Ned, Lt, 489th BS, 340th BG Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl, gunner, 445th BS Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS Stevenson, R. D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG Usher, C. C., Sgt, tail gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG

Friday, 22 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy operating N of the Italian battle area, medium bombers bomb road and rail bridges, while fighter-bombers continue hitting roads, railroads, and transportation, and support ground forces as US Fifth Army elements prepare to pursue the enemy withdrawing from N of Pistoia and to drive N to Raticosa Pass and NE to Imola; British Eighth Army forces battle the enemy along the Marecchia River; HQ 87th Fighter Wing moves from Furiani, Corsica to Caserta; the 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Salon, France to Follonica with A-20s; the 438th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 319th Bombardment Group (Medium), moves from Decimomannu, Sardinia to Serragio, Corsica with B-26s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Three missions totaling 56 sorties were flown today against the Cittadella, Legnago, and Piazzola railroad bridges. All objectives were well hit, particularly the Cittadella bridge which had 300 feet knocked out of it. No ships lost.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 561/mission 561) Group Mission # 561: Piazzola Rail Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 562/mission 562) Group Mission # 562: Cittadella Road and Rail Bridge in Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 563/mission 563) Group Mission # 563: Legnano RR Bridge, F-893257 (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron participated in two missions today. The second mission saw three 445th ships help bombing the Legnago railroad bridge, Italy once again with a 100 per cent bombing accuracy. The work of the squadron bombardiers recently is nothing less than sensational.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 561/mission 561) Group Mission # 561: (445th BS did not participate)

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 562/mission 562) Group Mission # 562: The first went out to attack the Cittadella road and railroad bridge, Italy. 12 ships from the squadron scored 6 direct hits on the bridge knocking out 300 feet of the span with 100 per cent bombing accuracy and drew a commendation from Colonel Smith for “probably the most effective attack ever carried out by the group against a bridge”. Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” (later “Winnie Mae”) P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 1Lt CP Martin, John W., 2Lt Cox, Harold L., 2Lt N Sides, Harry F., 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Arcuri, John (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt N None None B Emery, Ben D., 1Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Plunk, Charlie B., T/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” P Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt CP Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Reed, Donald C., 1Lt N None None B Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt E Smith, William F., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt CP Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt N None None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Salch, Raymond F., Cpl G Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously A/C No. 43-28928 “Heaven Can “Modern Design”) Wait” P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt CP Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt E Cummings, Walter T., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt R Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt Otterness, William B., Cpl G Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 1Lt CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt G Walburn, John A., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” (2nd flight, 2nd element, No 2 position - returned early due to engine trouble) P Santone, Michael A., 2Lt CP Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt N None B Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 563/mission 563) Group Mission # 563: The second mission saw three 445th ships help bombing the Legnago railroad bridge, Italy once again with a 100 per cent bombing accuracy. The work of the squadron bombardiers recently is nothing less than sensational.

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 2Lt None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Hunsberger, William R., Cpl R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt CP Lewis, Max E., 2Lt N None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt E Woody, Louie M., Sgt R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: Homeward bound are the following men of the 446: Captain Sampson, Lieut. Smith, Lieut. Wotkowicz and Sergeant Mike Ferance of ordnance. Ferance, Mike (NMI), Sgt, ordnance Sampson, Allan T., Capt, pilot Smith, Randell L., 1Lt, pilot Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 561/mission 561) Group Mission # 561: Squadron Mission 396 TARGET: Piazzola Rail Bridge, Italy DATE: 22 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000lb. 446th Planes: 12 Lt. Goff led the formation. Good concentration with all bombs in target area especially on W half of bridge and W approach. W approach cut. Reports of direct hits on center of bridge. No flak. Lts. Hawkes, Swanson and Nagel returned early.

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt CP Panning, Robert F., 2Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt N None Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt B Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt E Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl Fellmer, Carl M., T/Sgt G Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” P Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt N None None B Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Brown, Dennis H., Cpl G Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) P Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt CP Everhart, Herman E., F/O Doyle, John D., 2Lt N None None B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt G Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt CP Perlman, Jacob L., F/O Ingram, William T., 2Lt N None None B Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt Reeves, Charles F., M/Sgt E Murray, Thomas A., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” Pad” P Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N None None B Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt E Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later (returned early without completing Darlene) (returned early without mission) completing mission) P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) (returned early without completing mission) P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N None B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 562/mission 562) Group Mission # 562: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 563/mission 563) Group Mission # 563: (446th BS did not participate)

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 68, Pilot) Co-Pilot: Panning, Robert F., 2Lt B-25J 43-4052 “Lil Butch” Mission: Piazzola Rail Bridge, Italy. Flying Time: 3:25 (132nd mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl, radio-gunner: (mission 1) “No. 1) Made a run on Bridge in City of Rimini. Carried 4x1000 bombs. Flew with Lt. Fitzgerald.” Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Chow, then out to Repple Depot. Sacker and I up to RC for coffee etc. Hung around town all a.m. To show ‘Desperados’, good. Landlady had a small party for us.” Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Gordon J. Brule; 1st Lt. George J. Schweda; 1st Lt. Robert J. Burns; 2nd Lt. Ralph E. Hennessey; S/Sgt. William T. Mabbutt; S/Sgt. Edmund Rogowski; S/Sgt. Frank J. Flowers; S/Sgt. Dale G. Miller; S/Sgt. Glenn S. Thomason. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Capri. 1st Lt. Robert T. Cunningham; 1st Lt. Ernest C. Rice; S/Sgt. Harold W. Scarberry; S/Sgt. Jack Bowman; Sgt. Ernest E. Byrn. The following enlisted men have returned from rest camp Rome, Italy: Sgt. James E. Dowell; Sgt. Carlo E. Huhtala; Sgt. John J. Smith Jr. The following officers and enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. Richard J. Woods, 1st Lt. Marion E. Walker; S/Sgt. George D. Schnaars; S/Sgt. Gaston G. Poulin; S/Sgt. Harold R. Bauder; Sgt. Andrew C. Dubbs. The following enlisted men are assigned to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing: S/Sgt. Clyde D. Hilliard; Sgt. Dale L. Strange; Cpl. Norman L. Waterman; Cpl. John B. Wrede Jr; Pfc. Herman C. Wikle; Pvt. Charles D. Carzoli; Pvt Richard E. Spradlin. Sergeant Dale L. Strange was added to the S-2 staff. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing and local transition. Bauder, Harold R., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt, gunner Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt, bombardier Burns, Robert J., 1Lt, pilot Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt, engineer-gunner Carzoli, Charles D., Pvt, mess Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot Dowell, James E., Sgt, mess Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt, engineer-gunner Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt, pilot Hilliard, Clyde D., S/Sgt, photographer Huhtala, Carlo E., Sgt, engineering Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt, gunner Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt, pilot Rogowski, Edmund W., S/Sgt, gunner Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt, gunner Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt, gunner Schweda, George J., 1Lt, pilot Smith, John J., Jr., Sgt, armament Spradlin, Richard E., Pvt, armament Strange, Dale L., Sgt, personnel

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

Thomason, Glenn S., S/Sgt, engineering Walker, Marion E., 1Lt, pilot Waterman, Norman L., Cpl, engineering Wikle, Herman C., PFC, mess Woods, Richard J., 1Lt, pilot Wrede, John B., Jr., Cpl, engineering

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 561/mission 561) Group Mission # 561: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 562/mission 562) Group Mission # 562: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 563/mission 563) Group Mission # 563: Fourteen of our ships participated in a raid on the Legnano RR Bridge, F-893257, with Lt. Muzinich leading our squadron. A good concentration, centered on the northeast end approach. Another pattern straddled the center with direct hits. The bridge was cut in the NE section. Mission efficiency 83.3 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) P Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Gies, Donald W., F/O N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt R See, Russell K., T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F Merrill, B. L., Capt, 9th Combat None Camera? A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” (returned - did not complete mission) P Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt CP Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt N None None B Toole, John F., T/Sgt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt E Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Burns, Harry B., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” P Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt CP Wentz, James I. “Jim”, F/O Bullion, Rolland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None None B Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt Dawson, Roy C., S/Sgt E Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt R Simberg, Alvin L., T/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., T/Sgt G Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt CP Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 2Lt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt E Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt Smith, William L., S/Sgt R Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt G Williams, James H., Sgt Citarelli, James E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt Stocking, Eugene E., Capt CP Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt Netzel, Carl F., Cpl R Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt G Veid, Joseph (NMI), S/Sgt McKnight, John A., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” Runyon) P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt CP Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt N None None B Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt E Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt R Matthews, William E., T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt G Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Cpl F None None

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27636 P Gillies, John R., 1Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt CP Brice, David W., 2Lt Condit, Albert K., 2Lt N None None B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt R Free, Paul L., T/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt G Hagan, Richard E., Cpl McFarland, John F., T/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt CP Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt N None B O’Neil, James R., S/Sgt E Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt G Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 47) “Target: Legnago Road and RR Br Flak: None Combat: 2:55 Bombs: 1,000 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 079 (43-4079 “Little David”) Crew: P-Lt Dean CP-Lt Murchland B-Lt Gould E-SSG Partee R-TSG Alpino G SSG Mango Concentrations on NE end and approaches and on center. Several direct hits seen. Bridge believed out in NE sections.” Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Gould, Joe W., 2Lt, bombardier Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 561/mission 561) Group Mission # 561: Mission 356 (561): At 09:08 15 planes off to bomb Piazzola Rail Bridge, Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated as the last element of the first flight. The formation dropped 60 x 1000 # .1 and .025 bombs from 10/11,500 feet. Good concentration with several D/H on center of bridge and that span down. Observations: 15/20 RR cars in yards at Vincenzo. No flak. Weather: CAVU.

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued) A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27668 P Warren, William F., 1Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt CP Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt Autry, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt N None None B Young, Robert B., 1Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt R Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not Out” P Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt N None B Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl F LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 562/mission 562) Group Mission # 562: Mission 357 (562): At 08:45 24 planes off to bomb Cittadella Road and Rail Bridge in Italy. Twelve (12) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the lead of the flight. The formation dropped 90x1000# .1 & .025, from 11,000/11,500 feet. 6x1000# salvoed-Malfunction. All bombs in target area. Entire east end of bridge down. Observations: 550 RR cars in yards, tanks and armored cars parked. No flak encountered. Weather: CAVU. A/C No. 43-27720 A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt CP McLain, Damon I., Capt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, Capt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Campbell, James R., T/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt F None Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt CP Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt N None None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt E Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt N None None B Brink, Richard E., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O E Wright, Melvin M., Cpl Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt Herod, James E. “Jim”, Cpl G Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-27791 P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt Grady, John R., 1Lt CP Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 2Lt None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Kiska, George P., 1Lt E Reves, Louis E., Cpl Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt R Goldstein, George (NMI), T/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, S/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” P Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt CP Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt Smith, Milford A., 2Lt N None None B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 1Lt E Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., S/Sgt G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” P Stevens, Ray B., 1Lt Hales, Ermine L., Capt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N None None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt, 446th BS Conover, Donald C., 1Lt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., Cpl Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 563/mission 563) Group Mission # 563: (448th BS did not participate)

Friday, 22 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle at 6:00AM. Briefing 7:20AM. Pancakes, stewed prunes, bread, marmalade, coffee. Very clear morning. Weather reconnaissance ship sent out over target area to check weather. Target at Cittadella, northern Italy. Carrying 10000 lb GP. Target is 1000 x43 foot railroad bridge. Flying #805 (43-27805 “Desirable”) Lt Ovard pilot. Using K-8A camera. Takeoff 8:45 AM. Flying 12000 feet. Very cold. Over target 11:03AM. Lead ship second element. First run on target, wing ships dropped bombs. Bombs went all over countryside. Second run was a 100% hit. Viewed snow covered Alps. Milk run. Met a character Ben Hospod. Landed 12:40. Feeling very tired. Schaffner left for the states via Naples. Moved to corner of tent. 310th men badly poisoned from lye in wheat cakes. Played cribbage with James Blackard. Vienna sausages with sauce, kidney beans, creamed peas, coffee, bread and butter. Sleeping bag very comfortable and warm. Retired 8:00PM.” Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt, pilot Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Saturday, 23 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Although several missions are aborted because of bad weather:

In Italy, medium bombers attack several railroad bridges in the Po River Valley; fighter-bombers hit guns and rail and road targets in the battle area as the US Fifth Army pushes on through the Gothic Line defenses.

In France, the detachment of the 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group [attached to 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)], moves from Satolas-et-Bonce to Dijon with F-5s (squadron is based at Valence); the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Satolas-et-Bonce to Dijon with F-6s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Three more bridges were again smothered by 1000 pounders delivered by the 321st. The entire Legnago bridge was knocked off its supports; the Pavia North RR bridge had 4 spans destroyed while the Pavia East RR bridge was rendered impassable. Pinpoint objective bombing seems to have attained a new high degree of finesse as “bridge-busting” gets down to the fine science developed by the 321st Bomb Group and its Commander, Colonel R. H. Smith.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 564/mission 564) Group Mission # 564: ------321st BG MISSION No: 564 DATE: 23 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-12 448-0 TARGET: Padua N. RR Bridge at G-350530. TIME OFF: 0744 T.O.T.: 0930 TIME DOWN: 1100 AXIS OF ATTACK: 85° HEIGHT: 10,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 46 x 1000# .1 & .01 1 x 1000# ret. malfunction. 1 x 1000# salvoed over water. PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-4919, L-3088, L-7587, L-9799, G-0342, G-0850 (IP), target, left turn to G-3758, G-1954, G-0316 & base. WEATHER: Enroute: 9/10 cumulus in mts., tops at 8000’. Visibility: unlimited. Target: 7/10 altocumulus bases at 14,000’. Visibility: unlimited. FLAK: None. ENEMY AIR: None CLAIMS: None.

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

RESULTS: All bombs target area. Best concentration from center to N. end of bridge. Several direct hits seen. OBSERVATIONS: At 0945 hrs. 6 M/T heading SE in Bondeno (L-9692); at 0942 hrs. 15 scattered M/T heading E & W between G-0315 & G-1013; 40 M/T stationary on road halfway between Parma and Reggio; much M/T activity on roads S. of La Spezia; engine & 6 cars heading N. toward Cittadella out of Padua at 0929 hrs. FLIGHT LEADERS: Capt. Murray. NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN.

S. P. NEPRASH, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer. ------

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 565/mission 565) Group Mission # 565: ------321st BG MISSION No: 565 DATE: 23 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 12 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-0 448-12 TARGET: Padua East R.R. Bridge at G-359509. TIME OFF: 0749 T.O.T.: 0929 TIME DOWN: 1110 AXIS OF ATTACK: 09° HEIGHT: 10,600/11,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 47 x 1000# - .1 & .01 1 x 1000# - returned because of malfunction. PLANES HOLED: 5 ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-4919, L-3088, L-7587, L-9799, G-0316, G-3628 (IP), target, left turn to G-3758, G-1954, G-0316 and return. WEATHER: Enroute: 9/10 cumulus over mountains, tops at 8000 ft. Visibility: unlimited. Target: 7/10 altocumulus bases at 14,000’. Visibility: unlimited. FLAK: Moderate, fairly accurate, heavy from Rovigo area and moderate, heavy, out of range from G-2030 between Este and Monselice. ENEMY AIR: None CLAIMS: None. RESULTS: Center of bridge and west approach hit by good concentration of bombs with a number of direct hits reported on center of bridge. Bridge believed cut. OBSERVATIONS: 20 M/T heading S.W. from Bondeno to Finale Nell’Emilia. 10 M/T going N.W. at 0935 just S. of Novellara from Reggio. 30/40 M/T near Badia Polesine. 60 R.R. cars at Camposanto L-7880 loaded with tanks and heavy equipment. 100 R.R. cars at Capri. 50 R.R. cars at Mirandola L-7091. FLIGHT LEADERS: Capt. Farwell. NO. OF SORTIES: 12 PHOTOS TAKEN.

ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Intelligence Officer. ------

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 566/mission 566) Group Mission # 566: ------321st BG MISSION No: 566 DATE: 23 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 30 SQUADRONS: 445-12 446-15 447-0 448-3 TARGET: Legnago RR Bridge at F-893257. TIME OFF: 0808 T.O.T.: 0956 TIME DOWN: 1130 AXIS OF ATTACK: 345° HEIGHT: 10,500/11,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 120 x 1000# GP .1 & .01 PLANES HOLED: 5 ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-4919, L-3088, L-7587, L-9799 (IP), target, right turn to F-9927, L- 9799, retrace route home. WEATHER: Enroute: 9/10 cumulus in mountains, tops at 8000 ft. Vis: unlimited. Target: 7/10 altocumulus bases at 14,000’. Visibility: unlimited. FLAK: None ENEMY AIR: None CLAIMS: None. RESULTS: Excellent concentration on target with several direct hits. Some bombs over on south bank of river.

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

OBSERVATIONS: 1000 hrs 20 M/T heading S. at F-9618. 15 M/T heading S. at P-9949. 12 M/T heading N. & S. between L-0260 to Parma. 30/40 M/T SE from Castagnaro, at G-0016. 9 M/T heading N. toward Reggiolo at L-4595. 9 square truck size vehicles, stationary on rd. just NW Pontremoli. 1030 hrs. locomotive with steam up at Reggio M/Y. 4 strings rail cars Parma to Reggio (30 plus cars stationary L- 1982). 40/50 RR cars stationary San Felice M/Y L-7589 and/or Guastalla L-3699. 9 small barges in groups of 3 just NW of Bondeno. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Russell, Hawkes, Dickson. NO. OF SORTIES: 30 PHOTOS TAKEN.

RAGNAR G. LIND, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t. S-2 Officer. ------

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: The Italian K.P.’s who had served the squadron faithfully ever since the early days at Gaudo, Italy left the outfit for their native land following an order by higher headquarters. They were hard and efficient workers and will be sorely missed not only by the cooks but also by the men themselves who are now going to be forced to pull K.P. themselves. The squadron area has taken on a metropolitan touch with the advent of “telegraph poles” erected in the area to raise the power lines off the ground. Presidential citation ribbons were distributed today. Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", Capt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 564/mission 564) Group Mission # 564: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 565/mission 565) Group Mission # 565: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 566/mission 566) Group Mission # 566: The squadron supplied 12 ships led by Capt. Russell today to help attack the Legnago railroad bridge, Italy. The red hot squadron bombardiers continued on their brilliant bombing streak by coming through with another 100 per cent bombing accuracy.

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” (later “Winnie Mae”) (flight leader) P Russell, Lawrence L. “Scrap Iron”, Capt Moore, Henry D., 1Lt CP Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt N Casaburi, Robert Roland, Capt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Cravey, Robert P., 2Lt E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt CP Reed, Donald C., 1Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27741 “Val” (previously “Modern Design”) P Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt Poteete, Max W., 2Lt N None None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), S/Sgt R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt G Jacobs, Harry E., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 44-28928 “Heaven Can Wait” P Dyer, Robert H., 1Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 2Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Sgt Miller, Edward A., Cpl R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt F None None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert H., S/Sgt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt R Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt G Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt Born, Walter E., 2Lt CP Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt N None None B Doherty, Charles S., Sgt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”(Lead A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” spare - did not fill in) (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt CP Lewis, Max E., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N None None B Emery, Ben D., 1Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt E Woody, Louie M., Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., Cpl R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt Otterness, William B., Cpl G Valley, Arnold E., S/Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl F None None

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/23/44: “Yesterday I returned from a five-day pass to Rome. I was greatly impressed by the beauty of the city. Being the only town of any culture and richness I have visited since leaving the States, perhaps made it seem more splendid than it would have been otherwise. We went by plane and landed at the Littorio airport, early in the forenoon. First of all we proceeded to find a room, which was not at all difficult as we were accosted by a nice old lady as soon as we got off the jeep. She took us to an apartment house at number 47 Via Montebello where Gil, Leslie Hildebrandt and I took a room with two beds for $4.00 per day. Later we ran into Rucker who was on his way home from Foggia and he stayed over with us. Two middle-aged women owned the apartment and they were very nice to us, especially after they learned we were not interested in “Signorinas”, a subject they seemed to like to discuss. Hildebrand, Leslie A., T/Sgt, photographer Inman, Gilbert E. "Gil", Sgt, armament Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

The afternoon of our first day the four of us strolled about the city visiting such places as the Coliseum, Victoria Emanuel II monument and the ruins of ancient Rome. At nine o’clock the next morning we joined the Red Cross tour and visited the Pantheon, St. Peter’s church and the Vatican where we saw the Pope. St. Peter’s is the most marvelous work of man I have ever seen. The perfect beauty of the statues, particularly Michelangelo’s Pieta, the mosaics, marble floor pattern and pillars, the gold on St. Peter’s tomb, and the immensity of the place, is indescribable. One has to see it to believe it. In the great hall of the Vatican we stood along an aisle for about an hour waiting for the Pope to appear. At last, attended by a magnificent procession of Pontiffs, Cardinals, etc. and Swiss guards in their elaborate red and green and yellow uniforms, he came, carried in a chair on the shoulders of men. As he passed down the aisle many soldiers held rosaries and crucifixes to be blessed, which he did by passing his hand over them. Here was the great representative of God on earth, held by millions to be the holy, sinless symbol of God and Christ, being carried in richness and splendor on the backs of men for to be seen and worshipped. It was as if I were seeing a circus act. Such cannot be true religion. The Pope spoke a few minutes in English, most of which I could not understand, afterward individually speaking with and blessing officers, nurses and WACs who were escorted to the front. We were very tired and hungry after our long walk and wait. Naturally our first thought was of a restaurant. Somehow Gil and I became separated from Hildie who was taking pictures of the Pope so we entered a restaurant on a fashionable street not far from the Vatican. There we met a couple of young girls who rather struck our fancies. We decided to take them to a show and dance at the Red Cross. They very coyly arranged to have us follow them from the cafe after refusing to let us pay for their meal. It was not long before we discovered that they had different ideas of a good time, so, much to their frustration we parted company. Rome is full of such victory girls. Hildebrand, Leslie A. “Hildie”, T/Sgt, photographer

Our time for the next few days was spent visiting various places of interest, shopping, eating ice cream at the Red Cross and attending theaters, both Italian and Allied. I was disappointed that we could not obtain tickets for “The Barber of Seville” which was playing at the Royal Opera House. One evening in the midst of a drenching rain I played Sir Walter Raleigh to a young lady by lending her my coat and accompanying her home. She became very solicitous as we walked along singing Lili Marlene, and I was surprised when she did not invite me to her room. She explained that on account of the rain she was not going to her own house. At any rate I had prepared my declination of her offer which I felt was forthcoming. While I was in Rome, the trial of Caretta, the famed Fascist killer was being held. Caretta was taken from the prison by a mob of enraged widows and relatives of the 320 people massacred in the Adreantine Caves. He was beaten and thrown from a bridge into the Tiber. This bloody outrage, though I did not see the dead, was manifested by the turmoil that gripped the city for several days.

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

On account of weather, the plane that came for us had to stay overnight. The skies cleared the next morning and we made the hop in 55 minutes. I was glad to get home, but disappointed not to find mail waiting for me. It has been several weeks since a letter. We are preparing for a long stay on Corsica which does not please me. The Italian boys are going home and that means KP again for us. Several groups of B-26s are moving up from Sardinia and that should help the attendance at our church services.”

446th BS War Diary: A very successful mission is flown to northern Italy.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 564/mission 564) Group Mission # 564: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 565/mission 565) Group Mission # 565: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 566/mission 566) Group Mission # 566: Squadron Mission 397 TARGET: Legnago Rail Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 23 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. GP 446th Planes: 15 Lt. Russell led the formation. Excellent concentration on target with several direct hits. No flak. Lt. Wozniak, spare returned early. Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", Capt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N None None B Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt G South, William R., S/Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” Ass II” (flight leader) (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” P Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt CP Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt Perlman, Jacob L., F/O N None None B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt R Wilking, Robert L., Cpl Poorman, William H., S/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated dropped from nose art) lady - no name/lettering) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt CP Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., F/O N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart” (flight leader) P Dickson, Gale Monroe, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64549 A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later Darlene) P Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N None None B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E McArdle, John R., S/Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Brown, Dennis H., Cpl Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) P Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Wallace, Robert D., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N None None B Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 Pad” (Spare - returned early - did not fill “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) in) P Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt N None None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Noel, Paul R., 2Lt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt F None None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 69, Pilot) Co-Pilot: Ingram, William T., 2Lt B-25J 43-4052 “Lil Butch” Mission: Legnano Railroad Bridge, Italy (F-893257) Flying Time: 3:25 (133rd mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Arrived back to Repple Depot @ 0800, Sacker & Taylor told they were leaving by plane immediately. To Red Cross, coffee, etc. Shaved. Tried to go to Opera matinee, no seats. Showered @ RC. Supper @ Transient Mess. To opera @ 1900, saw III Act of La Traviata, Also ballet. Good.” Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Earl W. Hall; 1st Lt Walter N. Vieser; 1st Lt. Stanley J. Wiechert; S/Sgt. John A. Keefe; S/Sgt. L.E. Sheppard; T/Sgt. Francis S. Torrey; Sgt. Robert F. Buzby; Sgt. Paul B. Connolly; Sgt. Edward J. Dwila; Sgt. Andrew R. Richards; Cpl. Norman C. Bulfinch. The following officers and enlisted men are on DS, Cairo, Egypt: Capt. Eugene E. Stocking; 1st Lt. Gerald E. Fisher; 1st Lt. Edward Krafka; 1st Lt. Ivan E. Dean; 1st Lt. Marvin L. Speer; S/Sgt. Herbert Dimondstein; T/Sgt. Andrew Pelak;

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

T/Sgt. John F. McFarland; S/Sgt. Everett H. Clyne; Sgt. George F. Murray. Today’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing. Bulfinch, Norman C., Cpl, intelligence Buzby, Robert F., Sgt, armament Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, armament-gunner Connolly, Paul B., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI),S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Dwila, Edward J., Sgt, engineering Fisher, Gerald E., 1Lt, bombardier Hall, Earl W., 1Lt, pilot Keefe, John A., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot McFarland, John F., T/Sgt, gunner Murray, George F., Sgt, engineering Pelak, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Richard, Andrew R., Sgt, engineering Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Speer, Marvin L, 1Lt, pilot Stocking, Eugene, E., Capt, pilot Torrey, Francis S., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt, bombardier Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 566/mission 566) Group Mission # 564: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on the Padua North RR Bridge (G-350530) with Lt. Murray leading our squadron. All bombs fell within the target area. The heaviest concentration covered the center and north ends of the bridge and scored several direct hits. Mission efficiency 91.6 %; Bombing accuracy 95.6 %.

A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” (flight leader) P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt CP Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt E Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt Dawson, Roy C., S/Sgt R Cowart, Eugene C., T/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt G Williams, James H., Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None None B Bardy, Edmund E., Jr., 2Lt Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt E Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt R Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt G Veid, Joseph (NMI), S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) P Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt N None None B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt E Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt G May, Frederick J., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Schweda, George J., 1Lt CP Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Condit, Albert K., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt B Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 1Lt E Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt Netzel, Carl F., Cpl R Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt G Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt McKnight, John A., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” P Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt CP Gies, Donald W., F/O Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., 2Lt R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt G Hagan, Richard E., Cpl Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” (Lead spare - returned - did not fill in on mission) P Burns, Robert J., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt CP Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None None B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, William L., S/Sgt R See, Russell K., T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Cpl F Burns, Harry B., Sgt None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 565/mission 565) Group Mission # 565: (447th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 565/mission 565) Group Mission # 566: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 48) “Target: Padova N RR Br (Venice) Flak: None Combat: 3:10 Bombs: 1,000 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 029 (43-4029 “Mike Hunt”) Crew: P-Lt Magne CP-Lt Christian B-Lt Mulholland E-SSG Partee R-TSG Alpino G SSG Mango All bombs in target area. Best concentration from center to N end of bridge. Direct hits seen.” Alpino, Joseph D., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt, pilot Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “58th mission, flew with Lt. Brown as bombardier, nice bombing at Padua R.R. bridge, second flight caught flak.” Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 564/mission 564) Group Mission # 564: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 565/mission 565) Group Mission # 565: Mission 358 (565): At 0749 12 planes off to bomb Padua East RR Bridge, Italy. 448th Bombardment Squadron was the only participant in this attack dropping 47x1000 bombs; 1x1000 returned because of malfunction, from 10,600/11,000 feet. Bridge believed cut by a number of direct hits. Moderate, fairly accurate, heavy from Rovigo area. 5 planes holed. Weather: 7/10 altocumulus, visibility unlimited.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” (flight A/C No. 43-28081 leader) P Farwell, Harold S., Capt Bard, John A., 1Lt CP Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt N Hickey, William O., 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Young, Robert B., 1Lt E Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt Reves, Louis E., Cpl R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” P Riley, Robert L., 1Lt Norris, Grafton R., 1Lt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt N None None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Conover, Donald C., 1Lt E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt F Merrill, B. L., Capt, 9th Combat None Camera? A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” P Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt Tetlow, John S., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 1Lt E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, S/Sgt Doughty, Paul F., T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt Grady, John R., 1Lt CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Kiska, George P., 1Lt E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt R Goldstein, George (NMI), T/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4076 P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Stevens, Ray B., 1Lt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Poteet, Edward J., Sgt E Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt Campbell, James R., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27481 P Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Smith, Milford A., 2Lt N None None B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt E Wright, Melvin M., Cpl Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 566/mission 566) Group Mission # 566: Mission 359 (566): At 08:08 30 planes off to bomb Legnago RR Bridge, Italy. Three (3) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last element of the second flight. The formation dropped 120x1000# GP .1 & .01 from 10,500/11,000 feet. Excellent concentration on target with several direct hits. No flak. Weather: 7/10 altocumulus with visibility unlimited.

A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Warren, William F., 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt CP Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O Brink, Richard E., 2Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt R Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., S/Sgt F Seward, Richard F., Sgt None A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not Out” P Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt CP Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 2Lt B Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None

Saturday, 23 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Light in tent awoke me at 5:10AM. Did not hear CQ blow whistle. Briefing at 6:00AM. Fresh toast, syrup, coffee. Carrying 1000 lb GP's. Lead ship last element. Target is at Padua, Northern Italy. Railroad bridge. 3/10 coverage at field. Lt Grady, pilot (067). Takeoff 8:53AM. One minute before reaching IP, beaucoup flak. Evasive action. Over target 9:29AM. 100% hit. Returned same route and caught more flak. Right wing ship dropped out. Landed 11:45AM. Five flak holes in our ship. Flew as radio- photographer. Using K-8A. Reported beaucoup ground activity over enemy territory (Convoys, barges, industry). Hash paddies, tomato sauce, mashed potatoes, canned corn, bread, butter, water. Winterizing tents. 2 x 4's form framework. Wooden floors. Tar paper and chicken wire form walls. Floor 12" off ground. Making company streets. Sides are 6' high. Still taking showers outside. Read "Outcasts of Poker Flat", Bret Harte. Issued air mattress. No mail. Fair weather. American whiskey at club. Steve came over. Joe Creighton, Wesley Kheen, Mike Green, Louey Dunbar and I drank beer at their tent. Retired at 9:30 PM” Creighton, Joe, 389th BS, 340th BG Dunbar, Louis C. "Louey", Cpl, radio-gunner, communications Grady, John R., 1Lt, pilot Greene, Michael J., Sgt, engineering Wojnolowicz, Stephen J. "Wowly", Sgt, ordnance, 445th BS

Sunday, 24 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, weather cancels medium bomber and A-20 operations; fighter-bombers support ground forces, bombing and strafing strongpoints, troop concentrations, and frontline communications targets as the US Fifth Army pushes through N Apennines; HQ 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance) and the 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron move from Borgo, Corsica to Rosia and Malignano respectively with F-5s; HQ 57th Fighter Group and the 64th and 65th Fighter Squadrons move from Ombrone Airfield to Grosseto with P-47s; the detachment of the 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), operating from Malignano with F-5s returns to base at Florence/Peretola.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Both missions today were disappointingly abortive as the formations got almost up to the target as the weather closed in preventing bombing.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 567/mission 567) Group Mission # 567: Ponte di Piave RR Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 568/mission 568) Group Mission # 568: Campolongo Railway Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: There was no combat mission today. The mail situation has reached a new low and the men are just about as low in morale. Very good improvements have been made on the mess hall of the enlisted men. New tables have been installed while the porches are being cemented and a fireplace being erected inside through the work of a French mason hired for the job. Since there was no activity this afternoon, the Mitchell-Aires practiced all afternoon in the Officers club. Chicken was enjoyed by all at the supper meal.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 567/mission 567) Group Mission # 567:

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt CP McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt Bowling, Dan Parker, 2Lt N Sides, Harry F., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, William F., S/Sgt R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt Salch, Raymond F., Cpl G Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, S/Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) P Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt CP Poteete, Max W., 2Lt Couch, Thomas (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Emery, Ben D., 1Lt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt CP Reed, Donald C., 1Lt Lewis, Max E., 2Lt N None None B Cravey, Robert P., F/O Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt E Smith, William A., S/Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Weld, Willis R., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt N Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl R Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), S/Sgt Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt F None Abrams, Samuel (NMI) “Sam”, Cpl A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” P Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt CP Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt N None B Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Walther, Henry W., S/Sgt R Otterness, William B., Cpl G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 568/mission 568) Group Mission # 568: (445th BS did not participate)

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 567/mission 567) Group Mission # 567: Squadron Mission 398 TARGET: Ponte di Piave RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 24 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Burandt led the formation. Did not bomb due to cloud cover. No flak. Lts. Pietrowski and Wallace returned early. Spares.

A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” Darlene) P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Trosky, Chester J., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt None B Clausen, Lawrence A., 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt E Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Thornton, Lotus Moody, S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” Ass II” P Wozniak, Stanley E., 1Lt Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt CP Perlman Jacob L., F/O Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Sgt R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Carlson, Lowell A., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt E Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Fellmer, Carl M., T/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl G Leeper, Kenneth E., S/Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt N None None B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E McArdle, John R., S/Sgt Murray, Thomas A., S/Sgt R Brown, Dennis H., Cpl Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name Pad” dropped from nose art) (Spare - returned early - did not fill in) P Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O Doyle, John D., 2Lt N None None B Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt Leith, William V., 2Lt E Aderholt, William J., JR., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) (Spare - returned early - did not fill in) P Wallace, Robert D., 1Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt N None B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl G Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 568/mission 568) Group Mission # 568: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot) Pilot: unknown B-25C Mission: Test Hop Flying Time: 1:00 (134th mission in MTO)

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “To Repple Depot, then back out to town. Picked up laundry and cleaning after an hours wait. To RC, coffee, ice cream, etc. Hung around there all afternoon, lot of fun with RC girl. After supper, to show ‘Shine on Harvest Moon’ – good. After supper, in apartment, the I’ty landlady told me all her troubles. C’est La Guerre.”

447th BS War Diary: S/Sgt. William H. Burke Jr.; S/Sgt. Jordan L. Bushnell were relieved of assignment and transferred on rotation to Replacement Depot N. 9, for transshipment to the United States, per orders Hq. 12AF Sept. 20. Training today consisted of local transition. Morning report, Officers 92; Enlisted Men 342. Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 567/mission 567) Group Mission # 567: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 568/mission 568) Group Mission # 568: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on Campolongo Railway Bridge, with Captain Wiginton leading our squadron, but due to cloud coverage no bombs were dropped.

A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie” Blonde” P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt B Dawson, Roy C., S/Sgt Webb, James A., 1Lt E Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt R MacNeil, Joseph W., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Burns, Robert J., 1Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 1Lt CP Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt N None None B Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt Darrell, Franklin Lloyd J., 2Lt E Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt R Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt Simberg, Alvin L., T/Sgt G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Cpl Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None None

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” Runyon) P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt CP Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt Gies, Donald W., F/O N None None B Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt Toole, John F., T/Sgt E O’Neil, James R., S/Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt R Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt G Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” P Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 2Lt CP Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt B Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 2Lt E Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt Smith, William L., S/Sgt R Netzel, Carl F., Cpl LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt G May, Frederick J., S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt CP Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt N None B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt R See, Russell K., T/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt F Burns, Harry B., Sgt

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “59th mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Campolongo R.R. Bridge, nice bombing, no opposition.” Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 567/mission 567) Group Mission # 567: (448th BS did not participate)

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 568/mission 568) Group Mission # 568: Mission 360 (568): At 08:48 18 planes off to bomb Campolongo Railway Bridge, Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated in the position as lead squadron for the flight. The formation dropped no bombs due to clouds and overcast. Abortive due to weather. No flak. Visibility 5/10 miles in haze. A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not A/C No. 43-27528 Out” P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None B Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27668 P Moyer, Emerson C., 1Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt CP Smith, Milford A., 2Lt Stromberg, Clark K., 2Lt N None None B Conover, Donald C., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., Cpl Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., T/Sgt G Congdon, Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt F Merrill, B. L., Capt, 9th Combat None Camera? A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” P Warren, William F., 1Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Judy, Philip R., 1Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 1Lt E Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Wright, Melvin M., Cpl R Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie P Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt CP Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Brink, Richard E., 2Lt E Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Bowman, William W., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 24 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27523 P Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt CP Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt N Hickey, William O., 1Lt B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, Capt E Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt G Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “James called me at 6:30AM. Not on today's mission. Partly cloudy. Pancakes, stewed apricots, wheatena, marmalade, coffee. Washed sun-tans. Read "The Last Will", Williston Fish, "The Duke and Dauphin Come Aboard," Mark Twain. Worked with detail assembling duplex building to house S-2, operations and orderly room. Spoke with Major Knievel. Fred Jacobson returned from Rome. Boiled chicken, creamed peas, canned tomatoes, coffee, bread and butter. Filled out PR form at S-2. Picked up air mattress at tech supply. Mission was at SW of Venice. 10/10 sky prevented bombing. Hot dogs, tomato sauce, navy beans, diced beets, bread, butter, coffee. Ned Heilich came down. Had a beer, liquor and food party at Mike Kocsis' tent. (Ned Creighton, Adams, Lynn, Jesse, George, Ned and yours truly (2 beers and 1 shot). Commenced Gene Fowler's "Good Night Sweet Prince". Retired 9:30PM.” Adams, Edward T., Pvt, cook or Adams, William M., Pvt, engineering Creighton, Joe, 389th BS? 340th BG Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl, gunner, photographer Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner Knievel, Arthur W., Maj, executive Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt Lind, Ragnar G. "Jeffery Lynn", 1Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG

Monday, 25 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers and A-20s cancel operations due to bad weather; fighter-bombers hit barracks areas, railroads, roads, and transportation in or near Bologna, Bozzolo, Parma, Castelfranco Veneto, and Canneto sull'Oglio, and in the immediate battle areas as the US Fifth Army meets strong opposition, especially in the vicinity of Monte Bastione, and near Torre Poggioli, Monte Gamberaldi, and Monte Castelnuovo; the 66th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, moves from Ombrone to Grosseto with P-47s.

In France, the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing, moves from Le Vallon to Longvic with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Fifteen crews were scheduled for the mission today but it was cancelled. Poor weather conditions forced Operations Officer Capt. Hatcher from carrying out his training flights. High winds whipped dust throughout the area this afternoon making it mighty unpleasant for the men. The men in the area continue to winterize their tents while the cementing of the mess hall continues. No mail today and still the men are moaning. Meat loaf was served for supper. The evening was very cool. Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/25/44: “Today we had our first real autumn weather. A stiff wind blew down from the mountains, grounding all planes and causing one to crack up when landing. At sundown the sky cleared and the wind died. There is a three-quarter moon and the air is sharp. We have the sides of the tent down. This evening we had no loading so I went with Rucker and Louie to see a USO show and movie. The USO unit was fair and the movie machine broke down. I was reminded of the night we went to a football game in Walterboro. This afternoon Rucker and I worked on a Plexiglas skylight for our tent. We cut it down from a Beau Fighter canopy. Still no mail.” Bell, Louis E. "Louie", Sgt, armament Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: Four flying men are made Captains: Burandt, Dickson, Hawkes and Mayo. Second Lieutenant Goodrich is promoted to First Lieut. Burandt, Charles Lawson "Chuck", Capt, pilot Dickson, Gale Monroe, Capt, pilot Goodrich, John W., 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., Capt, pilot Mayo, Jack D., Capt, bombardier

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot) Pilot: unknown B-25C Mission: Test Hop Flying Time: 1:00 (135th mission in MTO)

Monday, 25 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Raining very hard, but got back to Repple Depot fairly dry. Nothing new as yet. Meeting @ 0930, changing of money, etc. Into town, got a money order. Hung around RC. Meet Charlie O’Riordon, had supper with him, spent most of the evening in a bull session.”

447th BS War Diary: Today’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. The following officers were promoted to the grade of Captain: 1st Lt. Joe L. Beal, SO 240 Hq. 12AF 17 Sept. 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; 1st Lt. Marvin L. Speer; 1st Lt. Robert E. Thomas, per SO. 245 Hq. 22 Sept. Lt. William E. Levine has departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Beal, Joe L., Capt, Adjutant Levine, William E., 2Lt, intelligence Martin, Wayne R., Capt, bombardier Speer, Marvin L, Capt, pilot Thomas, Robert E., Capt, navigator

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Hot sun beating against tent awoke me at 7:05AM. Stand by on mission. Pancakes, marmalade, coffee. Very windy morning. All the Italian KP's left the island September 23rd. This was a directive issued by General Eaker. Too much friction between French and Italians. (I personally prefer the Italians). Stand-down on mission. Jim Ratcliffe and I went to the "villa" near Solenzara. Bought watermelons and tomatoes. Two watermelons the size of grapefruit and eleven tomatoes (80 francs). Attended USO show unit 265. "Hum and Drum" (Max Seides, Boston, Mass.) Ray Kretair, Amsterdam, NY. Remembered me from back home. Had quite a session. Still doing imitations. Max Seides knows Phil Saltzman well. Capt Marshall (flight surgeon) drove the boys back to the 446th officer's area. Clear and cold night. Retired 11:00PM.” Marshall, Ulysses, S. "Doc", Capt, medical Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier

Tuesday, 26 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy during the night of 25/26 Sep A-20s bomb targets of opportunity in the Po Valley; throughout the day B-25s and B-26s pound rail and road bridges in the E and NW parts of the Po Valley while fighter-bombers and fighters of the XII Fighter Command attack road nets, rails, motor transport, and supply points at many locations in the valley.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Out in full force to hit some more bridges the Group again laid good concentrations on 3 rail bridges --- the Sesto-Calende, the Ponte di Piave, and the Campolongo bridges. The Piave bridge was the only one that had spans knocked down. 5 A/C nickeling mission also flew this date.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 569/mission569) Group Mission # 569: ------321st BG MISSION No: 569 DATE: 26 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-5 446-4 447-5 448-4 TARGET: Sesto-Calende Combination RD. & Rail Br. J-824954. TIME OFF: 0728 T.O.T.: 0915 TIME DOWN: 1040 AXIS OF ATTACK: 94° HEIGHT: 10,500/11,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 72x1000# .1 & .01 PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to D-2858, O-4122, O-2651, J-3308, J-5239, J-5292, J-5696 (IP), target, left turn to D-8102, J-5696 & retraced route home. WEATHER: CAVU throughout. FLAK: Scant, inaccurate, heavy, out of range from Casale Monferrato. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Concentration of bombs on both north & south approaches with a few strings across center of bridge. 5/6 direct hits reported. Several reports of bridge heavily damaged but all spans left standing. Turbulent air made accurate bombing difficult. OBSERVATIONS: 30 RR cars in M/Y at Sesto Calende. 7 RR cars, stationary, on high bridge on SW outskirts of Asti. Heavy road traffic moving SE near Alba, O-2866 and south from Vercelli. 13 large flat square buildings at J-6187. 4 medium M/V freighters just off Arona O- 7701. Large M/V at Loano O-4222. 6 small M/V at Pietra Lig harbor (O-4424), stationary. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Collins & Muzinich. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN. ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Gp. S-2 Officer. ------

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 570/mission 570) Group Mission # 570: ------321st BG MISSION No: 570 DATE: 26 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-9 446-9 447-0 448-0 TARGET: Ponte di Piave Railroad Br. G-798813. TIME OFF: 1203 T.O.T.: 1417 & 1422 TIME DOWN: 1605 AXIS OF ATTACK: 315° HEIGHT: 10,500/11,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 72x1000# .1 & .01 fusing PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to E-5454, S-1643, N-0191, H-0162 (IP), target, RT to H-0162 and retraced route home. WEATHER: CAVU throughout. FLAK: None. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Both approaches and E. end of bridge were well hit. Several strings across middle of bridge. Because of intervalometer malfunction 1st box of 6 made a second run and report a gap in center of bridge from bombing of rest of formation. OBSERVATIONS: Ground: RR BR. at G-8573 was down. No repairs visible. Diversion in operation for M/T several hundred yards S. of target bridges. Trenches dug along N. bank of Piave River from Grisolia to S. Dona di Piave. Naval: Two groups of barges--8 & 14--in Piave river at S. Dona di Piave. Two small boats or barges leaving inlet to Venice, at G- 7847 and 6/8 small M/V’s in Venice lagoon near inlet. Dredge in river near target. One large freighter at G-7552. Several small barges anchored at Noventa di Piave with activity indicated by truck tracks on roads up to the barges. Two barges at G-7847 and two barges at G-9561. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Hawkes and Capt. Dickerson. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN.

ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Gp. S-2 Officer. ------

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 571/mission 571) Group Mission # 571: ------321st BG MISSION No: 571 DATE: 26 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-9 448-9 TARGET: Campolongo Railroad Br. G-486393. TIME OFF: 1213 T.O.T.: 1415 TIME DOWN: 1600 AXIS OF ATTACK: 318° HEIGHT: 11//11,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 36x1000# -- .1 & .01 on briefed target PLANES HOLED: None. 28x1000# -- .1 & .01 on u/i bridge north of target. ESCORT: Area Cover. 8x1000# -- .1 & .01 returned. (element leader failed WEATHER: CAVU to pick up target). ROUTE: Base to E-5454, S-1643, N-0191, G-6919 (IP), target, feint left, RT to G-6919 and reciprocal route to base FLAK: Heavy, scant to moderate, inaccurate, on breakaway just SE of target. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Hits on center, north section, and both approaches. One report bridge down in north section. Seven A/C failed to identify target and dropped on u/i bridge one-third of a mile NW of target, hitting in vicinity of N. approach. OBSERVATIONS: 4/6 barges near mouth of Brenta River. 2 fairly large boats, grey, 2 stacks, pointed bows, at breakwater approx. G-6743 at 1428 hours. Medium M/V or naval vessel and 6/7 barges in Chioggia Harbor. At 1412 hours---one large vessel near Porto Marghera (G-6354). FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Swanson & Capt. Murray. NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN.

RAGNAR G. LIND, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t. S-2 Officer. ------

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 572/mission 572) Group Mission # 572: ------321st BG MISSION No: 572 (Nickeling) DATE: 26 Sep 44 NO. A/C: 5 SQUADRONS: 445-2 446-1 447-2 448-0 TARGET: Fusignano (M-3944); Conselice (M-2548); S. Nicolo Ferry (M-2971). TIME OFF: 1324 T.O.T.: ---- TIME DOWN: 1635 AXIS OF ATTACK: ----- HEIGHT: 14,000 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 15 bombs #1; 15 bombs #2; 50 bombs #3; 10 bombs returned PLANES HOLED: 3. because mission not completed. ESCORT: ----

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

ROUTE: Base to S-0643, S-2797, M-6558, M-4043, M-2045, M-2070, M-6558 & home WEATHER: CAVU throughout FLAK: Moderate to intense, accurate, heavy, from Molinella M-1562, Mezzolara M- 0758, Malalbergo M-0474, Consandolo M-2366. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Targets #1m #2, & #3 successfully bombed. Targets #4 & #5 not dropped on because flight turned back. OBSERVATIONS: None. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Jeffery NO. OF SORTIES: 5 PHOTOS TAKEN: None

ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Gp. S-2 Officer. ------

445th BS War Diary: Red Cross girls distributed doughnuts and coffee to the area personnel this morning. Pork was served for supper as the mail situation remains poor. “Cornzapoppin” made its bow to the public tonight playing to the Quartermaster outfit with good success.

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 569/mission 569) Group Mission # 569: The second mission went out to attack the Sesto Calende railroad bridge, Italy. Six ships from the squadron participated and just to keep the string going, the bombardiers achieved another 100 per cent bombing accuracy. It was the squadron’s 5th straight perfect mission.

A/C No. 43-27741“Val” (previously A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” “Modern Design”) (flight leader) P Collins, Daniel P., 1Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 1Lt CP Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, F/O N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None B Baldwin, Harold O., 1Lt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt R Plott, John M., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt G Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl Sycylo, Theodore W., Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27742 “Winnie Mae’ A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” P Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt CP Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt E None listed Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Butler, Russell J., S/Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, Cpl Jacobs, Harry E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 44-28722 “Spirit of Portchester” P Eatherly, Joseph A., 1Lt Born, Walter E., 1Lt CP Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., F/O Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, F/O N None None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, Sgt Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt E Freiler Walter C., Sgt Goodhart, Jacob C. “Jack”, S/Sgt R McDonald, Thomas E., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 570/mission 570) Group Mission # 570: The squadron participated in two missions today. Nine aircraft joined the group in the first mission to attack the Ponte di Piave railroad bridge, Italy and the red hot 445th bombardiers made it another 100 per cent mission.

A/C No. 43-27740 (flight leader) A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt CP Reed, Donald C., 1Lt Martin, John W., 1Lt N Sides, Harry F., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 2Lt E Yoa, Harry (NMI), S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, Sgt R Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Hunsberger, William R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” P Weld, Wills R., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 1Lt CP Shenk, Stanley R., 1Lt Lewis, Max E., 2Lt N None None B Klein, Robert J., 1Lt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt Carruthers, John (NMI), II, Cpl R Giorgio, John B., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt G Arcuri, John (NMI), S/Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty” P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt CP Cronk, Ronald W., 2Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., Cpl Smith, William F., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), Sgt Salch, Raymond F., Cpl G Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt F Abrams, Samuel (NMI) “Sam”, Cpl None A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” P Kendall, Wayne E., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Skebey, Robert J., 2Lt Cravey, Robert P., F/O E Taylor, Marion R., Cpl Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” P Baker, Thomas J., 1Lt CP Cox, Harold L., 2Lt N None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 2Lt E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt R Otterness, William B., Cpl G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 571/mission 571) Group Mission # 571: (445th BS did not participate)

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 572/mission 572) Group Mission # 572: Lt. Jeffery led the formation. Targets #1, #2, #3 successfully “Bombed”. Targets #4 and #5 not “Bombed.” (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew (flight leader) P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt CP N None None B E R G F None None

446th BS War Diary: September 26, 27, 28: “Winterizing” of our tents begins and winter weather brings memories of last year, rain and cold, stoves and midnight snacks by a warm fire.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 569/mission 569) Group Mission # 569: Squadron Mission 399 TARGET: Sesto/Calende Rd & RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 26 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Lt. Collins led the formation. Concentrations of bombs on both N and S approaches with a few strings across center of bridge. Several reports of bridge heavily damaged but all spans left standing. Turbulent air made bombing accurate difficult. Flak was scant, heavy, inaccurate and out of range. Lt. Ivankovig did not take off because of radio trouble. Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” P Dickson, Gale Monroe, Capt Wojcik, Walter (NMI) 1Lt CP Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, F/O N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) Darlene) (Lead spare - did not take-off - radio malfunction) (only pilot and ship identified - crew unknown) P Briles, Connolly O., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt CP DiNorma, Joseph S., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Murray, Thomas A., S/Sgt R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt G Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 570/mission 570) Group Mission # 570: Squadron Mission 400 TARGET: Ponte di Piave Railroad Bridge, Italy DATE: 26 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Both approaches and E end of bridge were well hit. Several strings across middle of bridge. First box of six forced to make second run. No flak.

A/C No. 43-36224 probably ”Hauling A/C No. 42-64549 Ass II” (flight leader) P Hawkes, Leon R., Capt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt CP Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 2Lt N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt G Leary, Gwynn M., S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” P Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt Rackley, Donald D., 1Lt CP Panning, Robert F., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., F/O N None None B Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt Gambino, Samuel F., 2Lt E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” lady - no name/lettering) P White, Frank B., 1LT Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt CP Ingram, William T., 2Lt Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt N None None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Sgt R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., Cpl G South, William R., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” dropped from nose art) P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 2Lt N Chapman, John Edward, 1Lt None B Leith, William V., 2Lt Kaenzig, Charles Leslie, 1Lt E Helgert, Claude George, S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Cpl G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4021 The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Wallace, Robert D., 1Lt Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt CP Kimble, Arnold P., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt N None None B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Cpl Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl G Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic Pad” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt N None B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt E McArdle, John R., S/Sgt R Brown, Dennis H., Cpl G Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl F None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 571/mission 571) Group Mission # 571: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 572/mission 572) Group Mission # 572: Squadron Mission 401 TARGET: Fusignano, Conselice, S Nicolo Ferry, Italy DATE: 26 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: Propaganda Leaflets. 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Jeffery led the formation. Targets #1, #2, #3 successfully “Bombed”. Targets #4 and #5 not “Bombed.” Flak was moderate to intense, accurate, heavy. (Crew list missing) Jeffery, James C., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot/Co-Pilot) Pilot/Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J Mission: unspecified. Flying Time: 2:20 (Pilot 1:10 – Co-Pilot 1:10) (136th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Back to Repple Depot. Nothing doing, hung around awhile, then back to Naples. Coffee, etc. @ RC. Saw some training films. Lot of fun with RC information girl. Showered. Ate @ transient mess, met the boys and back to camp with them. Cold, nearly froze.”

447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Earl W. Hall; 1st Lt. Walter N. Vieser; 1st Lt. Stanley J. Wiechert; S/Sgt. John A. Keefe; S/Sgt. L.E. Sheppard; T/Sgt. Francis S. Torrey; Sgt. Robert F. Buzby; S/Sgt. Paul D. Connolly; Sgt. Edward J. Dwila; Sgt. Andrew R. Richards; Cpl. Norman C. Bulfinch. The following named enlisted men have been reclassified to 612: Sgt. Earl W. Dulaney; Sgt. Jack J. Harris; Sgt. Charles J. Hopp; Cpl. James W. Sims. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Bulfinch, Norman C., Cpl, intelligence Buzby, Robert F., Sgt, armament

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

Connolly, Paul B., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt, gunner Dwila, Edward J., Sgt, engineering Hall, Earl W., 1Lt, pilot Harris, Jack J., Sgt, armament Hopp, Charles J., Sgt, gunner Keefe, John A., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Richard, Andrew R., Sgt, engineering Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Sims, James W., Cpl, gunner Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt, bombardier Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 569/mission 569) Group Mission # 569: Five of our ships participated in a raid on the Sesto-Calende RR Bridge J-824954 with Lt. Muzinich leading the squadron. Excellent concentration with several direct hits on center and both approaches. Several holes were observed after bombing. Mission efficiency, 100 %; Bombing accuracy, 100 %. (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 (only pilot identified -ship A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” and crew unknown) (flight leader) plane and crew identified in Mango war diary P Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony” 1Lt Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt G Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 570/mission 570) Group Mission # 570: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 571/mission 571) Group Mission # 571: On the second mission of the day, nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Campolongo RR Bridge (G-486393) with Lt. Murray leading our squadron. Good concentration on center, north section and both approaches. Mission efficiency 100 %; Bombing accuracy 100 %.

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” (flight leader) P Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt Murray, Richard E., Capt CP Brown, Lyle N., 2Lt Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt B Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt E Mercea, George (NMI), 1Lt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt R See, Russell K., T/Sgt Toole, John F., T/Sgt G Guild, Bernard Robert, Sgt Burns, Harry B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” Aloysius” P Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 1Lt Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt CP Gies, Donald W., F/O Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt N None None B Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt Darrell, Franklin Lloyd Jr., 2Lt E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” P Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt Burns, Robert J., 1Lt CP Willis, Richard L., 1Lt Brice, David W., 2Lt N None None B Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt Hiller, Frederick J., 2Lt E Curry, Hughie L., S/Sgt Citarelli, James E., Sgt R Netzel, Carl F., Cpl Sims, James W., Cpl G May, Frederick J., S/Sgt Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” Runyon) P Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Murchland, Robert Keith, 2Lt Condit, Albert K., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 2Lt B Colgan, Donald J., 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt E O’Neil, James R., S/Sgt Smith, William L., S/Sgt R Carlson, Carl M., T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt G Flowers, Frank J., S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt CP Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt N None B Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt E Byrn, Ernst E., S/Sgt R MacNeil, Joseph W., T/Sgt G Young, Robert E., Cpl F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 572/mission 572) Group Mission # 572: On the third mission of the day, two of our ships participated in a successful Nickeling Mission. One of our planes was holed by flak. (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “60th mission, flew with Lt. Brown as bombardier, bombed Campolongo R.R. Bridge, nice bombing, some flak.” Brown, Grover C., Jr., 1Lt, pilot

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 49) “Target: Sesto - Calendo Road & RR Br Flak: HIS Combat: 3:10 Bombs: 1,000 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 009 (43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”) Crew: P-Lt Cunningham SP-Lt Appenzeller B-SSG Miller E-SSG Baldridge R-Sgt Fiocca G-SSG Mango Concentration of bombs on both N & S approaches w/a few strings across center. 5/6 direct hits reported. Bridge heavily damaged but spans left standing. Turbulent air made bombing difficult.” Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt, pilot Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Cunningham, Robert T. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt, radio-gunner Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 569/mission 569) Group Mission # 569: Mission 361 (569): At 07:28 18 planes off to bomb Sesto-Calendo combination Rd. and RR Bridge, Italy. Four (4) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last element of the flight. The formation dropped 72x1000# .1 & .01 from 10,500/11,000 feet. Good concentration with a few strings across center of bridge. Turbulent air made bombing difficult. Scant, inaccurate, heavy, out of range flak. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” P Norris, Grafton R., 1Lt Tetlow, John S., 1Lt CP Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt Smith, Milford A., 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, F/O Young, Robert B., 1Lt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., Cpl Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt R Kielich, Henry J., 2Lt Campbell, James R., T/Sgt G Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-27668(Wing spare - filled in) P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt CP Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None B Shaw, Charles W., 1Lt Judy, Philip R., 1Lt E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt R Goldstein, George (NMI), T/Sgt Bixler, Frederick P., T/Sgt G Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 570/mission 570) Group Mission # 570: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 571/mission 571) Group Mission # 571: Mission 362 (571): At 12:13 18 planes off to bomb Campolongo Railroad Bridge, Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the lead squadron of the flight. The formation dropped 36x1000# bombs on briefed target. 28x1000 on u/i Bridge One-third of a mile NW of target. Observations: 4 barges near mouth of Brenta River. Heavy, scant to moderate flak. No planes holed. Weather: CAVU.

A/C No. 43-27720 (flight leader) A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Grady, John R., 1Lt CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt N McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt None B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Kiska, George P., 1Lt E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., S/Sgt G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” P Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 1Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt N None None B Martin, James M., JR., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt E Goethals, Camiel A., Cpl Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt R Herod, James E. “Jim”, Cpl Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27481 P Stevens, Ray B., 1Lt Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt CP Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Brink, Richard E., 2Lt E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt Seward, Richard F., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 26 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O CP Carrington, Charles C., 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Bond, Edward N. 1Lt Conover, Donald C., 1Lt E Pineda, Nico M., S/Sgt Veeck, Richard W., S/Sgt R Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” P Hales, Ermine L., Capt CP Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 2Lt B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, Capt E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 572/mission 572) Group Mission # 572: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:05AM. Not on today's mission. Hot and sunny AM. Powdered egg pancakes, wheatena, bread marmalade, coffee. Went to 446th. Met the USO troupe. Ned Piurek, Leonard Roznicki, Mike and yours truly. Took picture with the troupe. Read. Meat loaf, creamed peas, mashed potatoes, chocolate cake, bread, butter, water. Nickeling mission for this PM canceled. George Huha's day off. Lack of something to do and a place to go makes a man irritable. George and I repaired voice control of PA system. Pork chops, peas, mashed potatoes, cocoa, bread, butter. Attended "Shine on Harvest Moon". Ideal for the movie as there was a full harvest moon. Nelson kept nine eggs from the Catania shipment. Brought us two oranges. Retired 10:00PM.” Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Piurek, Ned J., Cpl, ordnance

Wednesday, 27 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, during the night of 26/27 Sep A-20s bomb motor transport in the Po Valley; during the day bad weather cancels medium bomber operations and restricts the XII Fighter Command; yet fighter-bombers effectively support the US Fifth Army, especially on Monte Oggioli, blasting defensive positions, troop concentrations, roads, and motor transport, and cutting rail lines between Parma and Piacenza.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions – weather. Major Larson, Group Navigation Officer, left Group on permanent rotation basis. He was the last of the original flying personnel. Larson, Harold W., Maj, navigator

445th BS War Diary: Fifteen crews were scheduled for the mission which was cancelled due to bad weather. Following a successful opening night last night, the cast of the variety show “Cornzapoppin” and the “Mitchell-Aires” are making preparations to leave for Naples tomorrow where they will put their show on for the benefit of audiences in that area for five days.

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/27/44: “Today we worked on the tent. Rucker and George built a door while Louie and I installed the skylight. It’s pretty hard to do very much without tools and material, but one can always help some and at the same time kill a little time. The squadron has gone all out for winterization. Two hundred tons of cement was obtained and is being used for floors in tents and the mess hall. Stoves are our next problem. We have a new energizer and the radio is playing beautifully. I hope it can be available through the long winter. Still no mail.” Bell, Louis E. "Louie", Sgt, armament Cavalenes, George P., S/Sgt, armament Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: September 26, 27, 28: “Winterizing” of our tents begins and winter weather brings memories of last year, rain and cold, stoves and midnight snacks by a warm fire.

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot) Pilot: unknown B-25J Mission: Test Hop Flying Time: 1:00 (137th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Listened to band concert in the stadium. Bumming a ride to town difficult. Coffee, etc. @ R.C. To San Carlos theatre, got a ticket for afternoon performance of ‘Tosca’. To opera @ 1420, very fine. Supper @ transient mess, back to camp with the boys.”

Wednesday, 27 September 1944 (continued) 447th BS War Diary: Mission cancelled due to weather conditions. The following officers were promoted to the grade of 1st Lt. per SO 245, Hq. 12th AF 22 Sept. 2nd Lt. Edward Gates; 2nd Lt. Wendell E. Marchant. Private Dan Ochs was promoted to the grade of Corporal 25 Sept. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. John R. Gillis; 2nd Lt. Joe W. Gould; T/Sgt. Aubrey W. Chatters; T/Sgt. William H. Pierce; S/Sgt. Robert W. Engels; S/Sgt. Vincent A. Mango. Major Marshall C. Strenger returned form rest camp, Rome Italy. Corporal Charles H. Rankin is relieved of assignment and transferred on rotation to Replacement Depot No. 7 for transshipment to the United States, on orders 12th AF Hq. 24 Sept. Training today consisted of local transition. Chatters Aubrey W., T/Sgt, gunner Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt, gunner Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot Gould, Joe W., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator Mango, Vincent A., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt, pilot Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Cpl, gunner Pierce, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Rankin, Charles H., Cpl, medical Strenger, Marshall C., Maj, pilot, Commander

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle awoke me at 6:30AM. Not on mission. Cloudy morning. Pineapple pancakes, tomato juice, marmalade, coffee. Wilkinson (radio) somewhat shaky today. I am to replace him on today's mission. Briefing 7:50AM. Standby until 12:00PM. Showering outside is becoming quite chilly. Evenings are fine for sleeping. There are never any games of vice in our tent. One can sleep most any time as no one disturbs you. James Royce brought in a couple dozen oranges this morning. Blackard and I played cribbage. Stew, rice, fresh tomatoes and peppers, bread, butter, iced tea. Mike Kocsis infected thumbs slowly healing. Captain Marshall (flight surgeon) is not too well thought of by the boys. Doesn't pay any attention. I pray to God that someday it shall be my good fortune to write what I see on men's faces and my own. Stand-down of today's mission. Called on Lt Carl Fisher, but was out. Gene Stanley and I went for a 3- hour walk. Watched a group of mother pigs and their sucklings. Blackberries are no longer present. The grapes have been picked as well as the figs and peaches. Huge wine casks in the cellar are being filled. Hash, navy beans, canned tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, fruit salad, bread, apple jelly, coffee. Dark at 7:00PM. Very chilly. Ike, Kuhn, Leo returned from Rome. Met Angelo Surrino former football player at Temple University. Played with Dave Smukler. Angelo was in stockade for 6 months for breaking a soldier's nose, jaw and eliminating teeth. Was a PT instructor at Miami Beach, Fla. Retired 9:00PM.” Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Fisher, Carl D., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Iseldyke, LeRoy J. “Ike”, Sgt, gunner, personnel, 1st Sgt Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt Kuhn, James W., Sgt, engineering Marshall, Ulysses, S. "Doc", Capt, medical Royce, James R., T/Sgt, communications Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS

Thursday, 28 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, weather grounds A-20s and medium bombers; fighter- bombers, operating on a reduced scale bomb Bologna and hit roads and rail lines at 4 locations.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Fifteen crews were standing by for the combat mission but poor weather cancelled all aerial activities. The entire personnel of the variety show “Cornzapoppin” were scheduled to leave by aircraft today but they too had to wait another day due to weather. Publicity pictures were taken of the cast and the orchestra members out on the line. There were some transition flights made today and one ship went to the bombing range. Again there was no mail and the men are gradually settling into a bitter, resigned shell of disgust.

446th BS War Diary: September 26, 27, 28: “Winterizing” of our tents begins and winter weather brings memories of last year, rain and cold, stoves and midnight snacks by a warm fire.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Ate breakfast. Started to rain, so back to bed. Up @ 1100, then into Naples with Red Barbour. Ate @ transient mess. Hung around Red Cross all afternoon. Supper, then back to camp.” Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS

447th BS War Diary: Today’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. Cpl. Dan Ochs was reclassified from 911 to 612. Lt. William E. Levine has returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Levine, William E., 2Lt, intelligence Ochs, Dan (NMI)., Cpl, gunner

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:25AM. Bright sun, slight wind. Awoke during the night to listen to a howling wind. Standby until 12:00PM on mission. Creamed corned beef hash on bread, oatmeal, orange juice, coffee, apple jelly. Washed clothes. Read "Fifty Grand" by Ernest Hemingway. Winter preparations are continuing but rumors are circulating of our departing. It's the longest the 321st has stayed in one spot. The boys are becoming restless. For the past several weeks I have been smoking a pipe. Cigarettes are slowly falling out of my life. Taylor, Stanley and myself rode on Taylor's motorcycle to the line to take pictures of the pin-up girls painted on the ship. Met Crisp coming back. Four

Thursday, 28 September 1944 (continued) rode back on motorcycle. Took my first try at driving the cycle. Sudden change in weather. Very cold. Pork chop, roast beef which I did not get any of, peas, mashed potatoes, fresh beets and onions, apple sauce, bread, marmalade, coffee. Bull session in tent. Played cribbage and casino with Blackard, Huha. Slight rain. Typical fall sky. Heavy dark billowing clouds. Damp, cold, penetrating wind.” Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, Cpl, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS Taylor, Marion R., Cpl, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Friday, 29 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):

In Italy, A-20s and medium bombers are again grounded by weather; fighter-bombers, hampered by weather, fly 52 sorties in the afternoon, cutting rail lines leading S from Milan.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th BS War Diary: Mission was again cancelled due to weather but the cast of “Cornzapoppin” and the “Mitchell-Aires” managed to slip through the bad weather to Naples today and the start of their entertainment tour. Capt. Griffing, Group Weather Officer, gave a weather lecture to all pilots in the squadron at the Officers club. There was a meeting for all bombardiers this afternoon at which time map reading and target identification were discussed. An Officer and three enlisted combat men arrived today as replacements. 2nd Lts Glasford, Hagerman, WH Moore, Payne and Spencer all put on the silver bar of a 1st Lieutenant today. Hagerman, Millard W., 1Lt, bombardier Glasford, Loren G., 1Lt, pilot Griffing, George W., Capt, Weather Officer Moore, William H., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt, pilot Spencer, Charles F., 1Lt, pilot

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/29/44: “Yesterday and today I enjoyed one of those rare occasions in the life of a soldier that make campaigning temporarily tolerable. Beasley, Inman and I took a jeep to Ghisoni to visit our friends whom we had not seen since we went to Ajaccio three months ago. On the way up the canyon, fresh washed by the rain and very beautiful, we stopped long enough to gather a few wild figs which were deliciously sweet. Our friends were very glad to see us; Mama, Pop, Josephine and Antoinette. They prepared a wonderful meal of soup, tomatoes, fresh trout and veal steaks. It was the best meal I have had for months. Josephine had on a new dress and a little makeup, applied as only French girls can apply it, and she looked real nice. While waiting for supper I took a walk alone. Down over the highway ledge in a terraced garden I saw some flowers. When I had descended to the spot I found several huge bushes of beautiful dahlias of various colors. One of these, a pink one, I took home to Josephine. She was delighted and proudly pinned it on her dress. On my tour I also visited the village power plant which consisted of a single small dynamo driven by a wood burning steam engine. When there is sufficient water, about nine months of the year, a turbine drives the dynamo. I had a good talk with the operator who spoke some English. In the more rarefied atmosphere and between clean white sheets, we slept wonderfully. Following a light breakfast we all sat around the kitchen (it was raining and cold enough for a fire) talking and singing songs. Josephine and Antoinette tried patiently to teach Jack and me the French words to Lili Marlene. We helped peel spuds for a sumptuous noon meal of tomatoes, potatoes, roast veal and boiled tongue. Pop enthusiastically urged us to have some of his wine which we did. The French institution of a light table wine with all meals lends its contribution to the

Friday, 29 September 1944 (continued) enjoyment of eating. I almost favor it for people who use as much sense with it as they do. We arrived back in the dreariness of camp about two o’clock, very happy for having gone. We are still fussing about the tent and have it pretty nice now. Received my ballot and will vote tomorrow, I guess for FDR.” Beasley, John B. "Jack", Jr., Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: The Cairo trippers are back after a swell trip in spite of an engine change.

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Meeting of all officers @ 0800, same old baloney. Raining very hard. Into town with Red Barbour. Snack @ RC. Dinner @ Transient Mess. Met Hively, Grove, Hogman from the 446th. Saw few shorts, snack @ R.C. Walked around town with Smith. Supper back to Repple Depot. A Limey band concert – good.” Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS Grove, Russell V., 1Lt, pilot Hogman, Frans H., 1Lt, bombardier Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt, pilot Smith, Randell L., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Today’s mission was cancelled due to weather conditions. Usual squadron duties were the order of the day.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle at 6:50AM. Moderate rain. No briefing time for mission. Pancakes, stewed apricots, oatmeal, bread, apple jelly, coffee. Helped John clean up club. Vino, cognac, brandy, gin, anisette, vermouth comprise our liquor stock. Most of it comes from Catania, Sicily. The beer usually comes from Tripoli. Every so often a plane is dispatched to pick up supplies. Glasses are made from liquor and beer bottles cut down. This process is done by merely filling the bottle with hot oil until the desired depth of glass. Gently tap and you have your glass. As a rule it leaves a smooth edge. The oil cannot be used again. Standby on today's mission. Played cribbage, stud and draw poker. George Huha pulled last shift guard. Briefing at 12:50PM. Corned beef hash, navy beans, fried onions, sliced onion, fruit salad, bread, tea, peanut butter. Helped Nelson repair roof on club. Still taking outdoor showers. Getting colder. Inconsistent showers. Meat loaf, gravy, navy beans, string beans (sour) chocolate pudding, bread, peanut butter, coffee. No movie this evening. Met Benchowski, Aloysius, Royce at the club bar. Had three drinks of Marsala wine. Very cold night. Almost a full moon. Retired 9:00PM.” Benchowski, John H., T/Sgt, engineering, crew chief Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Royce, James R., T/Sgt, communications Zurek, Aloysius F., Sgt, ordnance

Saturday, 30 September 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72nd Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from Vesoul to Epinal, France with L-5s.

In Italy, B-25s bomb road and railroad bridges in the Po Valley at Piacenza, Voghera, Sesto Calende, Lonate Pozzolo, Galliate, Cittadella, Borgoforte, and Tortona; B-26s hit fuel dumps at Cremona, and bridges at Padua, Turbigo, and San Nazzaro; XII Fighter Command fighters hit motor transport, rail lines, roads, bridges, and rolling stock in the Po Valley; HQ 62nd Troop Carrier Group moves from Galera Airfield to Malignano Airfield.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Voghera and Piacenza RR bridges received the impact of our bombs this date and two more excellent missions were recorded. Two more well battered structures were added to our long list of destroyed bridges this month.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 573/mission 573) Group Mission # 573: Voghera Rail Bridge in Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 574/mission 574) Group Mission # 574: Piacenza N. Rail Bridge in Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 575/mission 575) Group Mission # 575: Nickeling mission to Ravenna, Faenza, Lugo, Argenta, Budrio, Castel S. Pietro in Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: The squadron sent out 13 ships today in separate flights to help bomb the Piacenza railroad bridge, Italy. The first 10 ships achieved 96.2 per cent bombing accuracy and the last 3 ships carried the colors of the 445th out with a blaze of glory and another 100 per cent bombing accuracy. By latest wing figures, the group broke a 12th Air Force bombing record when they achieved 90.4 per cent bombing accuracy for the month of September. The 445th paced the group to its record-breaking exhibition of precision bombing by hanging up a brilliant average bombing accuracy of 92.4 per cent for the month. Credit goes first to the bombardiers themselves who actually went out and achieved this remarkable mark. But credit must certainly go to Capt. Yepez, the Bombing Officer and Major Bounds, the Commanding Officer, both of whom labored tirelessly to keep the bombing performance of the squadron right up on top. Two Officer and 2 enlisted combat crew men arrived in the squadron today. Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Yepez, Oscar W., Capt, bombardier/navigator

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 573/mission 573) Group Mission # 573: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 574/mission 574) Group Mission # 574: (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 10 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 575/mission 575) Group Mission # 575: (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Chudars and Ems Bove, Brugioni, Nemet get orders to leave for the states. Also receiving his orders is Lieut. Vivas. Promotions are posted for Staff Sergeant Crozer, Sergeants Beets, Bryan and Glendening, Corporals D. Brown and Haxby. Each moved up one grade. Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt, gunner Bove, Anthony P, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Brown, Dennis H., Sgt, gunner Brugioni, Dino A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer Bryan, Dwight L., S/Sgt, gunner Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Crozer, Robert L., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Glendening, George F., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Haxby, William H., Jr., Sgt, gunner Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 573/mission 573) Group Mission # 573: (446th BS did not participate)

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 574/mission 574) Group Mission # 574: Squadron Mission 402 TARGET: Piacenza N. Rail Bridge, Italy DATE: 30 Sep 1944 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 15 Lt. Collins led the formation. Excellent concentration on bridge. S approach covered. Red flashes observed, believed to have been ammunition or fuel fires. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate, inaccurate. One plane holed. (Crew list missing) Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Nagle, Charles P., 2Lt CP N None None B E R Luitjens Harvey J., Cpl G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 10 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 11 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 12 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 13 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 14 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 15 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 575/mission 575) Group Mission # 575: Squadron Mission 403 TARGET: Ravenna, Faenza, Lugo, Argenta, Budrio, DATE: 30 Sep 1944 Castel S. Pietro, Italy. Type of Bombs: Propaganda Leaflets. 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Dyer led the formation. Mission accomplished. (Crew list missing) Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 1 unidentified 448th ship & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot) Co-Pilot: unknown B-25J Mission: Test Hop Flying Time: 1:00 (138th mission in MTO)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Cpl, radio-gunner: (mission 2) “No. 2) Piacenza R.R. Bridge. 4x1000 - P-47 Escort. Had a lot of flak - 448 ship on Nickeling mission. Lt. Nagle” Nagle, Charles P., 2Lt, pilot

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier: “Raining hard again, seems that every a.m. about 8, it begins to rain. Consistent so far. Muster of all officers @ 0800, the usual tent roster again. In to town with Red Barbour, ate @ RC Snack Bar. Met Charlie Burandt @ RC, now a Captain. Kidding around with the RC Girl (Mary Kuhn of Indiana). Supper @ transient mess. Back to Camp, met Jim Chudars. Lewis, Hollingsworth, Wotkowicz, & Mottley left for home this a.m.” Barbour, Marshall H. "Red", 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS Burandt, Charles Lawson "Chuck", Capt, pilot Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Mottley, John F., 1Lt, bombardier Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The squadron flew three missions today. The first mission had Nine planes which attacked the Piocenza North Railroad Bridge. The second, with three planes, attacked the Voghera Railroad Bridge. The third mission consisting of two planes flew a successful Nickeling Mission. All planes returned safely from all three of the missions. Thus is concluded another month in the eventful history of the squadron.

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 573/mission 573) Group Mission # 573: (Crew list missing)

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 574/mission 574) Group Mission # 574: (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 575/mission 575) Group Mission # 575: (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “61st mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Voghera R.R. Bridge, poor bombing, no opposition..” Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 573/mission 573) Group Mission # 573: Mission 363 (573): At 12:36 18 planes off to bomb Voghera Rail Bridge in Italy. Nine (9) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last box of 9 in the first flight. The formation dropped 140x500 .1 & .01 GP bombs from 11,500/12,000 feet. Returned 4 x 500 due to malfunction. Bridge covered by good concentration with several direct hits reported. Observations: 4 medium freighters beached near Chiavari. No flak encountered. Weather: CAVU. (Crew list missing)

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew Out” plane & partial crew identified in Schaffer war diary P Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt, pilot CP N None None B E R G F Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 574/mission 574) Group Mission # 574: Mission 364 (574): At 12:40 36 planes off to bomb Piacenza N. Rail Bridge in Italy. Six (6) planes of the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated flying as the last box of 9 in the last flight. The formation dropped 127x1000 GP .1 & .01 from 11/12,000 feet. 12x1000 returned due to a malfunction and 5 x 1000 salvoed over water due to a malfunction. Escort: P-47’s in coordinated strafing of gun positions at target. Excellent concentration on Bridge from island to south bank. A series of red flashes were seen- believed to have been ammo. or oil fires. Heavy, scant to moderate, and heavy moderate, inaccurate on breakaway; one plane holed. Weather: CAVU. (Crew list missing)

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 575/mission 575) Group Mission # 575: Mission 365 (575) (Nickeling): At 14:31 six (6) planes off to bomb Ravenna, Faenza, Lugo, Argenta, Budrio, Castel S. Pietro in Italy. The formation dropped 107 Leaflets Bombs containing “Front Post”. One plane from the 448th Bombardment Squadron participated. The leaflets were dropped from 14,000 feet. Mission accomplished in the face of heavy moderate to intense flak. One plane failed to return. Presumed to have landed in Italy. Weather: Clear at target; return route haze.

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:25AM. Brief for mission at 11:35AM. French toast, whole-wheat cereal, stewed prunes and apricots, coffee. As a rule I shave every morning. Cloudy, slightly warmer. Assisted Lewis Dunbar (telephone maintenance) in putting up a new line to Captain Marrich’s tent. Carry 500 lb GP. Target is a RR bridge at Voghera. Wear long johns and sheepskin boots. Lt Mitchell pilot (43-27538 “Down But Not Out”). Take off 12:35PM. Over target 1400. 100% hit. Very rough upstairs. Feeling a bit nauseated. Carry K-8A camera. Should have good photos. Spotted traffic and beached barges on way home over enemy territory. Landed 1510. Just about to toss my cookies. Landing saved me. Paid 6000 francs, as this is the day. Windy, clear skies. Noon chow - Vienna sausage, tarter sauce, navy beans, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. On guard from 6 to 10PM. Cloudless, full moon, typical fall evening. Mike, George, Wesley, Lynn, Blackard and yours truly fried

Saturday, 30 September 1944 (continued)

eggs and bacon on a double burner gas stove in the tent. Also made tea. Retired 12:00AM.” Blackard, James R. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dunbar, Louis C. "Louey", Cpl, radio-gunner, communications Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook, Mess Sgt Lind, Ragnar G. "Jeffery Lynn", 1Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG Marrich, Martin K., Capt, adjutant Mitchell, Robert E., 1Lt, pilot

September 1944

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1944:

STRENGTH: (As of 30 September 1944) OFFICERS: 27 ENLISTED MEN: 64

In addition to our regular assignments to knock out bridges in Northern Italy, much of the Group effort was directed toward paving the way for the Italian Allied Armies in their break through of the vaunted Nazi Gothic Line. The areas north of Florence and around Rimini received our particular attention, and for many days the Hun was sprayed with deadly frag bombs and pounded with 500 pounders which undoubtedly forced them to retreat. The destruction and damaging of their lines of supplies and communications by the Group in the Po Valley area still further added to the demoralization of the Tedeschi. To our already long list of achievements was added another and perhaps the greatest of them all -- during the month of September an all time high mark for accuracy in pinpoint objective bombing for the war was set by the 321st Bomb Group when we maintained an average of placing 9 out of every 10 bombs dropped in the target area over the period covering 49 separate attacks. Our targets were bridges, command posts, gun positions, and ammo and gas dumps. With “bridge busting” and allied arts dissolved into a fine definite process, our stalwart combat crews did things with the bomb-sight that even Carl Norden himself could hardly deem possible. It seemed almost incredible, but day after day the bomb-fall plots would be completed and invariably provide ample evidence that our bombs were always concentrated directly on the target -- yet that is exactly what happened and is still happening. It seems as though the boys just can’t miss anymore. Since March, when Colonel Smith took over the command of the Group which was averaging 35% in their bombing accuracy, the following record speaks for itself:

APRIL: 52% 27 Missions MAY: 63% 50 Missions JUNE: 74% 54 Missions JULY: 78% 45 Missions AUGUST: 82% 69 Missions SEPTEMBER: 90.4% 49 Missions

September 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1944

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M) APO 650

15 October 1944 SUBJECT: Historical Records TO : Command General, 57th Wing, APO 650.

1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period Septermber1st to September 30th. a. Present Designation: 445th Sq., 321st Group, 57th Wing, 12th Command.

b. Changes in organization. 1. None

c. Strength commissioned and enlisted. 1. Month of September1944. (a) 442 at beginning. (b) 4 net increase. (c) 446 at end.

d. Stations. 1. Solenzara Air Field.

e. Movements. 1. None

f. Operations: 1. During the Month of September the Squadron participated in 220 Sorties and 26 Missions.

g. Command Officers in important missions. 1. Capt. Leon F. Hatcher, Jr., Operations Officer, in the lead ship of the formation which attacked the Pavia east road bridge, Italy. This important bridge was destroyed with 97.2 per cent bombing accuracy

h. Losses in action. 1. On September 18, the squadron participated in an attack on troop concentrations northwest of Rimini, Italy. One B-25 was lost. It was B-25 Number 43-27792 piloted by 1st Lieutenant John S. Richardson. The remainder of the crew was 2nd Lt. Robert (NMI) Corey, co-pilot; 2nd Lt. Rudolph A. DiFulvio, bombardier; S/Sgt. Andrew J. Marinucci, engineer-gunner; T/Sgt. Sam J. Rossi, radio operator-gunner; Sgt. Leslie J. Lemke, armorer-gunner; Cpl. William J. Riley, Jr., photographer. The ship was reported to have crashed into the sea with several parachutes reported

September 1944 (continued)

i. During the month of September, the following men received the Distinguished Flying Cross: 1st Lt. Harold O. Baldwin (bombardier), 1st Lt. Daniel P. Collins (pilot), 1st Lt. James R. Elliott, Jr. (pilot), 1st Lt. William H. Gunder (pilot), 1st Lt. Robert L. Hammar (pilot), 1st Lt. Albert F. Hardman (pilot), Jr., 1st Lt. James C. Jeffery (pilot), 1st Lt. Elwood F. McLaughlin, Jr. (pilot), 1st Lt. Winston R. Place (pilot), Maj. Percy D. Register, Jr. (pilot), 1st Lt. Alfred B. Smith (pilot), Capt. Gerald W. Wagner (pilot), 1st Lt. Robert A. Wolfe (pilot). Capt. Robert R. Casaburi (navigator) was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with an oak leaf cluster. Awarded oak leaf clusters to their Distinguished Flying Cross were 1st Lt. Emery O. Cormier (pilot) and Capt. Lubomir P. (“Cross Country”) Shyshka (pilot). The award of the Bronze Star was made to Technical Sergeant Melvin H. Mathewson (engineering). The award of the Legion of Merit was presented to Technical Sergeant William H. Whittaker (engineering). In addition, there were 170 awards of the oak leaf cluster to the Air Medal and 10 awards of the Air Medal itself.

For the Commanding Officer:

1 Incl. Incl (1) – War Diary JAMES O. JACKSON, Capt., Air Corps, Squadron Historian.

September 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1944

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF 321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF 1 October 1944

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR September 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 September 1944 105 Officers, 325 Enlisted Men 2. Net Increase None 21 Enlisted Men 3. Net Decrease 4 Officers None 4. 30 September 1944 101 Officers, 346 Enlisted Men

D. Commanding Officer in important engagements 1. Engagements: Feltre, Italy Canneto, Italy Rimini, Italy 2. Major Paul T. Cooper (pilot)

E. Losses in action: 1. None

F. Former or present members of the Squadron who have distinguished themselves in action: 1. The D.F.C. was awarded to: Major Paul T. Cooper (pilot), Captain John C. Kerr (pilot) and the following Lts. Charles L. Burandt (pilot) Keith R. Matzinger (pilot) Arthur E. Franklin (bombardier/navigator) James A. McRae (bombardier) George K. Hollingsworth (pilot) Randall L. Smith (pilot) Vernon (NMI) Lewis (pilot) Jason G. Taylor (pilot) Alfred E. Vancil (pilot) John R. Sacker (pilot) Lawrence A. Clausen (bombardier) Eugene A. Fontaine (pilot) Robert A. Forsberg (bombardier) Harvey W. Lippy (bombardier) Frank J. Wotkowicz (pilot)

September 1944 (continued)

2. The Bronze Star Medal was awarded to: Charles F. Reeves, M/Sgt (armament) Charles E. Schlott, S/Sgt (intelligence) Ervin G. Dickey, T/Sgt (armament) James (NMI) McMeeking, Sgt (transportation)

3. Awards of Air Medal on following page: 2nd Lt. Kenneth L. Schmid (pilot) S/Sgt Edward (NMI) Bruner (gunner) S/Sgt Garland A. Bundy (gunner) S/Sgt Irwin (NMI) Cohen (gunner) S/Sgt Vernon I. Bender (gunner) Sgt Warren J. Cassidy (gunner) Sgt Jean H. Foertsch (armament) S/Sgt George F. Glendening (gunner) S/Sgt Luigi C. Petrella (gunner) Sgt William E. Shettleworth (gunner)

G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries.

September 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1944

447TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) 321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) APO 65 SUBJECT: Historical Records.

TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing. Attention: Historian.

1. Outline History of the 447th Bombardment Squadron for the period September 1 to September 30, 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 13 officers; 17 E/M to Replacement Depot No.7 1 E/M trfd 35th Sta. Hosp. 1 officer trfd. To Hq. 12th AF. 1 officer; 1 EM, 40th Sta Hosp. Det of Patient. 1 officer trfd. To 321st Bombardment Group 1 officer trfd. To 445th Bombardment Squadron 2 M/M trfd to Replacement Depot No. 9. (b) on DS or TD. 1 officer, 1 E/M on DS 320th Service Group. 7 officers 15 E/M on DS Cairo, Egypt. 1 E/M on DS Hq. 321st Bombardment Group 6 officers, 9 E/M on DS, rest camp Capri. 20 officers, 40 E/M on TD rest camp Rome, Italy. (c) No Change.

(3) No change in commanding officers during the month (4) No Change in staff officers during the month (5) No Change

September 1944 (continued) c. Strength, Commission and enlisted. (1) Month of September 1944. (a) At Beginning. 101 officers; 335 enlisted men (b) Net increase. 6 enlisted men (c) Net decrease. 4 officers (d) At end: 97 officers; 341 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 September 1944. f. Campaigns. (1) Italian and Southern France (2) From September 1 to present date.

g. Operations. (1) Italian campaign. (2) Objective Bombing (3) 27 missions, 211 sorties (4) Results of the most important missions. (a) Rimini Gun and T/C Area. 1. The target was important because it was defending the barracks area and also was one of the gun positions that was used to hinder the allies from entering the town of Rimini. 2. The gun position was silenced 3. The success of the mission made the forward advance of the British 8th Army possible 4. Aerial photographs showed direct hits on the target. 5. The Germans suffered the loss of an important strong point with the success of this mission (5) The unit was subjected to heavy, accurate and intense anti-aircraft fire during the entire month. h. During the month the commanding officers did not fly with our squadron. i. Losses in action (1) Mission. (a) Killed. None.

September 1944 (continued)

(b) Wounded. Lt. Fisher (Gerald, E., 1Lt, bombardier), Lt. Gates (Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot), Capt. Alger (LeRoy (NMI), pilot), S/Sgt. Engels (Robert W., gunner), S/Sgt Baldridge (Grant W., gunner) all (LWA). Crumpet troop concentration. Corporal Hague (Curtis A., gunner) (SWA) on Gun area L-890462 (c) Missing. None (d) Taken prisoner. None j. During the month of September many awards have been earned and presented to the combat personnel. k. No pictures submitted.

2. Enclosed are War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 September 1944 to 30 September 1944. No Special Accounts for the month; Squadron Statistics for the month of September1944.

For the Commanding Officer:

3 Incl: SALVATORE P. CASARELLA, Jr., Incl – 1 War Diary. 1st. Lt., Air Corps, Incl – 2 Special Account (none in September) Historian. Incl – 3 Squadron Statistics

Missions Flown: 27 Sorties Flown: 211 Bombs dropped (weight): 590,160 lbs. Nickels: 22 packages Planes lost: None Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None

September 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1944:

September 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of 1 September 1944, 105 Officers and 328 Enlisted Men. No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. Twenty-eight successful missions were flown during the month over northern Italy severing enemy Communication and Supply Lines. Per Special Order #150, Headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group (M) dated 4 September 1944, Captain Damon I. McLain, 445th Bombardment Squadron (M), is relieved from assignment and assigned to the 448th Bombardment Squadron (M), and appointed Squadron Commanding Officer replacing Major Albert Bell. Lieutenants: Annear, Greene, VanRaam, and Freeland were promoted to Captain. Second Lieutenants Farris, McKinley, Riley, and Sowder were promoted to First Lieutenants. Lieutenants McCabe on DS to the 12th TAC. Major Asbury transferred to the United States. Officers and Enlisted Men continued to go to Rest Camps on the Isle of Capri, Rome, Naples and Catania. Several of the ground personnel went to Rest Camp on the Island of Corsica. Food continues to be good, football made an early appearance, movies are enjoyed and beer is available on the P.X. rations. Annear, Warren Raymond, Capt, pilot Asbury, Wilburn (NMI), Maj, pilot Bell, Albert R., Maj, pilot, Commander Farris, Stephen C., 1Lt, bombardier Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot Greene, William A., Capt, pilot McCabe, Norman M., 1Lt, pilot McKinley, Robert H., 1Lt, bombardier McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Riley, Robert L., 1Lt, pilot Sowder, Tony R., 1Lt, pilot VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), Capt, pilot

September 8 – 15 – 44: Second Lieutenants: Autrey, Smith, Bechtle, and Schweitzer and Sergeants: Reves, Sharp, Herod, Goethals, Gage and Cpls: Langley, Woller, Goodman, Ferguson, Cordo, Julio, and Pfc’s Weiss, Escobar, Sweeney, and Privates: Petty, Dillon, Jungquist assigned and joined during this period. Enderle, Edwards and Justice promoted to the rank of Corporal. Lieutenant Kuykendall DS to duty from Cairo, Egypt. T/Sgt McEntee DS to duty from the United States and Lieutenant Dalby DS to duty from Headquarters, 57th Bomb Wing. Lieutenants: Winstead and Grim transferred to 57th Fighter Group. Captain Greene, and Lieutenants Howard, McCue, Simpkins and Sergeants: Burr, Clark, Dilts, Ernest, Holt, Johnson, Kershaw, Slafkes, Wilkerson, Brisco, and Penhale transferred to the United States. Continuing their assaults on bridges in northern Italy, the Squadron flew eight missions during this period and scored excellent results. Officers and Enlisted Men continued to depart and return from the numerous Rest Camps. Several members of the Squadron left for ten (10) days in Cairo and vicinity. The period was rather quiet as the routine work continued to occupy the Squadron’s time and winterizing the tents engulfed the boys during their off-time. Excellent weather prevailed and everyone took full advantage of the excellent shower facilities and hikes into the near-by mountains were numerous. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt, pilot Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt, pilot Brisco, Albert S., Sgt, engineering Burr, Harry C., Sgt, gunner Clark, Gwyn E., Sgt, gunner Cordo, Dominic J., Cpl, engineering

September 1944 (continued)

Dalby, Roy R., 2Lt, pilot Dillon, Harry L., Pvt, engineering Dilts, Robert E., Sgt, gunner Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl, photographer Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl, gunner Ernest, David L., Sgt, gunner Escobar, Catarino H., Pvt, cook Ferguson, George A., Cpl, engineering Gage, Robert L., Sgt, gunner Goethals, Camiel A., Sgt, gunner Goodman, John T., Cpl, gunner Greene, William A., Capt, pilot Grim, 2Lt, pilot Herod, James E. “Jim”, Sgt, radio-gunner Holt, Charles M., Sgt, gunner Howard, Charles E., 1Lt, pilot Julio, Frank J., Cpl, engineering Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Jungquist, Walter L., Pvt, engineering Justice, Conway J., Jr., Cpl, gunner Kershaw, Raymond T., Sgt, gunner Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt, pilot Langley, James C., Cpl, operations McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier McEntee, Peter M., T/Sgt, gunner Penhale, Walter B., Sgt, gunner Petty, Wade H., Pvt, engineering Reves, Louis E., Sgt, gunner Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt, pilot Sharp, Russell L., Jr., Sgt, gunner Simpkins, Everett L., 2Lt, bombardier Slafkes, Milton M., Sgt, gunner Smith, Milford A., 2Lt, pilot Sweeney, George W., Pvt, engineering Weiss, Arthur A., PFC, BSM Wilkerson, John J., Sgt, gunner Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt, pilot Woller, Henry B., Cpl, cook

September 16 – 22 – 44: The following Officers and Enlisted Men assigned and joined during this period: Lieutenants: Smith, Stromberg, Birkhead, Freund and Brink, Sergeants: Williams, Mardeuse, Pealer, Sink, and Taylor, Corporals: Marks, and Privates: DelGuergio, Sorrentino, and Uler. Lieutenants: Burday, Kuykendall, Dalbey, McCabe, Riener, and Major Bell transferred to the United States. Sergeants: Schaffner, McEntee, transferred to the United States. First Lieutenant Gladwell and First Lieutenant Dalbey DS to Headquarters, 57th Bomb Wing. Lieutenants Armstrong, Hales, and Joyce promoted to Captain during this period. Captain Farwell appointed Assistant Squadron Operations Officer and Captain Hickey appointed Squadron Navigation Officer during this period. Seven missions were flown during the period as the Group continued to dust off vital enemy targets. Fall brought its crisp and invigorating air and the Squadron continued to work and winterize. Armstrong, Donald R., Capt, pilot Bell, Albert R., Maj, pilot, Commander Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Brink, Richard E., 2Lt, bombardier Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt, pilot DelGuergio, Jerry S., Pvt, duty soldier Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot Freund, John F., 2Lt, bombardier Gladwell, James G., 1Lt, pilot Hales, Ermine L., Capt, pilot Hickey, William O., Capt, navigator Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, Capt, bombardier Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt, pilot Mardeuse, Alfred K., Sgt, gunner McCabe, Norman M., 1Lt, pilot McEntee, Peter M., T/Sgt, gunner Pealer, Woodward D., Sgt, gunner Riener, William F., 1Lt, pilot Schaffner, Clarence D., Sgt, gunner

September 1944 (continued)

Sink, Dennis L., Sgt, medical Smith, Raymond (NMI), 2Lt, navigator Sorrentino, Angelo M., Pvt, special service Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt, pilot Taylor, Allan J., Sgt, gunner Uler, Eugene S., Pvt, engineering Williams, Griffith E., Sgt, gunner Marks, Thomas H., Cpl, cook or Marks, William, Cpl, transportation

September 23 – 30 – 44: Second Lieutenant Wyman assigned and joined during this period. Lieutenant Hickey promoted to Captain and Second Lieutenant Luckhaupt promoted to First Lieutenant. T/Sgt Connors promoted to M/Sgt also. The following Officers and Enlisted Men DS to duty from Cairo, Egypt. Lieutenants: Bond, Carrington, Dossey, Malec, and Rogers and Sergeants: Edwards, Lund, Davis. Groome and Stegner returned to the United States. Off hours found the personnel, both Officers and Enlisted Men working like beavers busily engaged in winterizing their tents. The Squadron had a busy month flying twenty-eight (28) successful missions with only a few light injuries to combat personnel. It enjoyed many 100% accuracy missions. Bond, Edward N., 1Lt, bombardier Carrington, Charles C., 1Lt, pilot Connors, Roy W., M/Sgt, engineering Davis, Jimmie L., Sgt, gunner Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot Edwards, Clarence C., S/Sgt, gunner Groome, Daingerfield, M., Sgt, gunner Hickey, William O., Capt, navigator Luckhaupt, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier Lund, John L, Sgt, engineering Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt, bombardier Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, pilot Stegner, John E., Sgt, intelligence Wyman, 2Lt, S-2, I&E Officer The month of September found the 321st Bombardment Group (M), busily engaged in operations against strategic enemy fortifications and lines of communication in Northern Italy, dusting off vital targets in addition to carrying out close-support missions for advancing ground forces. Road and Railroad bridges, gun positions and ammunition dumps were hit with unerring accuracy and many 100% bombing accuracy missions were scored for the month. The month of September saw early fall weather creeping in and with it came a terrific building boom as the squadron, working like beavers, prepared for the coming winter. Football made an early appearance and basketball continued to occupy the boys. Hikes into the luring nearby mountains and trips to the showers were ideal. Many new faces were seen in the squadron as replacements for combat and ground men continued to pour in and it was a common expression among the old men “not to recognize” the many new faces. Captain D.I. McLain assumed the duties of Commanding Officer, veteran of the original 321st Bombardment Group (M) and one of its leading pilots, assumed his duties September 6, 1944. The combat and ground men who were fortunate to be rotated to the good old U.S.A., departed with broad smiles anxious for the return to their loved ones. McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, Commander Rest camps at Rome, Isle of Capri and in the mountains on Corsica continue to receive Officers and Enlisted Men of the 448th and they came back to camp refreshed and enlightened with the beauties of Rome and Capri.

September 1944 (continued)

The Officer’s and Enlisted Men’s clubs continued to be the sport center of the squadron highlighted with a diversity of recreation; mixed drinks and good foods continued to be enjoyed by all. The bombing accuracy of the 448th was highlighted on the 14th of September, 1944. During the powerful offensive of the ground forces to open the defense barriers near Rimini in northern Italy, the 321st Bombardment Group was assigned the important task of destroying the “Crumpet #2 Area A” troops and defense concentrations, a highly important target in the path of our advancing forces. A forty-eight (48) plane formation of B-25’s scored devastating hits and photographs show excellent results with 100% in the target area. It was indeed a most successful mission as the ground forces advanced rapidly to conquer the strategic city of Rimini. The 448th Bombardment Squadron enjoyed a highly successful month completing twenty-eight (28) successful missions with only a few minor casualties. Captain R.W. Burks, Lt. Young, and Sergeant Brusa sustained very light injuries. While several aircraft were holed, none received heavy damage. Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot Brusa, Robert P., Cpl, gunner Young, Robert B., 1Lt, bombardier With the month closing, American and Allied forces continued their rapid advances liberating all of France and are now well within Germany itself, breaking through the “impregnable” Siegfried line. The situation on the northern Italian front improves daily as our forces continue their advance in narrowing the noose that will soon choke the war-makers.