12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing 321st Bombardment Group History: September 1943

------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 1943

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 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, ) 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) 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.)

Wednesday, 1 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (): All ADMINISTRATIVE functions of the Army Air Forces elements of the Northwest African Air Force are transferred to the appropriate Twelfth Air Force organizations: - HQ Northwest African Air Force (NAAF) to HQ Twelfth Air Force, - Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) to XII Bomber Command, - Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) to XII Air Support Command - Northwest African Coastal Air Force to XII Fighter Command, - Northwest African Air Service Command (NAASC) to XII Air Force Services Command, - Northwest African Air Force Troop Carrier Command to XII Troop Carrier Command (Provisional), - NW African Photographic Reconnaissance Wing to Photo Reconnaissance Wing (Provisional), and - Northwest African Training Command (NATC) to XII Training Command (Provisional). OPERATIONAL control remains with the Northwest African Air Force. In Italy, P-40's bomb a zinc plant at Iglesias and strafe a factory N of Gonnesa; medium and light bombers hit Bova Marina, areas near Salina and Sant' Eufemia d'Aspromonte town area and bridge at Oliveto. HQ 52nd Troop Carrier Wing transfers from , to Agrigento, . HQ 64th Fighter Wing transfers from Gela to Milazzo, Sicily. HQ 61st Troop Carrier Group transfers from Kairouan, Tunisia to Licata, Sicily. The 32nd and 61st Troop Carrier Squadrons, 314th Troop Carrier Group, transfer from Kairouan, Tunisia to Castelvetrano, Sicily with C-47's. The 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group, transfers from Termini to San Antonio, Sicily with F-6's. The 526th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 86th Fighter- Bomber Group, transfers from Gela to Barcelona, Sicily with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

445th BS War Diary: The mission took off for the Cerveteri landing ground near Rome but returned at 10:15 on instructions from higher headquarters. Captain Bonus left for Tripoli on a leave during which he hoped to get to Persia and visit his mother who was an Army nurse in that locality. Bonus, Robert M., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: Twenty of our planes took off to participate in a raid on Cancello railroad yards but the mission was recalled by radio. No explanation given.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry Thursday, 2 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

ANTISUBMARINE WARFARE (): The 1st Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 480th Antisubmarine Group, based at Port Lyautey, French Morocco begins operating from Protville, Tunisia with B-24's.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, almost 200 B-17's and B-25's of the XII Bomber Command bomb marshalling yards at Bologna, Trento, Bolzano, and Cancello Arnone; bombers and fighters escorting the B-25's claim 28 enemy airplanes shot down; and tactical aircraft, including Royal Air Force (RAF) and airplanes, hit gun positions and other targets on the Italian toe, bomb rail communications at Bova Marina, Locri, Marina di Monasterace, Siderno Marina, Lamezia, and Catanzaro, and attack barges in the Golfo di Sant' Eufemia and an ammunition dump at Saptri. HQ 31st Fighter Group and its 308th Fighter Squadron transfer from Termini to Milazzo, Sicily with Spitfires. The 15th Troop Carrier Squadron, 61st Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Kairouan, Tunisia to Licata, Sicily with C-47's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 2 September 1943 68 B-25’s and 4 B-25G’s took off to bomb Cancello M/Y and Stores Depot, and Factory. 391x500 pound bombs and 24x500 pound bombs, dropped by B-25G’s, resulted in excellent coverage, only few bombs falling outside target area. M/Y was completely covered from north to south choke points. Rolling stock, station and sheds hit resulting in numerous fires, explosions, electrical display and clouds of black smoke. Stores depot and factory also well hit. One MA-202 destroyed exploded and crashed to water. Air opposition was heavy. Five 6 engine E/A, 30 S/E on Naples/Pomigliano. Three large T/E, 10/12 S/E on Grazzanise A/D. 10 bursts of serial bombs above and to left of formation 5 miles after leaving coast. One green P-38, red spinner, U.S. markings, white cross on belly, fired on bombers and was driven off. One JU-52 four miles SE of target heading south at 1314 hours. Escort had big dog fight in distance after leaving target. One fire and 4 columns of smoke seen on water. At 1345 hours about 50 miles off coast 5 S/E E/A slid in on deck from 5 o’clock below 13 escort remaining with bombers. Fired shells which burst 40/50 yards short with red flash and black smoke resembling flak. Flame 5/6 feet long seen from E/A guns., Closed to close range firing tracers and peeled off after one pass, when attacked by escort. One shot down by bombers. E/A reported as egg shell blue with silver bellies. One large bomber seen 100 miles from Italian coast heading toward at 1400 hours. Flak was heavy, moderate, inaccurate from just No. of Caistellamare and S. of Torre Annunziata, from Nocera Gragnano, , and Cancello L/T. Heavy, moderate, accurate from Grazzanise. Position observed 3 miles east of Lago di Patria. Heavy, moderate, accurate from Florio and north tip of Ischia, following formation eight to nine miles out to sea on deck. Bursts were slightly above. S/Sgt. Reid F. Kilmer, ASN

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

1900548, destroyed one E/A. Flight leaders were Captains Griffith, Morton, Burns, Tipton, Stultz, Lt. Miller. Observers: Majors Haw and Pemberton, Captains Lindley, Nickerson, Papermaster. Photos taken. Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt, pilot, 446th BS Haw, Marvin Tinsley, Maj, Medical Officer, HQ 82nd FG Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th BS Lindley, Francis H., Capt, pilot, HQ 82nd FG Miller, Robert J., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Nickerson, James E. “Nick”, Capt, intelligence, 445th BS Papermaster, Theodore C., Capt, pilot, 96th FS, 82nd FG Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st BG Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt, pilot, 445th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 113/mission 112) Group Mission # 113: ------Mission Report # 113, 2 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1045 68___ _B-25s__ and ___4___ B-25G’s_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission Cancello M/Y, stores and factory. ___1___ returned early. ___67__ dropped Target No. A/C No. A/C 391x500 lb and __4G’s_ _24x500 lb bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing on target No. & Type No A/C No. & Type at 1315 hours from 8500/9500 ft. __71__ returned at 1510. None lost, _ none_ Alt. No A/C Time No A/C No A/C missing, none at friendly field.

3. Coverage was excellent, only few bombs falling outside target area. M/Y was completely covered from N to S choke points. Rolling stock, station and sheds hit resulting in numerous fires, explosions, electrical display and clouds of black smoke. Stores depot and factory also well hit. One MA-202 destroyed; exploded and crashed to water.

4. Air------5 6-engine E/A, 30 S/E on Naples/Pomigliano. 3 large T/E, 10/12 S/E on Grazzanise A/D. 3 S/P at Lago di Patria. 10 bursts of aerial bombs above and to left of formation 5 miles after leaving coast. One green P-38, red spinner, U.S. markings, white cross on belly, fired on bombers and was driven off. One JU-52 4 miles SE of target heading S at 1314. Escort had

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

big dog fight in distance after leaving target. One fire and 4 columns of smoke seen on water. At 1345 about 50 miles off coast 5 S/E E/A slid in on deck from 5’clock below 13 escort remaining with bombers. Fired shells which burst 40/50 yds short with red flash and black smoke resembling flak. Flame 5/6 ft long seen from E/A guns. Closed to close range firing tracers and peeled off after one pass, when attacked by escort. One shot down by bombers. E/A reported as egg shell blue with silver bellies. 1 large bomber seen 100 miles from Italian coast heading toward Sardinia at 1400.

Marine----Two small vessels off Vico Equense at 1305. One coastal type boat S of Sorrento and one F boat 5 miles E of Sorrento at 1307. 7 small vessels in Caistellamare at 1309. 4 large M/V in Naples harbor. 3 F boats W of Ischia at 1326. 1 MTB heading 200° at 1440. Turned from formation and then continued on course.

Flak------Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from just N of Caistellamare and S of Torre Annunziata, from Nocera, Gragnano, Salerno and Cancello L/G. Heavy moderate, accurate from Grazzanise. Position observed 3 miles E of Lago di Patria. Heavy, moderate, accurate from Florio and N tip of Ischia, following formation 8/9 miles out to sea on deck. Bursts were slightly above.

Ground----Concentrations of RR cars N of Maddaloni, Caserta, Aversa and Fertilia yards filled. 200 cars at Villa Literno.

5. Enroute----CAVU. Slight haze at Italian coast. Target------CAVU. Return------2/10 cumulus at 8,000 ft. Visibility unlimited.

6. S/Sgt. Reid F. Kilmer, ASN 1900584, S. Nampa, Idaho destroyed 1 E/A. Flight leaders – Capts. Griffith, Morton, Burns, Tipton, Stultz, Lt. Miller. Number of sorties - 72 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Today the Squadron participated in a raid on the Cancello marshalling yards and air depot. Our Squadron was given the air depot as a target. It was demolished with not a bomb being wasted. General Doolittle commended the Group for the excellence of the mission. S/Sgt. Reid F. Kilmer shot down a MA-202. On the bomb run, Lt. Haegele’s ship turned over probably due to the propwash. However it righted itself and succeeded in dropping the bombs. There were aerial bombs dropped. About 10 miles after leaving the coast, the formation was attacked by enemy fighters firing rockets. Lt. Larson left Tripoli for Fort Lamy as navigator for Col. Knapp. Doolittle, James Harold "Jimmy", Maj Gen, 12th AF, Commander Haegele, Frederick G., 2Lt, pilot Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt, gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Sr., Col, 321st BG Commander Larson, Harold W., Maj, navigator Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 113/mission 112) Group Mission # 113:

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 42-64659 (Bear - no lettering) P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt N None None B Osborn, Hobart G., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Garthwaite, Howard S., S/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F None Lestz, Sidney (NMI) “Lefty”, Sgt A/C No. 42-64590 A/C No. 41-30354 P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Kent, William S., 1Lt CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt N None None B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt CP Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt N None None B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt E Halpin, John J., Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt R Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Pvt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt F Asmus, George D., Sgt None A/C No. 41-30387 “Kay Girl” A/C No. 42-64508 P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt N None None B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 42-64575 Judy” P Miller, Robert J., Jr., 1Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt Grau, Robert B., Capt CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt None B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” Gambler II” P Cratin, William S., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt G Bruyneel, Denis A., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” under bombardier's window) P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt N None None B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt Nickerson, James E. “Nick”, Capt (observer)

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt CP Goodwin, Morton (NMI), 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt None B Greenblatt, Milton L., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-29958 A/C No. 42-53373 P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt CP Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG Bell, Albert R., Capt, HQ 321st BG N None Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt, G O’Neill, Phillip W., Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 113/mission 112) Group Mission # 113: Group mission 113, Sqdn 88 composed of 14 planes. Capt. Griffith led the Group to the Cancello MY and factories. 500 lb bombs were dropped and coverage was excellent, only a few bombs fell outside the target area. Rolling stock, stations, sheds, stores depots, and the factory were all hit and numerous fires and explosions resulted, One Italian aircraft destroyed.

A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Brown, Aud W., 1Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None None B Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” P Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt N None Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Meehan, James M., 2Lt E Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt R Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt G Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt F None Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st BG (observer) A/C No. 41-13197 A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt CP Cornell, Earl K., F/O Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt N Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 41-13192 P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt Clark, Robert A., 2Lt N None None B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt G Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Cpl Edwards, David R., Sgt F Haw, Marvin Tinsley, Maj, HQ 82nd FG Papermaster, Theodore C., Capt, 96th (observer) FS, 82nd FG (observer) A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 41-30293 P Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt N None None B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Coe, George A., 1Lt E Langan, Charles H., Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt G Orr, William J., Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo” A/C No. 41-13008 P Tapper, George G., 2Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt N None Braucher, David C., 2Lt B Green, Harry M., Sgt None listed – likely the navigator E Helisek, Paul A., Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt None A/C No. 42-64509 “ A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship” Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt

446th BS War Diary: Special Account: On September 2, 1943 Captain Frank J. Griffith led a formation of seventy one bombers to the Cancello Marshalling Yards in Italy. Great damage was done and the mission was a great success. In recognition of the fine work of Capt. Griffith a recommendation for the D.F.C. has been turned in for him. The following is an account of the raid written by his Navigator. Griffith, Frank J., Capt, pilot On September 2, 1943 Captain Frank Griffith of the 321st Bombardment Group led 71 B-25’s on the target of Cancello, Italy. The marshalling yards, the factory, and the supply depot were our objectives. After studying the target we were all impressed with the importance of the mission. Being the navigator on Capt. Griffith’s airplane, I felt my responsibility to hit the Italian mainland between Salerno and Castellammare di Stabia, two areas strongly defended by flak. The distance between those two places is approximately fifteen miles. In the briefing the weather officer reported probable haze and stratus clouds for the flight which was over the water. All this would have presented a real problem to me if I had not known from previous experience Capt. Griffith’s ability to fly without varying any course I gave him. Upon entering the Italian mainland we ran into flak, but thanks to Capt. Griffith’s experience in leading flights where flak was encountered, the complete flight turned on the bombing run without damage. Due to a rhythmic evasive action we held the formation closely intact and still avoided the flak. We weaved in toward the target and

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

leveled off in time for a smooth bomb run. We were particularly anxious to hit our target, the factory at the northern end of the yards, because we knew if we did the other flights would have a better chance of hitting theirs. Our first bomb hit squarely in the center of the factory, and soon other bombs were hitting all through the yards and sheds. It was the best bombing I have ever seen. After dropping our bombs I located gun batteries firing on us straight ahead. I asked Capt. Griffith to turn left to avoid this flak. He was thinking of the success of the mission and not his own safety when he said, “I’ll turn as soon as you tell me that all the planes have dropped their bombs”. This proved to be very good judgment for if he had turned to avoid the danger of flak he would have turned into the other planes on the target and their bomb run would have been ruined. After all the bombs were dropped, the Captain went back to his smooth evasive action while the gunners of the formation kept the fighters out of range. On the mission not one plane was damaged. The result was seventy-one B-25’s returned to their base. There was no loss of planes or personnel, and the target was completely demolished. To me this was the most difficult of my forty missions, and yet due to Capt. Griffith’s great skill as a pilot, and cool judgment under fire, it was the most successful. It was without doubt the best demonstration in combat leadership that I have seen.

HERMAN B. CALDWELL, Jr. 1st Lt., Air Corps. Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., Capt, navigator Griffith, Frank J., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 113/mission 112) Group Mission # 113: Twenty of our planes took part in a raid on the railroad yards at Cancello, Italy. Bombing results good. The formation was attacked by fighters which stood off at a long distance and fired rocket shells in them. This was the first time the squadron has encountered this type of attack. None of our planes were hit and all returned safely.

A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt N None Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt None listed – likely the navigator E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G Werner, George P., Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” P Ackley, James H., 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 2Lt B None listed – likely the navigator Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” Done Crapped Again” P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated Lady” P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt None B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Murphy, Brendon J., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., Pvt F None Leon, Robert D., Cpl A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 41-30557 P Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt Fineman, Ernest M., 1Lt CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N None Colby, John W., 2Lt B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 1Lt E Henry, William R., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., 2Lt R Myers, William W., Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt G Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle II” P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N None None B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F Christenson, Lars (NMI), Sr., Cpl Lindley, Francis H., Capt, HQ 82nd FG (observer) A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” P McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry Ball” Duck” P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, T/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N None None B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30002 A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 40) TARGET: Cancello M/Y yards and factories 4:25 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”) “Coverage excellent. 1 MA 202 destroyed. Exploded and crashed in water. Claimed by 445th Squadron.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 19) TARGET: Cancello M/Y, Stores, Depot and factories 4:25 500 lbs Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, O’Mara, S/Sgt Draper “Coverage was excellent. M/Y completely covered from N and S choke points. Rolling stock, station and shed hit resulting in numerous fires, explosions and electrical display. One E/A 202 destroyed, exploded and crashed into water. Flak heavy, moderate accurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 22) “Seventy-two Mitchells & Seventy-two P-38s hit Cancello Marshalling yards about twelve miles northeast of Naples. We flew around Mt. Vesuvius between Salerno & Naples. About twenty-five minutes over Italy with intermittent light inaccurate heavy flak. Off shore on route home, some enemy planes came up behind us and started firing shells into the formation. The P38s didn’t even see them till they broke away. The intelligence reports say there were over seventy 109s, 190s, and 202s. The fighters shot down twenty-three and lost ten.”

447th BS: War Diary of: McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 42) “At about this time, the effects of flak-it is and Messerschmitt Twitch were beginning to tell on me. I would come in from a raid totally exhausted and would flop down on my cot and go to sleep. I slept a lot! My weight dropped from about 150 lbs. down to 128. At six feet tall, I was pretty skinny. As a result I didn’t log some of my later missions. I was just too tired. The mission you just read was my 37th, and the mission that follows my 42nd. It was the last mission I logged overseas. Following it is a write-up of my fiftieth (Oct 4th, 1943) as I recall it today. Since it was my last mission, I remember it well.

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

On September 2, 1943, I started what I hope will be my last month of combat by participating in a second raid on the Cancello Stores Depot and Marshalling Yards., It was my 42 mission, and I hope the next eight are just like this one! Heretofore most of our raids have been coordinated with raids by the 310th, the B- 26’s and sometimes by the heavies. In that way fighter opposition was split up among all or concentrated on one. But recently fighter opposition has increased considerably and has been taking a heavy toll on whichever flight they hit. The B-25’s, when they behaved themselves and flew formation, had proven they could take care of themselves pretty well. We, the 321st, bow to the 310th for proving this since we have yet to encounter heavy fighter opposition over Italy. The 310th has also proven that when they don’t fly formation, they get shot all to hell---as witness a recent raid on which they lost three ships because their escort could not cover their flight which broke up into two scattered sections. The B-26’s have had very poor luck. Although they have claimed formidable scores in fighters shot down, they seldom go out that they don’t lose at least one ship. And this raid has proven just why the B-25 has it all over the B-26. As I describe it, I’ll try to draw a parallel with the way the B-26’s would probably have done it. But first let’s start at the beginning. Our formation consisted of 72 ships in two flights of 36 each. That is a lot of airplanes to try to handle in one bunch---and our assembly over the field was very ragged. In fact we weren’t assembled until we were half way to Maritimo Island---then we settled down and flew fairly close formation all the way in. We were out alone. Our raid was a solo job. No one else was in the vicinity at the time, and if there was fighter opposition in the area, we would get it. But, to allow the enemy as little time to get up as possible, our escort had asked us to delay our climb as long as possible, then climb faster than our usual rate. We did---and could have done better since we were at altitude fully five minutes before we went over the coast. Our rate of climb was between 500 and 600 feet per minute at 185 m.p.h. I’m not certain how the B-26’s climb, but I understand that about 400 ft. per minute is maximum. Their speed, I imagine, would be around 170 m.p.h. in the climb. Therefore, to attain the 8000 to 10,000 ft. altitude for bombing, they would have to start sooner and farther out to sea. Enemy radar spots a formation as soon as it leaves the deck, so a flight of 26’s would be detected much sooner than 25’s. As soon as we got to the coast we began to get a little scattered flak. We were lined up in a Vee of three flights consisting of 12 ships each in Javelin down---and did evasive action It was a job to stay in there, and it is doubtful just how much good it did to whip our ships around the little we managed. We didn’t get hit, though, and I suppose that is proof enough! Since we were on a left wing, Spingler did the flying. He’s a little guy and had quite a tussle holding old Ruff Stuff in place. But he did a darn good job, and I just sat there and watched, looking out for fighters and keeping him off of collision courses. Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt, pilot

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

We hit the coast just north of Salerno, went in east over the mountains, turned north to go over the target, and then left in a diving turn to the west and the sea. Just before the first turn, our flight of 12 went under the others to get into left echelon for the run. That’s not easy to do with 3 ships, so with 12 it was a tough job. We were the last ship of the 12 and if we were not wide open catching up, we were shut down trying to slow up! Then when we made the turn, being on the inside of it, we had to slow up---and since we had not had time to settle down, it caught us with full throttle. DeMoss, leading our element, couldn’t slow up either, so we had to pull out for a while and come back in. We managed very well, though, and got settled down early on the run. DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot In looking out for fighters I had a little time to look over the country---something I had not been able to do since I lost Nixon. We were inside Mt. Vesuvius—a gaping hole about 3500 ft. high. The immense crater looked like a bed of blue/black embers giving off a slight smoke that seemed to spread out immediately in the thin haze that filled the sky. On the western rim of the crater there was a thin geyser of steam or smoke rising from an impertinent little spout above the wide crater. It looked almost silly up there by itself! Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt, pilot There we were almost east of Naples and I could look down to our left and see a fairly large airport. I counted five large transports—probably the six-engine ME 323— and probably 30 or 40 smaller craft. As I looked I could see tracers from the waist gun of some ship ahead going right for the field. But we were too high to do any good, and whoever it was stopped after a few bursts. Off to our left and slightly behind I could see flak bursts—the gray puffs of light caliber and the black, rolling balls of the heavy caliber---all too high to worry us. We were on our bomb run anyhow and so couldn’t be bothered. I glanced at the air-speed. The needle was steady on 210, which is our usual speed over. B-26’s go over the target at 185. They can go faster, but their ships are hard to hold in formation at higher speeds. Suddenly the increase in breezes through the ship and the hollow roar of the wind in the bomb bay told me our doors were opened. Bombs began to fall out of the ships all around and I looked at the indicator light on the instrument panel just in time to see the last light come on and go out. The interphone said, “Bombs away! Doors Closed.” And as though every pilot heard it, the whole formation turned to get the hell out of there. Richardson, leading our flight of six, dove under the rest and came out on the right in Vee again. Morton, who led the first six of our twelve, must have stayed a little longer, but I was too busy on the props and watching the skies to notice who went where. Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt, pilot It took all Ruff Stuff had to keep in position. At one time, when I happened to look, our air speed was 280. It may have been higher and it often is---sometimes hitting 310 and 320. Lalum called on the interphone---“Target well hit. Blown all to hell!” Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt, gunner

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

Flak followed us almost to the coast, but it never got near enough to worry us. Then after we left the coast some guns on the island to our left opened up, but their bursts were well behind us. When we hit the deck we held an air speed of 250 for about 15 minutes when the second flight of 36 came up to us. Then we hit our cruising 185 to 190. In diving off the target, B-26’s seldom get over 210. Their ships are too hard to handle. About 25 or 30 minutes after leaving the coast, six or seven enemy fighters slipped up on us from the rear and fired about 10 or 12 shots with their rocket flak guns. The bursts were all 200 or 300 yards behind us, and I would never have known it if Lalum hadn’t called me. Our escort got hot after them and claim to have knocked one of them down. As we left Italy behind, we had only a few of our escort P-38’s with us. The main body of our 72 fighters were way to our rear, having engaged a large force of enemy fighters that got up too late to intercept us. It must have been a real fight; the P-38’s claim 23 of the enemy destroyed to a loss of 10 of their own. So, in this case our fast climb and our speed over and off the target got us out before the enemy could intercept us. Going at slower speeds, climbing and diving slower, it is understandable the B-26’s get into so much trouble. But hell, the next time we may get our socks shot off! Who knows! Pictures of the target showed almost all of our bombs in the target area. The railroad yards were completely covered as was the stores area. All choke points in the yards and around them were hit. All lines coming in were cut in several places, and large fires were started among the buildings in the area. Lalum was right: we knocked hell out of it! Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt, gunner

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Mission #2. North of Naples – much flak – some 109’s

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 113/mission 112) Group Mission # 113: Mission 79 (113): 68 B-25’s and 4 B-25g’s off at 1045 to bomb Cancello M/Y and factory, stores depot. Dropped 391x500 and 24x500 at 1314 from 85/9500 feet. All returned 1510. Coverage, excellent, only few bombs out of area. Direct hits on factory, and stores depot and on rolling stock, large fires and explosions seen. 10 bursts of aerial bombs bursts above and left of formation. One green P-38 fired on bombers and was driven off. One fire and four columns of smoke seen on water at 1345 about 50 miles off coast. Five E/A slid in behind on deck and fired shells which burst 50-60 yards short of formation. One E/A shot down by bombers. Moderate, heavy, inaccurate flak. Weather: CAVU. F/L. Stultz. Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

On this mission the B-25 did slow roll over target due to prop wash. Recognition from General Doolittle given for splendid performance. Doolittle, James Harold "Jimmy", Maj Gen, 12th AF, Commander

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 P Peplinski, James L., F/O Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt CP Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O Heller, Leonard C. “Len”, 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt Lang, Robert H., 2Lt B None None E Wright, Joseph F., S/Sgt Clement, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt R Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt McNulty, Joseph P., S/Sgt G Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt None listed CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32464 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 “The Goon Bird” “Black Magic” P Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O CP Block, Harry C. “Bloke”, 2Lt Winegar, William E. A., 2Lt N None Kresge, James G., 2Lt, 447th BS B None None E Nithman, Charles E., Cpl Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, Sgt R Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt Cobb, Bert Alvin, S/Sgt G Rowley, Lester T., Sgt None listed CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-29967 P Sinclair, Erwin W., Jr., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt Boland, Chester H., 1Lt B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt E Robb, Earl K., PFC Rude, Norman J., PFC R Orman, Virgil N., PFC Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, PFC Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Schmidt, Walter I., Sgt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., PFC R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, PFC G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., Sgt White, George E., PFC F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC Pitts, Lawrence P., PFC R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., PFC Ryal, Clarence M., PFC F None None A/C No. 41-30548 A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” P Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt Davies, Robert D., 1Lt CP Haskell, John D., 2Lt Barton, Thomas M., F/O N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt Silver, George A., III (observer) B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt E Rohleder, Jack J., PFC Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., PFC G Vance, Paul S., PFC Yutzy, Eli N., PFC F None Lowery, Bruce (NMI) “Field Marshall”, M/Sgt A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30355 P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Bruton, John E., 1Lt N None None B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt E Roberts, Harold L., PFC Porch, Dean O., PFC R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Harding, John E., PFC G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), PFC F None None A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 42-30352 P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt N None None B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Kessler, Charles J., S/Sgt R Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 2 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-64521 P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt N None None B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Reid, Robert L., Sgt E Ridgeway, Robert L., PFC Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt R Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt G Dellwo, Lawrence H., PFC Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64655 (spare) A/C No. 42-64519 (spare) P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt N Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt None B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” (spare) A/C No. 41-30343 (spare) P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt CP Fleming, George B., F/O Gouge, David J., 2Lt N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., PFC Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Polinsky, Marvin J., PFC R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry R., PFC Silva, John P., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None A/C No. 41-30327 (spare) P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None B Colby, Arthur R., PFC E Masteller, Harry M., PFC R Papile, Frank M., PFC G LaRue, Augustin A., PFC F None

Friday, 3 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's bomb the marshalling yard at Sulmona, Italy; they claim 11 Luftwaffe aircraft destroyed; 6 B-24's are lost.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force): P-40's on a sweep over Sardinia hit Pula and Capo Carbonara radar installations. In Italy, A-20's, A-36's, fighters and RAF light bombers hit gun positions throughout the toe of Italy, attack airfields at Crotone and Camigliatello and hit railway yards at Marina di Catanzaro and Punta di Staletti, troop concentration near Santo Stefano d'Aspromonte and road junctions and bridges at Cosenza. On the ground in Italy, the British Eighth Army lands on the toe of Italy between Reggio di and Villa San Giovanni (Operation BAYTOWN). The Italian government signs surrender terms. HQ 316th Troop Carrier Group and its 36th Troop Carrier Squadron transfer from Enfidaville, Tunisia to Mazzara, Sicily with C-47's. The 17th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, transfers from El Djem, Tunisia to Comiso, Sicily with C-47's. The 62nd Troop Carrier Squadron, 314th Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Kairouan, Tunisia to Castelvetrano, Sicily with C-47's. The 307th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers from Termini to Milazzo, Sicily with Spitfires. The 415th Night Fighter Squadron, XII Fighter Command, transfers from La Sebala, Tunisia to Cantania, Sicily with Beaufighters. The 522nd and 524th Fighter-Bomber Squadrons, 27th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfer from Gela to Barcelona, Sicily and San Antonio, Sicily respectively with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission today only local gunnery training.

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/03/43: The fifth anniversary of England’s declaration of war “I was on my way to return a book this morning when I passed by the briefing area where the crews were being briefed for today’s mission of 72 planes. I stopped to learn what the target was and became very interested when the briefing officer said they would fly very near Mt. Vesuvius. Many fighters were in the vicinity and an escort of 72 P-38s were to accompany our planes. I got permission from Lt. Clinton, though taking passengers is against the order of Colonel Knapp, and rode up front with Pete Rokotz, bombardier. I had a better position from which to observe than on previous raids and was intent upon seeing everything possible. The Mediterranean was calm and clear and visibility almost perfect as we approached the coast of Italy, just above Salerno. Clinton, Wayne C., 2Lt, pilot Knapp, Robert Duane, Sr., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt, bombardier

Friday, 3 September 1943 (continued)

Soon much flak was being sent up at us, but none was very accurate. I could see old Mt. Vesuvius with its queue of white smoke all the while we were over land. I put on my parachute and helmet. The thrill of a life occurred just before we went over the target. Our ship made a sharp lurch to the right and went up on its side. My first and only thought was that flak had burst to our left and though we had probably escaped serious damage, what of the planes in our left wing? I looked out the scanning blister just in time to see #3 plane in our flight, piloted by Captain Farrell, turn over on its back, fall away sharply and at last straighten out. It was out of sight throughout the run, but later joined up with us when we were part way home. We learned then what had happened. Instead of flak it was “prop wash” that had given us such a jar. What had only been enough to turn our ship upon its wing had caused “87” to roll all the way over, a maneuver which a B-25 is supposed to be incapable of negotiating, even when empty. When we were out to sea, six fighters approached and fired at us with rockets. No damage was done and one fighter was shot down by our bombers. It takes something out of a man to fly a mission and all who fly agree it’s nasty business.” Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: Usual garrison duties.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Saturday, 4 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, bad weather prevents XII Bomber Command B-17's from locating their targets (airfields); P-38's sent to hit landing grounds at Grazzanise also fail to find targets, but attack targets of opportunity in the general area; US fighter-bombers and RAF light bombers hit motor transport scattered along the Italian toe, and bomb gun positions NE of Reggio di Calabria and roads and railroad junction in the Cosenza- Catanzaro-Nicastro area and at Colosimi. HQ 57th Bombardment Wing transfers from Tunisia to Lentini, Sicily. The 16th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, transfers El Djem, Tunisia to Comiso, Sicily with C-47's. The 28th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group, transfers from El Djem, Tunisia to Gela, Sicily with C-47's. The 99th Fighter Squadron, XII Air Support Command, transfers from Licata to Termini, Sicily with P-40's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission today. There was a movie shown tonight near the enlisted men’s club. It was “Larceny, Inc.” with Edward G. Robinson.

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: Usual garrison duties.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Sunday, 5 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): Brigadier General Victor H Strahm, Chief of Staff, assumes temporary command during the absence of Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton. Colonel John C Kilborn assumes command of the IX Bomber Command upon the departure of Major General Uzal G Ent from the theater. (Ent AFB, Colorado Springs, Colorado was named for General Ent. The base was active from Jan 51 to Jul 76.)

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, 130+ XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb the airfield at Viterbo and the town of Civitavecchia; 200+ B-25's and B-26's hit landing grounds at Grazzanise. In Sardinia, other medium bombers and fighters hit the Pula radar station and town of Pabillonis. Weather hampers operations of the fighters and medium and light bombers of the NATAF, i.e., Twelfth Air Force and RAF aircraft, and only a few targets (guns, roads, railroads, and troops) are attacked during missions over the toe of Italy. HQ 68th Reconnaissance Group and its 122nd Liaison Squadron transfer from Berrechid Airfield, French Morocco to Berteaux, . The 122nd is operating a fighter training school with P-38's, P-39's and P-40's. The 71st Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group, based at Mateur, Tunisia, begins operating from Gerbini, Sicily with P-38's. The 309th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers from Termini to Milazzo, Sicily with Spitfires. The 523rd Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 27th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from Gela to Barcelona, Sicily with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions today 5 September 1943. The 54 plane B-25 formation went to Grazzanise L/G, but due to cloud coverage had to bomb the alternate target of RR and track from 1 mile SW of Minturno to 3 miles ESE. Hits reported on RR bridge, tracks and highway. One E/A damaged. 25/30 E/A came up from 5000 feet two minutes before target. 6/8 S/E E/A at 18,000’ as neared target. One plane seen afire on water at mouth of Volturno river. One other unidentified plane seen going down. E/A generally were not aggressive and were held off by long range fire. Escort seen fighting. Aerial bombs reported falling between 1st and 2nd elements approaching target. Did not burst in air. Flak was heavy, slight, inaccurate from target area, and from Sessa Aurunca. Four bursts heavy, inaccurate from Castel Volturno. Flight leaders Capts Seel, Tipton, Isaacson. Observers Capt. Manly and F/O Sudden. The B-25G’s attacked the Pula Radar Station. Hits made on Freya and Wurzburg with bombs. Results of cannon shells not observed. Strafed personnel on ground. Flak was heavy, light, intense and accurate at target. Began E. of Cape Spartivento and followed out to sea. Some was trailing. Positions observed 400 yards NW of Wurzburg, one E. and W. side of a shed 70 yards S. of chimney, 250 yards SW of Chimney and 150 yards E. of Freya on headland. Machine guns near radar installations. Three planes were damaged, one heavily by shell exploding inside nose. One pilot wounded. Flight leaders were Lts. Edwards and Baxter. Baxter, William T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

Edwards, James T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt, pilot, 446th BS Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot, 447th BS Sudden, A., F/O, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot, 445th BS

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 7/Mission 7): ------Mission Report # 7, 5 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 337 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF. 2. At 0845 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off to attack Pula Radar Station. _None_ Time No. A/C Type A/C Target No. A/C returned early. ___4___ dropped 32x300 lb. bombs with 45 second fusing and No. A/C No. & Type Fired 16x75mm shells on target 1002 hours from 100 ft. __3____ returned at 1140, Time Alt. No. A/C Time __one__ returned at 1315. _None_ lost, _none__ missing, _None_ at friendly No. A/C Time No. A/C No. A/C No. A/C field.

3. Hits made on Freya and Wurzburg with bombs. Results of cannon shells not observed. Strafed personnel on ground.

4. Air------None. Marine----None. Flak------Heavy, and light, intense and accurate at target. Began E of Cape Spartivento and followed out to sea. Some was trailing. Positions observed 400 yards NW of Wurzburg, one E and W side of a shed 70 yards S of Chimney, 250 yds SW of Chimney and 150 yds. E of Freya on headland. Machine guns near radar installations. Three planes were damaged, one heavily by shell exploding inside nose. One pilot wounded.

5. Enroute and return---6/10 to 7/10 at 1500. Target ------Scattered cumulus at 15000. Visibility unlimited.

6. None. Flight Leader--Lts. Edwards and Baxter. Observers------None. Number of sorties---4. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued) 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32464 “The Goon Bird” P Edwards, James T., 2Lt Baxter, William T., 2Lt, 447th BS CP Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG Dunn, Robert P., 2Lt, 447th BS N Lang, Robert B., 2Lt Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt, 447th BS B None None E Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt Leist, Jacob F., S/Sgt, 447th BS R Hughes, James C., S/Sgt Kovalchick, Alexander (NMI) “Alex”, S/Sgt, 447th BS G Fox, Robert J., S/Sgt Manning, Hillard J., Sgt, 447th BS CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 (spare-did not complete mission) P Gilluly, John W., 2Lt Nicholas, Jack (NMI), 2Lt CP Adams, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt Eaton, Frank R., 2Lt N None None B None None E Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt Smith, Harold W., Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Keller, Richard S., S/Sgt G Fish, Harold E., S/Sgt Senec, Joseph F., Jr., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 114/mission 113) Group Mission # 114: ------Mission Report # 114, 5 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF. 2. At 1105 54___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Grazzanise L/G. _None_ returned Time No. A/C Type A/C Target No. A/C early. __54___ dropped 318x500 lb bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing on No. A/C No. & Type on alternate target at 1315 hours from 8500/13,500 ft. __54__ returned at 1505. Time Alt. No. A/C Time __one lost, _ none_ missing, _none__ at friendly field. No A/C No A/C No A/C

3. Primary target was covered by cumulus cloud with base at 6,000 and top at 18,000 ft. Alternate target was bombed of RR bridge and tracks from 1 mile SW of Minturno to 3 miles SE. Hits reported on RR bridge, tracks and highway. One E/A damaged.

4. Air------25/30 E/A came up from 5000 feet two minutes before target. 6/8 E/A at 19,000 feet as neared target. One plane seen afire on water at mouth of Volturno river. One other unidentified plane seen going down. E/A generally were not aggressive and were held off by long range fire. Escort seen fighting. Aerial bombs reported falling between 1st and 2nd elements approaching target. Did not burst in air. Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

Marine-----Two large M/V possibly hospital ships, stationary outside Gaeta harbor and 7 small in harbor. Medium M/V heading S; S of Volturno river. Flak------Heavy, slight, inaccurate from target area, and from Sessa Aurunca. Four bursts heavy inaccurate from Castel Volturno.

5. Enroute----4/10 strato cumulus at 4000 feet. Visibility unlimited. Alternate Target—2/10 at 7000 feet. Return------2/10 cumulus at 8,000 ft.

6. None. Flight leaders--Capts. Seel, Tipton, Isaacson. Number of sorties--54 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: The Squadron participated in a mission on the Grazzanise landing ground Italy. Lts. Kent, Kelley, Farrell, Greenblatt and Sgt. R.J. Hanna took a ride to today and came back with cigars and candy. Every time the men get these rations in Algiers it occasions a good deal of complaining around the base. The men are anxious to know why the people back in Algiers can get cigars and candy while they up at the front cannot. Some of the boys attended church services at the chapel just over the hill. The Squadron is ideally situated for this purpose. Bizerte was bombed again this evening. The flashes, explosions and gunfire could be seen from our area (This entry was made in error; the bombing took place on the evening of the 6th) Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt, pilot Hanna, R. J., Sgt, Kelley, Edward T., 2Lt, pilot Kent, William S., 2Lt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 114/mission 113) Group Mission # 114:

A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 42-64508 P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt N None None B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64575 A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N None None B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Choka, Andrew J., T/Sgt R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt G Arvo, Nillo R., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-29958 A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and Joy” P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt N None Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Halpin, John J., Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Smith, James B., Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Libel, Ralph K., 2Lt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi (Bear - no lettering) Gambler II” P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Cratin, William S., 1Lt CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt N None Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt R Garthwaite, Howard S., S/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt G Woronuk, John (NMI), Cpl Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 42-64590 Judy” P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Nysson, John W., 2Lt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., Sgt F None Asmus, George D., Sgt A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” under bombardier's window) P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-64659 P Grau, Robert B., Capt Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt N None None B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 114/mission 113) Group Mission # 114: Group mission 114, Sqdn 89 composed of 12 planes led by Lt. Schmidt. 500 lb bombs were dropped on Minturno, Italy, RR bridge and tracks. Hits were scored on the bridge, tracks and highway. 25/30 enemy aircraft came up but did not attack.

A/C No. 41-13208 (spare) A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” (spare) P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 2Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt N None None B Meehan, James M., 2Lt McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt G Mitchell, John C., Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt F None None A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady”(spare) A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” (spare) P Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Howe, Frank M., Jr., Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G Bedwell, Joy L., PFC Miles, Thomas P., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30293 A/C No. 41-13008 P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt N None None B Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt Braucher, David C., 2Lt E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 114/mission 113) Group Mission # 114: Sixteen of our planes participated in a raid on a railroad bridge in southern Italy. Bombing results good. All our planes returned safely. Three of our G planes participated in a raid on a radar station in Southern Sardinia. Bombing and gunning results fair. The flak was very intense and Lt. Edward’s plane was hit in the vertical stabilizer. Lt. McLaughlin’s plane was hit in the right engine. All three planes returned safely but Lt. McLaughlin’s plane will require a new engine. Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle II” P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N None None B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt G Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You Done Crapped Again” P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt N None None B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Funk, Marvin J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” P McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt B None listed – likely the navigator Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt G Alton, David D., S/Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated Lady” P Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Commander N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt None B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt R Balsom, James P., S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., PFC F None Leon, Robert D., Cpl

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 42-64695 (returned early) P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L., 2Lt N None Canning, John A., Capt (Observer) B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Horne, Wendell C., M/Sgt E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt R O’Mara, Robert M., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt F Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt (observer) A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp” P Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 1Lt Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt B None listed – likely the navigator None listed – likely the navigator E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon Ball” P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt N Colby, John W., 2Lt Sudden, A., F/O, NASAF B None listed – likely the navigator Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt R Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt G Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt N None None B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Harter, James E., S/Sgt E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Desjardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” (returned early – loose cowl) P Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt CP Ashley, Wilton S., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 20) TARGET: RR bridge—Minturno Italy 4:00 500 lbs Plane 925: Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, Capt. Manly, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, O’Mara, S/Sgt Draper “Hits made on bridge and tracks and highway. One E/A damaged. Flak heavy, slight, and inaccurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt, pilot (mission 23) “Fifty-four of us started out to hit Grazzanise Airdrome, North of Naples. For cover we had thirty-six P-38s. When we got to our I.P. at about 9500 ft the leader decided we couldn’t hit the airdrome because the clouds covered the sky over the target from about 5000 to 14000 ft., so we bombed a railroad intersection and bridge. As we approached the coast about ten fighters came toward us at 11 o’clock high. Tracy got a few shots at these. They didn’t make a pass at us, I guess it was because the 310th and a group of 26s had hit nearby about fifteen minutes before and they didn’t have any ammunition or gas left. I believe the 38s got a few of them.” Tracy, Boyd F., T/Sgt, gunner

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Goonbird goes to Sardinia on mission. Gets shot up badly, both rudders smashed, large hole in front.”

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 114/mission 113) Group Mission # 114: Mission 80 (114): At 1105, 54 planes off to bomb Grazzanise A/D. Dropped 318 x 500 bombs on alternate target (heavy storm clouds prevented visibility of A/D) at 1515 from 8/13000 feet. All returned 155. Primary target covered by CUMULUS clouds. Hit RR tracks 7 miles W of Minturno. Hits reported on RR bridge, tracks and highway. 25 to 30 E/A came up from 5000 feet two minutes below target, 6 to 8 E/A at 18000 feet as neared target, one plane seen afire on water. E/A held off by long range fire. Aerial bombs dropped by E/A between first and second element. Slight, heavy, inaccurate flak. Weather: 2/10th at 7000 feet over alternate target. F/L: Isaacson. Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-30327 P Bruton, John E., 1Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt CP Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ 321st BG E Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt Paschel, John W., S/Sgt F None Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer) A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 41-30343 P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt Polinsky, Marvin J., S/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Potosky, John S., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt McEntee, Peter M., Pvt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-64655 A/C No. 41-30326 P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt N None None B Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt E Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt Roberts, Harold L., S/Sgt R Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt Tanner, James T., S/Sgt G LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt F None Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt CP Joli, William H., 2Lt DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt N None None B Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt Robb, Earl K., S/Sgt R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Orman, Virgil N., S/Sgt G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt White, George E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 42-64519 P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Stewart, John C., 2Lt CP Fleming, George B., F/O Clark, Paul I., 2Lt N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 41-30548 P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., PFC R Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., PFC F None None

Sunday, 5 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 41-29967 P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None Holt, William E., 2Lt B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt E Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt Rude, Norman J., PFC R Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F None None Monday, 6 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's hit Capodichino Airfield, Villa Literno marshalling yard, Gaeta harbor, and Minturno railroad facilities; weather prevents a B-17 attack on Pomigliano airfield. B-25's and B-26's hit Capua airfield and landing grounds at Grazzanise. P-40's hit the landing ground at Pabillonis, Sardinia. US and RAF planes of NATAF operate on reduced scale, flying patrols and hitting railroads and targets of opportunity on the Italian toe. HQ 62nd Troop Carrier Group and its 7th Troop Carrier Squadron transfers from Goubrine, Tunisia to Ponte Olivo, Sicily with C- 47's. The 10th, 11th and 12th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 60th Troop Carrier Group, transfer from El Djem, Tunisia to Gela, Sicily with C-47's. The 14th Troop Carrier Squadron, 61st Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Kairouan, Tunisia to Licata, Sicily with C-47's. The 16th Reconnaissance Squadron (Bomber), 68th Reconnaissance Group, transfers from Berrechid, French Morocco to Berteaux, Algeria. The squadron is operating a school for fighter pilots until 23 Sep with P-38's, P-39's, P-40's and Spitfires. The 27th and 94th Fighter Squadrons, 1st Fighter Group, based at Mateur, Tunisia begin operating from Dittaino, Sicily with P-38's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 6 September 1943, 60 B-25’s took off at 1025 hours to bomb Capua A/D. Formation dropped 347x500 pound bombs on A/D was very well covered by this and preceding group. Hits were made on hangars and on planes parked in front of hangars. One very large fire seen in buildings and smaller fires on field believed to be burning planes. Hits also made among planes in N. and S. dispersal area. Flak opposition was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate at target. Heavy, moderate, accurate from battery two miles S. of Castel Volturno. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate, from Grazzanise and Villa Literno. Battery noted S. of Capua Vetere. 8 gun battery S. of Lago di Patria. Heavy, moderate from Ischia. Flight leaders were Major Cook, Captains Stultz, Richardson, and Chappell. Chappell, Howard L., Capt, pilot, 446th BS Cook, Bailey C., Col, pilot, Commander, 445th BS Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 115/mission 114) Group Mission # 115: ------Mission Report # 115, 6 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF.

2. At 1025 60___ _B-25s__ took off to _bomb_ Capua A/d. ___2___ returned Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C early. __58___ dropped 347x500 lb bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing on No. A/C No. & Type Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

on target at 1250 hours from 8500/10,500 ft. __58__ returned at 1435. _None_ Time Alt. No. A/C Time No A/C lost, _ none_ missing, _none__ at friendly field. No A/C No A/C

3. A/D was very well covered by this and preceding group. Hits were made on hangars and on planes parked in front of hangars. One very large fire seen in buildings and smaller fires on field believed to be burning planes. Hits also made among planes in N & S Dispersal area.

4. Air------6/7 S/E E/A approaching target, did not attack. Attack made on B-26s coming in. 30/40 on Capua A/D, including 6 T/E in revetments. Two transports at S end of hangars. Dogfights seen in distance. One E/A down in flames, and one crashed near A/D, pilot bailing out in red parachute. 10/15 E/A on Grazzanise A/D. Field appeared well cratered. Marine-----One large M/V heading S seven miles off Volturno river escorted by 3 small boats at 1200. One large M/V in Pozzuoli harbor. One launch N of Volturno river. Flak------Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate at target. Heavy, moderate accurate from battery two miles S of Castel Volturno. Heavy moderate, inaccurate from Grazzanise and Villa Literno. Battery noted S of Capua Vetere. 8 gun battery S of Lago di Patria. Heavy, moderate from Ischia.

5. Enroute----4/10 strato cumulus at 4000 feet. Visibility unlimited. Target------2/10 cumulus at 6,000. Return------2/10 cumulus at 8,000.

6. None. Flight leaders: Major Cook, Capts. Stultz, Richardson, Chappell. Number of sorties--58 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

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

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 115/mission 114) Group Mission # 115: Major Cook led a mission today. The Capua airdrome was bombed. The bombing that took place this evening was a very pretty sight. The red glow of tracers greatly resembled a Fourth of July demonstration. Later it was learned that only 2 bombs were dropped and the enemy lost 7 ships. Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” P Kent, William S., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt N None None B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt E Haney, T. J., Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt G Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ Gambler II” Judy” P Cook, Bailey C., Maj, Commander Miller, Roy N., 1Lt CP Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Butela, William F., 2Lt N Larson, Harold W., 1Lt None B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt N None McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, 446th BS B Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt E Lockwood, Patrick B, M/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt G O’Neill, Phillip W., Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt F Asmus, George D., Sgt None A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” P Grau, Robert B., Capt McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt None B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Kerbow, Joseph W., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None Cooper, Robert H., Cpl

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64590 A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Miller, Gail G., 2Lt N None None B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 42-64575 P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt N Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt None B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64659 A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” P Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N None None B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt G Pierce, William V., S/Sgt Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt F Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Shaffer, Edgar H., Sgt A/C No. 41-29958 P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt CP Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt N None B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt E Halpin, John J., Sgt R Townsend, Charles A., Sgt G Smith, James B., Sgt F None

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 115/mission 114) Group Mission # 115: Group mission 115, Sqdn 90, 15 planes led by Capt. Chappell. The target was Capua A/D, Italy where 500 lb bombs were dropped. Hits were made on hangars and planes parked in front of the hangars. 1 very large fire was started and several small ones, believed to be burning planes. 6/7 enemy fighters approached the formation but instead of attacking our formation they went for the B-26’s who followed us.

A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 41-13197 P Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt N None Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Coe, George E., 1Lt E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt R Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt None listed G Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 41-30293 P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt N None None B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt None A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt None B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 41-13192 Polka” P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, 2Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt N None None B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Helisek, Paul A., Sgt R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Smith, Roy W., Pvt G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Smith, Wade E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Chappell, Howard L., Capt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Klang, Irving E., 2Lt N None Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Roulier, Edward T., Cpl G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Skill, Donald H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt N None None B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt G McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” P Brown, Aud W., 1Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None None B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T.,S/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” P Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt N None B Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E Langan, Charles H., Sgt R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Orr, William J., Sgt F None

446th BS: War Diary of: Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner (mission 26) “# 26 Sept. 6, 1943 Time 4:30 Sqdn Mission # 90 Gr. Mission # 115 500# demo. Capua A/D Italy Formation Leader - Maj. Cook Results - A/D well covered - large fire. Remarks - Heavy, moderate accurate at target. Heavy moderate accurate 2 miles at Castel Volturno. 6-7 E/A (S/E) approached - did not attack - attacked B-26’s. Ship number - 42-64526 “Patches” Formation 1-1 P- Chappell, CP - Klang, N- Springer, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill” Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot Cook, Bailey C., Maj, pilot, Commander, 445th BS Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Klang, Irving E., 2Lt, pilot Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt, navigator

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 115/mission 114) Group Mission # 115: Fifteen of our planes participated in a raid on the Capua airdrome in Italy. Bombing results good. All our planes returned safely. Our squadron witnessed another air attack on Bizerte tonight. Flashes from the exploding bombs could be seen and the sky was streaked with tracers thrown up by the anti-aircraft batteries.

A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” Duck” P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt N None Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt R Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt G O’Mara, Robert M., S/Sgt Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt F None None Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp” A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” P Ackley, James H., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt CP Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F Leon, Robert D., Cpl None A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt N None Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Alton, David D., S/Sgt F Canning, John A., Capt (observer) None A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” Done Crapped Again” P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N None Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 2Lt B Joseph, Merlin J., 1Lt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt N None Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt N Colby, John W., 2Lt None B Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr.,, 1Lt Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt R Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt G Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt Werner, George P., Sgt F None Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt CP Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None None B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt G Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” (returned A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated early) Lady” (spare) P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., PFC F None None A/C No. 41-30002 A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle II” (spare) P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 41) TARGET: Capua A/D 4:10 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”) “Hits made on hangars and planes in front of hangars. Large fires seen. Small fires believed to be burning planes.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 21) TARGET: Capua A/D Italy 4:10 500 lbs Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, O’Mara, S/Sgt Draper “Airdrome was well covered by this and preceding Group. Hits were made on hangars and planes parked in front of hangars. Hit made on buildings and small fires were observed on field believed to be burning planes. Flak heavy moderate and accurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 24) “Capua Airdrome, twelve miles NE of Naples was today’s target. We put up sixty ships with thirty-six P38s for cover. The 310th also had sixty ships and hit a town abut twenty miles from our target. As we left our target and started back, two groups of B26s went overhead on their way in. Later two groups of B17s hit targets in the same vicinity. Beaucoup flak – few fighters.”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 115/mission 114) Group Mission # 115: Mission 81 (113): At 1025, 60 planes off to bomb Capua A/D. Two returned early. Dropped 347 x 500 bombs at 1258 from 85/10500 feet. Planes returned 1345. A/D well covered, hits on hangars and planes in front of hangars, one large fire seen in buildings and smaller fires on field believed to be burning planes. Hits also made among planes N and S dispersal area. 6 to 7 E/A seen but did not attack. Dog fights seen in distance. 1 E/A down in flames and 1 crashed on A/D. Moderate, heavy, accurate flak. Weather: 2/10th at target.

A/C No. 42-64661 (returned early) A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” (returned early) P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt CP Wik, John R., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt Potosky, John S., S/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” A/C No. 42-64521 P Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt CP Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt N Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt None B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt E Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., S/Sgt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt R Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, S/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt G White, George E., S/Sgt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-64519 P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Gouge, David J., 2Lt N None None B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None Hobert, Walter W., PFC A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None None B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 41-29967 P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt B Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt E Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt Rude, Norman J., PFC R Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt None

Monday, 6 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-30548 P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Bruton, John E., 1Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., 2Lt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-30343 P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt CP DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Polinsky, Marvin J., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30352 P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt N None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt F None

Tuesday, 7 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): HQ Army Air Forces decides to transfer Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton, Commanding General, and his HQ staff from Africa to the United Kingdom to reform the Ninth Air Force in the European Theater of Operations by absorbing the VIII Air Support Command.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb 2 satellite airfields at Foggia; B-25's and B-26's hit road and rail bridges at Saptri and Trebisacce and roads at Lauria. In Sardinia, P-40's hit the landing ground at Pabillonis and barges off Portoscuso. US A-20's of the Northwest African Tactical Bomber Force (NATBF) support British landing on 7/8 Sep near Pizzo, Italy in an unsuccessful attempt to cut off enemy retreat up W coast of the Italian toe. Medium and light bombers, in an afternoon raids, bomb Crotone airfield and roadblock and gun batteries N of Catanzaro, Italy. The 4th and 8th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, transfer from Goubrine, Tunisia to Gela, Sicily with C-47's. The 35th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, El Djem, Tunisia to Comiso, Sicily with C-47's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 7 September 1943 32 B-25’s took off with 4 B-26G’s to bomb road near Lauria 32 B-25’s dropped 180x500 pound bombs and 4 B-25G’s dropped 18 similar bombs on target at 1058 and 1100 hours. Target was covered by cloud layer. One flight made direct hits on road between Lauria and Lagonegro at 536675, sheet 210. Other flights bombed after 180° right turn and made hits on winding secondary road NE of Lauria. Some bombs hit in town resulting in fires. Possible hits reported on road and RR north and south of town, and in gorge to south. Flak battery hit 1 mile NE of Lauria. Few M/T hit 4 miles to N. Explosion seen SE of Lauria. Flight leaders were Capts. Veum, Griffith, Morton. Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot, 447th BS Veum, Ole E., Capt, pilot, 448th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 116/mission 115) Group Mission # 116: ------Mission Report # 116, 7 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF.

2. At 0845 32___ _B-25s__ and ___4___ _B-25Gs_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission Road near Lauria. _None_ returned early. __32___ dropped 180x500 lb bombs Target No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type with 1/10 and .025 second fusing and ___4___ _B-25Gs_ dropped 18 similar bombs No. A/C Type A/C Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued)

on target at 1058 & 1100 from 8500/9500 ft. __36__ returned at 1245. _None_ Time Alt. No. A/C Time No A/C

lost, _ none_ missing, _none__ at friendly field. No A/C No A/C

3. Target was covered by cloud layer. One flight made direct hits on road between Lauria and Lagonegro at 535676, sheet 210. Other flights bombed after 180° right turn and made hits on winding secondary road NE of Lauria. Some bombs hit in town resulting in fires. Possible hits reported on road and RR N &S of town, and in gorge to S. Flak battery hit 1 mile NE of Lauria. Few M/T hit 4 miles to N. Explosion seen SE of Lauria.

4. Air------One reconnaissance plane at 4000 feet over target headed NE. Two S/E and 1 T/E on Praia a Mare L/G. Two E/A on Scalea L/G.

Marine-----One large M/V with three small boats headed S 4 miles SW of at 1054. One E boat heading N of Maratea.

Ground----Two towers, possibly radar to S of Maratea. 15/20 M/T N of Praia a Mare. RR train headed S, S of Praia a Mare.

Flak------Heavy, moderate, accurate range but inaccurate deflection at target. Heavy scattered from Rivello. Position observed 5 miles E of Maratea.

5. Enroute----4/10 strato cumulus at 4000 feet. Visibility unlimited. Target------5/10 cumulus at 6,000 feet. Return------2/10 cumulus at 8,000 feet.

6. None. Flight leaders---Capts. Veum, Griffith, Morton. Number of sorties---36 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: Captain Tipton received the DFC for leading the formation of bombers that sank the Italian destroyer off the coast of Cape Bon. This was on April 30. Ice cream was enjoyed by all at the noon day meal. This ice cream is some of the finest tasting delicacy that the boys have tasted in a long while. Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 116/mission 115) Group Mission # 116:

A/C No. 42-64508 (spare) A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" under bombardier's window) (spare) P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt N None Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64590 (spare) P Ward, James M., 2Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt N None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 116/mission 115) Group Mission # 116: Group mission 116, Sqdn 91, 12 planes led by Capt. Griffith. 500 lb bombs were dropped on roads near Lauria, Italy. 1 flight scored direct hits on the primary target, while the rest of the formation dropped their bombs on a secondary road in the vicinity due to cloud cover over the primary target.

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 “Red Nosed Beckie” “Eager Beaver” P Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt Beavers, James L., II, 2Lt CP Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG N None Durante, Angelo M. C., 2Lt (observer) B None None E Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt MacDougal, Alan J., S/Sgt R Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Lefstad, Paul R., S/Sgt G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt

Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64531 “Flying Caisson” P Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt CP McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B None Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt E Williams, Homer R., S/Sgt Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl R Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt G Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the bombardier

A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt N McCarter, Elmer H., 2Lt, HQ 321st BG Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt G McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-13208 Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt N None Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt B Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt Meehan, James M., 2Lt E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” P Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt N None None B Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt E Langan, Charles H., Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Orr, William J., Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued) A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt N None None B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Sheehan, William F., S/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt None

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 116/mission 115) Group Mission # 116: Twelve of our planes participated in a raid on a road junction near Lauria, Italy. Bombing results good. All our planes returned safely. A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” Duck” P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt N None None B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” P Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt CP Ackley, James H., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt N None None B Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F None Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” Lady” P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt N None Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt G Smith, Robert J., PFC Alton, David D., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt N None Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You II” Done Crapped Again” P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt R Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt F Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt None A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Bell” A/C No. 41-30557 P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N None Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 22) TARGET: Road near Lauria, Italy 4:00 500 lbs Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, S/Sgt Kramer, S/Sgt. Ennis, S/Sgt Draper “Target was covered by cloud layer. One flight made direct hits on road between Lauria and Lagonegro. Explosions seen SE of Lauria. Flak heavy, moderate, accurate.”

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

Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 116/mission 115) Group Mission # 116: Mission 82 (116): No escort. At 0845, 32 B-25’s and 4 B-25g’s off to bomb road near Lauria. Dropped 180 x 500 bombs at 1100 from 8/9500 feet. Target was covered by cloud layer. Direct hits on road made between Lauria and Lagonegro and hits on secondary road NE of Lauria. Flak battery hit one mile NE of Lauria. Explosions seen SE of Lauria. Few bombs fell in town. Moderate, heavy, inaccurate flak. Weather: 5/10th CUMULUS at 6000 feet. F/L: Veum

A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 42-64519 P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Gouge, David J., 2Lt N None None B Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 41-30352 P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt N None None B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” A/C No. 42-64655 P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt N None None B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, 2Lt E Potosky, John S., S/Sgt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt G Griffin, Pink C., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt F None Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-64661 P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Cain, George S., S/Sgt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 7 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 41-30548 P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt B Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30327 P Garrett, Thaddeus, D., 2Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt CP Bruton, John E., 1Lt Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt, Commander N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ 321st BG E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt R McEntee, Peter M., Pvt Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Paschel, John W., S/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt None

Wednesday, 8 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):

In Italy, B-24's bomb the landing ground at Foggia, as convoys approach Salerno to begin the US invasion of Italy (Operation AVALANCHE).

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, about 130 XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb Frascati; 16O+ medium bombers hit a highway at Lauria and bridges at Trebisacce and Saptri; fighters hit Pabillonis, Sardinia, cover Allied forces near Pizzo, and bomb and strafe roads and vehicles in the Lamezia-Vibo Valentia-Pizzo-Catanzaro areas; and bombers hit roads and junctions in the Naples area during the night of 8/9 Sep. HQ 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group and the ground echelon of the 23rd Photographic Squadron (Light) arrive at La Marsa, Tunisia from the US. The air echelon of the 23rd has been operating from La Marsa since 13 Jul 43 with F-5's. The 18th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, transfers from El Djem, Tunisia to Comiso, Sicily with C-47's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 8 September 1943 34 B-25’s and 2 B-25G’s took off to bomb RR north of Lauria. 178x500 pound bombs were dropped by the main formation and the two B-25G’s dropped 12 similar bombs. Heavy, concentration of bombs reported by one flight across target, resulting n two large explosions and clouds of black smoke. Other flights were N. of target and some hits are reported on road and RR between target and Lagonegro. Flak was heavy, intense, accurate, multiple bursts from three miles off coast almost to target. Also heavy, moderate, inaccurate single bursts. Batteries were at SE side of Sapri off N. bank of river. Positions observed two miles SE of Camerota on Infreschi Point and at Rovello. Flight leaders were Captains Griffith, Tipton, and Lt. Fineman. Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot, 445th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 117/mission 116) Group Mission # 117: ------Mission Report # 117, 8 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF. 2. 3. At 0830 34___ _B-25s__ and ___2___ _B-25Gs_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission RJ north of Lauria. __One_ returned early. __33___ dropped 178x500 lb bombs Target No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type with 1/10 and .025 second fusing and ___2___ _B-25Gs_ dropped 12 similar bombs No. A/C Type A/C Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

on target at 1105 from 8500/9500 ft. __30__ returned at 1310/1730. _None_ Time Alt. No. A/C Time No A/C lost, _ none_ missing, ___1___ at friendly field. No A/C No A/C

4. Heavy, concentration of bombs reported by one flight across target, resulting in two large explosions and clouds of black smoke. Other flights were N of target and some hits are reported on road and RR between target and Lagonegro.

5. Air------4 transports low over coast at Sapri at 1102. Two JU-52’s heading N from Lauria. 5 barrage balloons over Sapri harbor. Marine-----One large M/V E of Infreschi Point at 1058. One medium M/V in Sapri harbor. One small M/V two miles NW of Cape heading N at 1055. Ground----Large M/T convoy between Torre Orsaia and . 20/30 M/T S of Lauria. 15/20 RR cars S of Torre Orsaia. 50 RR cars N of Sapri. Flak------Heavy, intense, accurate, multiple bursts from 3 miles off coast almost to target. Also heavy, moderate inaccurate single bursts. Batteries were at SE side of Sapri off N bank of river. Positions observed two miles SE of Camerota on Infreschi Point and at Rivello.

6. Enroute----3/10 to 4/10 strato cumulus at 4,000 feet. Visibility unlimited. Target------4/10 cumulus at 6,000 feet. Return------CAVU.

7. None. Flight leaders--Capts. Griffith, Tipton, and Lt. Fineman. Number of sorties--35 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: A good spaghetti dinner was enjoyed by all. A little later, the Squadron was rejoicing over the news that Italy had unconditionally surrendered. That night, many of the Squadron personnel was out on the line to “await the arrival of the Italian air force” which was reported on its way to this base. It never arrived. Lts. Ward, Jackson, Carmine, Larson, Kailer and Whitaker went to rest camp. Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt, pilot Jackson, John I., 2Lt, pilot Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt, pilot Larson, Harold W., 2Lt, navigator Ward, James M., 1Lt, pilot Whitaker, Robert N., 2Lt, bombardier

Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 117/mission 116) Group Mission # 117: The 445th flew “Tail end Charley” on a mission to bomb the road junction at Lauria. This Squadron was the only one to bomb the target according to plan.

A/C No. 42-64590 A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Grau, Robert E., Capt CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None None B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E, S/Sgt G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Pvt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” P Kent, William S., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt None A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” (Bear - no lettering) P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N None None B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt Nysson, John W., 2Lt E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt McKee, P. L. S/Sgt R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Sgt F None Asmus, George D., Sgt A/C No. 42-64659 A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ Judy” P Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N None Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Pierce, William V., S/Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-64575 P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt N None None B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt R Matthews, Earl L., Pvt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-64508 (early return - Gambler II” engine trouble) P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Miller, Gail G., 2Lt N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt O’Neil, Phillip W., Sgt F None Pinger, Robert R., Maj, HQ 321st BG (observer)

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 117/mission 116) Group Mission # 117: Group mission 117, Sqdn 92 composed of 12 planes. Capt. Griffith led the Group with Lt. Col. Olmstead as co-pilot. 500 lb bombs were dropped on a road junction north of Lauria, Italy. A heavy concentration of bombs in the target resulted in two large explosions. Capt. Griffith was forced to land his plane at Catania, Sicily because of damage to control surfaces of the plane due to flak. Lt. Cosner, who was on his 50th mission, was forced to belly land at the home base since his hydraulic system had been shot out by flak. Lt. Braswell was hit in the leg by flak, and S/Sgt. Miles was hit in the nose when flak tore the turret canopy off.

A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” Polka” P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt 2Lt CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., Sgt R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt None Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N None None B Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-13200 A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt CP Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O N None Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt E Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt G Mitchell, Ewell V., S/Sgt Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt F Vincent, Mordelo L., Jr., Capt, HQ 321st None BG A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo” P Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt BG CP Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt N Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Ltt None B Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt R Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt G Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt N None None B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Sheehan, William F., S/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Brown, Aud W., 1Lt CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt None B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: News was received tonight by radio that Italy had surrendered unconditionally. This news was received with great jubilation by everyone except those men who have only one or two missions to go before completing their fiftieth. It was believed that Italy’s surrender would mean no more missions from this base, and these men were afraid they would have a long wait before they could finish up. This proved untrue however.

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 117/mission 116) Group Mission # 117: Nine of our regular planes and two Gs participated in a raid on the railroad junction near Lauria. Bombing results good. All planes returned safely.

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 447th BS B-26G A/C No. 42-32488 P Gilluly, John W., 2Lt Edwards, James T., 2Lt CP Adams, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt Bailey, Bert C., 2Lt N Kresge, James G., 2Lt Lang, Robert B., 2Lt B Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG None (observer) E Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt R Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt Hughes, James C., S/Sgt G Fish, Harold E., Sgt Fox, Robert J., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle Duck” II” P Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N None None B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt E Henry, William R., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt G Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Cpl Dobbins, Daniel G., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG

Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You Done Crapped Again” P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt None B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt G Murphy, Brendon J., S/Sgt Funk, Marvin J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated Lady” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., PFC F None Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 41-30557 Snarp” P Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Weaver, Charles M, “Jug”, 1Lt B None listed – likely the navigator Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 1Lt E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt R Tracey, Boyd F., S/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt R Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt G Tornio, Raymond A., S/Sgt F None

Wednesday, 8 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 25) “The Canadian & British invaded the toe of Italy several days ago and today we hit a road & railroad near Sapri. Plenty of flak on the way and knocked out the leader and a wingman. Couple other ships landed at Sicily and Pantelleria. One boy landed here with just his nose wheel extended. He and the co-pilot were hit by flak. The 310th hit nearby and lost a few ships. Today’s mission was the second we had without escort.”

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Italy surrenders.”

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 117/mission 116) Group Mission # 117: Mission 83 (117): 34 B-25’s and 2 B-25g’s off at 0835 to bomb RR junction N of Lauria. 1 returned early. Dropped 178 x 500 bombs at 1105 from 85/9500 feet. Heavy concentration of bombs reported by one flight across target, resulting in two large explosions and clouds of black smoke. Other flights N of target reported hits on road and RR between target and Lagonegro. Motor convoy reported between Torrie Orsia and Soato and RR concentration reported N of Soato. Intense heavy, accurate flak. Weather: 4/10th CUMULUS at 6000 feet.

A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” (spare) A/C No. 42-64514 (spare) P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N Holt, William E., 2Lt None B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64661 P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O N None B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt F None

Thursday, 9 September 1943

321st Bomb Group Headlines:

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's hit the satellite airfield at Foggia, Italy.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force): Major General Paul L Williams assumes command of the XII Troop Carrier Command (Provisional).

In Italy, 100+ XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb bridges at Capua and Cancello Arnone, and 240+ B-25's and B-26's hit railroad-bridges at Potenza and landing ground at Scanzano; P-40's fly an uneventful sweep over Sardinia. XII Air Support Command fighters maintain patrols over Salerno, and other NATAF planes bomb and strafe motor transport, roads, and other targets in the Catanzaro-Auletta- Rogliano area and NNW of Salerno, as Lieutenant General Mark W Clark’s Fifth Army invades Italy, landing near Salerno (Operation AVALANCHE) and British forces make an airborne landing on heel of Italy, taking Taranto (Operation SLAPSTICK). HQ XII Air Support Command transfers from Sicily to Salerno, Italy.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 9 September 1943, 54 B-25’s and 6 B-25G’s took off to bomb RR and Highway communications on north side of Potenza. There was one early return. 53 dropped 318x500 pound bombs and the 6 B-25G’s dropped 36 similar bombs on target. Target area well covered, with hits on entrance of long and short tunnels. Three direct hits reported on track between tunnels. Sidings and sheds hit. RR and highway out north of town. RR cut SE of town. Two direct hits on road west of town. Bombs also fell into town causing large fires and clouds of smoke. Number of bombs were short and over. 7 M/T strafed at Anzi. Flak was light moderate, accurate at target. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from Sala Consilina, Padula, RR at Montesano, Marsico, Anzi, Satriano di Lucania, Brienza. Flight leaders Capts. Burns, Tipton, Isaacson, Lt. Axson. Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot, 445th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 118/mission 117) Group Mission # 118: ------Mission Report # 118, 9 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 0735 54___ _B-25s__ and ___6___ _B-25Gs_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission R.R. & Highway communications on N side of Potenza. ___1___ returned early. Target No. A/C Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

__53___ dropped 316x500 lb bombs with 1/10 and .025 second fusing and ___2___ No. A/C No. & Type No. A/C B-25Gs dropped 36 similar bombs on target at 1017 hours, from 8500/10,000 ft. __51__ returned at 1215, one at 1415. _None_ lost, _ none_ missing, __one___ at No. A/C No A/C No A/C No A/C __Palermo__. ___4___ B-25G’s returned at 1215, __2___ at 1425. friendly field. No A/C Time No A/C Time

3. Target area well covered, with hits on entrances of long and short tunnels. 3 direct hits reported on track between tunnels. Sidings & sheds hit. RR and highway cut N of town. RR cut SE of town. 2 direct hits on road W of town. Bombs also fell into town causing large fires and clouds of smoke. Number of bombs were short & over. 7 M/T strafed at Anzi.

4. Air------One S/E on deck N of Palinuro at 1000. One transport headed NE very low at 40°32’N, 15°20’E at 1010. One brown S/E below, and one S/E above at target, did not attack.

Marine-----One E boat headed N off Cape Palinuro at 1000. One sub 20 miles S of Cape Palinuro headed 330° at 0959. Convoy 7 medium, 3/4 small M/V headed N at 0955 40 miles SW Cape Palinuro. 1 large M/V SW Cape Palinuro at 1003. One DD 5 miles SE of Sapri at 1002.

Ground----Convoy of troop carriers and trucks 10 miles S of target headed N. Convoy stretching ¾ miles at crossroads 2½ miles SE of Sala Consilina headed N. Convoy about 200 M/T 5 miles W of Tegiano, stationary. One train pulling out of target to NW.

Flak------15 bursts light moderate accurate at target. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from Sala Consilina, Padula, RJ at Montesano, Marsico, Anzi, Satriano di Lucania, Brienza. Light, inaccurate at Atena Lucana.

5. CAVU for route.

6. None. Flight leaders - Capts. Burns, Tipton, Isaacson, Lt. Axson. Number of sorties--59 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Lt. Raymond L. Rudolph, the hard luck pilot of the 445th today received orders to return to the United States. Rudolph, Raymond L., 2Lt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 118/mission 117) Group Mission # 118: The 445th participated in another tactical mission, this time bombing the railroad and highway communications near Potenza.

A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-30354 Gambler II” P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Kent, William S., 1Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt N None None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" under bombardier's window) P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt N None None B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt Lestz, Sidney (NMI) “Lefty”, Sgt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Pvt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ Judy” P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” (Bear - no lettering) P Heflin, Norma H. B., 2Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N None None B Czekai, Adolf B., 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Lockwood, Patrick B., M/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 42-64529 P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N None None B Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Carson, Cecil F., Pvt F None None A/C No. 42-64590 A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Grau, Robert B., Capt CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt G O’Neil, Phillip W., S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64575 A/C No. 42-64659 P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Miller, Gail G., 2Lt N None None B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt F None Asmus, George D., Sgt

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” (returned early – engine trouble) P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt N None B McEnroe, Harry A., 2Lt E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt F None

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/09/43: “Last evening about 18:00 hours, the Algiers radio broadcast the news of the surrender of the Italian government. A loud whoop was heard all over the camp and the men began gathering outside their tents in groups wildly expressing their gladness at the news. A report circulated that the Italian Air Force was scuttling to Allied fields in and preparations were made to receive them at our field. The guard was strengthened and the runway lighted with trucks. We went out to load bomb about 24:00 and at about 01:00 we heard a single plane flying high without lights. However, it did not land and we were all disappointed. At sunrise some 150 flying Forts passed over and minutes later our planes began taking off to support the new Allied landings near Naples. Our Italian prisoners and the people in are wild with joy and excitement. Saw Bizerte bombed night of 09/07/43.”

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 118/mission 117) Group Mission # 118: Group mission 118, Sqdn 93 composed of 15 planes led by Lt. Axson. 500 lb bombs were dropped on RR and highway communications North of Potenza, Italy. The target was well covered with hits on both ends of both tunnels, and sheds and sidings hit. Bombs which fell in town caused large fires and much smoke.

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 “Flying Caisson” (landed at Sicily) “Red Nosed Beckie” P Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt CP McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt N None None B None None E Williams, Homer R., S/Sgt Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt R Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt G Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64531 P Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt CP Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG N None B Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt (observer) E Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt R Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt G Albright, Marvin E., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 41-13200 A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt CP Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt None B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., Sgt R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Bedwell, Joy L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-64551 St. Joe” P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt None B Coe, George A., 1Lt Meehan, James M., 2Lt E Sidlik, Theophil S., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka” P Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Clark, Robert A., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Edwards, David R., Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt F None Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Brown, Aud W., 1Lt Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., 1Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt N None None B Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” (landed in Sicily) P Tapper, George G., 2Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt N None None B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt F None None

447th BS War Diary: Lt. O. Daume and S/Sgt. H. Osowiecki completed their fiftieth with this mission today. They are the first men in the squadron to finish their tour of duty. Daume, Oscar R., 2Lt, navigator Osowiecki, Hendrick, S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 118/mission 117) Group Mission # 118: Fourteen of our regular planes and two Gs participated in a raid on a road junction near Potenza, Italy. Bombing results good. All our planes returned safely.

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 447th B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 P Beeson, Elwood H., 1Lt Baxter, William T., 2Lt CP Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt Dunn, Robert P., 2Lt N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt Kresge, James G., 2Lt B None None E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt Leist, Jacob F., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Kovalchick, Alexander (NMI) “Alex”, S/Sgt G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt Manning, Hillard J., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 (spare) P McLaughlin, Robert A., 2Lt CP Shaw, James A., 2Lt N None B None E Baringer, Paul S., Sgt R Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt G Farrell, John J., Pvt CL None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated Lady” P Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt De Moss, Jack M., 1Lt CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., PFC F Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Cpl None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You Done Crapped Again” P Ackley, James H., 2Lt Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt CP Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt N None None B Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Funk, Marvin J., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Commander N None Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2LT Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 41-30557 P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N None None B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 1Lt E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” P McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt R Brown, Charles Orville “Brownie”, Jr., Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt S/Sgt G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” Ball” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Balsom, James P., S/Sgt G Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Jenson, Aage E., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 1Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” (spare) P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt B None listed – likely the navigator E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 26) “Yesterday after we returned from the mission we learned that Italy had surrendered. Today we bombed an intersection of three roads and a railroad and railroad bridge. Potenza was the name of the nearby town. It lies about twenty miles S.E. Naples. The reason for cutting off this choke point was to prevent the German divisions from leaving Southern Italy. No escort. Little heavy flak.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 42) TARGET: Potenza RR & highway communications 4:40 Plane 371(42-53371 “Death Wind”) “Target well covered. Sidings and shed hit. Large fires caused in town”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 118/mission 117) Group Mission # 118: Mission 84 (118): No escort. At 0735, 54 B-25’s and 6 B-25g’s off to bomb RR and highway communications on E side of Potenza. 1 returned early. Dropped 318 x 500 and 38 x 500 bombs at 1017 from 85/10,000 feet. Target well covered and entrances to both long and short tunnel hit, with three direct hits, also on tracks between tunnel. Sidings and shed hit and two direct hits on road W of town. Some bombs fell into town. Moderate, heavy, accurate flak. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Isaacson

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 P Peplinski, James L., F/O CP Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt B None E Wright, Joseph F., S/Sgt R Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt G Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 42-64514 P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt Hobert, William W., PFC A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None None B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt R Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Dellwo, Lawrence H., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-30548 P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-30343 P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt Polinsky, Marvin J., T/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Fleming, George B., F/O N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-30355 P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Bruton, John E., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt N Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt None B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Harding, John E., S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” A/C No. 42-64521 (returned early – engine trouble) P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None None B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Potosky, John S., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 9 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30326 (returned early – A/C No. 41-29967 (returned early – turret out) engine trouble) P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt E Roberts, Harold L., S/Sgt Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30352 (regular) P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt N None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt G Deal, Herman L., Sgt F None

Friday, 10 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's bomb a satellite airfield at Foggia, Italy,

ESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command medium bombers hit railroad and road junctions and road net in the Castelnuovo-Pescopagano-Cassino-Capua-Formia areas; heavy bombers attack the Ariano intersection and highway bridge (and bridges and roads in the area), bridges near Botena and over the Tiber River SW of Rome, and roads, buildings, and railroad facilities at Isernia; XII Air Support Command and RAF airplanes of the NATAF blast heavy road movement N from Lauria and cover beachheads in the Salerno area as the British Eighth Army increases pressure on its front in an effort to prevent the Germans from concentrating against the US Fifth Army's Salerno beachhead. German troops occupy Rome. During the night of 10/11 Sep, B-25's of the 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) hit communications centers at Corleto, Perticara, Auletta and Saptri.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 10 September 1943, 36 B-25’s took off to bomb road net at Cassino. 216x500 pound bombs were dropped. Main road junction on east side of town, and junctions south and east of it all well covered by direct hits. Junction in town of highway from east hit. Other hits in town resulted in large explosion. RR and road crossing on N. side of town hit. Road on NE edge of town and two secondary roads on SE cut. One M/T hit. Hospital not hit. Flak was heavy, slight, inaccurate at mouth of Volturno river and Garigliano river, and at Villa Literno. Few bursts heavy from Aquino A/D. Flight leaders were Captains Whiteford, Stultz and Lt. Martin. Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt, 446th BS Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt, 445th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 119/mission 118) Group Mission # 119: ------Mission Report # 119, 10 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 0840 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb road net at Cassino. _None_ Time No. A/C Type A/C Target No. A/C returned early. __36___ dropped 216x500 lb. bombs with 1/10 and .025 second No. A/C No. & Type fusing at 1057 hours, from 8000/9000 ft. __36__ returned at 1245. _None_ lost, Time Alt. No. A/C Time No. A/C _ none_ missing, _None_ at friendly field. No A/C No A/C

Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued)

3. Main road junction on E side of town, and junctions S and E of it all well covered by direct hits. Junction in town of highway from E hit. Other hits in town resulted in large explosion. RR and road crossing on N side of town hit. Road on NE edge of town and two secondary roads on SE cut. One M/T hit. Hospital not hit.

4. Air------One JU-52 below at target, damaged. 10/12 E/A in front of hangar at Aquino A/D. A/D appeared unserviceable. One reconnaissance plane smoking, landing at Aquino. Two transports 15 miles S of target on deck at 1054. One S/E and one T/E on Capua. A/D appeared unserviceable. Marine-----Dinghy at 38°15’N, 11°30’E at 1210, fired red flare. Reported by radio. One large M/V anchored off Gaeta. Ground----Very heavy M/T traffic headed NW for 20 miles on main road to Cassino. Heavy traffic headed W toward Minturno. One convoy headed SE from Minturno. Heavy traffic on coastal road at Fondi going both directions. M/T scattered along roads near Pico and Pastena. 16 M/Ts entering Sessa Aurunca from N. 2 convoys 20 M/T each headed N, S of Isoletta., 9 M/T at San Pietro Infine headed NW. Convoy moving into Sperlonga from NW. Heavy traffic at junction 3/4 mile S of Cassino. M/Y 5 miles N/W of Aquino A/D had 50/60 RR cars. Cars in M/Y 5 miles E of Isoletta and S of Fondi. Sessa Aurunca M/Y full of cars and M/T loading. Many cars at Isoletta. Extensive trenches and gun emplacements in area W of Sessa Aurunca A/D. White and green light flashing at Sperlonga. Flak------Heavy, slight, inaccurate at mouth of Volturno river and Garigliano river, and at Villa Literno. Few bursts heavy from Aquino A/D.

5. Enroute---Hazy, scud at 2000ft. Target-----CAVU, light scud at 2000 feet. Return-----Scud at 2000 ft. overcast at 6000/10,000 feet near African coast.

6. None. Flight leaders---Capts. Whiteford, Stultz and Lt. Martin. Number of sorties--36 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: The Italian prisoners working in the kitchen came up with one of their specialties – raviolis – and the men were high in their praise of the delicious dish. The men were also swamped with a huge mail call and there were many smiling faces in the camp tonight. Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 119/mission 118) Group Mission # 119: Captain Whiteford led today’s mission to bomb the road net at Cassino.

A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 42-64575 P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt N None None B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt N None None B Nysson, John W., 2Lt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt E Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt R Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt G Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” (Bear - no lettering) P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt F None Asmus, George D., Sgt A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 42-64529 P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt None B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt F Lord, Robert O., Jr., 1Lt (observer) None

Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued) A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” Judy” P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64659 A/C No. 42-64590 P Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G Pierce, William V., S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information) 446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 119/mission 118) Group Mission # 119: Group mission 119, Sqdn 94 composed of 11 planes led by Lt. Martin. 500 lb bombs were dropped on roads at Cassino, Italy. The target was well covered, the road and RR both hit and numerous explosions in the town. A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” Pee Wee” P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., Brown, Aud W., 1Lt 1Lt CP Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt N None None B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-64551 P Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt N None None B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt E Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Kreig, Thomas E., S/Sgt Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, S/Sgt G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-13200 Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Green, Harry M., Sgt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt N Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt None B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon(NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Ken, Carl H., S/Sgt G McNeil, Gabriel J., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” P Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt N None Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt R Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt Sidlik, Theophil, S., S/Sgt G Rodgers, Horace K., S/Sgt Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka” P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt

Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner (mission 27) “# 27 Sept. 10, 1943 Time 4:30 Sqdn Mission # 94 Gr. Mission # 119 500# demo. Cassino (Road network) Italy Formation Leader - Capt. Whiteford Results - Target well covered - large explosions - hospital not hit - 1 M/T hit. Remarks - Heavy, slight, inaccurate flak at Volturno River - few burst Aquino A/D - 1 JU- 52 damaged. Ship number - 41-13200 Formation 1-3 P- Cornell, CP - Elliott, B- Green, E - Kaney, RG- Haley, G -Dykes” Cornell, Earl K., F/O, pilot Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt, pilot Green, Harry M., Sgt, bombardier Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt, pilot, 445th BS

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 119/mission 118) Group Mission # 119: One of our planes participated in a raid on a road junction near Cassino, Italy. Bombing results good. The plane returned safely.

A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” Done Crapped Again” (spare) P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt N None Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” (spare) P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt N None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt F None

Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued)

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 119/mission 118) Group Mission # 119: Mission 85 (119): No escort. At 0840, 36 planes off to bomb road net at Cassino Dropped 216 x 500 bombs at 1057 from 8/9000 feet, all returned 1245. Main junction E and S of town hit and well covered. RR and RC on N side of town hit. Road on NE edge of town and two secondary roads cut but hospital was not hit. E/A seen but did not attack. Motor convoys observed and reported. Slight, heavy, inaccurate flak. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Stultz.

A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 42-64655 P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt None B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30327 P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Davies, Robert D., 1Lt CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Barton, Thomas M., F/O N None None B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt E Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt R Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt G Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt F None Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer) A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 42-64519 P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Gouge, David J., 2Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Davey, Joseph M., Jr., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None Hobert, Walter W., PFC

Friday, 10 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-64521 P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt N None None B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt E Potosky, John S., S/Sgt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 42-64514 P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Fleming, George B., F/O Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Taylor, Harry F., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 41-30548 P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Driver, William J., F/O Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Hurst, Joseph B., 1t B Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Polinsky, Marvin J., T/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas J., S/Sgt G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 11 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb the Benevento marshalling yard and bridge and highway junction nearby; B-25's and B-26's hit highways and junctions at Castelnuovo, Ariano, Mignano, and Isernia; P-40's fly an uneventful sweep over S Sardinia; and US and RAF airplanes of the NATAF continue to provide beachhead cover in the Salerno area, hit road communications throughout the day, and attack road and rail bridges, junctions, airfield, and town areas at Saptri, Corleto, Perticara, Auletta, and Gioia del Colle, Italy.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 11 September 1943 32 B-25’s and 4 B-25G’s took off to bomb road bends at Ariano Irpino. 32 dropped 187x500 lb bombs and the 4 B-25G’s dropped 24 similar bombs. Direct hits made on both targets---road bends at N. and S. ends of town. Road junction N. of town hit. Road cut N. and S. of town. Large explosion seen near southern end of town. No ground opposition. Flight leaders were Captains Isaacson, Griffith, and Morton. Observers: Captain Weld, Captain Silver and Lt. Col. Lowell. Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Lowell, William A., Lt Col, Adjutant, HQ 321st BG Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot, 447th BS Silver, George A., III, Maj, medical officer, 448th BS Weld, David (NMI), Capt, HQ 82nd FG

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 120/mission 119) Group Mission # 120: ------Mission Report # 120, 11 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 0140 32___ _B-25s__ and _4___ _B-25Gs_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission Road bends at Ariano Irpino. _None_ returned early. __32___ dropped 216x500 lb. Target No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type bombs with 1/10 and .025 second fusing at 1357 hours, from 10,000/11,000 ft. Time Alt. _4G’s_ dropped 24 similar bombs. __32___ returned at 1555. None lost, missing, No. A/C No. A/C Time or at friendly field.

3. Direct hits made on both targets---road bends at N and S ends of town. RR junction N of town hit. Road out N and S of town. Large explosion seen near southern end of town.

Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

4. Air------Three unidentified planes 30 miles SW of Point, did not attack. One S/E below at target. Two S/E headed NE from target. Fired at one JU-52 5 miles S of target. Had white band forward of stabilizer. Two S/E behind formation as left coast at . No attack. 10 E/A on Ariano L/G. Marine-----None. Flak------None. Ground----Considerable traffic on roads in target area. Convoy seen E of Eboli. 6 M/T near Vallo di Lucania. Stationary convoy NW of Lioni. 25 M/T at Andretta heading N. Convoy N of Villanova di Battista. 30/40 M/T heading S at Oliveto Citra. Convoy N of Ariano. Convoy headed NE at Agropoli. Some M/T W of Balvano. 20 M/T headed SE towards Muro Lucano.

5. Enroute---Slight haze. Scud layer at 2000 feet. 4/10 alto cumulus at 7000 ft. Target-----CAVU. Return-----CAVU.

6. None. Flight leaders---Capts. Isaacson, Griffith, Morton. Number of sorties--36 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: The men continue to enjoy the fine bathing facilities at this base. The waters of the Gulf of Tunis are sparkling blue-green and are made to order for the swimmers who range far out from shore.

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 120/mission 119) Group Mission # 120: This Squadron supplied 3 spares, two of which filled in to bomb the road bend at Ariana Irpino.

A/C No. 41-13207 A/C No. 42-64529 (spare) P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N None Osborn, Hobart G., 2Lt B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Carson, Cecil F., Pvt F None None Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” P McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Butela, William F., 2Lt N None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt G Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 120/mission 119) Group Mission # 120: Group mission 120, Sqdn 95, 12 planes led by Capt. Griffith. The target was roads at Ariano Irpino, Italy. Hits were scored on the town and RR junction with 500 lb bombs.

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 “Red Nosed Beckie” “Flying Caisson” P Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt CP Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt N None None B None None E Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt Williams, Homer R., Sgt R Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Drotts, Marshall D., Sgt G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka”

P Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt F None Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt

Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., 1Lt CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt N None None B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Meehan, James M., 2Lt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt G McNeil, Gabriel J., S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” P Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Brown, Aud W., 1Lt CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt None A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 41-30293 St. Joe” P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt Clark, Robert A., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt None B Coe, George A., 1Lt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 41-13200 P Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt N Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt None B Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt E Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt G Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: Capt. R. Richardson and S/Sgt. R. Tornio completed their fiftieth with this mission. Richardson, Robert W., Capt, pilot Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt, gunner Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 120/mission 119) Group Mission # 120: Nine of our regular planes and two Gs participated in a raid on a road junction near Ariano, Italy. Bombing results good. All planes returned safely.

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 P Gilluly, John W., 2Lt McLaughlin, Robert A., 2Lt CP Adams, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG N Kresge, James G., 2Lt Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt B None None E Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt Baringer, Paul S., Sgt R Hughes, James P., S/Sgt Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt G Fish, Harold E., Sgt Farrell, John J., Pvt CL None listed - likely the engineer Shaw, James A., 2Lt (observer)

A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt None B Lieberman, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), T/Sgt G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P Morton, William C., Jr., Capt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt N Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt None B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” Lady” P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None None B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt R Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt F Lowell, William A., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt (observer) Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” (spare) P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt N None Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Reilly, James M., Cpl F Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt Pinger, Robert R., Maj, HQ 321st BG (observer) A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 42-64695 P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt N None Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt F None Weld, David (NMI), Capt, HQ 82nd FG (observer)

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 27) “Today we hit a road, that was being used to bring up reinforcements to the German troops that are resisting the Allied landing below Naples. We hit the highway at two different places where the road curved sharply. The town at that point was Ariano, Italy. About fifty miles southeast of Naples. What a show this invasion is. Hundreds of boats of all sizes landing men and equipment on the shores of Italy. We crossed the battlelines at about 9000 ft. The 38s that we usually have for escort were out protecting the landing troops, so we had no escort. Barrage balloons protect the landing troops from strafing enemy fighters.”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 120/mission 119) Group Mission # 120: Mission 86 (120): No escort. At 1140, 32 B-25’s plus 4 B-25g’s off to bomb junction at Ariana. Dropped 187 x 500 bombs at 1357 from 10/11000 feet. All returned at 1535. Direct hits made on road bends N and S of town and roads cut in both places, much traffic on road. No flak. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Isaacson.

Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 42-64661 P Veum, Ole E., Capt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt N Holt, William E., 2Lt None B Reich, William John, 2Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt E Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Paschel, John W., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-30548 A/C No. 41-30326 P Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt CP Haskell, John D., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt None B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt E Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt Roberts, Harold L., S/Sgt R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt Tanner, James T., S/Sgt G Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 41-29967 P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP Driver, William J., F/O Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt E Polinsky, Marvin J., T/Sgt Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 42-64552 P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None None B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt R Smith, Harold W., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt F Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer) None

Saturday, 11 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 42-64514 P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None None B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” (returned early – electrical trouble) P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt CP Bruton, John E., 1Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Potosky, John S., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 12 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's hit Kalathos and Maritsa airfields on Rhodes.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's bomb the Mignano road defiles, the Benevento road bridge, and the Frosinone airfield; medium bombers hit Ariano (and trucks and road nearby), Isernia, and Castelnuovo and Formia road junctions; US and RAF aircraft of the NATAF attack motor transport movement, roads, and bridges in the Potenza-Auletta areas, maintain cover over the US Fifth Army in the Salerno invasion area (where the enemy launches a fierce effort to reduce the beachhead), and during the night of 12/13 Sep fly intruder missions over 6 airfields between Rome and Pizzo, finding little activity. British Eighth Army forces on the toe of Italy capture Crotone and push N, and on the Taranto front occupy territory up to N of Castelaneta. The 64th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, transfers from Sicily to Rocco Bernardo, Italy with P-40's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 12 September 1943, 32 B-25’s and 4 B-25G’s took off to bomb road bends at Ariano Irpino. 12 dropped 72x500 pound bombs from 11,000’, 9 dropped 54 similar bombs and the 3 G’s dropped 18 from 10,000’. South bend at target was well covered by one flight. Second flight dropped bombs on road junction and on road to west at Grottaminarda. Third flight was unable to distinguish target and did not drop. No opposition. Flight leaders: Lts. Axson, Fineman, and Kayser. Observers: Majors Pemberton, Pinger, Captains Canning and Manly. Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Canning, John A., Capt, Medical Officer, 447th BS Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, intelligence, HQ 321st BG Pinger, Robert R., Maj, Group Surgeon, HQ 321st BG

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 121/mission 120) Group Mission # 121: ------Mission Report # 121, 12 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1110 32___ _B-25s__ and _4___ _B-25Gs_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission road bends at Ariano Irpino. _None_ returned early. __12___ dropped 72x500 lb. Target No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type bombs with 1/10 and .025 second fusing on target at 1337 hours, from 11,000 ft. Time Alt. Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

__ 9___ dropped similar bombs and _3G’s_ dropped 18 at 1338, from 10,000 ft. at No. A/C No. A/C Time

Grottaminarda. __36___ returned at 1525. None lost, missing, and none at friendly No. A/C Time field. 3. South bend at target was well covered by one flight. Second flight dropped bombs on road junction and on road to W at Grottaminarda. Third flight was unable to distinguish target and did not drop. 4. Air------Some P-38s joined formation at 1317 shortly after crossing coast. Marine-----None. Ground---- Large convoy E of Rutino heading W, possibly friendly. 15 M/T heading S, east of Calabritto. One convoy heading N and one S on road E of Oliveto Citra. 10 M/T heading N at Castelfranci. Flak------None. 5. Enroute---2/10 cumulus at 8,000 over mountains. Visibility unlimited. Target and Return---CAVU. 6. None. Flight leaders---Lts. Axson, Fineman and Kayser. Observers----Majors Pemberton, Pinger, Captains Canning and Manly. Number of sorties--36 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Lt.s Robert B. Kayser, Ralph K. Liebl; Sgts. Ernest L. Whitmore and Richard L. Lambert today completed their 50th combat missions. They were congratulated by Major Cook and photographs were taken of the crew, the first of the 445th Squadron to complete their present tour of combat duty. In the evening, a dance was held at the enlisted men’s club. Girls were obtained from surrounding towns and record music was provided. Beer was also served and a good time was had by all including the families of the girls who insisted on coming as chaperons. Cook, Bailey C., Col, pilot, Commander Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Lambert, Richard L., Sgt, gunner Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt, bombardier Whitmore, Ernest L., Sgt, gunner

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 121/mission 120) Group Mission # 121: The 445th participated in a mission to bomb the road bends at Ariano Irpino.

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” (Bear - no lettering) P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Grau, Robert B., Capt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., , 2Lt N None Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” P Kent, William S., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt N None None B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt G Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt F None Bell, Ernest C., 1Lt (observer) A/C No. 42-30550 “Hetties Pride and A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” Joy” P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt N None Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt B Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt G Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt F None Malek, Stanley J., 1Lt (observer)

Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64529 A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt N None None B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt R Chereski, John J., T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt G Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt F Pinger, Robert R., Maj, HQ 321st BG Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt (observer) A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II” P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Cratin, William S., Capt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt N None None B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt F Asmus, George D., Sgt None A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” P McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Thornburn, Thomas H., 2lt N None B McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt G Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 121/mission 120) Group Mission # 121: Group mission 121, Sqdn 96 composed of 12 planes. Lt. Axson led the Group and 500 lb bombs were dropped on the road junction at Ariano Irpino. The first elements to drop their bombs on the target, but the third element could not distinguish the target and did not drop their bombs.

Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 “Flying Caisson” “Eager Beaver” P Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt Beavers, James L., II, 2Lt CP Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt Durante, Angelo M. C., 2Lt N None None B None None E Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt MacDougall, Alan J., S/Sgt R Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt Lazorshak, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt G Albright, Marvel E., S/Sgt Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 “Red Nosed Beckie” P Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt CP Foote, Douglass G., 2Lt N None B None E Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt R Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” Pee Wee” P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt 1Lt CP Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt N None McCarter, Elmer H., Maj B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., Sgt R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, Sgt G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt None A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 41-13200 P Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 2Lt CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt N None Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Pappas, William J., 2Lt E Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt F None Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, (Mission Commander) Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” St. Joe” P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Brown, Aud W., 1Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt None B Coe, George A., 1Lt Green, Harry M., Sgt E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R Fontenot, V. L. (i.o.), T/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 41-30293 P Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Clark, Robert A., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Mitchell, Lance M., Sgt R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13208 P Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt N None B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt E Helisek, Paul A., Sgt R Smith, Roy W., Pvt G Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Cpl F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt

447th BS War Diary: This was the fiftieth mission for Lt. S.H. Batchelder, Lt. C.B. Hasty, Lt. G. Ghetia, S/Sgt. J.M. Vaccaro. Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt, pilot Ghetia, George, 2Lt, bombardier Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt, pilot Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 121/mission 120) Group Mission # 121: Ten of our regular planes and two Gs participated in a raid on a road junction near Irpino, Italy. The planes reached the target but returned without dropping their bombs. All returned safely.

Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 P Edwards, James T., 2Lt Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt CP Bailey, Bert C., 2Lt Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG N Lang, Robert B., 2Lt Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt B None None E Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt R Hughes, James C., S/Sgt Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt G Fox, Robert J., S/Sgt Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt (observer)

A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” Done Crapped Again” P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt N None None B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt (observer)

A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Althouse, Donald I., 2lt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt F None Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt B Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 1Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt R Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt G Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt F None Canning, John A., Capt (observer) Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” Snarp” P Ackley, James H., 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt CP Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt N None None B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt F Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st None BG (observer) A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” Lady” P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None None B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt G Smith, Robert J., PFC Wilson, Leo W., Pvt F None None

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 121/mission 120) Group Mission # 121: Mission 87 (121): No escort. At 1110, 32 planes and 4 B-25g’s off to bomb road bends at Ariana, Irpino. 12 dropped 72 x 500 bombs, 9 dropped 54 x 500 bombs and 4 B-25g’s 18 x 500. One flight did not locate the target. All planes back 1525. S bend well covered. RJ and road W of Grottaminarda hit by first and second flights. No flak. Weather: CAVU. 448 spares.

A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 41-30355 (spare – did not fill in) P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt CP Driver, William J., F/O Bruton, John E., 1Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Terho, Harold V., S/Sgt Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Harding, John E., S/Sgt G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 12 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30548 (spare – did not fill in) P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Potosky, John S., S/Sgt R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt F None

Monday, 13 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): RAF heavy bombers, under the operational control of the IX Bomber Command, hit Potenza, Italy. Colonel Frederick M Byerly replaces Colonel Charles D McAllister as commander of the IX Fighter Command.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, B-17's of the XII Bomber Command bomb roads in the Torre del Greco area, a highway at Sala Consilina, and a road junction, railway and bridge at Atena Lucana; B-25's attack a viaduct, rail and road junctions, and rail lines in the Pompeii-Castellammare di Stabia-Torre Annuziata areas; XII Air Support Command A- 36's destroy 25 to 30 vehicles near Potenza, and fighters maintain convoy patrol; US and RAF light and medium bombers of the NATBF hit town areas, road junctions, and vehicles in the Auletta-Pompeii-Sala Consilina-San Severino Rota areas. 80+ C-47's drop contingents of the US 82d Airborne Division S of the Sele River to strengthen the bridgehead in the face of enemy counterattacks which threaten the US Fifth Army beachhead in the Salerno area. HQ 33rd Fighter Group transfers from Licata, Sicily to , Italy.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission on this date, only a few practice bombing runs. The Officer’s Club along the beach is no open. With the exception for work on the interior the building is just about completed.

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: Usual garrison duties.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Tuesday, 14 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):

In Italy, B-24's hit a marshalling yard at Pescara; RAF heavy bombers, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, hit Potenza.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, elements of the British Eighth Army enter ; at Salerno, the US Fifth Army, throwing reserves and service troops into the line, and receiving much naval and air support, holds off enemy onslaughts against the beachhead; XII Bomber Command B-17's, B-25's, and B-26's attack highways, road junctions and defiles, bridges, town areas, railroads, marshalling yard, barracks, and numerous targets of opportunity, including several gun positions, in or near Avellino, Pompeii, Torre Annunziata, Auletta, Baronissi, San Severino Rota, Battipaglia, and Eboli; US and RAF fighter-bombers and light and medium bombers of the NATAF fly well over 500 sorties, mainly against bridges, and towns in the battle area or around Battipaglia, Eboli, Potenza Torre Annunziata, Benevento, Auletta, and Avellino. C-47's drop more contingents of the US 82nd Airborne Division S of the Sele River to strengthen the beachhead, and also behind lines near Avellino to disrupt communications.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Three missions today, 14 September 1943. At 0730 hours 31 B-25’s and 5 B-25G’s took off to bomb RR underpass SW of Eboli. 31 dropped 177x500 pound bombs and the 5 B-25G’s dropped 25 similar bombs on target at 1000 hours. Underpass was very well covered. Numerous hits being made. RR and highway E. of underpass hit, and sidings. One large and several smaller explosions and clouds of black smoke observed. Flak was light, inaccurate, mostly 2000/3000 feet below. Some 10 miles E. and on N. of target. The second mission took off at 0730 hours with 25 B- 25’s to bomb southern half of Eboli. They dropped 185x300 pound bombs completely covering target. Strings started at RR and continued on through town. Barracks on E. of town also hit. Flight leaders Captains Grau, and Martin. The third mission of 36 B-25’s took off to bomb road between Baronissi and San Severino. 36 aircraft dropped 280x300 pound bombs. Many direct hits were made along length of road with especial concentration north of Baronissi and S. of road junction S. of San Severino. Road junction was well hit also. RR paralleling road was cut in number of places. 10/12 JU- 88’s pursued by P-38’s near target. A/C seen taking off from Monte Corvino landing strip observed on beach SW of Monte Corvino A/D. Fired on 6 P-40’s passing between two elements of formation. Flight leaders Captains Cratin, Burns, and Isaacson. Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Cratin, William S., Capt, pilot, 445th BS Grau, Robert B., Capt, pilot, 445th BS Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Communications Log: 1550 Call from Major Willhite. “Two (2) formations of 24 A/C each. Load 300’s inst. And 45 second. Readiness 0500. Target later”. CWO.

Call from Lt. Anderson. “Four or Six G’s to arrive Protville #2 Airdrome at 0730—load with 2 x 500’s, they are to report to the Coastal Command.

The G’s will report every morning for assignment to attack small shipping until further notice.

Bomb Trainer available at El Aouina for the next 5 days.

B-25G’s to report to Protville: Johnson 446, Dorman 446, Edwards 447, Baxter 447.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 122: ------Mission Report # 122, 14 September 1943 (Order # 1 – First Flight) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 0730 31__ _B-25s__ and _5__ _B-25Gs_ took off to _bomb_ Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C Mission

RR underpass SW of Eboli. _None_ returned early. __31___ dropped 177x500 lb. Target No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type bombs with 1/10 and .025 second fusing and ___5__ _B-25Gs_ dropped 25 No. A/C Type A/C similar bombs on target at 1000 hours, from 8000/9000 ft. __35___ returned at Time Alt. No. A/C 1525. None lost, none missing, one at Termini Imerse. Time

3. Underpass was very well covered. Numerous direct hits being made. RR and highway E of underpass hit, and sidings. One large and several smaller explosions and clouds of black smoke observed.

4. Air------7 A/C on Monte Corvino L/G Ground---- From observation of shell bursts, battle line appeared to run E from Fersina to Calore River at 40°33’N, 15°10’E and then roughly followed river to Castle San Lorenzo. Other crews thought line was only about 5 miles inland from coast. Gun position observed at 40°30’N, 15°00’E. Heavy small arms fire in area 3000 ft. radius at M-16 TC 3-190-NA. Shells seen bursting in flat areas near shore and along small river parallel to coast at 40°33N, 14°55’E. Artillery fire seen from mountains E of Eboli, and from just E of town. Artillery firing on landing barges on Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

beach. Guns observed at road junction S of Campagna in woods, and other guns moving NE towards the woods. Dust clouds observed NW of Eboli. Heavy concentration of M/T in field by barracks NW of RR underpass. Convoy heading W on road E of Battipaglia. Several M/T heading W on road W of Altavilla. Medium size convoy heading S from Salerno. Convoy S of Serre. 30 M/Ts on Eboli—Auletta road. Marine-----One unidentified ship listing heavily 75 miles off coast. Our battleships seen shelling coast. Flak------Light, inaccurate, mostly 2000/3000 ft. below. Some 10 miles E, and on N of target.

5. Enroute---3/10 strato cumulus at 1500 ft. Visibility 15 miles—slight haze. Target and Return---CAVU.

6. None. Flight leaders--Capts. Morton, Isaacson, Stultz. Number of sorties--36 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 123: ------Mission Report # 123, 14 September 1943 (Order # 2 – Second Flight) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 0730 24___ _B-25s__ to bomb southern half of Eboli. _None_ returned Time No. A/C Type A/C Target No. A/C early. __24___ dropped 185x300 lb. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing on target No. A/C No. & Type 1000 from 9500/10,500 ft. __24___ returned at 1150. _None_ lost, none missing, Time Alt. No. A/C Time No. A/C none at friendly field.

3. Target reported as completely covered. Strings started at RR and continued on through town. Barracks on E of town also hit.

4. Same as Mission Report # 122.

5. Same as Mission Report # 122.

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

6. None. Flight leaders—Captains Grau, Martin.

Observer—Lt. Griffing. Number of sorties flown this date--60 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 123/mission 122) Group Mission # 124: ------Mission Report # 124, 14 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1555 36___ _B-25s__ to _bomb_ road between Baronissa and San Severino. Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target _None_ returned early. __36___ dropped 280x300 lb. bombs with instantaneous and No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type 45 second fusing on target at 1745 hours from 8,000/9,000 ft. __35___ returned at Time Alt. No. A/C 1930. None lost, one at friendly field in Sicily. Time

3. Many direct hits were made along length of road with escpecial concentration N of Baronissi and S of road junction S of San Severino. Road junction was well hit also. RR paralleling road was cut in number of places.

4. Air------10/12 JU-88s pursued by P-38s near target. A/C seen taking-off from Monte Corvino landing strip observed on beach SW of Monte Corvino A/D. Fired on 6 P-40s passing between 2 elements of formation. Ground---- Battle line on S as judged by shell bursts reported as starting near 40°32’N, 14°57’E on coast, paralleling small river to Sele River, then E to RR, then NE to Calore River. Shell fire reported N of Salerno to Eboli, to 2 miles W of Serre, to Costelcivita to Roccadaspide, to W of Cicerale , to W of Rutino to coast. Our ships shelling area between Monte Corvino and Battipaglia. No of Battipaglia appeared no-man’s land. Pagani, Cava de Torroni and Pontecagnano being shelled. Gun positions observed ½ mile E and 1 ½ miles NW of Pellezzano, 5 miles SE of Battipaglia. 15/20 M/T on secondary road approximately 3 miles NE of Solofra. 15/20 M/T heading W on small side road running into Baronissa- Salerno road. Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

Marine-----Ship burning in Salerno harbor. Our ships being bombed in harbor. Flak------15 bursts of heavy trailing from E of Baronissi. Heavy, slight inaccurate from Castellamare, Fisciano, Calvanico, Solofra, and E of Piano..

5. Enroute---Hazy. Target-----Hazy, visibility 8/10 miles, high cumulus to N of target. Return----Hazy.

6. None. Flight leaders---Captains, Cratin, Burns, Isaacson. Observers----Majors Pemberton, Pinger, Captains Canning and Manly. Number of sorties flown this date---96 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Lt.s Norman H.B. Heflin, William N. McGee; Sgts. Willis W. Littleton, Edward Nebesnak and Saul Zuckerbrod today completed their 50th combat mission. Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt, pilot Littleton, Willis W., Sgt, gunner McGee, William N., 2Lt, pilot Nebesnak, Edward, Sgt, gunner Zuckerbrod, Saul, Sgt, gunner

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 122: (Order # 1 – First Flight) (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 123: (Order # 2 – Second Flight) The 445th participated in a tactical bombing mission to aid the harassed 5th Army troops south of Salerno. The target was the railroad underpass southwest of Eboli.

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” (Bear - no lettering) P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N None None B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Lockwood, Patrick B., M/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt F None Griffing, George W., 1Lt, HDWS (observer) A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-64659 P Grau, Robert B., Capt Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt N Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt None B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 42-53373 P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Kent, William S., 1Lt N None None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64508 A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None None B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), S/Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 42-64575 P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Walker, James O., 1Lt CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt N None Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt B Poranda, Michael A., Pvt Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt None A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and under bombardier's window) Joy” P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt N None None B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Castle, Roy V., Pvt E Stokes, Oliver O., Pvt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” (spare) Judy” (spare) P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt N None None B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt F None None F None None

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”(spare) A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II” (spare) P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Cratin, William S., Capt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt N None Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J.,S/Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt F None None

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 123/mission 122) Group Mission # 124: Captain Cratin led the second mission of the day to bomb the road between Baronissi and S. Severino. A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 42-64659 P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt N None None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64575 A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and Joy” P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt None B Kazich, Rudolph William, S/Sgt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ Judy” P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Miller, Roy N., 1Lt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Butela, William F., 2Lt N None None B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt F Nickerson, James E. “Nick”, Capt Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, S/Sgt (observer) Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt N None Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt B Poranda, Michael A., Pvt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt F None McCann, Leo W., M/Sgt, HQ 321st BG A/C No. 42-64508 A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" under bombardier's window) P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt N None None B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt Stokes, Oliver O., Pvt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), S/Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” Gambler II” P Cratin, William S., Capt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG (observer) B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/14/43: “The day before yesterday being Sunday I went to Tunis in the afternoon and attended services held by a group of LDS boys. We had a fine group of 33 members and it was really a joy to be with some Saints again. I am to take part next Sunday. I hunted up Jack Griffiths and yesterday we spent together on the beach with some of his friends, Cecile and Irene, the latter a Maltese and the first French. The simplicity and genuineness of the French and other continental people is indeed refreshing. They live for the joy of living and expect their guests to accept every courtesy as a matter of fact and not even bother to thank them. The meal of “cous-cous” (an Arab dish) I enjoyed very much, though I could hardly eat enough to satisfy our host. It was served in a most informal fashion under a grape arbor in front of the house.

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

After another swim in the calm sea, we caught the train, on which there is no admission for servicemen, to Tunis, Jack, Cecile and I. Cecile took us to her home atop a high hill on which stands a prison over which her father is Commandant and we were again royally entertained by her parents. We ate French bread and a most delicious kind of preserves, made apparently from figs, citrons and a sort of plum. I have never eaten anything so good. Cecile played the piano for us, masterfully rendering Rimski- Korsikov’s “Song of India” and “La Marseilles.” She sang with characteristically mellifluous tremolo that gives French vocal music its quality of passion. Griff is going to have a hard time making up his mind to leave Cecile. The world missed its greatest adventure story when he and I missed shipping out on a tramp steamer at the age of about 18 years. We seem always to meet under the most adventurous of circumstances. (Jack Griffiths returned to the States soon after and I have not seen him since.)”

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 122: (Order # 1 – First Flight) 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 “Flying Caisson” “Eager Beaver” P Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt Beavers, James L., II, 2Lt CP McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt N None None B None None E Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt MacDougal, Alan J., S/Sgt R Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt Lefstad, Paul R., S/Sgt G Archambeau, Willard Joseph, S/Sgt Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 123: (Order # 2 – Second Flight) Group mission 123, Sqdn 97 composed of 12 planes led by Capt. Griffith. 300 and 500 lb bombs were dropped on the RR and underpass near Eboli, Italy. The underpass was well covered and the RR hit. Explosions and clouds of black smoke were observed. The town was well covered with hits. A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Brown, Aud W., 1Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N None None B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Pappas, William J., 2Lt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Cornell, Earl K., F/O Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., 1Lt CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt N None None B Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt Meehan, James M., 2Lt E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13200 A/C No. 41-13005 P Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt N None None B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt E Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” P Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt N None Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt B Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt Coe, George A., 1Lt E Langan, Charles H., Sgt StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., Sgt G Orr, William J., Sgt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt None A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt 2Lt CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt N None Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt None

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 123/mission 122) Group Mission # 124: Group mission 124, Sqdn 98 composed of 2 planes led by Lt. Elliott. 300 lb bombs were dropped on a road between Baronissi and San Severino, Italy. The target was well covered with several direct hits on the road junction and RR paralleling the road. 10/12 JU-88’s were pursued by the escort near the target.

A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” P Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None None B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” (spare) P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 2Lt B Coe, George A., 1Lt E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl R Howe, Frank M., Jr., Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary of: Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., 2Lt, pilot (mission 38) “I got one more mission after that rough one. Number 38. I don’t even remember it. It was somewhere in South Italy. About the first of September, Doc Backer sent me to a Station Hospital, and I stayed there about a week. There wasn’t anything wrong. Headaches and upset stomach and what not. Probably coming from nervous strain and the food is not too good. Came back to the squadron about the seventh and ran number 39 the next day. Since then I have had four missions as flight leader so I am coming up in the world a little bit anyway. I lead three plane elements. I guess its more responsibility than being a wingman. Backer, Max B., Capt, medical officer They are taking crews off combat at 50 missions. Our squadron is high on numbers of missions. Schmidt finished fifty. Jack Porter and Max Garmon (graduated from Ellington with me) have finished too. They seem to send bombardiers and navigators home but keep pilots for ferry jobs, etc. I think they will send them home soon though. I now have seven more missions to fly. This morning we had a tactical mission to help General Clark’s 5th Army near Salerno. Think we did a pretty good job on some

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued) road junctions and troop and artillery emplacements. There were 60 planes in the formation and another mission went out to the same area this afternoon. The Fifth Army is having a very rough time of it. More than the news says.” Garmon, James M. "Max", 1Lt, pilot Porter, Jack Grafton, 2Lt, pilot Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 2Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A second mission was scheduled for today but had to be cancelled because of a gasoline shortage on the base. Today’s mission was the fiftieth for: Lt. J. Ackley, Lt. D. Andrews, Lt. E. Hengel, Lt. S. Lieberman, S/Sgt. J.G. Ferrier, S/Sgt. M. Galich, S/Sgt. E. Joseph, S/Sgt. D. O’Connell, T/Sgt. W. Cantrell, S/Sgt. B. Skorupa. Ackley, James H., 2Lt, pilot Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 2Lt, pilot Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt, gunner DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt, gunner Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt, gunner Hengel, Edward D., Sr., 2Lt, pilot Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt, gunner Lieberman, Stanley, 2Lt, bombardier O'Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt, gunner Skorupa, Benjamin, S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 122: (Order # 1 – First Flight) Fourteen of our regular planes and four Gs participated in a raid on a railroad tunnel near Battipaglia, Italy. Bombing results excellent. All our planes returned safely except that of Lt. DeMoss. Because of a shortage of fuel he landed at an airdrome in Sicily and remained there overnight.

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt Gilluly, John W., 2Lt CP Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt Adams, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt Kresge, James G., 2Lt B None None E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Hughes, James C., S/Sgt G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt Fish, Harold E., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64654 P Baxter, William T., 2Lt McLaughlin, Robert A., 2Lt CP Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG Shaw, James A., 2Lt N None Lang, Robert B., 2Lt B None None E Leist, Jacob F., S/Sgt Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt R Kovalchick, Alexander (NMI) “Alex”, Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt S/Sgt G Manning, Hillard J., Sgt Farrell, John J., Pvt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer F Dunn, Robert P., 2Lt None Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” P Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt N None None B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt E Henry, William R., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Balsom, James P., S/Sgt G Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt F Manning, John A., Capt (observer) Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt N None Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt F Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt None A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt CP Knapp, Robert Duane, Sr., Col, HQ 321st Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt BG Commander N Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt None B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Harter, James E., S/Sgt E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt G DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt N None Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt None listed – likely the navigator E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt G Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt F None Manley, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” P McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Brown, Charles Orville “Brownie”, Jr., S/Sgt G Reilly, James M., Cpl Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F Zoll, Thaddeus A., Sgt None A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated Done Crapped Again” Lady” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt R Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., PFC F Nagy, Eugene R. Jr., S/Sgt None A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt None B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt F Ludwin, J. H., S/Sgt, 9th Combat Camera None

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 123: (Order # 2 – Second Flight)

A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” Done Crapped Again” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R O’Mara, Robert M., S/Sgt Brown, Charles Orville “Brownie”, Jr., S/Sgt G Murphy, Brendon J., S/Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” P McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt G Reilly, James M., Cpl Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” P Ackley, James H., 2Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt N None Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt B Orr, Douglass C., 2Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose, 1Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., S/Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt N None None B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F None Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated Lady” P Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt CP Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt R Balsom, James P., T/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., PFC F None None

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 123/mission 122) Group Mission # 124: (447th BS did not participate)

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS Special Account: On this date the squadron flew its 100th mission leading the Group on a successful raid against the railroad underpass and barracks at Eboli. By demolishing the underpass this raid aided materially the cause of the 5th Army who, at the time, was having it tough in the Salerno-Battipaglia area. Capt. Morton, with Col. Knapp, Group C.O. were in the lead ship. Lt. Douglas C. Orr was the bombardier; Lt. Donald Black, navigator. Black, Donald, 1Lt, navigator Knapp, Robert Duane, Sr., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander Morton, William H., Capt, pilot Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt, bombardier

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 43) TARGET: Cassino (RR underpass SW of Eboli) 4:20 Plane 371 “Underpass very well covered. Numerous direct hits. One large and several small explosions. AA light. Our battleships shelling coast.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 63- misnumbered - OK) TARGET: Road between Baronissi & San Severino 3:35 Plane 371 “Many direct hits on road RR junction was also hit.” Flight leader Capt. Burns

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 28) “During the past two days, the American landing force at and around Salerno has been driven back quite a distance. Today we were off at 7:30 to knock out a road and railroad at a point where the road goes under a railroad bridge. Another target we hit was about a mile to the right (east), the town of Eboli. Here was a concentration of German personnel in barracks and a supply depot. Thirty-six ships did a beautiful job of knocking out the road and bridge, while twenty-four ships hit the town. We had no escort. Coming off the target we passed over the marshalling yard at Battipaglia. This is the first really good look I ever got at one of our targets. The place is really in shambles. Along the coast fresh allied troops and supplies are being landed. Out in the water about three or four hundred yards is a big white hospital ship. As we approached Italy, we were challenged by a patrol of about ten or fifteen P38s. Later, leaving Italy we were again “looked over” by a patrol of P40s. Another mission in the afternoon. I didn’t go.”

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Mission #3. Bridgehead at Salerno. Flack – Peplinski’s ship hit and lands at Sicily.” Peplinski, James L., F/O, pilot

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued) 448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 122: (Order # 1 – First Flight) Mission 88 (122): No escort. At 0730, 31 B-25’s and 5 B- 25g’s off to bomb RR underpass S of Eboli. Dropped 202 x 500 bombs at 10,000 feet at 1000. Returned at 1150. One B-25 caught fire but made a controlled landing in Sicily. Underpass hit very well, also highway and RR E of underpass. No flak. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Isaacson. 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 “Black Magic” P Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O Peplinski, James L., F/O CP Winegar, William E. A., 2Lt Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O N None Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt B None None E Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, Sgt Wright, Joseph F., S/Sgt R Cobb, Bert Alvin, S/Sgt Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt G Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 P Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt CP Block, Harry C. “Bloke”, 2Lt N None B None E Parmelee, Walter J., Sgt R Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt G Rowley, Lester T., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-30343 P Clark, Paul I., 2Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O N None None B Reich, William John, 2Lt Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt E Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt G Paschel, John W., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 41-30548 P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt N Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued) A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 42-64514 P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt N None None B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt F None Hobert, Walter W., PFC A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-30355 (spare) P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Bruton, John E., 1Lt N None Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt B Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt E Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt R Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt Harding, John E., S/Sgt G LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 42-64661 P Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt CP Eaton, Frank R., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt N None None B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Cain, George S., S/Sgt E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N Holt, William E., 2Lt Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt Potosky, John S., S/Sgt R Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt G Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt Zeller, Marshall C., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30326 (spare) A/C No. 41-30352 (spare) P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt N None None B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Roberts, Harold L., S/Sgt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 42-64521 P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt CP Fleming, George B., F/O Joli, William H., 2Lt N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt F Lowery, Bruce (NMI) “Field Marshall”, Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt M/Sgt, HQ 321st BG

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 122/mission 121) Group Mission # 123: (Order # 2 – Second Flight) (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 123/mission 122) Group Mission # 124: Mission 89 (124): No escort. At 1555, 36 planes off to bomb road between Baronissi and San Severino. Dropped 280 x 500 bombs at 1745 from 8/9000 feet. All returned 1930. Many direct hits made along length of road, RJ and RR junction paralleling road. No flak. 6 friendly P-40’s attacked formation by mistake but driven off. Much smoke from battle going on at Salerno bridge head, seen by formation. Weather: Hazy. 8/10th covered. F/L: Isaacson.

A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-30548 P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt CP Fleming, George B., F/O Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 14 September 1943 (continued) A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 42-64552 P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Bruton, John E., 1Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt N None None B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt E Roberts, Harold L., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt None A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 42-64661 P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt N None Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Gouge, David J., 2Lt N None None B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 41-29967 P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP Driver, William J., F/O Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt E Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F None None Wednesday, 15 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): In Italy, B-24's hit a marshalling yard at Potenza and attack railroads and warehouses in the areas around Potenza, Altamura, Gravina di Puglia, and Matera.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force): In Italy, B-17's of the XII Bomber Command bomb highways and a railroad at Torre del Greco while B-25's and B-26's hit highways and road junctions at or near Torre Annunziata, Battipaglia, Eboli, Serre, Auletta, and Polla. The XII Air Support Command and other NATAF elements attack buildings, railroads, highways and motor transport in support of US Fifth Army as German counterattacks astride Sele River subside. British Eighth Army forces reach Saptri, threatening the enemy with entrapment between US and British forces. HQ 57th Fighter Group transfers from Sicily to Rocco Bernardo, Italy. HQ 79th Fighter Group and its 85th, 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons transfer from Sicily to Crotone, Italy with P-40's. The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, transfers from Bone, Algeria to Bizerte, Tunisia with Beaufighters. The 526th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 86th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from Barcelona, Sicily to Sele Airfield, Italy with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 15 September 1043, 2 B-25G’s took off from Protville number two A/D to attack shipping off Italian coast. The two aircraft fired 7x75mm shells at 4 LCT off mouth of Tiber River at 1545 hours. Four LGT were sighted lined up off shore of mouth of Tiber. One probable hit is claimed. Decks of 4 LCT were strafed. Two attacks were delivered at maximum range because of shore battery directly behind vessels. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate, from battery on shore. Flight leaders Lts. Keith and Schwindle. Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O, pilot, 448th BS Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 8/Mission 8): ------Mission Report # 8, 15 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 338 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF.

2. At 1405 _2___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack shipping off Time No. A/C Type A/C Italian coast. _None_ returned early. __Two_ fired 7x75mm shells at LCT off Target No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type Mouth of Tiber River at 1545 hours. __Two_ returned at 1710. None lost, none Time No. A/C Time missing, none at friendly field.

Wednesday, 15 September 1943 (continued)

3. Four LCT were sighted lined up off shore of mouth of Tiber. One probable hit is claimed. Decks of 4 LCT were strafed. Two attacks were delivered at maximum range because of shore battery directly behind vessels.

4. Air------None. Marine-----None. Flak------Heavy, moderate, accurate from battery on shore. Exact position unidentified.

5. Weather----Hazy.

6. None. Pilots---Lts. Keith and Schwindle. Number of sorties---2. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 “Black Magic” P Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt CP Winegar, William E. A., 2Lt Heller, Leonard C. “Len”, 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt Kresge, James G., 2Lt, 447th BS B Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG None (mission commander) E Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, Sgt Clement, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt R Cobb, Bert Alvin, S/Sgt McNulty, Joseph P., S/Sgt G Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt Parmelee, Walter J., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt

445th BS War Diary: No mission on this date. Lt. Walter N. Olson yesterday completed his 50th combat mission on the second mission of the day. A number of the men who were at rest camps near Algiers and Fez returned today. It’s now 1st Lt. Samuel P. Wilson. Olson, Walter N., 2Lt, pilot Wilson, Samuel P., 1Lt, navigator

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

Wednesday, 15 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Two of our Gs went to Protville and remained there on “alert” for a sea sweep. They did not receive a mission and returned to the base about dark. The ordnance section which has been assigned to the squadron since activation was transferred out today. A separate ordnance service company is being formed to service the group with ordnance supplies. Lt. E. Perry who was the ordnance officer in the squadron was made commanding officer of the new company. Lt. J. Ackley ferried a group of 82nd men to rest camp at Fez in one of our planes. Ackley, James H., 2Lt, pilot Perry, Edward (NMI), 2Lt, ordnance

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Mission #4. Go to Protville (British). Fly as tail gunner for Gus Schwindle. Sea sweep, attack landing barge – much flak.” Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt, pilot

Thursday, 16 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's hit road junctions and a supply dump at Potenza, Italy, following a RAF raid of the previous night.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, B-17's of the XII Bomber Command hit bridges, rail line, marshalling yard, trains, and a railroad-highway intersection in the Benevento area, and roads and railway facilities in the Caserta area; medium bombers hit roads, railroads, junctions, and bridges at Isernia, Formia, Mignano, and Capua; XII Air Support Command fighter-bombers maintain continuous sweeps over the Salerno beachhead and surrounding battle zone while other US and RAF elements of the NATAF (fighters, light and medium bombers) blast enemy aircraft, motor transport, troop concentrations and communications targets in the Contursi and Eboli areas. On the ground in Italy, US and British make patrol contact near Vallo della Lucania. The US Fifth Army ties in with Taranto invasion force to form an Allied line across S Italy. The 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group, transfers from San Antonio, Sicily to Sele Airfield, Italy with P-51's. A detachment remains at San Antonio until 30 Sep. The 527th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 86th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from Barcelona, Sicily to Sele Airfield, Italy with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 16 September 1943, at 0800 hours 56 B-25’s and 4 B- 25G’s took off to bomb highway at South end and road and RR curve at N. end of Isernia. The main formation dropped 426x300 pound bombs and the 4 B-25G’s dropped 32 similar bombs on the target. Results showed highway entrance at S. and road and RR at N. well hit. Hits also made on choke point in N. section of town, on RR viaduct, on secondary road crossing RR viaduct, on M/Y, and on road junction N. of town. Two fires seen near road junction N. of town. A number of bombs were over, and others paralleled target on NE and SW. The formation encountered a JU-88 at 4000’ SW of Mignano. One JU-52 near Presenzano headed W. at 1035 hours. Was fired on and possibly damaged. One S/E below formation at target dove away. There was a few bursts of inaccurate flak at target. 5 heavy bursts and tracers from coast S. of Mondragone. Flight leaders were Capts. Stultz, Griffith, Morton, and Lts. Sinclair, Walker. Four B-25G’s also flew a mission today, 16 September 1943, taking off from Protville #2 A/D to attack vessels between Monte Cristo and Giglio Islands. They fired 10x75mm shells at 7 vessels. One direct hit was made amidships on deck on an E/V and one probable hit claimed on small M/V. The only opposition was heavy, light, moderate, inaccurate flak from Giglio and Giannutri Islands. Flight leaders were Lt. Dorman, Johnson, Edwards and Baxter. Baxter, William T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Edwards, James T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot, 447th BS Sinclair, Erwin W., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS 321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 9/Mission 9): ------Mission Report # 9, 16 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 339 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF. 2. At 1235 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack vessels Time No. A/C Type A/C Target between Monte Cristo and Giglio Islands. _None_ returned early. ___4___ fired Target No. A/C No. A/C 10x75mm shells at 7 vessels at 1440 hours. ___4___ returned at 1615. None lost, No. & Type Time No. A/C Time none, none at friendly field.

3. One direct hit was made amidships on deck on an E/V and one probable hit claimed on a small M/V.

4. Air------Six S/E fighters were seen in distance as formation was at target. Did not attack. Marine-----3 E/V, 2 LCT and 2 small V/V were seen between the islands. Flak------Heavy and light, moderate inaccurate from Giglio and Giannutri Islands.

5. CAVU for route.

6. None. Pilots---Lts. Dorman, Johnson, Edwards and Baxter. Number of sorties----4. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 “Red Nosed Beckie” P Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt, 446th BS CP Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt, 446th BS N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt, 447th BS None B None None E Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt, 446th BS R Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt, 446th BS G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt, 446th BS CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued) 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 P Baxter, William T., 2Lt Edwards, James T., 2Lt CP Dunn, Robert P., 2Lt Bailey, Bert C., 2Lt N None Lang, Robert B., 2Lt B None Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG (mission commander) E Leist, Jacob F., S/Sgt Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt R Kovalchick, Alexander (NMI) “Alex”, Hughes, James C., S/Sgt S/Sgt G Manning, Hillard J., Sgt Fox, Robert J., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 124/mission 123) Group Mission # 125: ------Mission Report # 125, 16 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 0800 56___ _B-25s__ and _4___ _B-25Gs_ took off to bomb highway Time No. A/C Type A/C No. A/C Type A/C At S end and road and RR curve at N end of Isernia. __One__ returned early. 55___ No. A/C No. A/C dropped 426x300 lb. bombs with instantaneous and 45 second fusing and _4___ No. & Type No. A/C _B-25Gs_ dropped 32 SIMILAR bombs on target at 1030 hours from 8500/11000 ft. Type A/C No. & Type Time Alt. __59___ RETURNED at 1210. _None_ lost, none missing, none at friendly field. No. A/C Time No. A/C

3. Highway entrance at S and road and RR at N well hit. Hits also made on choke point in N section of town, on RR viaduct, on secondary road crossing RR viaduct, on M/Y, and on road junction N of town. 2 fires seen near road junction N of town. A number of bombs were over, and others paralleled target on NE and SW.

4. Air------One Ju-88 at 4,000 ft. headed SW at 1024 near Mignano. One JU-52 near Presenzano headed W at 1036. Was fired on and possibly damaged. One S/E below formation at target dove away. Marine-----One medium and 8/10 small M/V in Gaeta Harbor. Big oil slick at 40°25’N, 13°15’E at 1108. Ground---- 40/60 M/T S of Mondragone headed N and S. M/T extending 10 miles E from Sessa Aurunca headed E and W. 30 M/T at Vairano Patenora, some towing guns. 15 M/T W of Minturno headed E. Heavy traffic N and S at Venafro. One small convoy on Venafro-Capriati road. 10/12 tank cars SE of Cantalupo nel Sannio. RR cars S of Vairano Patenora. By-pass constructed around cut road junction believed at Sessa Aurunca. Flak------Few inaccurate bursts at last flight at target. 5 heavy bursts and tracers from coast S of Mondragone. Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

5. Enroute---3/10 strato cumulus at 1500ft. Hazy, visibility 8 miles. Target-----Hazy, visibility 15miles. Return----3/10 cumulus at 8,000.

6. None. Flight leaders---Captains Stultz, Griffith, Morton, and Lts. Sinclair, Walker. Observers------Major Pinger, Lt. Griffing. Number of sorties---59 Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: Captain Robert B. Grau and Lts. Edward T. Kelley and Francis D. McKeever today completed their 50th combat missions. Grau, Robert B., Capt, pilot Kelley, Edward T., 2Lt, pilot McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt, bombardier Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 124/mission 123) Group Mission # 125: The 445th participated in a mission today to bomb the highway at the south end and the road and railroad curve at the north end of Isernia.

A/C No. 42-64527 A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” (Bear - no lettering) P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt N None None B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt F Kmetevicz, Gene J., M/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Grau, Robert B., Capt CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt N None Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt G Curtis, Alton D., T/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-53373 P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N None None B Castle, Roy V., Pvt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and Joy” P Kent, William S., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt N Pinger, Robert R., Maj, HQ 321st BG None (observer) B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt None

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-64590 Gambler II” P Cratin, William S., Capt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Nysson, John W., 2Lt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64659 A/C No. 42-64508 P Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt N None None B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Pierce, William V., S/Sgt Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Pvt F None None A/C No. 42-64575 P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt N Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 1Lt B Kazich, Rudolph William, S/Sgt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt G Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 124/mission 123) Group Mission # 125: Group mission 125, Sqdn 99 composed of 12 planes led by Capt. Griffith. The target was the road junction near Isernia, Italy. 300 lb bombs were dropped. Target was well covered with hits on the north section of the town, RR viaduct, MY, and road junction. Two fires were started.

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64531 “Eager Beaver” P Beavers, James L., II, 2Lt Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt N None None B None None E MacDougall, Alan J., S/Sgt Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt R Lefstad, Paul R., S/Sgt Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt G Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 41-13208 P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., Cornell, Earl K., F/O 1Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Helisek, Paul A., Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Roy W., Pvt G McNeil, Gabriel J., Pvt Skill, Donald H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt McCarter, Elmer H., Maj B Coe, George A., 1Lt Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl Langan, Charles H., Sgt R Fontenot, V. L. (i.o.), T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 42-64551 P Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt CP Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt N Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt None B Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt E Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt G Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship” A/C No. 41-13200 P Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Clark, Robert A., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Green, Harry M., S/Sgt E Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Howe, Frank M., Jr., S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Edwards, David R., S/Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt F None Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N None None B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS: War Diary of: Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner (mission 28) “# 28 Sept. 16, 1943 Time 4:30 Sqdn Mission # 99 Gr. Mission # 125 300# demo. Isernia Italy (Hywy) Formation Leader - Capt. Stultz Results - Target well hit. Remarks - Few inaccurate at target - 5 heavy bursts & tracers coast S of Mondragone. Ship number - 41-13008 Formation 3-3 P- Davis, CP - Conner, B- Porter, WE, E - Kaney, RG- Haughom, G -Bedwell” Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt, gunner Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt, pilot Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt, pilot Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt, bombardier Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS

447th BS War Diary: Two of our Gs went to Protville and were on the “Alert” for shipping sweeps. They were sent out to attack a convoy off the Southern coast of . Our planes fired a total of five rounds into a merchant vessel and a barge. The merchant vessel was left burning. The barge was hit. Both planes returned safely.

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 124/mission 123) Group Mission # 125: Fourteen of our regular planes and three Gs participated in a raid on a road junction near Isernia, Italy. Bombing results fair. All our planes returned safely.

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64654 P Gilluly, John W., 2Lt McLaughlin, Robert A., 2Lt CP Adams, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt Shaw, James A., 2Lt N Kresge, James G., 2Lt None B None None E Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt G Fish, Harold E., Sgt Farrell, John J., Pvt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Early, Francis X., S/Sgt R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F Zoll, Thaddeus A., Sgt None A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” P Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N None Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E Henry, William R., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Myers, William W., Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” Lady” P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt None B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt E Newhouse, Ralph W., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt G Smith, Robert J., PFC Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt F None None Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt None B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt N None None B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Harter, James E., T/Sgt E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt F Leon, Robert D., Cpl None A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-30557 P Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N None None B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 1Lt E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt G Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F Goetz, F. W., Sgt, 9th Combat Camera None A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle Duck” II” P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt N None None B Boyle, Joseph G., JR., 2Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt F Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt None

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt F Ludwin, J. H., S/Sgt, 9th Combat Camera

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 44) TARGET: Isernia 4:10 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”) “Hits made on choke point. Highway entrance well hit.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 23) TARGET: Isernia Italy 4:10 300 lbs Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Beeson, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Boyle, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt. Anderson, S/Sgt Draper, Sgt Christianson “Hits made on RR and choke points on N section of town. Hits also made on RR viaduct. Two fires seen near RJ north of town. Flak slight and inaccurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 29) “To prevent the Germans from bringing up any troops or supplies to the Naples – Salerno area, we knocked out a road and a railroad at both ends of the town of Isernia. Sixty ships made the run without escort. Our boys over on the coast of Italy, near Naples, are still having a tough time of it.”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 124/mission 123) Group Mission # 125: Mission 90 (125): No escort. At 0800, 56 B-25’s plus 4 B-25g’s off to bomb highway at S end of road RR curve at N end of Isernia. One returned early and 55 dropped 426 x 400 and 4 dropped 32 x 300 bombs at 1030 from 85/11000 feet. All returned at 1210. Highway entrance at S end and RR and road at N end of town hit. RR viaduct on secondary road crossing RR viaduct on M/Y and RJ also hit. Slight heavy, inaccurate flak. Weather: 3/10th coverage, 15 miles visibility. F/L: Stultz and Sinclair.

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” A/C No. 42-64655 P Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt CP Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt N None None B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Skeahan, Thomas H., Jr., 2Lt E Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, S/Sgt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt R Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., S/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt G White, George E., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 2Lt B Piasecki, Walter Charles 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30548 A/C No. 42-64519 P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Gouge, David J., 2Lt N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” P Sinclair, Erwin W., Jr., 1Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt CP DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt Fleming, George B., F/O N Holt, William E., 2Lt None B Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt E Robb, Earl K., S/Sgt Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt R Orman, Virgil N., S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” A/C No. 41-30326 P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt navigator filling both positions E Potosky, John S., S/Sgt Terho, Harold V., S/Sgt R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt McEntee, Peter M., Pvt G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Spencer, John S., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 41-30343 P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 42-64514 P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-30355 P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Bruton, John E., 1Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Boatwright, John S., 1Lt N None None B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt E Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt R Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt Harding, John E., S/Sgt G Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 16 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 42-64521 (returned early – oil leak) P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Maj, Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Commander N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt None B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 17 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):

In Italy, B-24's, attack a marshalling yard, road junction, and rail junction at Pescara on the E coast; RAF heavy bombers again hit Potenza.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's and B-26's bomb airfields at Ciampino and Pratica di Mare; B-25's attack small craft and barges off the mouth of the Tiber River; P-38's fly 27 dive-bombing missions against roads, junctions, railways, bridges, and targets of opportunity in the battle area and towns of Vallo della Lucania, Acerno, Nocera, Avellino, Gragnano Serre, Lioni, Fisciano, Monteforte Irpino, Cava de' Tirreni and Auletta; XII Air Support Command, NATBF, and other elements of NATAF escort naval vessels, and bomb rail and road junctions, motor transport, a marshalling yard, town areas, and various targets of opportunity in the Pompeii, Torre Annunziata, Salerno, Campagna, Sarno, Solofra, Montella, and Acerno areas. On the ground in Italy, US Fifth Army forces advancing on Altavila are pinned down however; the enemy retires to the N, completing a withdrawal from the battleline during the night. The British Eighth Army begins a general advance N toward Potenza and Auletta. The 99th Fighter Squadron, XII Air Support Command, transfers from Termini to Barcellona, Sicily with P-40's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: The first mission today, 17 September 1943, was flown by 60 B-25’s attacking Practica di Mare A/D. Thirty-two of the 60 ship formation dropped 254x300 pound bombs and 28 dropped 216x250 lb bombs. Extremely good coverage of field reported, very few bombs falling outside of target area. 70/80 E/A were on field, in NE and SE dispersal areas and in revetments. Strings of bombs fell through all these areas, among parked planes resulting in one explosion and at least nine fires. One string fell through group of 20 E/A. One JU-52 took off successfully but three others attempting to take off failed. Starting strip and field was well cratered, apparently rendering field unserviceable. Six fires, one large, believed to be gasoline dump, seen from proceeding groups attacks. One JU-88 damaged. Flak at target heavy, moderate accurate principally at second flight. 13 A/C hit. Some reports of flak as barrage type in bursts of four. One report of positions along beach.

The second mission today was flown by 2 B-25G’s taking off from Protville #2 A/D to attack 3 LC heading towards Civitavecchia. Firing 7x75mm shell, two direct hits were made on barge, resulting in gush of red flame and cloud of black smoke. No opposition. Flight leaders Lts. Beeson and Gilluly. The mission was abortive.

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

The third mission was flown by 3 B-25G’s also taking off from Protville #2 A/D to attack shipping near Corsica. 8 S/F’s, 1 10,000’ton M/V, 1 E/V and 3 gun boats were sighted off NE end of Capraia Island. 12 shells were fired at S/F’s from 8000 to 2500 yards. Two direct hits were made on S/F’s 2 columns of smoke being seen, one rising to 100’. 5 probably hits are claimed as not water spouts from shells were observed. Flak was heavy, and light, moderate, inaccurate from S/F’s heavy, moderate, generally trailing from Capraia. Flight leaders: Lts. Dorman, Johnson, F/O Peplinski. Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS Doorman, Edgar (NMI), 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Gilluly, John W., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Peplinski, James L., F/O, pilot, 448th BS

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 10/Mission 10): ------Mission Report # 10, 17 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 340 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF.

2. At 1050 _2___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack 3 LC heading Time No. A/C Type A/C Target Towards Civitavecchia. None returned early. LC were not encountered and patrol was continued S where a barge towed by a small vessel was met at mouth of Tiber River at 1250 _7 x 75mm_ shells were fired from range of 2000/500 yds. 2 returned Time No. & Type at 1450

3. 2 direct hits were made on barge, resulting in gush of red flame and cloud of black smoke.

4. Air------One transport NE of Cape Linaro, heading NW at 1240 Marine-----None. Flak------None.

5. Enroute – Fog bank around 41 degrees 00’N, 11 degrees 30’E. Visibility 1/2 mile. Target – Hazy, visibility 8/10 mile.

6. None. Pilots---Lts. Beeson and Gilluly. Number of sorties – 2. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt Gilluly, John W., 2Lt CP Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt Adams, Benjamin H., 2Lt N None Kresge, James G., 2Lt B None None E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt Fish, Harold E., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 11/Mission 11): ------Mission Report # 11, 17 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 341 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF.

2. At 1145 _3___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack shipping Time No. A/C Type A/C Target Near Corsica. None returned early. ___3___ fired 12x75mm shells at 8 S/F’s at 1420 No. A/C No. & Type Time Hours. ___3___ returned at 1715. None lost, none missing, none at friendly field. No. A/C Time

3. 8 S/F’s, 1 10,000 ton M/V, 1 E/V and 3 gun boats were sighted off NE end of Capraia Island. 12 shells were fired at S/F’s from 8,000 to 2500 yds. 2 direct hits were made on S/F’s, 2 columns of smoke being seen, one rising to 100 ft. 5 probable hits are claimed as not water spouts from shells were observed.

4. Air------None. Marine-----S/F’s were heavily loaded, heading SW towards Capraia 3/4 miles away. The M/V was anchored 600 yds off shore and flying 2 barrage balloons. Flak------Heavy and light, moderate, inaccurate from S/F’s, Heavy, moderate generally trailing form Capraia.

5. Hazy, visibility 8 miles.

6. None. Pilots---Lts. Dorman, Johnson, F/O Peplinski. Number of sorties – 3. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 “Red Nosed Beckie” “Flying Caisson” P Doorman, Edgar (NMI), 2Lt Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt CP Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt N None None B None None E Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt Lazorshak, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt R Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt G Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 P Peplinski, James L., F/O CP Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt B None E Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt R Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt G Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 125/mission 124) Group Mission # 126: ------Mission Report # 126, 17 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1050 60___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Practica di Mare A/D. None returned Time No. A/C Type A/C early. 32___ dropped 254x300 lb. and __28__ dropped 216x250 lb bombs with No. A/C No. & Type No. A/C No. & Type instantaneous & 45 second fusing on target at 1300 from 7500/9500 ft. __60__ Time Alt. No. A/C returned at 1450. None lost, none missing, none at friendly field.

3. Extremely good coverage of field reported, very few bombs falling outside of target area. 70/80 E/A were on field, in NE and SE dispersal areas and in revetments. Strings of bombs fell through all these areas, among parked planes resulting in one explosion and at least nine fires. One string fell through group of 20 E/A. One JU-52 took off successfully but three others attempting to take off failed. Starting strip and field was well cratered, apparently rendering field unserviceable. Six fires, one large, believed to be gasoline dump, seen from preceding groups attacks. One JU-88 damages.

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

4. Air------E/A on field were principally JU-52, JU-88, HE-111, ME-323 and some gliders. One report of 15 S/E in NE corner. One transport heading N on deck near coast at 1255. One black JU-88 at 1000 ft was fired on near target, and one engine seen in flames. 2 S/E followed from target for 50 miles at sea, remaining at 9 o’clock. 7 large white S/P at Lago di Roma. Marine-----Submarine in cove at SW side Ponza Island. Small vessel off coast at target heading SW. Ground---- Brush fires between A/D and coast at fairly regular intervals, possibly to obscure target. Large fire to E of field. Flak------At target heavy moderate accurate principally at second flight. 13 A/C hit. Some reports of flak as barrage type in bursts of four. One report of positions along beach.

5. Enroute---3/10 strato-cumulus at 1500. Hazy, visibility 10 miles. Target-----CAVU with slight haze. Return----CAVU

6. None. Flight leaders Major Schwane, Capt Burns, Whiteford, Lts Walker, Ford. Observers - Majs Schintzius and Willhite. Number of sorties - 60 Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Lts. William S. Kent, Rudolph W. Kazich; Sgts. Joseph R. Toy, Francis J. Klocke and Michael Boris today completed their 50th combat missions. Boris, Michael, Sgt, gunner Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt, bombardier Kent, William S., 2Lt, pilot Klocke, Francis J., Sgt, gunner Toy, Joseph R., Sgt, gunner

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 125/mission 124) Group Mission # 126: The 445th participated in the bombing of the Practica di Mare airdrome near Rome today.

A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and Gambler II” Joy” P Cratin, William S., Capt Clinton, Wayne, C., 1Lt CP Cook, Bailey C., Maj, Commander Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt None B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt F None None Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” (Bear - no lettering) P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt N None None B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Carson, Cecil F., Pvt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-53373 A/C No. 42-64575 P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Miller, Gail G., 2Lt N None Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt B Buckingham, Richard P., 2Lt Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt F Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt None A/C No. 42-64659 A/C No. 42-64527 P Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt Miller, Roy N., 1Lt CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Butela, William F., 2Lt N None None B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt G Pierce, William V., S/Sgt VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” P Kent, William S., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt E Haney, T. J., Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt G Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt F Malek, Stanley J., 1Lt (observer) None

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 42-64590 P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt None B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt Nysson, John W., 2Lt E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., Sgt F Lord, Robert O. Jr., 1Lt (observer) None A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt N None None B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64508 P Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt N None B Castle, Roy V., Pvt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 125/mission 124) Group Mission # 126: Group mission 126, Sqdn 100 composed of 12 planes. Major Schwane led the Group. 300 lb bombs were dropped on Practica di Mare A/D. The field was well covered throughout the 70/80 aircraft on the ground. There were at least nine fires started and 13 a/c were hit.

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-53477 “Flag Ship” P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, 2Lt Commander CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt N None McCarter, Elmer H., Maj B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Vink, Virgil F., 2Lt E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E. S/Sgt R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 41-30293 Pee Wee” P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, 1Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None None B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 41-13200 P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Green, Harry M., Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt F None Goetz, F. W., Sgt, 9th Combat Camera A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” P Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Bradley, James L. “Jungle Jim”, Jr., Capt CP Clark, Robert A., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt N None Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt B Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt McNair, Luddie L., S/Sgt R Higgins, Thomas T., S/Sgt Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 41-13208 St. Joe” P Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt N None None B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt E Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., Cpl R Smith, Roy W., Pvt Howe, Frank M., Jr., Sgt G Bonacich, Matthew G., PFC Velarde, Servando J. Jr., Cpl F Ludwin, H. J., S/Sgt, 9th Combat Camera None A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N None None B Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt E Langan, Charles H., Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G Orr, William J., Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: The following men completed their fiftieth mission yesterday Sept. 16: Lt. R. Blanton, Lt. C. Fabling, C. Lungren, Lt. F. McGowan, S/Sgt. G. Kramer, S/Sgt. J.F. Murphy. Today’s mission was the fiftieth for: Lt. E. Fineman, Lt. C. Hoffman, Lt. J. Allison, Lt. A. Garrett, S/Sgt. Sparby, S/Sgt. C. Hannemann, Lt. Tate. Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, 1Lt, bombardier Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt, pilot Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt, pilot Fineman, Ernest, 2Lt, pilot Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt, bombardier Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt, gunner Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt, pilot Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt, gunner Lungren, Charles D., 2Lt, pilot McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt, pilot Murphy, John F., S/Sgt, gunner Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt, gunner Tate, Roy W., 2Lt, bombardier

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 125/mission 124) Group Mission # 126: Fifteen of our planes participated in a raid on the airdrome at Pratica Di Mare, Italy. Bombing results good. The flak was quite intense and Lt. Bugbee’s ship was slightly damaged and his gunner S/Sgt. Sheets received a slight flak wound. All our planes returned safely.

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt McLaughlin, Robert A., 2Lt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Shaw, James A., 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt None B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Baringer, Paul S., S/Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Farrell, John J., Pvt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-30557 P Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N None None B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 1Lt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F Rosenblatt, Marvin (NMI), Sgt, 9th None Combat Camera A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” II” P Edwards, James T., 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Bailey, Bert C., 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N Lang, Robert B., 2Lt Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt B None listed – likely the navigator Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Hughes, James C., S/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G Fox, Robert J., S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N None None B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt G Werner, George P., Sgt Armstrong, Robert E. S/Sgt F None Willhite, Theodore E., Maj, HQ 47th Wing (observer)

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Snarp” P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt N None None B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt E Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt Early, Frank X, S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F Hamilton, John M. “Doc”, Capt, None (observer) A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-64512 Scotch & Soda” Lady” P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None None B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt G Smith, Robert J., PFC Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt F Leon, Robert D., Cpl None A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-64695 P Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., Cpl F Schintzius, W. C., Maj, HQ 47th Wing Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Cpl (observer) A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck” P Baxter, William T., 2Lt CP Dunn, Robert P., 2Lt N None B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Leist, Jacob F., S/Sgt R Kovalchick, Alexander (NMI) “Alex”, S/Sgt G Manning, Hillard J., Sgt F None

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 45) TARGET: Practica di Mare A/D 4:00 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”) “Extremely good coverage. Bombs covering target area. 1 JU 52 took off successfully but 3 others failed. 1 JU 88 damaged. Gasoline dump on fire. R.M. Sheets wounded in leg by flak, also #600 & 4981.” Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 24) TARGET: Practica di Mare A/D 4:00 300 lbs Plane 546 (42-64546 “Jessie James”): Lt. Hoffman, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. Saiers, S/Sgt Roever, S/Sgt. Kastelic, Sgt Smith “Extremely good coverage. 70 to 90 E/A were on field. Flak heavy, medium, accurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 30) “Practica de Mare Airdrome which is about eleven miles SW of Rome was today’s target. Sixty of us made the trip unescorted. Another group of 25s hit a satellite one hour before us and when we got there the sky was still covered with dust. (Wellington dropped one minute to eight hour delay bombs last night on this drome). There were over fifty airplanes on the ground at our target and we had a pretty nice coverage. The flak was heavy, intense and accurate. Coming off the target we saw a JU** flying along the coast just off the water. Most of the nose and waist gunners got shots at him but he didn’t go down.”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 125/mission 124) Group Mission # 126: Mission 91 (126): No escort. At 1050, sixty planes off to bomb Practica du Mare A/D. 32 dropped 254 x 300 and 28 dropped 216 x 250 bombs at 1300 from 7500/9500 feet. All returned at 1450. Extremely good coverage, few bombs outside of area. Starting strips, dispersal area and hangars well covered. Bombs seen among parked A/C, six fires started, one very large. Moderate, heavy flak. Weather: CAVU at target. F/L: Lt. Ford.

A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-30326 P Fleming, George B., F/O Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt CP Heller, Leonard C. “Len”, 2Lt Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Terho, Harold V., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt McEntee, Peter M., PFC G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Spencer, John S., T/Sgt F None None

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-64514 P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., S/Sgt N None None B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt E Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt R Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt G Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt Ford, Charles L., “Junior”, Jr, Capt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), 2Lt N None Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt B Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., S/Sgt R Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson, D., S/Sgt G LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt White, George E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None None B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 42-64655 P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 17 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-29967 P Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt CP DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt N None Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Ellington, John H., G., 1Lt E Robb, Earl K., S/Sgt Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt R Orman, Virgil N., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-30548 P Bruton, John E., 1Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt E Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” P Veum, Ole E., Capt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”,2Lt N Boland, Chester H., 1Lt None B Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt 321st BG E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Potosky, John S., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 41-30352 P Haskell, John D., 2Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP Joli, William H., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt N None None B Reich, William John, 2Lt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt G Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt Hobert, William W., PFC

Saturday, 18 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

ANTISUBMARINE WARFARE (First Air Force): The 1st Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 480th Antisubmarine Group, ceases operating from Protville, Tunisia and returns to it's base at Port Lyautey, French Morocco with B-24's.

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's hit the marshalling yard at Pescara, Italy.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, B-17's of the XII Bomber Command hit Viterbo airfield and Salerno-Avellino road, while B-25's and B-26's bomb the airfields at Ciampino and Pratica di Mare; B-25's fire 75mm shells at small vessels and a lighthouse near Capraia and between Pianosa and Corsica; P-38's on detached service with the NATAF strafe 4 satellite airfields at Foggia and bomb roads, railroads, bridges, and towns in the battle area. On the ground in Italy, US Seventh Army forces take Altavilla, Persano, and Battipaglia without opposition. HQ 27th Fighter-Bomber Group transfers from Sicily to Capaccio, Italy. The detachments of the 27th, 71st and 94th Fighter Squadrons, 1st Fighter Group, operating from Dittaino, Gerbini, and Dittaino, Sicily respectively with P-38's return to their base at Mateur, Tunisia. The 65th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, transfers from Sicily to Rocco Bernardo, Italy with P-40's. The 522nd, 523rd and 524th Fighter-Bomber Squadrons, 27th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfer from Barcelona, Sicily to Capaccio, Italy with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 12/Mission 12): ------Mission Report # 12, 18 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 342 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1110 _2___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack barges North of Capraia Island. Did not see barges. None returned early. Two returned to Protville at 1610. Returned to Home Base at 1745

3. At 1310 each shot 1x75mm shell at a DD. No hits claimed. Each shot 1x75mm shell at a medium M/V. No hits claimed. Fired 15x75mm shells at lighthouse between Pianosa Island and Corsica. 4 hits claimed on Lattice-work supporting lighthouse.

4. Air------3 S/E E/A S of Capraia sighted. Did not attack. Flak------Heavy and light, intense, inaccurate from DD.

Saturday, 18 September 1943 (continued)

5. En route--- CAVU until 50 miles S of Elba. From there on 9/10 coverage at 500 feet. Target----- Light showers, overcast. Return-----CAVU.

6. Pilots----Lt. Keith, F/O Peplinski. Number of sorties ---- 2. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 “Black Magic” P Peplinski, James L., F/O Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O CP Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O Winegar, William E. A., 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt None B None None E Smith, Harold W., Sgt Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, Sgt R Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt Cobb, Bert Alvin, Sgt G Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Senec, Joseph F., Jr., Sgt

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 13/Mission 13): ------Mission Report # 13, 18 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 343 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1520 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack 6LC at 43 degrees 08’N, 09 degrees 55’E Target not seen although area was searched thoroughly. 4 returned at 2015. One crashed on landing. Crew uninjured.

3. None.

4. Air------5 JU-52s headed 330 degrees, 10 miles E of Corsica at 1810. 1 E/A 10 miles N of Corsica. Marine-----Flare seen on water 40 miles N of Bizerte at 1545. White medium M/V seen E of Elba at 1800.

5. CAVU.

6. Pilots: Lieutenants Beeson, Gilluly, Anderson and Beavers. Number of sorties --- 6, this date. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------Saturday, 18 September 1943 (continued) 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64531 “Eager Beaver” P Beavers, James L., II, 2Lt Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt CP Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt N Kresge, James G., 2Lt, 447th BS None B None None E MacDougall, Alan J., S/Sgt Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt R Lefstad, Paul R., S/Sgt Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt G Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt Albright, Marvel E., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64582 P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt Gilluly, John W., 2Lt CP Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt Adams, Benjamin H., Jr., 2Lt N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt None B None None E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt Zoll, Thaddeus A., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Kovalchick, Alexander (NMI) “Alex”, S/Sgt G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt Fish, Harold E., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission today. Lt. Robert B. Kayser and T/Sgt. Joseph R. Toy today were notified that they would fly home in the famed “Poopsie”. “Poopsie” is credited with 70 combat missions. Just before the movie this evening, the boys saw a spectacular episode. A B-25G from another squadron was coming in to land. It was already dark. As the wheels struck the ground, a bright flash enveloped one side of the ship and the left engine caught on fire. Then tracers, cannon shells and the like began exploding as the fire raged on. Suddenly the whole ship was caught in a huge pinkish ball of flames as the flames apparently touched off some bombs in the ship. It exploded with an astounding display of pyrotechnics. Miraculously enough, all crew members escaped with their lives. Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Toy, Joseph R., Sgt, gunner

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Hixson, Engineering Officer, promoted to Captain. Hixson, Sherman, Capt, engineering

447th BS War Diary: Two of our Gs went to Protville to be on the “alert” for shipping sweeps. They were sent on a sweep but found no suitable target to attack. Both planes returned to Protville. About dark as the two planes were coming back to the base here the visibility was very poor. The first plane made a safe landing. Dust was stirred up on the runway which made it even tougher for the second plane to land. This plane piloted by Lt. Gilluly came in on one approach, gunned the engines, went around again and tried a second time. The plane came in hot and hit the ground with such force that one of the wheels was sheared off. The plane appeared to burst into flames immediately and was burning rapidly by the time it came to a stop. To those who watched the plane come in it Saturday, 18 September 1943 (continued) seemed that the crew could not possibly have survived. However, they all escaped and only slight injuries were suffered by two members of the crew. Gilluly, John W., 2Lt, pilot

447th BS Special Account: On the night of September 18 when returning from Protville Lt. Gilluly had trouble seeing the runway because of dust and darkness. He came in hot when he hit and the plane immediately burst into flame. One wheel had folded up upon impact with the ground. All the crew got out safely but the plane was burned completely. Gilluly, John W., 2Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Sunday, 19 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): The 66th, 67th, 68th and 506th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 44th Bombardment Group (Heavy), based at Shipdham, England begin operating from Tunis, Tunisia with B-24's. The 564th, 566th and 567th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 389th Bombardment Group (Heavy), based at Hethel, England begin operating from Massicault, Tunisia with B-24's.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, fighter-bombers of the XII Air Support Command and planes of other NATAF elements [US and RAF] concentrate on attacking roads and vehicles in the Benevento-Montesarchio-Contursi-Potenza-Avellino areas, and a railway station at Castelnuovo. On the ground in Italy, the US Fifth Army gains firm control of the Salerno plain, while the British Eighth Army troops take Potenza and Auletta.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

HQ 321st BG Communications Log: Call from Wing. “Load 36 A/C with 300’s 1/10 and 1/10 fuses, readiness at from 0800 to 1100”.

Call from Wing. “No mission for 21 September 1943”.

Crew set up for “Poopsie” (41-13201) to return to U.S. P. 1st Lt. Robert B. Kayser, Jr., 0-790352, 445th BS CP. 1st Lt. Curtis B. Hasty, 0-792262, 447th BS N. 1st Lt. Oscar R. Daume, 0-728352, 447th BS B. 2nd Lt. Walter C. Piasecki, 0-73110, 445th BS E. T/Sgt. Joseph R. Toy, 15084477, 445th BS R. T/Sgt. Theophil S. Sidlik, 16048253, 446th BS G. S/Sgt Charles E. Wray, 12081505, 446th BS

1135 Call from Wing. “Load 36 A/C with 300’s inst. And 45 second fusing, mission for 20 September 1943”.

445th BS War Diary: No mission today, only local bombing practice.

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities. The first contingent of enlisted men left the Squadron to return to the States. These men were: T/Sgt. Nicholson, S/Sgt. Kovis, S/Sgt. Hermanson, S/Sgt. Pillman, S/Sgt. Lytle, and S/Sgt. Misik. Hermanson, Ingwal J., Sgt, gunner Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt, gunner Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt, gunner Misik, John, S/Sgt, gunner Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt, gunner Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt, gunner Sunday, 19 September 1943

447th BS War Diary: A Major Masters from the Adjutant General’s Office conducted an inspection of the squadron records, etc. today. Everything seems to be shipshape. Masters, Maj, adjutant General's Office

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Monday, 20 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): The 98th and 376th Bombardment Groups (Heavy), based in , along with the 43rd Service Group and several military police and engineer units, are to be transferred to the Twelfth Air Force, effective on the date they transfer to Tunisia. The IX Bomber Command makes its last raid on Italy. B-24's of 98th and 376th Bombardment Groups (Heavy) are dispatched to the Castelfranco marshalling yard. Clouds obscure the target, but the 98th Group drops bombs on the estimated time of arrival. The 376th bombs a marshalling yard and airfield at Pescara during the return trip. The 565th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 389th Bombardment Group (Heavy), based at Hethel, England begins operating from Massicault, Tunisia with B-24's.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's and B-26's bomb the Castelnuovo road junction, the town of Formia, the Torre Annunziata area roads, and roads and railroad SW of Sarno; XII Air Support Command A-36's attack and disperse enemy tank and troop concentrations forming near Nocera for a counterattack. Other AAF and RAF aircraft of the NATAF hit enemy movement in Avellino-Naples-Potenza- Benevento-Calabritto-Pomigliano- Pescopagano areas. On the ground in Italy, the US Seventh Army starts into the mountains N of Salerno. HQ 31st Fighter Group and its 308th Fighter Squadron transfer from Milazzo, Sicily to Montecorvino, Italy with Spitfires.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 20 September 1943, 36 B-25’s took off to bomb Castelnuovo Road Jct. 240x300 and 28x250 pound bombs were dropped. One flight reports hits on road intersection. Hits were also made on roads to NE and SE but numerous bombs short and wide at target. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate from Calabritto; heavy, moderate, very accurate as to range from San Gregorio Magne. Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate from Pescopagano, Senerchia, Oliveto Cirta; two miles west of Muro Lucano. Flight leaders were Captain Whiteford, Seel, and Stultz. The second mission was flown by 2 B-25G’s taking off from Protville A/D #2 to attack a barge and escort off the coast of Italy, one-half mile off shore, twenty miles S. of Rome. No direct hits were seen on barge, one shot landed 10 feet behind barge. 500x50 calibre shots were fired but no results of serious damage were observed. Many hits with 50s were definitely registered. Flak was nil. Flight leaders: Capt. D. A. Bell, Lt. Schwindle. Bell, Donald A., Capt, pilot, operations, HQ 321st BG Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot, 447th BS Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt, pilot, 445th BS

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 14/Mission 14): ------Mission Report # 14, 20 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 344 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1229 _2___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville #2 A/D to attack Time No. A/C Type A/C a barge and escort off the coast of Italy, one-half mile off shore, twenty Target Location Location miles S of Rome (not-pin-pointed). None returned early. _2___ fired Location No. A/C 6x75mm shells from 50/70 feet at 1430. _2___ returned at 1630. No. & Type Alt. Time No. A/C Time

3. No direct hits were seen on barge. One shot landed 10 feet behind barge. 500x50 calibre shots were fired but no results of serious damage were observed. Many hits with 50s were definitely registered.

4. Air------One ME-110sighted but did not attack. Ground---- Two fires inland from coast, raging, twenty miles S of Rome. Marine-----Four seaplanes based at mouth of channel or river west of Rome. Flak------Light flak from barge, slight intensity and inaccurate.

5. CAVU entire route.

6. None. Pilots: Capt D. A. Bell & Lt. Schwindle. Number of sorties --- 2 FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 P Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt CP Eaton, Frank R., 2Lt Heller, Leonard C. “Len”, 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt None B Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG None (mission commander) E Nithman, Charles E., Cpl Clement, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt R Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt McNulty, Joseph P., S/Sgt G Rowley, Lester T., S/Sgt Parmelee, Walter J., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Keller, Richard S., S/Sgt

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 126/mission 125) Group Mission # 127: ------Mission Report # 127, 20 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1015 36___ __B-25__ took off to _bomb_ Castelnuovo Rd. Jct. __One__ Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C returned early. 35___ dropped 240x300 lb. and 28x250 lb bombs with 1/10 and No. A/C No. & Type 1/10 fusing on target at 1227 from 9500/10,000 ft. __35___ returned at 1415. None Time Alt. No. A/C Time lost, none missing, or at friendly field.

3. One flight reports hits on road intersection. Hits were also made on roads to NE and SE but numerous bombs short and wide of target.

4. Air------Six unidentified aircraft sighted at same altitude just after leaving target, did not attack. Ground---- Majority reports no traffic in area. One report of small convoy moving toward target from NW. Another of 14 M/T heading S directly from target. Marine-----None. Flak------Heavy, moderate accurate from Calabritto; heavy, moderate very accurate as to range from San Gregorio Magno. Heavy, moderate fairly accurate from Pescopagano, Senerchia, Oliveto Citra; two miles west of Muro Lucano.

5. Enroute---2/10 strato cumulus at 2000 feet, slight haze. Visibility over 10 miles. Target-----CAVU. Return----CAVU.

6. None. Flight leaders --Capt. Whiteford, Seel and Stultz. Observers------Colonel Knapp, Major Pemberton, Major Pinger. Number of sorties – 35. Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Captains Richard P. Tipton, Floyd R. Whiteford; Lts. Norman Bsharah, James H. Evans, Claude L. Eiland, George A. Mamerow; and Sgts. Ted Cirals and Paul E. Ewald today completed their 50th combat missions. Bsharah, Norman, 2Lt, bombardier Cirals, Ted, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt, bombardier Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt, bombardier Ewald, Paul E., Sgt, gunner Mamerow, George A., 2Lt, pilot Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 126/mission 125) Group Mission # 127: Captain Whiteford led today’s formation to bomb the Castelnuovo road junction.

A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” (Bear - no lettering) P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt None B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Carson, Cecil F., Pvt F None None A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 42-64590 under bombardier's window) P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N Griffing, George W., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG None (observer) B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Nysson, John W., 2Lt E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Calvert, M. E., Sgt F Zipoy, Martin D., S/Sgt, HQ 321st BG Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-53373 A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and Joy” P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Cook, Bailey C., Maj, Commander N None Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 1Lt B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt F Martinez, Elmo J. “Moe”, M/Sgt None (observer)

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64527 A/C No. 42-64508 P Butela, William F., 2Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt N None None B Zimmer, Paul E., Pvt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt F Goetz, F. W., Sgt, 9th Combat Camera None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” Gambler II” P Cratin, William S., Capt Bonus, Robert M., Capt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt N McCarter, Elmer H., Maj, HQ 321st BG Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-64659 P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt N None None B Flynn, Thomas H., T/Sgt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt Ludwin, J. H., S/Sgt, 9th Combat Camera

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 126/mission 125) Group Mission # 127:

A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” (spare) A/C No. 41-13008 (spare) P Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Meehan, James M., 2Lt E Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt G Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13208 (spare) A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) (spare) P Chappell, Howard L., Capt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 1Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt None B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Green, Harry M., Sgt E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Pee Wee” (spare) Polka” (spare) P Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None None B Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Orr, William J., Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: The enlisted men threw a party tonight. Beer and sandwiches were served and a dance band from the 301st provided music and entertainment. The party was held in the mess hall. Fiftieth mission today for: Lt. W. Ashley, Lt. J. DeMoss, S/Sgt. DesJardins. Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt, pilot DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 126/mission 125) Group Mission # 127: Twelve of our planes participated in a raid on a railroad junction near Castelnuovo, Italy. Bombing results good. All our planes returned safely.

A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” P Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt CP Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt N None None B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Werner, George P., Sgt F None Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck” P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt N None None B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt G Smith, Robert J., PFC Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt F Leon, Robert D., Cpl None A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” Snarp” P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt N None None B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Harter, James E., S/Sgt E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt F Rosenblatt, Marvin (NMI), Sgt, 9th Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st Combat Camera BG (observer) A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Ca II” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-64695 Done Crapped Again” P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt N None None B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt F Pinger, Robert M., Maj, HQ 321st GB None (observer)

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” Ball” P Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Commander N Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt None B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Balsom, James P., Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F None None

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 46) TARGET: Castelnuovo 4:05 Plane 598 “Flight leader Capt. Seel. Bombs falling short and wide of target.

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 25) TARGET: Castelnuovo RJ 4:05 300 lbs Plane 925: Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, S/Sgt Jones, Sgt Newhouse, T/Sgt. Anderson, S/Sgt Draper “Hits made on Road intersection but the target was not very well covered. Flak heavy, moderate, accurate.”

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Mission #5. Protville, attack barge near Rome.”

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 126/mission 125) Group Mission # 127: Mission 92 (127): At 1015, 36 planes off to bomb Castelnuovo, RJ. 35 dropped 240 x 300 bombs at 1227 from 95/10500 feet. All returned at 1415. One plane returned early. Some hits in road SE and E. Many fell short or long. No E/A. Flak moderate, heavy, accurate along entire route in and out. Weather: CAVU at target. F/L: Stultz.

A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-30326 P Joli, William H., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt N None None B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt E Pudlo, Alexander A., S/Sgt Terho, Harold V., S/Sgt R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt McEntee, Peter M., Pvt G Mintus, Frank J., S/Sgt Spencer, John S., T/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt Hobert, Walter W., PFC

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 41-30343 P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt N Holt, William E., 2Lt None B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Pitts, Lawrence P., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt G Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 42-64655 P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 42-64519 P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Gouge, David J., 2Lt N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt None B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30548 A/C No. 42-64661 P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Knapp, Robert Duane, Sr., Col, HQ 321st Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt BG Commander (mission commander) N None None B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 20 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-30327 (returned early – prop governor out) P Bruton, John E., 1Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Barton, Thomas M., F/O N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ 321st BG E Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 21 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): HQ IX Fighter Command at Tripoli, Libya closes.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-17's hit a bridge and the town area at Benevento; B-25's and B-26's hit landing craft and a ferry near Elba Island and bridges at Cancello Arnone and Capua; B-24's on detached service from the bomb Leghorn and Bastia; medium bombers and fighter-bombers of the NATBF and XII Air Support Command hit town areas, troop concentrations, trucks and tanks, and targets of opportunity in the Solofra-Avellino-Benevento areas. HQ 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Benina, Libya to Hergla, Tunisia. The 307th and 309th Fighter Squadrons, 31st Fighter Group, transfer from Milazzo, Sicily to Montecorvino, Italy with Spitfires. The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, transfers from Bizerte, Tunisia to Catania, Sicily with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 21 September 1943, 4 B-25G’s took off on sea search 10 miles N. of Elba. Three S/F loaded with troops were sighted at 1530 hours at 42 degrees 56’ N, 09 degrees 47’ E. heading 260 degrees towards Corsica followed at one mile by 6 LCT and additional S/F. Two hits claimed on last barge, which served and emitted smoke and one hit on S/F which was left smoking. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate from S/F. Flight leader was Capt. Bell. Bell, Donald A., Capt, pilot, operations, HQ 321st BG

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 15/Mission 15): ------Mission Report # 15, 21 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 345 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1340 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off on sea search 10 miles N of Elba. Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission None returned early. _4___ fired _12x75mm_ shells at target at 1550. No. A/C No. & Type Time _4___ returned at 1750. None lost, none mission, none at friendly field. No. A/C Time

3. 3 S/F loaded with troops were sighted at 1530 at 42 degrees 56’N, 09 degrees 47’E heading 260 degrees towards Corsica followed at one mile by 6 LCT and additional S/F. 2 hits claimed on last barge, which swerved and emitted smoke and one hit on S/F which was left smoking.

Tuesday, 21 September 1943 (continued)

4. Air------None. Marine-----None. Flak------Heavy, moderate, accurate from S/F. Light intense, accurate from LCT. Ground---- Fires and smoke seen over Alistro.

5. Overcast, visibility 3 miles.

6. Flight leader – Capt. Bell Number of sorties --- 4 FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64654 P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt McLaughlin, Robert A., 2Lt CP Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt Shaw, James A., 2Lt N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt None B Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG None (mission commander) E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt Biebighauser, Roy A., S/Sgt G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt Farrell, John J., Pvt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 “Black Magic” P Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O Peplinski, James L., F/O CP Winegar, William E. A., 2Lt Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O N None Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt B None None E Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, Sgt Wright, Joseph F., S/Sgt R Cobb, Bert Alvin, S/Sgt Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt G Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt CL Senec, Joseph F., Jr., Sgt None listed - likely the engineer

445th BS War Diary: No mission for today. The heat was terrific today and the afternoon found a large number of the Squadron personnel enjoying the waters of the Gulf. The Officers staged an impromptu football game on the beach late tonight following a hearty session with John Barleycorn.

Tuesday, 21 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 09/21/43: “Several nights ago, a B-25G returning from a raid after dark, crashed and burned on our runway. Miraculously, all of the crew escaped. Went to St. Germain yesterday without leave. Visited Jack Griffiths and his friend Isgar Knowlte (whose brother married a Mormon) at Irene’s, and ate cous-cous at her house. Isgar and I climbed to the top of the mountain overlooking Tunis bay immediately above the town of Hammam Lif. The view was beautiful. Two ships lay at anchor in the bay. Upon entering Hammam Lif we saw the elaborate ceremony incident to the departure of the Bay of Tunis for his office in the city of Tunis. Plush carpets, band, honor guard, coach and livery, mounted guard and flag bedecked train, all took part in the pageant of medieval pomp which is enacted as often as he leaves or arrives at his palace. Went to Fondouk in the evening to see a risqué French follies show. No mission today. Went in to Tunis to attend church with the Mormon boys. Gave 2½ minute talk. Took Rucker with. He is a man of few words and I don’t know what he thought about it all. I admire his equanimity. Good attendance. Did some missionary work with Beresh and Inman.” Beresh, Joseph (NMI) “Joe”, S/Sgt, armorer Inman, Gilbert E., Sgt, armament Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: Two of our Gs on “alert” at Protville were given a sea sweep. They attacked three Siebel Ferries and hit two of them. One of our planes was severely damaged by flak but both returned to the base safely. No one was hurt.

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot: “19-20-21 Sept 1943 – Took off on ferrying mission at 8:00. Landed at El Aquina – picked up two Generals and a Lt. – Landed at Palermo, Sicily. Picked up rations for a few days. Took off and landed at Catania, Sicily. Had a picnic lunch in the shade of the wing of our airplane. Flew next to Taranto, The famous Italian Naval Base. This field, like all the others we had been to today, was thoroughly bombed by the allies. German and Italian aircraft were piled high in a junk heap. The Hangars, which were immense things were only skeletons. Buildings were blasted and burnt. From here we went to another Italian Naval Base, Brindisi. We landed here on a field that had about 35 MA 202s and 20 tri-motored transports scattered about. The only people in sight as we taxied into the hangars were Italian soldiers. Just about ten days after Italy had surrendered. About a hundred soldiers and sailors gathered around the ship staring at its guns, etc. After messing around awhile, we went into town we walked out of the airdrome area (walled in) and after a few blocks we came to the harbor. We crossed this in a row-boat. Some old men about 70, I guess, rowed us across. Nearly everyone stared at us as we moved through the streets. I could hear them saying to each other “Americano!” In the harbor were destroyers and light cruisers of the Italian and British Fleets also many large freighters. At the field, I met an Italian Officer that spoke

Tuesday, 21 September 1943 (continued)

English. He had spent 17 years in New York. I met him again later on in town. He took me for a ride in this Fiat and bought me ice cream. That night we slept in barracks that had quartered German pilots only two weeks before. We were fed supper by the Italian soldiers. Spaghetti sharp cheese fish potatoes, bread, wine and grapes. Next day, we brought another General back to La Marsa and the following day we took him back to Brindisi. This time we had a little bit of Italian money with us so we bought some trinkets in the only store that was open between the hours of 1 & 5. We took a lot of pictures today as we walked through the streets. Also had ice cream.”

448th BS War Diary: No Entry Wednesday, 22 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): The Ninth Air Force flies its final mission from Africa. B-24's bomb Maritsa Airfield on Rhodes and Eleusis Airfield in Greece. The bomb groups of IX Bomber Command subsequently are transferred to the Twelfth Air Force. HQ IX Fighter Command begins a movement from Tripoli, Libya to Middle Wallop, England.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-25's and B-26's bomb roads, railroad, and bridges at or near San Martino Sannita, Grottaminarda, Amorosi, and Mignano; B-25's on detached service to the NATAF attack small vessels near Elba Island with 75mm cannon; NATBF and XII Air Support Command airplanes hit troop concentrations and gun positions near Serino and Santa Lucia di Serino, road block at Nocera, town and roads at Fisciano, the town of Pagani, tanks and trucks between Acerno and Montella and in the Foggia area, vessels and docks at Manfredonia, the town of Camarella, and the landing ground at Capua. HQ 86th Fighter-Bomber Group transfers from Barcellona, Sicily to Sele Airfield, Italy.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 22 September 1943, at 0945 hours, 36 B-25’s took off to bomb bridge and road at 795728. A few reports of hits on bridge. Several reports that bridge was straddled. Road E. of bridge, road junction to N, road N. of junction all hit. A number of crews believed that bridge and road at Lapio was bombed and hit instead of target. Other Group flew above and below this Group approaching target. Flak was generally heavy, intense, accurate from valley and hillsides N. of Avellino to target and from target to W of Paternopoli. Special mention was made of flak apparently sited in high positions. 4 guns reported in olive grove NE of Avellino. Some flak was of tracking type. Flight leaders: Captains Morton, Veum, Griffith. At 1045 hours 4 B-25G’s took off to attack landing barges and escort at 42 deg. 45’ N, 09 deg. 45’ E. One hit at waterline of barge and 2 probable hits are claimed, causing smoke. Two hits were made on an E/V resulting in black smoke. Decks of vessels were strafed. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate and light. Intense accurate from vessels. Pilots were Lts. Schwindle, Prior, Anderson, Johnson, Command Pilot was Captain Bell. Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Bell, Donald A., Capt, pilot, operations, HQ 321st BG Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot, 447th BS Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS Veum, Ole E., Capt, pilot, 448th BS

Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 16/Mission 16): ------Mission Report # 16, 22 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 346 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1045 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off to attack landing barges and escort at Time No. A/C Type A/C 42deg. 45’ N, 09deg. 45’ E. None returned early. _4___ fired _6x75mm_ No. A/C SHELLS at 1245. From 6,000/1,000 yds. Range. ___4___ returned at 1520 Time No. A/C None lost, none missing or at friendly field.

3. One hit at waterline of barge and 2 probable hits are claimed, causing smoke. 2 hits were made on an E/V resulting in black smoke. Decks of vessels were strafed.

4. Air------None. Marine-----5 LC and 2 E/V were encountered 10 miles W of Elba heading 90deg at 10 knots. Flak------Heavy, moderate, accurate and light. Intense, accurate from vessels.

5. Hazy, visibility 1/1½ miles. 8/10 to 9/10 at 500 feet.

6. Pilots: Lts. Schwindle, Prior, Anderson, Johnson. Command Pilot – Capt. Bell. Number of sorties --- 4. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 “Eager Beaver” “Flying Caisson” P Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt CP Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt N None Lang, Robert B., 2Lt, 447th BS B None Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG (mission commander) E Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt Lazorshak, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt R Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 “Black Magic” P Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt CP Eaton, Frank R., 2Lt Heller, Leonard C. “Len”, 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt None B None None E Nithman, Charles E., Cpl Clement, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt R Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt Keller, Richard S., S/Sgt G Rowley, Lester T., Sgt Parmelee, Walter J., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Smith, Harold W., Sgt

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 127/mission 126) Group Mission # 128: ------Mission Report # 128, 22 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 0945 36___ __B-25__ took off to _bomb_ bridge and road at 795728, Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target sheet 173. None returned early. __36___ dropped 204x500 lb. bombs with 1/10 No. A/C No. & Type and .025 fusing on target at 1158 hours from 7500/9000 ft. 32 returned at Time Alt. 1400. None lost, none missing, 2 at Monte Corvino, 2 at Termini Imerse.

3. A few reports of hits on bridge. Several reports that bridge was straddled. Road E of bridge, road junction to W, road N of junction all hit. A number of crews believe that bridge and road at Lapio (40deg. 59’N, 14deg. 57’E) was bombed and hit instead of target. Other Group flew above and below this Group approaching target.

4. Air------5 chutes seen near Frigento. 16 unidentified S/E SE of Salerno, 3 unidentified S/E E of target. 4 men and 12 planes hit by flak. 4 ME-109’s heading NE from target. Did not attack. Marine-----None. Ground----Ground fighting reported at Acerno and 3 miles to E, and N of Oliveto Citra. 3 convoys 15/20 M/T each NNE & SW of Vallata. 20 or more tanks SE of Benevento headed NW. Flak------Was generally heavy, intense, accurate from valley and hillsides N of Avellino (40deg. 55’N, 14deg. 48’E) to target and from target to W of Paternopoli (40deg. 58’N, 15deg. 02’E). Special mention was made of flak apparently sited in high positions. 4 guns reported in olive grove NE of Avellino. 8 guns at target. Positions reported at Lioni (40deg 52’N, 15deg. 11’E), Bonito (41deg. 07’N, 15deg. 00’E), Nusco (40deg. 53’N, 15deg. 05’E), Pratola Serra (40deg. 58’N, 14deg. 51’E), S of Castel Franci (40deg. 57’N, 15deg. 03’E), Grottaminarda (41deg. 05’N, 15deg. 04’E). Some flak was of tracking type. Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

5. Enroute and target – CAVU. Return – 6/10 cirro-stratus at 20,000ft.

6. Flight Leaders: Captains Morton, Veum, Griffith. Observer: F/O Sudden. Number of sorties: 36. Photos taken.

FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

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

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 127/mission 126) Group Mission # 128: The 445th supplied three spares, two of which filled in the formation which bombed the bridge and road near Castelnuovo.

A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and A/C No. 42-64590 Joy” P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt N Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 1Lt None B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Chereski, John J., T/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt G Carson, Carl F., Pvt Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” (did not complete mission) P Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt CP Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt N None B Zimmer, Paul E., S/Sgt E Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt R Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt G Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Pvt F None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 127/mission 126) Group Mission # 128: Group mission 127, Sqdn 101 composed of 11 planes led by Capt. Griffith. 500 lb bombs were dropped on a bridge and road north of Salerno Italy. Very poor coverage of the target. Enemy fighters were seen but they did not attack. The flak was heavy intense and accurate. Four men and twelve planes were hit. Lt. Boyd, on his 50th mission, was forced to land at Termini, Sicily. Lt. Kirk’s plane received a punctured tire and also landed at Termini. Capt. Griffith’s plane received several hits and Lt. Anzalone, his bombardier, received a slight wound on his left foot. This was definitely a rough mission.

A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka” P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Bonacich, Matthew G., PFC F None Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt E McNair, Luddie L., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt R Chappell, Jack F., S/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt G Taylor, Allan J., Pvt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13200 A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Clark, Robert A., 2Lt N Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt None B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Green, Harry M., Sgt E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt

Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 41-30293 P Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt N None None B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., S/Sgt Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Smith, Roy W., Pvt G Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” P Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt Kirk, Robert H., 1Lt CP Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt N Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt None B Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt Gawrada, Gabriel P., 2Lt E Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt R Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of St. Joe” (did not complete mission) P McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N None None B Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: Today’s mission was the fiftieth for S/Sgt. R.E. Murphy. Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 127/mission 126) Group Mission # 128: Twelve of our planes participated in a raid on a road junction near Benevento, Italy. Target not reached and bombs dropped with fair results on another road near a bridge. The flak was very intense and all but two of our planes were damaged. Capt. Burns and Lt. Nixon’s planes were damaged so badly they had to land at Monte Corvino, Italy. Lt. Lingrel received a severe flak wound in the upper part of his right leg and was taken to an evacuation hospital near Monte Corvino. Lt. Brinkley, Lt. Miller, Lt. Paiton, S/Sgt. Quilty, Sgt. Newhouse and Sgt. Lalum all suffered slight injuries from flak. One piece of flak came in through the top of the bombardier’s compartment, entered S/Sgt. Quilty’s helmet, cutting a jagged hole in the top of it and imbedded in a woolen glove he had in Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued) the top of the helmet for padding. He was not scratched by the piece of flak but did get a few scratches on the arm from the plexiglass which was shattered when the piece of shrapnel came through the tip.

A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” Done Crapped Again” P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Fallone, Henry W. “Hank”, 2Lt N None None B Boyle, Joseph G., 2Lt Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Werner, George P., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” P Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt N None None B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Harter, James E., S/Sgt E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt F None Dobbins, Daniel G., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG A/C No. 442-32450 “Lumber A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” Wagon” P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Commander N None Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Johnson, Eldon F., PFC R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., S/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” (did Duck” not complete mission) P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N Carter, Elmer H., Maj, HQ 321st BG None B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Alton, David D., S/Sgt F None Leon, Robert D., Cpl Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64695 P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 2Lt Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” P Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt None B Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt F None Zipoy, Martin D., S/Sgt, HQ 321st BG

447th BS Special Account: On September 22 the squadron participated in a raid on a road junction near Benevento, Italy. The flak was very intense and two of our ships were damaged so badly they were forced to land at the friendly base at Monte Corvino. These ships were flown by Capt. J.P. Burns and Lt. Donald Nixon. Capt. Burns came down on one engine, the third such landing he has had to make since he began flying in combat. The bombardier with Capt. Burns, Lt. Paul Lingrel was hit in the upper leg and injured pretty seriously. Others receiving slight injuries on this mission were: Lt. H.M. Brinkley, Lt. Miller, Lt. Paiton, S/Sgt. Lalum, Sgt. Newhouse, and S/Sgt. Quilty. S/Sgt. Quilty received a few slight cuts on his arm from fragments of plexiglass which were scattered by a piece of shrapnel when it came through the top of the bombardier’s compartment. He considers himself lucky though as the shrapnel hit right in the top of his helmet, came through the steel and lodged in a woolen glove which he had in the top of the helmet. Capt. Burns and Lt. Nixon and crews returned to the squadron the following day. They remained overnight in Italy. Brinkley, Hamilton M., 2Lt, pilot Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt, gunner Lingrel, Paul Warren "Moose", 2Lt, bombardier Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 1Lt, pilot Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt, engineer-gunner Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt, pilot Paiton, Harold K., 1Lt, navigator Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt, bombardier

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 47) TARGET: Bridge and RR at 795728 – Sheet 173 4:15 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind” “4 ships hit by flak. Capt. Burns and Lt. Nixon forced down in Italy. Lt. Brinkley, Lt. Lingrel, Sgt. Lalum, Sgt. Quilty hit by flak. Mission success.” Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 26) TARGET: Bridge and Road at 79528 4:15 500 lbs Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt Joseph, Sgt Newhouse, T/Sgt. Anderson, S/Sgt Draper, Major McCarter “Four ships hit by flak. Capt Burns and Lt. Nixon forced down in Italy with Engines shot out of both ships. Lt. Brinkley, Lt. Lingrel, S/Sgt Lalum and S/Sgt. Quilty were all hit by flak.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 31) “Road junction and bridge about ten miles SE of Benevento, Italy. We were in flak for about twenty-minutes. Bevens (Burns) & Nixon in the flight in front of us each lost an engine and went into Monte Corvino. Couple of the boys got hit with flak. Nearly all the airplanes were hit. We got five holes, one blowing a tire. We landed back at the base with one flat tire. One airplane was going down and several boys bailed out. Spikes gunner had a big hole in his helmet. The flak didn’t get to his head. That valley behind Salerno is really hot.” Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt, pilot Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Mission #6. Protville, attack 4 vessels, much flak & machine gun fire.”

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 127/mission 126) Group Mission # 128: Mission 93 (128): No escort. At 0945, 36 planes off to bomb bridge and road at 795728 (sheet 173) (near Lepia, Italy) dropped 204 x 500 bombs at 1158 from 75/9000 feet. Thirty two planes back at 1400, two at Monte Corvino, two at Terrini Inerse. Few direct hits on bridge, most bombs straddled it. Road E of bridge and RJ to W and road N of junction hit. Bridge and road at Lepia 40° 59’ N and 14° 57’ bombed. No E/A. Intense, heavy, accurate flak along entire route in and out. Four men and 12 planes hit but no serious casualties. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Veum.

A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 41-30548 P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, S/Sgt R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-30326 P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None None B Reich, William John, 2Lt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Dellwo, Lawrence H., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 42-64521 P Bruton, John E., 1Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt E Porch, Dean O., S/Sgt Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 41-30327 P Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ 321st BG E Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt R Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt G Vance, Paul S., S/Sgt Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H., L., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None

Wednesday, 22 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-29967 P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None Boland, Chester H., 1Lt B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., S/Sgt R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, S/Sgt G Ally, George B., S/Sgt White, George E., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 23 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-26's bomb bridges at Cancello Arnone and 3 miles (4.8 km) NE of Capua; planes of the NATBF and XII Air Support Command attack motor transport, roads, railroads, town areas, gun positions, and targets of opportunity in the areas of San Severino Rota, Avellino, Sarno, Torre Annunziata, Aversa, Nocera, Resina, Serino, Pompeii, and Camarella. The 525th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 86th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from Barcelona, Sicily to Sele Airfield, Italy with A-36's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

HQ 321st BG Communications Log: 1740 Col. Knapp to call Gen. RIDENOUR as soon as possible.

1740 A/C # 181 to Italy has been cancelled—it will go the day after tomorrow. Call from Capt. SEEL to Capt BELL.

Call from Major Willhite. “Set up A/C to be at El Aouina at 0730 to take Col. MADDISON to Casabela (Near Augusta, Sicily; probably bring him back same morning”. (448th A/C # 41-29774).

Call from Wing. Set up A/C for 0800 take off from El Aouina to take American and Italian Officials and baggage to Malta. They will be at Flight Section. (Capt. Tipton A/C # 529)

445th BS War Diary: Major Cook received his orders today promoting him to Lt. Col., and Lt. Lord received his promoting him to Captain. The Italians prepared a ravioli dinner which met with great approval. Rations of cigars, cigarettes and candy were distributed this afternoon. Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, pilot, Commander Lord, Robert O. Jr., Capt, Executive Officer

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

446th BS War Diary of: Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., 2Lt, pilot: “A good deal has happened in the last week or so. I flew another mission. Now have 45. The Doc has grounded me for a while. I should be back flying in a week or so. Schmidt and Buck Hileman and Ollie Cosner got their orders to Algiers for Transport Command, flying mail etc., in this theatre. Schmidt’s navigator and some enlisted men were sent home. I am moving up to Griff’s tent now and quite a few men are leaving. Max Garmon was

Thursday, 23 September 1943 (continued) sent home yesterday. Whitey has finished, but is still here. He was made a Captain the other day. The news is sounding pretty good, and I’m crazy to get home, but I’m not looking forward yet. It may be some time still before I finish flying. Benny Anzalone got a purple heart the other day on a mission with Griff. Was hit in the foot by flak.” Anzalone, Benjamin W., 1Lt, bombardier, navigator Backer, Max B., Capt, medical officer Cosner, Oliver J., 2Lt, pilot Garmon, James M. "Max", 1Lt, pilot Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot Hileman, Donald L. "Buck", 2Lt, pilot Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 2Lt, pilot Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt, pilot, 445th BS

447th BS War Diary: Lt. C. Grantham ferried a general to Italy today and also brought Capt. Burns and Lt. Nixon and crews back to this base. Lt. Lingrel is still in the hospital near Monte Corvino. The squadron surgeon has grounded Capt. Burns and crew indefinitely. Capt. J. Canning left the squadron today to return to the states for flight surgeon training. Lt. Fineman ferried him to Oran and from there he will catch a boat for the states. Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Canning, John A., Capt, medical Fineman, Ernest, 2Lt, pilot Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot Lingrel, Paul Warren "Moose", 2Lt, bombardier Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Friday, 24 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, B-25's and B-26's of the XII Bomber Command hit roads, railways, bridges, and junctions at Grottaminarda, Maddaloni, Benevento, Avellino, Capua, Cancello Arnone, Amorosi, Ponte, and Mignano, and attack a destroyer between Corsica and Elba Island; B-24's on detached service from the Eighth Air Force bomb the marshalling yard at Pisa; US and RAF planes of the NATBF, XII Air Support Command, and other elements of the NATAF attack vehicles, roads, troop concentrations, and gun positions around Santa Lucia di Serino, Serino, Caserta, Benevento, Camarella, Baronissi, Nocera, Montemarano, and San Severo. HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and its 84th and 85th Bombardment Squadrons (Light) transfer from Gerbini, Sicily to Grottaglie, Italy with A-20's. The 344th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy), transfers from Lete, Libya to Hergla, Tunisia with B-24's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 24 September 1943 at 1150 hours 36 B-25’s took off to bomb road bridge at Benevento. Dropping 98x1000 pound bombs at 1358 hours the first flight reports direct hits on bridge, after which target was obscured by clouds of dust. Other flights bombs fell in target area but results could not be observed. Hits reported on N. and S. approaches to bridge and on S. edge of town. Flak in general started at Alvignano to Solopaca and was heavy, intense, accurate. Some at target. Positions at Caiazzo. S. Maria A Vicolo. Maddaloni from green field at 41 09 14 20 Heavy, moderate accurate from Melizzano and area S. of Sparanise. Flight leaders were Captains Culp, Bradley, and Lt. Clinton. The second mission today was flown by 4 B-25G’s which took off from Protville A/D #2 to attack a large M/V at 2 DD. One hit was made on stern of DD, causing large explosion. Two hits were made on the large M/V near the bow, and smoke was seen coming from it. Flak was heavy, and light, intense and fairly accurate from vessels. Flight leaders were Lts. Beeson, Edwards, Keith and F/O Peplinski. The third mission today was against tug and LC off Cape Linaro. Two B-25G’s participated. Four shells hit the LC, resulting in black smoke. One direct hit made with bombs and one near miss, lifting entire stern of LC out of water. Tug and LC were strafed. No opposition. Flight leaders were Lts. Dorman and Johnson. Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS Bradley, James L. "Jungle Jim", Jr., Capt, pilot, 446th BS Clinton, Wayne C., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS Culp, Merle H., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Edwards, James T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O, pilot, 448th BS Peplinski, James L., F/O, pilot, 448th BS

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 17/Mission 17): ------Mission Report # 17, 24 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 347 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1205 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville A/D #2 to attack Time No. A/C Type A/C a large MV and 2 DD at 42°45’N, 09°35’E. _NONE_ returned early. _4___ Target Location No. A/C No. A/C fired 13x75 shells at target at 1425. ___4___ returned at 1645. None lost, none Time No. A/C Time missing, none at friendly field.

3. One hit was made on stern of DD, causing large explosion. Two hits were made on the large M/V near the bow, and smoke was seen coming from it.

4. Air------3 JU=52’s on deck off Cervione on Corsican coast heading N at 1350. 3 ME-109’s and 6 transports heading W towards Corsica. Marine-----Large M/V with high foredeck was escorted by 2 DD. 7 LC were at dock at Marciana Marina (Elba) at 1410. 3 LC stationary N of Elba. Flak------Heavy and light, intense and fairly accurate from vessels.

5. Target---1/10 to 3/10 near water, 2/10 to 4/10 at 6000 ft.

6. None: Flight leaders—Lts. Beeson, Edwards, Keith and F/O Peplinski. Number of sorties --4. No photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32488 447th BS B-25G A/C No. Not listed – likely 42-32489 P Edwards, James T., 2Lt Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt CP Bailey, Bert C., 2Lt Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt N None Kresge, James G., 2Lt B None Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG (mission commander) E Fleming, Robert W., S/Sgt Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt R Hughes, James C. S/Sgt Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt G Fox, Robert J., S/Sgt Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32487 “Black Magic” P Peplinski, James L., F/O Keith, Charles Frederick, F/O CP Corbin, Robert (NMI), F/O Winegar, William E. A., 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt None B None None E Wright, Joseph F., S/Sgt Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, Sgt R Williams, Almas C., S/Sgt Cobb, Bert Alvin, S/Sgt G Haberman, Marvin A., Sgt Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Senec, Joseph F., Jr., Sgt

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 18/Mission 18): ------Mission Report # 18, 24 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 348 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1330 _2___ _B-25-Gs took off from Protville A/D #2 to attack Time No. A/C Type A/C Tug and LC off Cape Linaro. _NONE_ returned early. _2___ fired _13x75mm_ Target Location No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type shells and skip bombed _4x500 lb_ bombs with 4 second fusing at 1510 hours. No. & Type Time ___2___ returned at 1705. None lost, missing, none at friendly field. No. A/C Time

3. Four shell hits were made on the LC, resulting in black smoke. One direct hit made with bombs and one near miss, lifting entire stern of LC out of water. Tug and LC were strafed.

4. Air------None. Marine-----Tug towing a 200 ft LC was met ½ mile off Cape Linaro heading 130°. A gunboat was sighted 2 miles S of target heading N. Large M/V sighted in Civitavecchia harbor at 1500. Flak------None.

5. Target---Scud at 300’. Visibility 5/10 miles.

6. None. Pilots: Lts. Dorman and Johnson. Number of sorties --2. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64579 “Red Nosed Beckie” “Flying Caisson” P Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt CP Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt N Lang, Robert B., 2Lt, 447th BS None B None Durante, Angelo M. C., 2Lt (observer) E Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt MacDougal, Alan J., S/Sgt R Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt G Fiebelkorn, Earl C., S/Sgt Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 128/mission 127) Group Mission # 129: ------Mission Report # 129, 24 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1150 36___ __B-25s_ took off to bomb road bridge at Benevento. __One__ Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C returned early, one landed in Sicily. __34___ dropped 98x1000 lb bombs with 1/10 No. A/C No. & Type and .01 fusing on target at 1358 hours from 8500/9500 ft. __34___ returned at 1610. Time Alt. No. A/C Time None lost, none missing, one at friendly field.

3. First flight reports direct hits on bridge, after which target was obscured by clouds of dust. Other flights bombs fell in target area but results could not be observed. Hits reported on N and S approaches to bridge and on S edge of town.

4. Air------3 E/A on Sessa Aurunca L/G. 3 chutes seen 5 miles S of Capua A/D. One unidentified S/E at 10,000 ft S of Gaeta at 1345. Marine-----Two medium M/V and several small boats anchored in Gaeta harbor. Ground----20 truck convoy at 41°20’N, 14°40’E. Convoy at 41°17’N, 14°12’E. 15 M/T NE of Capua. 7/10 M/T headed SW from Savignano. 8/10 M/T heading NE from Venafro. 10 white M/T headed S from Mignano. 20 M/T S of Vairano Patenora headed SE. Large convoy headed N south of Campoli del Monte Taburno. 30 RR cars on siding at Mignano. General movement to N noted on coastal roads. Fires observed in Naples and large oil fire N of Gaeta. Clearing which might be L/G at 41°22’N, 14°,08’E. Two intersecting landing strips at 41°25’N, 14°38’E Flak------In general started at Alvignano (41°15’N, 14°20’E) to Solopaca (41°13’N, 14°33’E) and was heavy, intense, accurate. Same at target. Positions at Caizzo (41°12’N, 14°23’E). S. Maria a Vico (41°03’N, 14°28’E). Maddaloni (41°04’N, 14°24’E), from green field at 41°09’N, 14°20’E. Heavy, moderate accurate from Melizzano (41°08’N, 14°31’E) and area

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

of Sparanise (41°12’N, 14°06’E) to NW of Capua (41°07’N, 14°12’E). Area N of these points taken on return route free of flak.

5. Enroute----4/10 at 3000ft with 7/10 at 12,000 ft. Hazy, visibility 10 miles. Target----- 5/10 at 12,000, 2/10 cumulus at 5,000 ft. Return----- 6/10 at 18,000 ft.

6. None. Flight Leaders—Captains Culp, Bradley, and Lt. Clinton. Observers—General Ridenour, Capt. Lindley. Number of sorties: 34. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Lts. Clinton, Armstrong, Garrison, McEnroe, Murzyn, Hoekman, Hughes and Sgts. Curtis and Arvo completed their 50th mission. Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt, pilot Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt, gunner Clinton, Wayne C., 2Lt, pilot Curtis, Alton D., Sgt, gunner Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt, navigator Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt, pilot Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt, pilot McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt, bombardier Murzyn, Edward, 2Lt, bombardier

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 128/mission 127) Group Mission # 129: The Squadron participated in a raid on the road bridge at Benevento. Brigadier General Ridenour, Wing Commander, flew with our Squadron.

A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” under bombardier's window) P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Zimmer, Paul E., Pvt E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt F Ridenour, Carlyle H., Brig Gen, HQ 47th None Wing, Commander (mission commander) A/C No. 42-53373 A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt N Larson, Harold W., 1Lt None B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt F None Lindley, Francis H., Capt, HQ 82nd FG (observer) A/C No. 42-64529 A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II” P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Cratin, William S., Capt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt N None None B Poranda, Michael A., Pvt Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt R Anthony, Loren R., T/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-64590 P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt E Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., Sgt F None Malek, Stanley J., 1Lt (observer) A/C No. 42-64508 A/C No. 441-13198 “Maybelle” P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt N None None B Stokes, Oliver O., Pvt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt G Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt O’Neil, Phillip W., Sgt F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64575 A/C No. 42-64659 P Bonus, Robert M., Capt Hughes, Clark E., 1Lt CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt None B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 128/mission 127) Group Mission # 129: Group mission 129, Sqdn 102 composed of 12 planes led by Capt. Bradley with Lt. Col. Olmstead as co-pilot. 1000 lb bombs were dropped on a road bridge at Benevento, Italy. The first flight reports direct hits on the bridge after which the target was obscured by clouds of dust. However, all bombs fell in the immediate vicinity and the target was well covered. B-17’s had missed this same target on several previous occasions. The flak was heavy intense and accurate. This Group received a special letter of commendation from General Ridenour on this raid.

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania “Eager Beaver” Polka” P Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., 2Lt CP Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B None DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt Bonacich, Matthew G., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer

A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” St. Joe” P Tapper, George G., 2Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt N None None B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 41-13208 P Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt CP Clark, Robert A., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N None None B Green, Harry M., S/Sgt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., S/Sgt R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” P Cornell, Earl K., F/O VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt N None None B Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt E Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt Milner, Walter C., Sgt R Smith, Roy W., Pvt Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Cpl F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-13200 Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt N None Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Pappas, William J., 2Lt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Orechia, James Raymond “Raymond”, Cpl G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” P Bradley, James L. “Jungle Jim”, Jr., Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt Capt CP Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt BG N Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt None B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt E Rockafellow, Alfred A., S/Sgt Wuotila, Benjamin R., S/Sgt R Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt G Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: Two of our Gs on “alert” at Protville. They went on a sea sweep, scored one hit on a destroyer and two hits on a merchant vessel. Both returned safely. Capt. Gale who has been in bed two weeks with malaria was sent to the hospital today. Sgt. A. Lamoureau and S/Sgt. R. Penson were sent to the hospital also. They have yellow jaundice. Gale, Myron, Capt, Executive Lamoureau, Archille D., Sgt, photographer Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 128/mission 127) Group Mission # 129:

A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” (spare) A/C No. 41-30557 (spare) P Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt N None Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Werner, George P., Sgt F None None

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” (spare) P Gill, Paul W., 2Lt CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N None B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt G Alton, David D., S/Sgt F None

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 128/mission 127) Group Mission # 129: Mission 94 (129): At 150, 36 planes off to bomb road bridge at Benevento. 34 dropped 98 x 1000 bombs at 1358 from 8500/9500 feet. Returning at 1610. First flight reports direct hits on bridge, later observation impossible due to smoke and dust. 3 E/A seen but did not attack. Saw several convoys NE of Capua and general movement to N. Flak started at Olivignana to Solopaca, intense, heavy, accurate. Weather: 5/10th at 12000 over target. F/L: Culp.

A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 42-64552 P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt N None None B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Dellwo, Lawrence H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-30343 P Veum, Ole E., Capt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt N Holt, William E., 2Lt None B Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt 321st BG E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Yutzy, Eli N., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., S/Sgt F None None

Friday, 24 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-30548 P Bruton, John E., 1Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt CP Haskell, John D., 2Lt Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Maj, Commander N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Mauder, Charles J., Cpl Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Fleming, George B., F/O Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Driver, William J., F/O Biener, Martin B., 2Lt N None None B Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Lambert, Robert P., S/Sgt Terho, Harold V., S/Sgt R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 42-64661 P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Cain, George S., S/Sgt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None A/C No. 41-29967 (returned early – A/C No. 41-30326 (returned early – engine trouble) pilot sick) P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt N None None B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt G Ally, George B., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 25 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, about 90 B-17's of the XII Bomber Command hit the Bologna marshalling yard; 14 others hit the Bolzano railroad bridge; B-25's and B-26's bomb airfields at Pisa, Lucca, and Bastia/Borgo, a highway at Mignano, a road junction at Maddaloni, and railroad and road bridges at Cancello Amone, Caiazzo, and Ponte; US and RAF aircraft of the NATBF, XII Air Support Command, and RAF DAF hit Serino (causing a roadblock), troop concentrations at Sarno, gun positions, troops, and vehicles near Nocera, Aquino airfield, a storage dump N of Foggia and a dredger at Termoli. HQ 57th Fighter Group and its 64th, 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons transfer from Rocco Bernardo to Gioia Airfield, Italy with P-40's. The 343rd Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy), transfers from Lete, Libya to Hergla, Tunisia with B-24's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 25 September 1943, 36 B-25’s took off to bomb and posthole Bastia/Borgo A/D. 214x500 pound bombs were dropped. Strings fell along both E. and W. sides of A/D with buildings and some planes in front of hangar in SW corner hit. Landing strip reported not hit. Approximately 25 guns evenly spaced around L/G. Fire was heavy, moderate, accurate. 4 gun position just N. of Biguglia 42 degrees 38’N, 9 deg. 25’E. Heavy, moderate, accurate from boats in harbor of Bastia, and from RR at Casamozza. 6 batteries spaced evenly around town of Bastia. Flight leaders were Major Schwane, Capt. Seel, Lt. Cratin. Observers Colonel Walsh, Lt. Col. Coglend, Majors Blake, Pinger, Willhite, Capts. Landron, Craig, Lts. Griffing, Morris and Clark. Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th BW Clark, Victor E., 1Lt, 9th Combat Camera Coglend, J. L., Lt Col, medical officer, HQ 47th BW Craig, L. H., Capt, 9th Combat Camera Cratin, William S., Capt, pilot, 445th BS Griffing, George W., Capt, Weather Officer, 445th BS Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd Fighter Group Morris, B. W., 1Lt, HQ 47th Wing Pinger, Robert R., Maj, Group Surgeon, HQ 321st BG Schwane, Henry H. "Hank", Lt Col, pilot, Commander, 446th BS Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot, 447th BS Walsh, James H., Col, HQ 47th Wing Willhite, Theodore E., HQ 47th Wing

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 129/mission 128) Group Mission # 130: ------Mission Report # 130, 25 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

2. At 1240 36___ __B-25s_ took off to bomb and posthole Bastia/Borgo A/D. Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission None returned early. __36___ dropped 214x500 lb bombs with instantaneous and No. A/C No. & Type

1/10 second fusing on target at 1502 from 8500/9500 ft. __36___ returned at 1720. Time No. A/C Time None lost, None missing, None at friendly field.

3. Results – Strings fell along both E and W sides of A/D with buildings and some planes in front of hangar in SW corner hit. Landing strip reported not hit.

4. Air------One S/E on deck at 1450, 4 in formation at 1447. 1 S/E over target did not attack. 15/20 on field mostly transports. One 4/E and 7/8 transports in front of hanger. 6 large transports on NE corner.

Marine-----1 large M/V, 1 medium, 5 small and 2 S/F in Harbor. Life Raft at 41°30’N, 9°30’E sighted, being circled by B-26. Observed en route and return at 1445 and 1520. Stationery Submarine S end of Corsica, fired a green flare at 1435. Ground----Columns of smoke from Olbia Venafiorita A/D. Large fire seen at Morosaglia, 42 degrees 20’N, 09 degrees 18’E. Flak------Approximately 25 guns evenly spaced around L/G. Fire was heavy, moderate accurate. 4 gun position just N of Biguglia 42 degrees 38’N, 9 degrees 25’E. Heavy, moderate, accurate from boats in harbor of Bastia, and from RR at Casamozza 42 degrees 32’N, 09 degrees 25’E. 5 or 6 guns N of Golo River. 6 batteries spaced evenly around town of Bastia.

5. Enroute----Light scattered showers 3/10 strato cumulus 1000 ft, 9/10 alto cumulus at 12000 ft. Visibility unlimited. Target----- 7/10 Alto cumulus at 12000 ft visibility 10 miles. Smoke Pall. Return----- 9/10 Alto cumulus at 12000 ft. Visibility unlimited.

6. None. Flight Leaders – Major Schwane, Capt Seel, Lt Cratin. Observers – Col Walsh, Lt Col Coglend, Maj’s Blake, Pinger, Willhite. Capts Landron, Craig, Lts Griffing, Morris and Clark. Number of sorties – 36. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: It was again terrifically hot in the afternoon and many of the boys were in swimming. In the evening a movie was shown again at the enlisted men’s club. It was “The Life of Louis Pasteur” with Paul Muni. It was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 129/mission 128) Group Mission # 130: The Squadron participated in a raid on the Bastia Borge airdrome in Corsica.

A/C No. 42-64527 A/C No. 42-64659 P Butela, William F., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt CP Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None None B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt F Griffing, George W., 1Lt (observer) Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 42-64575 (Bear - no lettering) P Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Bonus, Robert M., Capt CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Knapp, Robert Duane, Sr., Col, HQ 321st BG Commander N None Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt E Haney, T. J., Sgt Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt G Nickens, Cletus P., S/Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” Gambler II” P Cratin, William S., Capt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Young, William G., 2Lt Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt None B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Poranda, Michael A., Pvt E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" under bombardier's window) P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt N None None B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Woronuk, John (NMI), Cpl Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, S/Sgt F Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th BW (observer) Ludwin, J. H., S/Sgt, 9th Combat Camera A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-64590 (did not complete mission) P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt N None None B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Castle, Roy V., Pvt E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Carson, Cecil F., Pvt F Coglend, J. L., Lt Col, HQ 47th BW None (observer)

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-53373 A/C No. 42-64508 P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt N None None B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt E Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt F None Pinger, Robert R., Maj (observer)

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 129/mission 128) Group Mission # 130: Group mission 130, Sqdn 103 composed of 12 planes. Major Schwane led the Group and 500 lb bombs were dropped on Bastia Borgo A/D, Corsica. The target was fairly well covered and the flak was heavy moderate and inaccurate. S/Sgt. Plaine, bombardier, was hit on the thigh by flak.

A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” St. Joe” P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Clark, Robert A., 2Lt N None None B Roger, Horace K., S/Sgt Green, Harry M., Sgt E Milner, Walter C., Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G Velarde, Servando J., Jr., Cpl Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F Morris, B. W., 1Lt, HQ 47th Wing Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt (observer) A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N Brown, Newton E., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt F Walsh, James H., Col, HQ 47th Wing McGuire, Charles W., 1Lt (mission commander)

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” Pee Wee” P Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt N None None B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, S/Sgt R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Edwards, David R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” A/C No. 41-30293 P Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt N None None B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., S/Sgt Helisek, Paul A., S/Sgt R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Smith, Roy W., Pvt G Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt F Goetz, F. W., Sgt, 9th Combat Camera None A/C No. 41-13200 A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt CP Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt None B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt R Howe, Frank M., Jr., Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt F None Craig, L. H., Capt, 9th Combat Camera? A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship” A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Commander CP Klang, Irving E., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt N Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt None B Coe, George A., 1Lt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt R Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt G South, William R., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Maj. Sampson ferried a group of engineering personnel to Monte Corvino so that they could make the necessary repairs on Capt. Burns’ plane. The plane was brought back to this base. Lt. Nixon’s plane had been repaired and brought back on Sept. 23. While at Monte Corvino Maj. Sampson arranged with the evacuation hospital there for them to take Lt. Lingrel off their evacuation list so that he could be brought back to the squadron later. Today’s mission was the fiftieth for: Lt. D. Black, T/Sgt. E. Jackson, T/Sgt. J. Stanton, S/Sgt. H. Gouvin. Black, Donald, 1Lt, navigator Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt, gunner Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt, gunner Lingrel, Paul Warren "Moose", 2Lt, bombardier Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt, pilot Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, pilot, Commander Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 129/mission 128) Group Mission # 130: Eleven of our planes participated in a raid on the airdrome at Corsica, Italy. Bombing results good. All our planes returned safely.

A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” Done Crapped Again” P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt None B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt G Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt F Willhite, Theodore E., HQ 47th Wing Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG (observer) A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry Ball” Duck” (incomplete) P Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt None B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, Sgt E Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt R Balsom, James P., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” P Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N None Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt F None None A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None B None listed – likely the navigator Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Werner, George P., Sgt F Clark, Victor E., 1Lt, 9th Combat None Camera A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt N None None B Harter, James E., T/Sgt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt F Rosenblatt, Marvin (NMI), Sgt, 9th Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt Combat Camera A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 42-64695 Snarp” P Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt N None None B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 25 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 48) TARGET: Bastia – Borgo A/D 4:30 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”) “Buildings in flame. Planes in front of hangars hit.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 32) “Borgo Bastia Airdrome in NE Corsica. The French are driving the Germans out of Corsica so we gave them a little help today. The weather enroute was poor. We ran through several rain showers and for a while it looked like we’d have to turn back. Thirty-six ships no escort. Intense inaccurate heavy flak from the airdrome, city and a few boats in the harbor. One boy got an 88 clear through his Bombay between the bombs.”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 129/mission 128) Group Mission # 130: Mission 95 (130): At 12:40 36 planes off to bomb Bastia Borgo A/D and dropped 214x500 bombs at 15:02 from 8500 feet, returned at 17:20. Strings fell along E and W side of A/D buildings and some planes hit in front of hangar in SW corner, no air attacks although many E/A seen on A/D. Flak came from approximately 25 guns evenly spaced around A/D. Weather: Smoke all over target.

A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-30326 P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H., 2Lt N None None B Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Smith, Harry V., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Paschel, John W., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30548 (did not complete mission) P Culp, Merle H., Capt CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt N Holt, William E., 2Lt B Reich, William John, 2Lt E Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt R Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt G Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), S/Sgt F None

Sunday, 26 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, fighters, and light and medium bombers of the XII Air Support Command, NATBF, and RAF DAF patrol the battle zone, escort convoys, carry out bombing and strafing sweeps against motor transport in the Benevento-Melfi area and N of Foggia, bomb the Pomigliano landing ground, and hit the town of Sarno and military concentrations to the N. Bad weather prevents XII Bomber Command heavy bomber missions. HQ 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and its 512th, 513th, 514th and 515th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) transfer from Bengasi, Libya to Enfidaville, Tunisia with B-24's. The 16th Reconnaissance Squadron (Bomber), 68th Reconnaissance Group, transfers from Berteaux, Algeria to Foch Field, Tunisia. This squadron transitions for fighters to B-17's and serves as a radar detection and countermeasures unit until Sep 44. The 345th and 415th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy), transfer from Benina, Libya to Hergla, Tunisia with B-24's.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Mission today, 26 September 1943, abortive.

HQ 321st BG Communications Log: 0750 Call from ANDERSON. “Brief but don’t take off until further notice.” WA 0855 Call from ANDERSON. “Cancel Mission”. WA 0900 Call from ANDERSON. “Probably same mission for tomorrow”. EHMcC 1030 Call from HOLPSTESD. “Have 202 (Kayser) over field at 1430”. ASBURY to ALLEN. “A-3 not notified of Flight”. ASBURY to ULMER. “Ulmer says 0800 alert 27 September 1943”. 1050 Call from ALLEN. “Set up A/C to go to Le Sebala (Beaufighter Field near Tunis) to pick up Gen Cunningham.” 448th, Veum, 41-13172, teletype sent.” WA 1105 Call from ULMER. “Every thing O.K. on Kayser’s flight—going home.” WA 1355 Bell to NUPORT. “Called to check on clearance for Lt. Davies and Lt. Garrett. NASAF turned mission down, with the excuse it was not for military reasons. Nuport will call back.” ARB 1400 Call from ANDERSON. “Tell pilot to go back and see same fellow he saw before; tell him that Wing contacted Gen. Born and that he will make an exception on this case.” ARB. 1645 BELL to HALLOCK at NYLON. “Let him know when A/C arrive”. 1810 ASBURY to WILLHITE. “Check Lampedusa trip—target, same as today.” 1830 ASBURY to WILLHITE. “A/C cleared to Lampedusa unless call comes in.” 1840 HOOVER to ASBURY. “Check fuses in bombs .1 and .01.” 1900 ANDERSON to ASBURY. “Ifrane A/C cleared.” 2145 Call from WILLHITE. “Mission for 27 September 1943 is cancelled”.

Sunday, 26 September 1943 (continued)

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 19/Mission 19): ------Mission Report # 19, 26 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 349 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1230 _3___ _B-25-Gs took off on Sea search. None returned early. No Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Sighting made. _3___ returned at 1640. None lost, None missing, none at friendly No. A/C Time field.

3. None.

4. Air------2 S/E 10 miles N of Monte Cristo Island. Marine-----None. Flak------None.

5. En route – Broken clouds 1500 to 2000 ft. Return – Scattered showers.

6. None. Pilots: Lts. Johnson, Anderson, Beeson. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64531 “Red Nosed Beckie” P Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt Anderson, John G. M., 2Lt CP McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt Anderson, Robert W., 2Lt N Kresge, James G., 2Lt, 447th BS Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt B Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG None (mission commander) E Lazorshak, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt Zittel, Howard L., S/Sgt R Drotts, Marshall D., S/Sgt Baker, Wallace J., S/Sgt G Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt Beals, Bryant (NMI), Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 447th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32489 P Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt CP Joiner, Harold W., 2Lt N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt B None E Cook, Gerritt C., S/Sgt R Dexter, Harold H., S/Sgt G Clausen, Ansgar E., S/Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Sunday, 26 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: No mission was flown on this date. Lt. Kayser took off with “Poopsie” and two other B-25’s of other Groups to join three B-25’s at El Aouina and then proceed to the United States via the southern route. There were sighs of home sickness as the men watched Lt. Kayser head out toward the west. It was cloudy all afternoon and a light drizzle fell in early evening. Clocks were turned back one hour this morning and it now gets dark before 7 o’clock. Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: One of our Gs on “alert” at Protville participated in a sea sweep. Nothing sighted. The plane returned safely. A mission was scheduled for the rest of the squadron but was cancelled. Lt. O. Daume and Lt. C. Hasty left for the states today where they will go on a bond selling tour. Lt. Fineman returned from Oran and reports that Capt. J. Canning is scheduled to board the ship for the states today. A P-38 crashed and burned near here today. The pilot was killed. Capt. R. Richardson took a plane to Cairo with several members of the squadron on a pleasure trip. Canning, John A., Capt, medical Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt, navigator Fineman, Ernest, 2Lt, pilot Hasty, Curtis B., 1Lt, pilot Richardson, Robert W., Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Monday, 27 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, weather almost halts Twelfth Air Force operations; XII Air Support Command fighters strafe Viterbo Airfield and Bracciano seaplane base, bomb a road junction at San Servero, and strafe a locomotive and the train station; other NATAF airplanes hit trucks in the Benevento area. The 86th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), transfer from Gerbini, Sicily to Grottaglie, Italy with A- 20's. The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, transfers from Catania, Sicily to , Italy with Beaufighters. The squadron is attached to the RAF's No. 286 Wing until Jan 44.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Mission today, 27 September 1943, abortive.

321st BG “G” Squadron Mission Summary: (Ops Order 20/Mission 20): ------Mission Report # 20, 27 September 1943 (redesignated mission # 350 on 4 Jun 44) 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1140 _4___ _B-25-Gs took off on search (sea) from Cape Circeo to San Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Stefano. No sightings made. _4___ returned at 1550. None lost, none missing, No. A/C Time none at friendly field.

3. None.

4. Air------1 JU-52 15 miles N of Civitavecchia heading SE, turned inland. 3 E/A believed on Tarquinia A/D. Flak------Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate from Lido di Roma. Heavy, slight, inaccurate from Nettuno. Marine-----None.

5. En route - Scattered clouds at 2,000, visibility 10/12 miles. Target - Overcast at Italian coast, showers. Return - 9/10 at 8,000.

6. None. Pilots - Lts. Johnson, Dorman, Schwindle, Prior. Number of sorties – 4. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------Monday, 27 September 1943

446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-32501 446th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64587 “Eager Beaver” “Red Nosed Beckie” P Johnson, Richard Wiggin, 2Lt Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt CP McIntyre, Johnson Y., 2Lt Foote, Douglas G., 2Lt N None None B None Bell, Donald A., Capt, HQ 321st BG (mission commander) E Lazorshak, Paul (NMI), S/Sgt Ramsburg, Edwin E., S/Sgt R Lefstad, Paul R., S/Sgt Pinsonault, Guss (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt G Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt Fiebelkorn, Earl C., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer None listed - likely the engineer 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64668 448th BS B-25G A/C No. 42-64580 P Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt Schwindle, Adam C. “Gus”, 2Lt CP Eaton, Frank R., 2Lt Heller, Leonard C. “Len”, 2Lt N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt None B None None E Nithman, Charles E., Cpl Clement, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt R Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt McNulty, Joseph P., S/Sgt G Rowley, Lester T., Sgt Parmelee, Walter J., Sgt CL None listed - likely the engineer Smith, Harold W., Sgt

445th BS War Diary: No missions flown this day. A plane went to Lampedusa to get some fish for the mess. Lt. Gaffney was promoted to Captain. Some of the enlisted men held a touch football game on the beach this afternoon. There was no football available but the men resorted to good old American ingenuity and Sgt. Ernest G. VanHall’s sock filled with sand – to use in place of the pigskin. Gaffney, Charles, H., Capt, Executive Officer VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: Capt. P. Seel and Capt. J. Hamilton flew to Monte Corvino today to bring Lt. Lingrel back to the squadron. They came in about dark and although Lt. Lingrel looks a little pale and has a bad limp, he is in good spirits. Plans are being made to take him to the hospital at Mateur where he can remain until fully recovered. Lt. C. Lungren took a plane to Fez today to pick up Lt. Colby who became ill while at rest camp there. Colby, John W., 2Lt, navigator Hamilton, John M. “Doc”, Capt, Medical Officer Lingrel, Paul Warren "Moose", 2Lt, bombardier Lungren, Charles D., 2Lt, pilot Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Mission #7. Sea sweep – no targets – flak from shore battery’s near Rome.” Tuesday, 28 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, weather prevents completion of XII Bomber Command B-17 missions against the Bologna marshalling yard and the Bolzano railroad bridge, except for 1 heavy bomber which bombs Bolzano; tactical aircraft operations are also severely curtailed by weather; fighter-bombers bomb and strafe motor transport in the Benevento- Caserta area. On the ground in Italy, the US Fifth Army is ready for an assault on Naples and Avellino. Caistellamare di Stabia, Nocera, and Sala Consilina are taken.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry.

445th BS War Diary: The mission for this date was cancelled. It rained hard this afternoon and looks like the beginning of the rainy season. A number B-27’s homeward bound after bombing a target in Italy landed at our base until the weather cleared. It was very cold in the evening and the boys found all their blankets quite comfortable.

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

447th BS War Diary: The group received a commendation from General Doolittle today for the excellent bombing done Sept. 24. The target was the Benevento bridge and it was totally destroyed. No 447th planes participated in this mission. A mission was scheduled for today but had to be cancelled because of bad weather. It rained a little this morning— the first we have had in more than two months. Capt. Seel took off today to take Lt. Lingrel to the hospital but had to return as the field there was too wet for landing. A jeep driven by Lt. G. Kamensky was overturned today when it skidded on the wet highway. Lt. Kamensky was not injured and the vehicle no badly damaged. Doolittle, James Harold "Jimmy", Maj Gen, 12th AF, Commander Kamensky, George L., 1Lt, personal equipment Lingrel, Paul Warren "Moose", 2Lt, bombardier Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Wednesday, 29 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command B-25's and B-26's bomb bridges at or near Piana, Castelvenere, Amorosi, and Cancello Amone; P-38's bomb Ausonia defile and a bridge near San Apollinare; US and RAF tactical aircraft hit the town of San Giorgio del Sannio and roads in the area S of Benevento. On the ground in Italy, the US Fifth Army opens an attack on Avellino during the night of 29/30 Sep. General Dwight D Eisenhower and Marshal Pietro Badoglio sign the Italian surrender document on the battleship HMS Nelson off Malta. HQ 51st Troop Carrier Wing transfers from Gela to Catania, Sicily.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 29 September 1943, 36 B-25’s took off to bomb Bridge S. of Piana. 172x500 lb. bomb were dropped. General opinion is that bridge was not hit although there are a few reports of hits on N. end North approach to bridge and one report of hit on S. end. Seven ships dropped on railroad and road bridge just S. of Vinchiaturo. Flak was heavy, intense, very accurate from field 200 yards NE of target, from 4 guns NE of N. end of bridge, from 6 guns ¼ mile E. of bridge on N. side of river. Heavy, moderate, from Capua and field SW of Caiazzo. 114 airplanes hit by flak. Flight leaders: Lt. Walker, Capts. Morton and Culp. Culp, Merle H., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot, 447th BS Walker, James O., Lt, pilot, 445th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 130/mission 129) Group Mission # 131: ------Mission Report # 131, 29 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M). 2. At 1113 36___ __B-25s_ took off to _bomb_ Bridge South of Piana. Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target _None_ returned early. __29___ dropped 172x500 lb bombs with 1/10 and .01 fusing No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type on target at 1335 hours from 8500/9500 ft. 7 dropped 42 similar bombs on road and Alt. Railroad bridge south of Vinchiaturo 41°29’N, 14°36’E at 1343 hrs. 36___ No. A/C returned at 1535. _None_ missing, _none_ lost, _none_ at friendly field. Time No. A/C No. A/C No. A/C

3. General opinion is that bridge was not hit although there are a few reports of hits on North end and North approach to bridge and one report of hit on south end. Seven ships dropped on railroad and road bridge just south of Vinchiaturo.

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

4. Air------One 4-engine with estimates ranging from 6-20 small A/C on Aquino A/D. Marine-----1 medium and 1 small M/V at Terracina 41°13’N, 13°16’E. 1 medium and 2 small in Gaeta Harbor. One life raft 10-16 miles WNW of Maritimo Island at 1515. Ground----50 truck convoy parked at roadside N. of Calvi Risorta 41°13’N, 14°06’E. Large truck convoy moving NE north of Itri 41°18’N, 13°33’E. 15 truck convoy on highway SE of Minturno 41°16N, 13°44’E headed NW. Fairly heavy truck traffic N and S at Vairano Patenora 41°20’N, 14°08’E. 30/40 M/T on road south of Mignano 41°24’N, 13°58’E going south. 10 car RR train on track 10 miles NE of Venafro 41°29’N, 14°02’E. 20 car train headed toward Naples from Gaeta. M/Y at Cassino 41°30’N, 13°50’E appeared burnt out and empty. Flak------Heavy, intense, very accurate from field 200 yards NE of target, from 4 guns NE of N end of bridge, from 6 guns ¼ mile E of bridge on N side of river. Heavy, moderate from Capua and field SW of Caizzo 41°11’N, 14°22’E. 14 airplanes hit by flak.

5. Enroute----Clouds 3/10 strato cumulus at 4000. Visibility unlimited. Target----- Clouds 2/10 cumulonimbus at 6000. Return----- Clouds 4/10 at 20,000.

6. None. Flight Leaders. Lt. Walker, Capts. Morton and Culp. Observers – Lt. Col. Cook, Maj. Pemberton, Capt. Manly. Number of sorties – 36. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: Captain Cratin, Lt. Walker and Sgts. Kilmer, Melhorn and Garner completed their 50th missions. The Squadron personnel enjoyed ice cream for supper tonight. Lts. Armstrong and Humphrey, while on a fishing trip in the Gulf in Lt. Humphrey’s homemade motorboat, found themselves stranded when the motor died. Lt. Armstrong left Lt. Humphrey and attempted to swim to the shore some 5 miles away. He was picked up about a mile off shore by Lt. Lower who had been on the outlook fearing that something had happened. In the meantime, Lt. Humphrey decided to abandon the boat and swim to shore. The Air-Sea rescue patrol was notified by Lt. Humphrey made the shore by himself. The movie, “Somewhere I’ll find You” starring Clark Gable and Lana Turner gave the boys in the Squadron an idea of how good old American love making was accomplished. They had almost forgotten how. Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt, pilot Cratin, William S., Capt, pilot Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Humphrey, Malcolm R., 1Lt, supply Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt, gunner Lower, William C., 2Lt, personal equipment Melhorn, Raymond W., Sgt, gunner Walker, James O., Lt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 130/mission 129) Group Mission # 131: The Squadron participated on a raid on the bridge south of Piano, Italy.

A/C No. 41-30550 “Hetties Pride and A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" Joy” under bombardier's window) P Walker, James O., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt CP Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, Commander Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt N Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 1Lt None B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt G Woronuk, John (NMI), Cpl Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, S/Sgt F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II” P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Cratin, William S., Capt CP Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt N None None B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt E Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64575 A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” (Bear - no lettering) P Bonus, Robert M., Capt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt None B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Zimmer, Paul E., Pvt E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64529 A/C No. 42-64590 P Kaschenback, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt N None None B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Poranda, Michael A., Pvt E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Smith, James B., Sgt F None Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64527 A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” P Butela, William F., 2Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt N None None B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64508 A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt N None None B Stokes, Oliver O., Pvt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt E Rose, J. W., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt G Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS War Diary: S/Sgt. Wray and S/Sgt. Sidlik left for the United States on a War Bond Tour. They went in “Poopsie”, the plane with the most mission in the Group, 70 total. Sidlik, Theophil S., S/Sgt, gunner Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 130/mission 129) Group Mission # 131: A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” (spare) A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” (spare) P Chappell, Howard L., Capt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt CP Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt None B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, S/Sgt R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Edwards, David R., S/Sgt F None None Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13208 (spare) P Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N None B Fieldon, Gordon S., S/Sgt E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Brooks, Gaylen B., S/Sgt G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None

446th BS: War Diary of: Walker, Dale F., 2Lt, pilot: Letter Home: “I’m feeling fine and the rest of the boys on my crew are all o.k. …I don’t if I’ll get to write tomorrow or not because I know I’m going to be pretty busy. I am flight commander over some of our men and so have some work to keep me busy.”

380th BS, 310th BG: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 761: (446th BS ship that arrived in the MTO with the original 321st BG - flown by the 446th until mid-Sep 43, then transferred to the 380th BS, 310th BG)

A/C No. 41-13211 (MACR-258 - shot down) P Strunk, Clifton W., 2Lt - KIA CP Liggett, Arthur G., Jr., 2Lt - KIA N None B Miller, Lester A., S/Sgt - POW, liberated and RTD E Hines, Burke W., Sgt - KIA R Welsh, Richard J., S/Sgt - POW, liberated and RTD G Revis, John R., S/Sgt - KIA F None

Eyewitness Account: Oechsle, Albert K., 2Lt, pilot, 379th BS, 310th BG 1 October 1943 Right wing came off, then left wing came off, broke from the bomb bay. Each section was burning. Pilot and Co-pilot turned around at sound of explosion, co-pilot on his knees on his seat. Pilot turned back to flying and plane disintegrated. Direct hit in bomb bay caused fuselage to bulge and opened large holes. Co-pilot seemed to reach fro overhead hatch when section fell off. - Statement of Lt. Albert K., Oechsle. ------

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

Eyewitness Account: Shields, Joseph E., S/Sgt, gunner, 379th BS, 310th BG 1 October 1943 Bombs came out of bomb bay with shackles on. Explosion in right wing. Then left wing bent down and off the plane. Nose came off at navigator’s compartment. Tail broke off at top turret. Middle section disintegrated. About 5 to 6 seconds later a chute opened to rear and as planes came off target chute could be seen still floating. Pieces of plane hit ground about same moment formation’s bombs did. - Statement of S/Sgt Joseph E. Shields. ------

Eyewitness Account: Welsh, Richard J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 380th BS, 310th BG (Some time after RTD) L. H. Miller bailed out at low altitude according to information given me by him. He went out slide window on left side of bombardier’s compartment - others - no knowledge.

All in good condition in assigned positions when blast of flak and immediate surge of flames into right waist window obliterated everything except Sgt Hines who was visible for perhaps a second. He made me move to descend from turret although flames were scaring his body. ------

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: The group medical officer has given permission for Lt. Lingrel to remain in the squadron while recovering from the wound in his leg. He will not go to the hospital as previously planned. Lt. C. Lungren returned from Fez today and brought Lt. Colby with him. The Gable-Turner flicker “Somewhere I’ll Find You” ran at the local sand dune open-air cinema tonight. Fiftieth Mission: Lts. W. Brinkley, Spikes, S/Sgts. Hofstedt, Popowski. Brinkley, Wilton R., 1Lt, pilot Colby, John W., 2Lt, navigator Hofstedt, John H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Lingrel, Paul Warren “Moose", 2Lt, bombardier Lungren, Charles D., 2Lt, pilot Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt, gunner Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 130/mission 129) Group Mission # 131: Twelve of our planes participated in a raid on a road bridge near Piana, Italy. There was one hit on the bridge and our squadron is credited with scoring it. The flak was very intense. All our planes were damaged except one but none seriously. S/Sgt. David Alton and Pvt. 1st Cl. R.J. Smith, both turret gunners received slight injuries from the flak. All our planes returned safely.

A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt N None None B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt G Smith, Robert J., Pvt Alton, David D., S/Sgt F Rosenblatt, Marvin (NMI), Sgt, 9th Leon, Robert D., Cpl Combat Camera A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You Done Crapped Again” P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Batteiger, James M., S/Sgt R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry Snarp” Duck” P Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt N None None B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt F Chaney, Kenneth Morgan, S/Sgt, 9th Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st Combat Camera BG (observer) A/C No. 41-30557 A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N None None B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 42-64695 P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt N None Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt (observer) B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt G Werner, George P., Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt F None Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon Ball” P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt N None Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt R Jondro, Wilton G., Jr., T/Sgt Balsom, James P., S/Sgt G Armstrong, Robert E., S/Sgt Jansen, Vernon E., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 49) TARGET: Bridge S of Piano 4:20 Plane 371 “All but one ship hit by flak. Sgt. Alton and Pfc R. Smith hit by flak. General opinion bridge not hit.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 27) TARGET: Bridge South Piano Italy 4:20 500 lbs Plane 925: Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt McCone, Major Pemberton, Sgt. Newhouse, T/Sgt. Anderson, S/Sgt Draper “All but one ship was hit by flak. S/Sgt. Alton and Pfc. Smith, R.J., were hit by flak. General opinion that the bridge was not hit. Flak very heavy, intense and accurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 33) “Highway bridge over the Volturno River, N.E. of Naples. The Germans are being pushed back slowly by the 5th Army and the Air Force is concentrating on communications. The Germans have to cross the Volturno River and there are only two bridges left standing across it. They are short of pontoon bridges, so says S-2 and our job today was to knock out the bridge. No escort. Thirty-six ships – beaucoup flak – six holes in our ship. The first flight of twelve missed the target entirely, second & third flights missed the bridge with their bombs. One or two bombs hit on or nearby on the bridge but it is still serviceable.”

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 130/mission 129) Group Mission # 131: Mission 96 (131): At 11:13 36 PLANES OFF TO BOMB BRIDGES OF Piano, 29 dropped 172x500 bombs at 13:35 from 8500 feet and 7 dropped 42x500 on RR bridge and road S of Vinchiaturo. All returned at 15:35. Bridge S of Piano not hit although approaches were, other bridges at Vinchiaturo hit by 7 ships. Flak heavy, intense and accurate at target and from Capua. 14 planes hit by flak. Weather: 2/10 coverage at target. F/L: Culp.

A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 41-30548 P Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Boatwright, John S., 1Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt E Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt Poynter, Robert A., S/Sgt R Papile, Frank M., S/Sgt Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt G LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Ford, Chester L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N Holt, William E., 1Lt None B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt White, George E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-30343 P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt CP King, James L., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O N None None B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt E Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt R Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt G Dellwo, Lawrence H., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-30352 P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt CP Bruton, John E., 1Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt N None None B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt E Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt R Harding, John E., S/Sgt Orman, Virgil N., S/Sgt G Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt F None Hobert, Walter W., PFC A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 42-64514 P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt CP Anderson, Andrew H., 2Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt E Roberts, Harold L., S/Sgt Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 29 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt N None None B Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt Cain, George S., S/Sgt E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt None

Thursday, 30 September 1943

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):

In Italy, XII Bomber Command P-38's, B-25's, and B-26's bomb road and rail and road bridges at Ausonia, Piana, Castelvenere, Amorosi, and Capua, and carry out sweeps from Bastia to Elba Island; 7 B-25's hit Benevento and surrounding rail and road communications; XII Air Support Command fighter-bombers carry out strafing and bombing missions N and NE of Naples as Avellino falls to the US 3rd Division. The 8th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, transfers from Gela to Ponte Olivo, Sicily with C-47's. The detachment of the 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group, operating from San Antonio, Sicily with P-51's transfers to Capaccio, Italy. The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, transfers from Lecce to Grottaglie, Italy with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: On 30 September 1943, 36 B-26’s took off to bomb road bridge S. of Piana. 185x500 pound bombs were dropped from 8500/9500 feet. First flight reports several strings of bombs directly across bridge, demolishing it. Other flights had to drop into dust-obscured area hit. Results believed good. Some bombs short and over. Flak was heavy, intense, accurate, tracking at target. Big bursts showing flame as well as smoke. Bursts were accurate as to altitude but generally between first and second flights. Few bursts 3000 feet above formation. Light flak below formation. 12 of 31 planes hit by flak. Flight leaders were Capts. Seel, Stultz, Taylor. Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot, 447th BS Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS Taylor, Peter D., Capt, pilot, 446th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 131/mission 130) Group Mission # 132: ------Mission Report # 132, 30 September 1943 1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).

2. At 1020 36___ __B-25s_ took off to _bomb_ road bridge South of Piana.. Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target _None_ returned early. __31___ dropped 185x500 lb bombs with 1/10 and .01 fusing No. A/C No. A/C No. & Type on target at 1240 hours from 8500/9500 ft. 31 returned at 1450. None lost, none Time Alt. Time Missing, 2 at Bizerte, and 3 at friendly field.

3. First flight reports several strings of bombs directly across bridge, demolishing it. Other flights had to drop into dust-obscured area hit. Results believed good. Some bombs short and over.

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued)

4. Air------One S/E high over target. 5 E/A at 12,000 ft NW of target followed by P- 38s. 10/15 A/C on Aquino A/D. Field cratered on E side but appeared serviceable. 2 six engine, 12 transports on Capua A/D.

Marine-----1 LC at Gaeta and one 5 miles NW offshore. One medium tanker off S. Felice Circeo, 41deg. 13’N, 13deg. 06’E. 1 medium vessel, M/V heading towards Sperlonga, 41deg. 15’N, 13deg. 26’E. Ground----7 tanks on beach 5 miles NW of Gaeta. 5 M/T on beach between Sperlonga and Terracina, 41deg. 17’N, 13deg. 16’E at 1219. 3 tanks 2 miles S of Itri at 1221, 41deg. 18’N, 13deg. 32’E. 7 tanks and 3 M/T headed NW at 1245 from Alife, 41deg 19’N, 14deg 20’E. 3 or 4 mile long convoy W of Cassino, 41deg 29’N, 13deg 49’E. 25/30 M/T headed towards Cassino. 45 M/T going NW 2 miles from Mignano, 41deg 24’N, 13deg 59’E. Long train stationary W of Isoletta, 41deg 35’N, 13deg 30’E. 20 M/T heading NW towards road junction 2 miles E of San Maria La Fossa, 41deg 06’N, 14deg 08’E. Considerable activity on road SW of Vairano Patenora, 41deg 20’N, 14deg 08’E. 10/12 M/T 1 mile N of target headed N. Stationary convoy headed SE on road SE of target. Convoy and train N of Capua headed NW. 70 car train at underpass near Mignano. Flak------Heavy, intense, accurate, tracking at target. Big bursts showing flame as well as smoke. Bursts were accurate as to altitude but generally between first and second flights. Few bursts 3,000ft. above formation. Light flak 1,000ft. below formation. Positions observed 2 miles WNW of target, on mountain S of target, and 5 miles SE of target, from Volturno river S of Amorosi, 41deg 13’N, 14deg 27’E, at Caizzo, 41deg 11’N, 14deg 22’E. 12 of 31 planes hit by flak.

5. Enroute----6/10 cumulus at 8,000, 3/10 strato cumulus at 1,000. Target----- 2/10 cumulus at 7,000. Visibility unlimited. Return----- Scattered showers, 7/10 cumulus at 8,000.

6. None. Flight Leaders: Capts. Seel, Stultz, Taylor. Number of sorties: 36. Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Intelligence Officer ------

445th BS War Diary: It rained very hard today. The Operations-Intelligence and a number of tents were flooded. The Squadron was paid today in gold seal American dollars and no time was lost in organizing a lively crap game in the mess hall.

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 131/mission 130) Group Mission # 132: The Squadron participated in a raid on the bridge south of Piano, Italy.

A/C No. 42-64527 A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" under bombardier's window) (spare – did not fill in) P Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt CP Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt N None None B Zimmer, Paul E., Pvt Poranda, Michael A., Pvt E Haney, T. J., Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt R Matthews, Earl L., Pvt Woogerd, Warren G., S/Sgt G O’Neill, Phillip W., Sgt Ellison, Clyde (NMI), Pvt F None None A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II” (spare – did not fill in) P Haeberle, Frederick G., 1Lt CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt N Larson, Harold W., 1Lt B Nysson, John W., 2Lt E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: Received orders to move to Italy.

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 131/mission 130) Group Mission # 132:

A/C No. 42-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” P Taylor, Peter D., Capt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt None B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt E McNair, Luddie L., 2Lt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 1Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Klang, Irving E., 2Lt N None None B McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Hanley, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., Sgt G Martin, Edward F., Cpl Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 41-30293 P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O CP Fetterly, Orville D., 2Lt Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt N None None B Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt E Milner, Walter C., Sgt Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt R Valenti, Alfio P., S/Sgt Smith, Roy W., Pvt G Edwards, David R., S/Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13200 A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania Polka” P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt CP Strom, Ernest M., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt None B Pappas, William J., 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt R Fontenot, V. L. (i.o.), T/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Bonacich, Matthew G., Sgt F None Blake, Charles H., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 42-64577 “Lady Betty” Traveler II” (later “Enid II, “No Peekin’”) P McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Clark, Robert A., 2Lt N None None B Coe, George E., 1Lt Green, Harry M., Sgt E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt F None Guzauskas, Frank (NMI), Cpl

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” P Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt N None None B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt E Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., S/Sgt R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt F None None

447th BS War Diary: We received orders tonight to prepare for another move. Our next base is to be somewhere in Italy. The flight echelon along with essential personnel to carry on combat operations will go by air first. The rest of the squadron will follow later. On the mission S/Sgt. R. Lankford and Pvt. A. Zacharya received slight flak wounds. Today’s mission was the fiftieth for: Capt. W. Morton, Lt. D. Althouse, Lt. C. Grantham, S/Sgt. R. Draper, S/Sgt. R. Lankford. Althouse, Donald I., 1Lt, pilot Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1L, pilot Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt, gunner Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt, gunner McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt, pilot Morton, William H., Capt, pilot Zacharya, Andrew, Pvt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 131/mission 130) Group Mission # 132: Twelve of our planes participated in a raid on the road bridge south of Piana, Italy. Bombing results excellent. Our squadron is credited with the hits which were scored on the bridge. Flak was very intense and Lt. D. Althouse’s plane was hit in one engine. The oil line was cut and he had to make a one-engine landing at a landing ground near Battipaglia. Lt. J. Bugbee and Lt. D. McDuff landed with him. Lt. Althouse’s plane was left in Italy with two enlisted members of the crew. The other two planes returned bring Lt. Althouse back with them. The rest of our planes returned safely.

A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 42-64657 P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” P Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt N None None B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., S/Sgt G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the Ball” Snarp” P Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Commander N Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt None B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt E Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt R Balsom, James P., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt F None Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck” P Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt N None None B Kingsley, Andrew L., 1Lt McCone, Walter D., 2Lt E Henry, William R., S/Sgt Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt R Myers, William W., Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt G Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You Done Crapped Again” P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., S/Sgt E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Batteiger, James M., S/Sgt R Smith, Robert J., PFC Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt G Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt F None None

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued)

A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle II” P Gill, Paul W., 2Lt CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt N None B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt G Alton, David D., S/Sgt F Leon, Robert D., Cpl

447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 1Lt, pilot (mission 28) TARGET: Road bridge South of Piano 4:300 500 lbs Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt McCone, Sgt. Newhouse, T/Sgt. Anderson, S/Sgt Draper “First flight reports several streams of bombs directly across bridge demolishing it. Other flights had to drop in dust obscure area. Flak heavy, intense, and accurate.”

447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 1Lt, pilot (mission 34) “Today we went back to get that bridge that we missed yesterday. Thirty-six ships, no escort. We did a beautiful job this time. Same intense, accurate, heavy flak, but our flight go through alright. Bugbee, Althouse & McDuff went into Monte Corvino airdrome. Just after we came off the target we saw the 38’s dive bombing a bridge. There were seven other attacks in this area today. Coming back we ran into a few rain showers.” Althouse, Donald I., 1Lt, pilot Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1L, pilot McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt, pilot

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

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 131/mission 130) Group Mission # 132: Mission 97 (132): At 10:20 36 planes off to bomb bridges of Piano, dropped 185x500 bombs at 12:40 from 8500 feet. 31 returned at 14:50, 2 at Bizerte and 3 at friendly fields. Several strings of bombs directly across bridge, others observations obscured by dust. Several planes observed on field also tracks and trains. Flak heavy, intense and accurate. Weather: 3/10th cover at target. F/L: Capt Stultz.

Thursday, 30 September 1943 (continued) A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 42-64661 P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt None B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Cain, George S., S/Sgt E Rude, Norman J., S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt G Wallace, John R., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 41-30355 P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Bruton, John E., 1Lt CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt N None None B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Colby, Arthur R., S/Sgt E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., S/Sgt R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Harding, John E., S/Sgt G Deal, Herman L., S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 42-64655 P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt CP Driver, William J., F/O Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt N None None B Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt E Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt R Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 42-64519 P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Barton, Thomas M., F/O N None None B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Moorman, Arthur L., S/Sgt E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Robb, Earl K., S/Sgt R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt Orman, Virgil N., S/Sgt G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., S/Sgt F None Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-30327 P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt CP King, James L., 2Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt N None Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt B Mundell, Roy E., 2Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt E Ridgeway, Robert L., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., S/Sgt R Egbom, Clarence W., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, S/Sgt G Dellwo, Lawrence H., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., S/Sgt F None None September 1943

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1943:

FACTS WITH RESPOECT TO “POOPSIE” (B-25 SCHEDULED TO RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES) AND HER CREW

“Poopsie” is the name of the B-25 Mitchell Bomber which has been selected from the 445th Bombardment Squadron, 321st Bombardment Group to return to the United States. “Poopsie” is a kindly, humorous looking, elongated lap dog painted on the side of the ship. Every time she has gone on a combat mission a little pup has been painted along side, until now there are 70 in the litter. This makes the largest number of combat missions which any plane in the 321st group has flown.

September 1943 (continued)

Since the ship left the United States on February 15, the plane has had over 400 hours of time on its engines. It reached the African continent on February 23, and arrived at its first operational base at Ain M’Lila on March 12. It went on its first combat mission on March 15. Its guns have shot down at least 2 ME-109’s. On March 31, T/Sgt. DeWitt C. Gallaher, radio gunner, of 26 Bradford St., Charleston, West Virginia, shot down 1 ME-109. On May 28, S/Sgt. Ernest L. Whitmore, turret gunner of Star Route, Norwich, New York shot down another ME-109. The ship was flown overseas, and in most of its combat service, by 1Lt. Robert B. Kayser of 41 Stults Road, Belmont, Mass, who was a student at Harvard University before he entered the service. Lt. Kayser has himself completed 50 combat missions and so he has been selected as the first pilot for this plane on its return trip to the United States. Lt. Kayser has flown 187 hours in combat. He has participated in raids over Tunisia, Sardinia, Sicily, Pantelleria, Lampedusa and Italy. He has been over such historic places as the remains of old Carthage, the Isle of Capri, Mt. Vesuvius and Rome. The targets which he has raided included railroad yards, airfields, docks, communication centers, gun emplacements and shipping. He was in the raid on the Cancello railway yards and air depot on September 2 which was so outstanding that it received a special commendation from General Doolittle. Lt. Kayser has received an air medal and has been recommended by his commanding officer for the Distinguished Flying Cross. Air Medal and eight (8) Oak Leaf Clusters. T/Sgt. Joseph R. Toy, Route #3, Henderson, Kentucky has been selected as the engineer-gunner in the crew which will accompany “Poopsie” on her trip. He too has flown 50 missions and received the air medal (Air Medal and eight (8) Oak Leaf Clusters). He has been in 185 hours of combat flying over the same places as Lt. Kayser. He no doubt will always remember May 28, 1943. For on that day he was a gunner in a formation of 29 B-25’s which made a raid on the important airbase in Sicily of Bo Rizzo. While its fighter escort was otherwise engaged, the formation was persistently and repeatedly attacked by from 40 to 50 enemy fighters. This happened just after the formation had encountered an intense flak barrage and while it was still on its bomb run. There was not a single plane or person in the formation which was seriously injured. At least 10 enemy fighters were shot down. The bombs were accurately dropped destroying planes and installations on the field below.

Combat History of 1st Lt. Oscar R. Daume

1. Lt. Oscar R. Daume, 0-728352, departed from Morrison Field, Florida, February 15, 1943 and arrived at Roberts Field, North Africa, February 23, 1943. Shortly afterwards, the air echelon flew to Oujda, French Morocco, where they were united with the ground echelon. On or about March 15, 1943 the squadron moved forward to Ain M’Lila, Algeria from which place combat missions were begun against the enemy.

September 1943 (continued)

2. Lt. Daume has participated in eight sea sweeps against enemy shipping, and forty two missions against enemy occupied territory. Many of these missions have been carried out in spite of intense and accurate enemy opposition and their successful completion has been directly aided by Lt. Daume’s accurate navigation from his position in a Flight Leader’s ship. Lt. Daume has a total flying time of 607:10 hours, of which 175 are operational hours. 3. Lt. Daume has been awarded the Air Medal and six oak leaf clusters, and has been recommended for the seventh, eight and ninth oak leaf clusters. His first mission was performed on March 16, 1943 and his fiftieth mission was completed September 12, 1943.

Combat History of 2nd Lt. Curtis B. Hasty, Jr.

1. Lt. Curtis B. Hasty, Jr., 0-792262, departed from Morrison Field, Florida, February 15, 1943 and arrived at Roberts Field, North Africa, March 16, 1943. The ship in which Lt. Hasty flew over as co-pilot was delayed because of engine repairs while at Borinquen Field, Puerto Rico. Upon arrival at Oujda, French Morocco on March 20, 1943, most of the squadron had already departed for Ain M’Lila, from which place combat operations began against the enemy. 2. Lt. Hasty has participated in seven sea sweeps against enemy shipping and forty three missions against enemy occupied territory. Many of these missions were carried out in spite of intense and accurate enemy opposition and their successful completion ahs been directly aided by Lt. Hasty’s cool and competent ability while flying as pilot. Lt. Hasty has a total flying time of 655:05 hours, of which 180:55 are operational hours. 3. Lt. Hasty has been awarded the Air Medal and six oak leaf clusters, and has been recommended for the seventh and eighth oak leaf clusters. His first mission was performed on March 24, 1943, and his fiftieth mission was completed on September 12, 1943.

Combat History of Lieutenant Walter Piasecki

On Sept, 16, 1943, Lt. Walter Piasecki who is flying with a Mitchell Bomber group in North Africa completed his 50th combat mission. Since his arrival in North Africa on Feb. 23rd of the same year, he participated in major raids over Tunisia, the Islands of Pantelleria, Sardinia, Lampedusa, and Sicily, and over the Italian mainland for a total of 188 combat hours. “My first sortie,” stated Lt. Piasecki, “was over the German held airfield at Mezzouna. The flak was fairly heavy, but I was too busy with my bomb sight to take notice of it.” September 1943 (continued)

In over seven months of combat, Lt. Piasecki amassed nine oak leaf clusters for his Airman’s Medal. When asked for the hottest raid he was in, he replied unhesitatingly: “. We had to fly through four heavy barrages to get in and out of the target. Even my bomb sight couldn’t make me forget the black stuff popping around me.” Lt. Piasecki regards the historical All American first air raid over Rome as the highlight of his service. Much study was given to maps and charts showing the various religious and historical buildings which they were instructed to avoid hitting al all costs. In civilian life, Lt. Piasecki was an accomplished cellist. He performed with New York’s renowned Metropolitan Trio and did much solo work. “I’ll go back to my cello,” the Lieutenant stated, “When this is over. I want to help in our Victory, so I’ll feel I have a right to music.”

T/Sgt. Theophil S. Sidlik, 16048253

T/Sgt. Sidlik is one of the early members of this organization, the 446th Bombardment Squadron of the 321st Bombardment Group (M). He was assigned to the Squadron in mid-August, 1942, and has since proved a very capable and efficient soldier. T/Sgt. Sidlik has met all situations that confronts a radio-gunner in a B-25, which a calmness and confidence only a few can attain. From the first day of his assignment, when every man was “green”, he set out to be one of the finest and most courageous gunners in the outfit. T/Sgt. Sidlik has been awarded the air medal with two silver clusters added, which signified that he has participated in fifty (50) combat missions. On June 15, 1943, on a combat mission over Sicily the plane in which T/Sgt. Sidlik was flying was practically riddled with flak. After limping home in this condition and landing safely T/Sgt. Sidlik steps out and his only explanation was just “rough”. During the fifty (50) missions which he has flown he has amassed one hundred and ninety-eight hours and ten minutes (190:10).

S/Sgt. Charles E. Wray, 12081505

S/Sgt. Charles E. Wray has been a member of the 446th Bombardment Squadron, 321st Bombardment Group since September 1, 1942. His attitude towards duty has made him one of our outstanding gunners. On March 20, 1943 he made his first combat flight and from that time until he completed his fiftieth mission he has been an asset to his crew. He has been on the roughest of missions “the low element sea sweep” and the easiest of missions, the oft named “milkrun”. Through all he has displayed a coolness and quick thinking so necessary in combat. September 1943 (continued)

On May 28, 1943, while being attacked by fighters over Sicily, S/Sgt. Wray is credited with having shot down one ME-109. For awards S/Sgt. Wray has been presented the Air Medal and now has two silver clusters to enhance their significance. True to an airman’s habit, S/Sgt. Wray has his own idea of good luck. He places great faith in a soldier doll dressed as a Limey soldier. Never once did he leave on a combat mission without it. During the fifty missions in which he participated he accumulated two hundred and five hours and fifty minutes (205:50).

September 1943 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1943: Over the period of time from August 8 when the Squadron moved to its new base at Soliman to September 30, the Squadron participated in raids on the Angitola railway and highway bridges, Italy, the Crotone Rositello air base, in Italy, the Littorio marshalling yards near Rome, the Sibari junction and marshalling yards, Italy, the road and railroad communications systems at Castrovillari, Italy, the railroad lines and yards at Benevento, the Battipaglia railroad yards, the Grazzanise airdrome, Benevento railroad yards for the second time, the Cancello railroad yards and air depot, Cerveteri air base near Rome, Grazzanise landing ground again, the Capua airdrome, road junction at Lauria, communication lines at Potenza, road systems at Cassino, the road junction at Lauria, communication lines at Potenza, road systems at Cassino, the road junctions at Ariano Irpino, this on two occasions, the railroad underpass near Eboli, the road between Baronissi and San Severino, the communication system at Isernia, the Practica di Mare airdrome, the Castelnuovo road junction, the bridge at Benevento, the Bastia Borgo airdrome in Corsica, the bridge south of Piano, Italy. The most fortunate man at the Soliman base was Lt. Robert B. Kayser from Belmont, Massachusetts. It was at this base that he completed 50 combat missions and was selected not only to be the pilot for the 321st Group to fly a B-25 back to the United States as a representative of the Group but also to fly his own ship, “Poopsie”. “Poopsie” was the kindly, humorous looking, elongated lap dog painted alongside the ship. Every time she had gone on a combat mission, a little pup had been painted alongside until at the time she was chosen to go back to the States she was decorated with 70 pups. There was a large number of strangely silent men who watched a certain B-25 takeoff, gain altitude, circle around and head off toward the west. It was Lt. Kayser and “Poopsie” on the way to the United States. Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt, pilot The 445th built up an extraordinary record of outstanding successes in most of their missions. A few notable examples follow. In the raid on the Cancello marshalling yards and air depot on September 2, the 445th flight was assigned the job of destroying the air depot. Bombs were dropped precisely where they were supposed to be and the entire depot area was destroyed. The bombing was so excellent on this raid that it received a special commendation from Gen. Doolittle. Doolittle, James Harold "Jimmy", Maj Gen, 12th AF, Commander On September 8, the day before the 5th Army landed just south of Naples, the Squadron participated in a raid on the road system at Lauria. This raid was important as it was part of the pre-invasion plan to disrupt the German lines of communication in the area that was to be invaded. Captain Tipton was the leader of the 445th – the third flight – and Lt. Norman Bsharah was his navigator. As the formation went over the Italian coast, it encountered intense flak and the lead ship was so severely hit that it could not continue a true course. The second flight followed the first flight. However, in spite of the confusion, Lt. Bsharah resolutely following his own calculations and sightings carried the 445th flight on its independent course. As a result, the 445th was the only flight which bombed the target and destroyed it in accordance with plan. Bsharah, Norman, 1Lt, bombardier, navigator Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot September 1943 (continued)

On September 12, the Squadron participated in a raid on the road system at Ariano Irpino. This raid was also of great importance since it was designed to give direct and immediate aid to the ground forces which were operating with considerable difficulty in the Salerno area. The 445th supplied the third flight with Lt. Kayser being the lead pilot and Lt. Fred Garrison being the lead navigator. Here again the first tow flights turned off before reaching the target area but Lt. Garrison navigated the 445th directly over the target with the result that this Squadron was the only one to fulfill the mission. Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt, navigator Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt, pilot On September 14, the situation at the bridgehead south of Salerno was reported to be critical and the Strategic Air Force was called upon to render all possible assistance. The 445th participated in a mission which took them directly over the fighting lines when it bombed the railroad underpass near Eboli. On the same day the Squadron participated in a second mission over the fighting lines when it bombed the road between Baronissi and San Severino. The foregoing historical notes have covered the 445th Squadron from the time that they represented a collection of men freshly out of civilian life to September 30, 1943 when it represented an experienced combat unit with a very successful record. Before, concluding, there are a few general matters which should be referred to which were not related to any particular campaign or base but were common to all phases of the overseas experiences. There was the important matter of religion and church. There was always a substantial proportion of the men who did their best to carry on their worship wherever they were. Generally both Catholic and Protestant services were available and were regularly attended. The practice of the American Army in making these services available was very desirable and quite apart form the religious considerations involved served to improve the general morale of those men to whom church was important. As to the mess and luxury rations, that is cigarettes, candy and the like, there was plenty of dissatisfaction in the Squadron. However, the dissatisfaction lay in not so much was received as n the belief that the men had that there was an inequitable of rations in the North African Theatre as a whole. Men returning from the big ports of entry brought stories of the number of cigars, cigarettes and toilet articles and the kind of candy which was available there. Always what the men were receiving at the base was far less in quantity and variety. The attitude of the men was that they were prepared to accept without complaint the very meager rations if it were necessary. But they were full of complaint about the shipment made overseas but that the efficiency of services of supplies in the overseas theater was not always as efficient as it might have been. This matter is referred to merely to reflect the attitude and morale of the men in the Squadron concerning one important phase of their overseas life. It is not here suggested that the criticism of the men was always justified or is based upon knowledge of all the facts.

September 1943 (continued)

These notes would be incomplete without reference to the attitude and morale in respect to their primary job as combat crews. In general the men approached this task in the spirit somewhat comparable to men entering a football game. There was never any display of patriotic fervor or hatred of the enemy. It was a tough job to be done as best they could. There was, of course, a great deal of tenses on the inside about which not a great deal was said. It was noticeable that as the number of missions increased there was more rather than less strain. With a few exceptions they looked forward to the day when they would complete 50 missions and return to the United States. Considering the men’s reactions as a whole, it can be said that they never the superiority of the American air power or for that matter the superiority of their own unit. They felt competent to cope with all situations but could not, of course, be oblivious of the fact that it was a dangerous business and that one could never be sure what plane would be next. Lt. Col. Bailey C. Cook, Squadron Commander, received the Silver Star. The following men received the Distinguished Flying Cross: Lt. Raymond L. Rudolph, Lt. Roy D. Adcock, Captain Richard P. Tipton, and Lt. Walter N. Olson. Adcock, Roy Dale, 2Lt, pilot Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, pilot, Commander Olson, Walter N., 2Lt, pilot Rudolph, Raymond L. "Rudy", 1Lt, pilot Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot The following men have shot down enemy aircraft: S/Sgt. Frank J. Krzyzanowski, S/Sgt. James E. Lawyer, S/Sgt. Walter R. Brainard, T/Sgt. Dewitt C. Gallaher, S/Sgt. Ernest L. Whitmore, S/Sgt. Saul Zuckerbrod, S/Sgt. Willis W. Littleton, T/Sgt. Edward Nebesnak, T/Sgt. John N. Gregory, S/Sgt. J.B. Smith, S/Sgt Reid F. Kilmer, S/Sgt. John J. Halpin, S/Sgt. William V. Pierce, S/Sgt. Ellsworth A. Laird, Jr. Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt, gunner Gregory, John N., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Halpin, John J., S/Sgt, gunner Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Krzyzanowski, Frank J., S/Sgt, gunner Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Lawyer, James E., S/Sgt, turret gunner Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt, gunner Nebesnak, Edward, T/Sgt, gunner Pierce, William V., S/Sgt, gunner Smith, James B., S/Sgt, gunner Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt, gunner Zuckerbrod, Saul, S/Sgt, gunner

JAMES E. NICKERSON, Captain, Air Corps, Squadron Historian.

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446th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1943: None September 1943 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1943: Italy was invaded Sept. 3 and the group’s raids on communication centers was intensified. These raids continued for the purpose of preventing the Germans from bringing down men and supplies to their armies engaged with the invasion forces even after the Italian army surrendered unconditionally Sept. 8. When (during the middle of September) the German counter-attack became a serious threat to Allied invasion forces in the Battipaglia area, the group put all available planes in the air to assist the ground troops. This could best be done by cutting all roads and railroads which the Germans might use for supplies and the squadron participated in many raids with this objective. The ground forces soon regained the initiative and by the end of September were pushing the Germans back steadily. The squadron continued to bomb bridges and communication centers. During September forty-nine men in the squadron completed their tour of fifty combat missions. Two of them were transferred out near the end of the month and returned to the States for a bond-selling tour. The rest of the men were relieved from combat assignment, and were still awaiting orders Sept. 30, 1943.

September 1943 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for September 1943:

September 1 – 7 – 43: Squadron strength 91 Officers and 328 Enlisted Men. No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. Captain James P. Bates promoted to Major. Sergeant Iseldyke promoted to 1st Sergeant. Lt. Rodzinski relieved of duties and transferred to 310th Bomb Group (M), AAF. Lt. Jantz appointed Squadron Signs / Property Officer. Lt. Nicholas in hospital, wounded in action. Usual squadron duties performed during this period. Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Maj, pilot, Commander Iseldyke, LeRoy J., Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt Jantz, Lawrence E., 2Lt, supply Nicholas, Jack (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Rodzinski, Witold (NMI), 2Lt, communications

September 8 – 14 – 43: 2nd Lt. Jamison (Ordnance) assigned and joined. Corporal Hoetzlein assigned and joined. On September 13 Lt. Jamison and 19 Enlisted Men of the Ordnance Section transferred out of the squadron to form the 6637 Ordnance Aviation Service Co. Usual squadron duties performed during this period. Hoetzlein, Louis P., Cpl, gunner Jamison, George S., 2Lt, ordnance

September 15 – 21 – 43: Corporal Russell assigned and joined. Sergeant Taddei and Corporal Tucker transferred from C.W.S. to Air Corps. Several Officer and Enlisted Men to Rest Camps. The weather has turned slightly cooler. Enlisted Men’s Mess Hall screened. Usual squadron duties performed during this period. Russell, Pearl W., Cpl, armament Taddei, Vladimiro J., Sgt, chemical warfare service Tucker, George M., Cpl, chemical warfare service

September 22 – 30- 43: Lt. Piasecki transferred to U.S.A. Corporal Kubasiewicz assigned and joined. Captain Isaacson assigned and placed on D.S. 47th Wing. All personnel paid in American currency. Usual squadron duties performed during this period. Squadron strength on September 30, 1943, 89 Officers and 303 Enlisted Men. Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot Kubasiewicz, Stanley F., Cpl, engineering Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt, bombardier