12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing (M) 321st Bombardment Group (M) History: January 1945

------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 (M) 321st Bombardment Group (M) History: January 1945

The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s Headquarters and individual Squadron War Diaries. They have been transcribed word for word, from the Squadron Histories provided by the Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA), Maxwell Air Force Base Alabama. At the end of each Squadron’s daily entry, the individuals cited in the entry are identified by full name, rank and duty, in alphabetical order. The day’s entry begins with the Tactical Operations Statement, from the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) Chronology, for the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO). The history also includes mission reports, mission crew rosters, Missing Air Crew Reports (MACR), personal mission logs, journals, and diaries made available by various sources.

Invitation

Anyone who has documentation pertaining to the 321st Bomb Group or its members, and would like to have it included in this history, is welcome to participate. Copies of: photos (official or personal); orders (promotion, decoration, travel, etc.); Mission Reports; Missing Air Crew Reports; personal diaries, logs, journals, etc; other documentation; or information that will help identify hi-lited individuals will be greatly appreciated, as one of my goals is to correctly identify every man and plane assigned to the 321st Bomb Group.

My only interest in this project is to honor those who served by perpetuating their story, and making it available for future generations, particularly the families and friends of our Great Heroes. If you are interested in helping, or if I may be of assistance in finding information about your 321st BG Hero, please contact me at: [email protected]

Special Thanks to Very Special Folks

Agostino Alberti: Professor - historian (Soncino, Italy) Michele Becchi: aviation history - archaeologist (Reggio Emilia, Italy) Jack Brellenthin, great nephew of: Harold Ray Brellenthin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS Cecile Burandt, daughter of: Charles Lawson “Chuck” Burandt, Capt, pilot, 446th BS Sally Brown, daughter of: Barnard H. Seegmiller, Sgt, armament, 445th BS Dave Charville, grandson of: Leighton Daniel “Danny” Charville, 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS Barbara Connolly, daughter of: Edward Charles “Salvo” Ennis, T/Sgt, radar-radio- gunner, 447th BS 1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th BS Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)

Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th BS John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th BS Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th BS 1st Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448th BS and friend of: Vernon Curtis Dossey, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Vince Mango, son of: Vincent A. “Vince” Mango, S/Sgt, aerial gunner, 447th BS John J. McCarthy: Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier, 447th BS Lorraine McRae, daughter of: James Arrington McRae, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS T/Sgt Rocco F. “Rocky” Milano & daughter Peggy Chatham: Crew Chief of Peg O' My Heart, Lil Butch, and Haulin' Ass, 446th BS Bob Ritger, nephew of: Frederic Charles Ritger, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS Irving J. Schaffer: T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer, 448th BS 1st Lt Frederick H. Smith: pilot, 447th BS Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner, 448thBS Dominique Taddei: author, U.S.S. Corsica (Corsica) S/Sgt George B. Underwood: gunner, 381st BS David Waldrip, nephew of: Robert Laseter Waldrip, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS Vinny J. White, son of: Joseph P. White, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 381st BS S/Sgt, Harry (NMI) Yoa: engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Crew lists

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

Acronyms & Abbreviations

A/C: Aircraft M/G: Machine Gun A/D: Aerodrome MIA: Missing In Action AE: Aerial Engineer M/T: Motor Transport (Truck) A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery) M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel abs: absent M/Y: Marshalling Yards AGL: Above Ground Level MC: Maintenance Crew ALO: Allied Liaison Officer NARA: National Archives and Records Administration ALW: Alive and Well NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air Force AMGOT: Allied Military Government for NATC - Northwest African Training Occupied Territories Command A.R.C.: American Red Cross NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of Operations USA ASC: Air Support Command Nav: Navigator ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel) N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards Assg: Assigned NC: Nurse Corps. ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar) NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer ATA: Actual Time of Arrival Nickels: propaganda Leaflets ATC: Air Transportation Command (NMI): No Middle Initial ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army NOK: Next Of Kin Telegraph Service Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb) NRO: National Reconnaissance Office BC: Bomber Command OAF: Occupation Air Forces BIC: Bruised in Crash OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab Bmb: Bombardier OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster Bn: Battalion OTU: Operational Training Unit B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory PAX: Passengers BSM: Bomb System Maintenance PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator CA: Heavy Cruiser POE: Point of Embarkation CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited POW: Prisoner of War (also PW) C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical Prophylactic packet C/D: Coastal Defense PW: Prisoner of War (also POW) CE: Circular Error PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch CEP: Circular Error Probable PX: Post Exchange Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure: QBB: Base of cloud tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Window CL: Cannon Loader QDM: Course to steer CO: Commanding Officer QM: Quarter Master CG: Commanding General R/B: Road Bridge CP: Command Post RC: Red Cross CQ: Charge of Quarters R/J: Road Junction C/S: Call Sign R/Y: Railroad Yards CWS: Chemical Warfare Service Repl: Replacement D/H: Direct Hit RMC: Returned to Military Control DD: Destroyer RON: Remain OverNight DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains RR/B: Railroad Bridge found Demo: Demolition RR/J: Railroad Junction DL: Dead List RR: Railroad DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle RTD: Returned To Duty DOW: Died Of Wounds. R/V: Rendezvous DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in S-1: Administration Action DS: Detached Service S-2: Intelligence E/A: Enemy Aircraft S-3: Operations E/F: Enemy Fighter S-4: Supply EM or E/M: Enlisted Men SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival SD: Special Duty ETIR: Estimated Time In Route S/E: Single Engine (plane) EUS: Evacuated to the United States S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran) E/V: Enemy Vessel S/F: Siebel Ferry F Boat: Flying Boat sk: sick F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader S/M: Submarine FO or F/O: Flying Officer SO: Special Order FOD: Finding Of Death SOI: Standard Operating Instructions? Frag: Fragmentation S/P: Sea Plane F.S.: Flight Section Sq: Squadron GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK) Sqdn: Squadron GO: General Order SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action GP: General Purpose/Gun Position T/A: Target Area GTC: General Time Convention (railroad) T/C: Troop Concentration HE: High Explosive T/E: Twin Engine (plane) IAS: Indicated Air Speed TAC: Theater Allied Command I & E: Information & Education TBF: Tactical Bomber Force I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe TD: Temporary Duty (i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name) TDY: Temporary Duty IP: Initial Point TLC: Tactical Landing Craft KNB: Killed Not Battle TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical Order, and Transportation Officer KIA: Killed In Action T/O: Table of Organization L/A: Landing Area TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target LC: Landing Craft Trfd: Transferred L/G: Landing Ground TWX: Teletypewriter Message Lox: Liquid Oxygen u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue L/S: Landing Strip UNRRA: United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration L/V: Large Vehicle Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun LST: Landing Ship Tank VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding Officer Ltr: Letter WC: Water closet LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action W.O.: Warrant Officer MACR: Missing Air Crew Report WIA: Wounded In Action MATS: Military Air Transport Service Window (British term): Radar countermeasure: tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Chaff WP: White Phosphorus (bombs) WT, W/T: Watch Tower XC: Cross Country ZI: Zone of Interior (U.S.A.)

Monday, 1 January 1945

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

In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Palazzuolo sull'Oglio, Parma, and Calcinato (the latter 2 targets are missed) and an ammunition dump at Parma; fighter-bombers support ground forces S of Bologna, hit communications and numerous targets of opportunity to the N and completely destroy a fuel dump at Parma; A-20s on intruder missions during the night of 31 Dec/1 Jan, achieve excellent results on a motor park near Molinelle and hit a marshalling yard near Milan. HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) departs Corsica for the US where it converts to A-26 aircraft in preparation for assignment to the Pacific.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Opening the new year’s operations with a bang, literally and figuratively, the 321st flew its 650th mission since being overseas against the Pavia Ammo Dump. The place blew up with a gigantic explosion and plume of smoke which, from photo reconnaissance, left a crater 150’ wide and 50’ deep. Captain Joyce, the leading bombardier of the 448th Squadron made this a fitting end to his tour – 68 missions and the 321st left another area of devastation on Axis held territory. However the bridge at Calcinato was missed in the other mission flown this date. Since the 319th Bomb Group, 40 miles up the road has been ordered home, a pilgrimage from the neighboring groups has divested their area of those personal items so hard to obtain overseas. Not to be caught short, many tents of the group now sound off with many types of radios and phonographs. The New Year’s Dinner of turkey was enjoyed by all. Joyce, Robert W. "Dead-eye", Capt, 448th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 650/mission 650) Group Mission # 650: ------321st BG MISSION No: 650 DATE: 1 Jan 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-0 446-0 447-9 448-9 TARGET: Pavia Ammo Dump K-240305 TIME OFF: 1214 T.O.T.: 1353 TIME DOWN: 1515 AXIS OF ATTACK: 333° HEIGHT: 11/11,500 ft. PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: 68 x 1000 GP .1 & .01 4 x 1000 GP 10 miles short of target--malfunction PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: None. ROUTE: Base to P-4917, P-6454, K-3805 (IP), target, right turn to P-6454, P-4917, base. WEATHER: Enroute: Overcast to north end of Corsica; few scattered clouds over water--tops-6000’. Italy & Target: Clear; visibility---15 miles.

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

FLAK: Heavy, scant, inaccurate after bombs away for few seconds along right breakaway. ENEMY AIR: None. CLAIMS: None RESULTS: Target well carpeted causing one terrific explosion and many lesser. Explosion--flashes continuing for considerable time. Smoke columns to 6/7000’ feet. Visible for 50/60 miles. OBSERVATIONS: None. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Swanson; Capt. Murray NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN. R.G. LIND, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t. S-2 Officer. ------

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 670/mission 670) Group Mission # 651: ------321st BG MISSION No: 651 DATE: 1 Jan 44 NO. A/C: 18 SQUADRONS: 445-9 446-9 447-0 448-0

TARGET: Calcinato Rail Bridge F-191600 (12 a/c); Target of Opportunity, Parma West R.R. Bridge L-0388 (6 a/c).

TIME OFF: 1148 T.O.T. Primary - 1347 TIME DOWN: 1500 Target of Opportunity - 1356

AXIS OF ATTACK: 40° Primary HEIGHT: Primary - 10,500/11,000’ 190° T.O. T.O. - 11,000’

PLANES LOST: None BOMBS DROPPED: Primary: 41 x 1000 GP .1 & .01 Salvoed: 7 x 1000 due to malfunction. T.O. Dropped 20 x 1000 GP .1 & .01 Returned: 4 x 1000 due to malfunction.

PLANES HOLED: None. ESCORT: Area Cover. ROUTE: Base to P-4917, P-6454, K-9611, F-0840 (IP), target, right turn to F-2351; (T.O.: (IP), target, right turn to P-6454) P-6454, P-4817 and base. WEATHER: Enroute: 10/10 overcast to North end of island. Scattered clouds, tops 6000’ over water. Clear over Italy. Visibility 15 miles. Targets: CAVU with extreme turbulence. FLAK: None. ENEMY AIR: None. RESULTS: Primary target: Bridge was not hit. Main concentration of bombs was just short to south of bridge in river bed. Some bombs hit west of target across railroad tracks. The first box of 6 a/c of second flight was unable to get a satisfactory run due to extreme turbulence and attacked a target of opportunity, the Parma West R.R. Bridge but due to malfunction in lead plane all bombs dropped over to south of target. OBSERVATIONS: None. FLIGHT LEADERS: Lts. Matthews and Collins NO. OF SORTIES: 18 PHOTOS TAKEN. ROBERT W. MANLY, Capt., Air Corps, Intelligence Officer. ------

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: The squadron participated in a mission against the Calcinato railroad bridge, Italy and got off to a bad start for the New Year by completely missing the target. The men contended themselves, however, in the old saying that “a bad start means a good finish.” The combat crews encountered bitter cold weather on the mission. There was promise of a “White New Year’s Day” with a light snow falling in the morning. Although it covered the ground like a white blanket, it quickly disappeared. The big turkey dinner was served at 3:30 P.M. and was greatly enjoyed by one and all. Word was received that Sgts. Rossi and Riley and Lt. Corey were prisoners of war. They were part of Lt. Richardson’s crew which was shot down on September 18, 1944 near Rimini. Navigator 1st Lt. Harry F. Sides left the squadron today on rotation orders. He had flown 54 combat missions. There was some training today. Corey, Robert (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Richardson, John S., 1Lt, pilot Riley, William J., Jr., Sgt, photographer Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Sides, Harry F., 1Lt, bombardier

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 650/mission 650) Group Mission # 650: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 670/mission 670) Group Mission # 651: Group Mission #670; Squadron Mission # 422 Capt. Collins led 9 ships of this squadron in a formation of 18 ships sent out to bomb the railroad bridge at Calcinato, Italy. The planes dropped 1000 pound bombs from 10,500 to 11,000 feet. Area cover was provided while no flak was encountered. Extremely turbulent air hampered bombing. The primary target was not hit. The main concentration of bombs was just short of the bridge to the south, hitting in the river bed. Some bombs hit west of the target across the railroad tracks. The first box of six in the second flight was unable to get satisfactory run due to extreme turbulence of air and attacked the target of opportunity, the Parma west railroad bridge. Malfunction in lead plane caused bombs to be dropped south of target.

A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27509 Tail # ? (flight leader) P Collins, Daniel P., Capt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N Cravey, Robert P., 2Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, S/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Carney, Robert J., T/Sgt Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt G Abrams, Samuel (NMI) “Sam”, S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Baby” Belle Fontaine” P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt CP Buckham, John K., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N None None B Wren, Frank J., 1Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Freiler, Walter C., S/Sgt Hagains, John R., Cpl R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., Sgt G Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt Edwards, Jack M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St lady) Louis” P Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), S/Sgt Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Nuttall, John H., Cpl Matter, Dean R., Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl Clayton, Ross W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Lou” Beauty” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt CP Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt None listed E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., T/Sgt Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Garza, Manuel (NMI), Cpl Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Can Wait” Fancy Pants” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, 2Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Cpl G Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl F Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl None

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/01/45: “Big Ben is chiming the new year in and everyone on the radio is saying Happy New Year in all the languages of Europe. Hitler is to speak to the German people at 12:05. Tom and I are alone in the tent. I have written letters and read this evening. Wind and clouds are gathering concealing the bright beautiful moon.” Davies, Thomas C. Jr. "Tom", Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: Many a headache as members of the squadron awake on New Years Day. Quite a sumptuous meal is served at noon and early risers get to see a flurry of snow at breakfast-time. Promotions are posted for Lieuts. Ottem and Ramsey, the former being made a Captain, the latter getting his silver bar. Ottem, Earl R., Capt, navigator Ramsey, Lamar E., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 650/mission 650) Group Mission # 650: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 670/mission 670) Group Mission # 651: Squadron Mission 464 TARGET: Calcinato RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 1 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Matthews led the formation. Bridge was not hit, main concentration of bombs was just short to S of bridge in river bed. Some bombs hit W of target across RR tracks. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Pietrowski was spare and returned early.

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Bull” Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) (flight leader) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Petrella, Luigi C., T/Sgt Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester S., Cpl F None None

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Tiny?” Girl” (later Darlene) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Doyle, John D., 1Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt CP Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt N None None B Beecher, Everett F., Sgt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Cpl R McFarland, Charles W., T/Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy “Barbara” Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt Lamm, Earl D., Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., T/Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-26224 Tail # 34 Probably A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” “Hauling Ass II” (later name dropped from nose art) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt CP Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O N None None B Vannah, Harold B., Jr., F/O Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), T/Sgt Utz, James W., Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Bryan, Dwight L., S/Sgt Freck, Byron P., Sgt F None None Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: The kitchen staff served another delicious meal today at noon. Even though operations were not suspended the holiday spirit was felt throughout the squadron.

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 650/mission 650) Group Mission # 650: 11 of our planes participated in a mission over Pavia Ammo Dump in Northern Italy. Excellent results were achieved with 100% bombing accuracy. (The crew list identifies only 9 planes - if actually 11, ships 10 & 11 most likely did not complete the mission - may have been spares)

A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) (flight leader) P Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 1Lt Murray, Richard E., Capt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 1Lt E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl Perl, Richard H., Sgt R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt G Hunsaker, Frank W., Cpl Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Doll” Nine” P Yerger, John W., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Wallis, Shelby D., F/O Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt N None None B Radel, Henry D., 2Lt Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt R Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Cpl Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt G Fromm, Samuel E., Cpl Smith, John T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4029 Tail # ? “Mike Hunt” A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never assigned a 2 digit Tail #) P Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt CP Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt N None None B Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt E Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl R Bartram, Roy H., Cpl Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, S/Sgt G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Sgt Goldman, Marvin S., Cpl F None None

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? Devil” “Superstitious Aloysius” P Dodson, Jackson R., 2Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Cohen, Sam M., Cpl Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Keefe, John A., T/Sgt G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Young, Robert E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless Fosdick” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 2Lt CP Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt N None B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O E Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl G Williams, James H., Sgt F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 670/mission 670) Group Mission # 651: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 61) “Target: Pavia Ammo Dump Flak: HMI Combat: 3:00 Bombs: 1,000 lbs Escorts: None Plane # 240 (43-36240 “May Be”) Crew: P-CPT Murray CP-Lt Highsmith B-Lt Gargiulo, N-Lt Tully E-Sgt Perl R-SSG Poulin G-SSG Mango Target Well carpeted causing one terrific explosion and many smaller. Flight heard explosion and was rocked by concussion at 11,500 feet. Explosions continued for nine minutes and smoke rose over 10,000 feet” Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 1Lt, bombardier Highsmith, John R., 2Lt, pilot Murray, Richard E., Capt, pilot Perl, Richard H., Sgt, engineer-gunner Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt, navigator

448th BS War Diary: The new year started off in a big way for the Squadron this morning as a blanket of snow greeted the personnel when they awoke to begin the day’s work. However, this did not prevent the day’s mission from taking off. And to greet the men this afternoon as they came in after the mission was a well-prepared turkey dinner with all the trimmings. And once again, to start the new year off, the Squadron showers began operation. This was really welcome, since it is much more convenient here than having to go to the Group showers about two miles down the road. Thus the new year started off in grand style, in what might be called the proverbial “bang”. Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 650/mission 650) Group Mission # 650: Amid snow flurries the Billy Mitchells departed to bomb a Kraut ammunition dump at Pavia, Italy. Captain Swanson led the Group formation of which the 448th furnished nine planes. And to make the day perfect, it was a 100% bombing accuracy mission. The formation left a blazing inferno of explosions and flying debris that could be seen for sixty miles. Smoke columns reached a height of 7,000 feet. Kraut defenses were completely overwhelmed, and although scant anti-aircraft fire was encountered no damage or casualties were suffered to the planes. Thus a blazing “finis” was written to another vital Kraut target.

A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 (flight A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 leader) P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt Lang, Robert H., F/O B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, Capt Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt E Carter, Eugene F., T/Sgt Weese, Charles F., Cpl R Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt Seward, Richard F., Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., T/Sgt Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? P Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt N None None B LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Cook, Don W., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 1Lt CP Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Ward, Paul D., Cpl Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt E Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., Sgt F None None

Monday, 1 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of Bounds” P Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt CP Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N None None B Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Parham, Ralph E., Cpl R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Petix, Ignatius D., Pvt G Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl Justice, Conway J., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 670/mission 670) Group Mission # 651: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke to the new year at 7:40AM. Light blanket of snow on ground and flurries in the air. Briefing 9:40AM. Fresh fried eggs, whole-wheat cereal, tomato juice, coffee, bread. Briefing changed to 11:05AM. Flying wing spare. Lt Autrey, pilot. #530 (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”). Carrying 1000 lb GP's. Fuel dump at Pavia. Flew until we sighted enemy territory. Returned at 1345. Take off 12:04PM. Very cold. Christened showers at 3:00PM. Barney Goldman deserves Legion of Merit for such construction. Waited until boys returned from mission before going to chow. 100% hit. Slight flak. Light snow flurries. Turkey, gravy, dressing, cauliflower, mince pie, oranges, bread, butter, coffee. Excellent meal. Wood for stove getting low. Considering burning gas. Retired 8:30PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Goldman, Barney (NMI), Sgt, carpenter Tuesday, 2 January 1945

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

In Italy, fighter-bombers concentrate their effort in the W Po Valley and Brenner area, claiming large number of rail lines cut and many vehicles and trains destroyed and damaged; the Milan marshalling yard is hit hard and good coverage is achieved on support targets in the US Fifth Army battle area; A-20s during the night of 1/2 Jan, continue intruder missions over the Po Valley; the 84th and 86th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) move from Rosignano Airfield to Grosseto with A-20s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. S/Sgt. Pemberton Cooley Jr., Operations clerk, started making plans for a visit on the island from his fiancée – A Red Cross girl now stationed in Rome. Cooley, Pemberton (NMI) “Pem”, Jr., S/Sgt, operations clerk Winship, Margaret "Winsome Winship", Miss, American Red Cross

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. After completing New Year’s festivities, the men went back to work today but were also busy talking about the 319th Bomb Group which left to return to the States. Many theories were discussed in respect of the reasons behind the move to the States for the “lucky 319th”. Most popular seemed to be the one having that group changing to A-26s back in the promised land. A number of the men believe the 321st will follow suit in due time. The Medics were in their glory today as typhoid, tetanus and small pox shots were administered to all squadron personnel. A good amount of mail arrived today.

446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties are performed as there is no mission flown today.

447th BS War Diary: A meeting was held this afternoon in the Enlisted Men’s club for all flying personnel, officers and enlisted men. 1st Lt. George G. VanJohn briefed the crews on the latest escape procedure and course of conduct to follow if taken prisoner. Lt. Ritger, an evader from 446th Squadron, also talked to the crews about his experiences. Usual camp duties throughout the day. Ritger, Frederick C., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS VanJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence, 445th BS

448th BS War Diary: Cloudiness and threatening weather throughout most of the day made the mission scheduled for today a stand down. The only excitement during the day was when the newly erected shower caught fire this evening. No serious damage was caused, however as the flames were quickly extinguished. But it was rather chilly for the fellows who dashed out of the burning building with their clothes still hanging on the nails inside. Luckily, no one was burned, and after the fire had been extinguished showers were resumed.

Tuesday, 2 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 8:00AM. Fair day. Very cold. Briefing at 9:10AM. Fresh fried eggs, bacon, whole-wheat cereal, bread, coffee, tomato juice. Stand-down on mission. Called out to line for ditching lecture. Raining. Roast beef, gravy, bread, butter, canned peaches, coffee. Attended lecture on escape and evasion at 4:00PM at EM club. Lt Ritger who just came back through the lines spoke. Lt Moose of S-2 also spoke about late "poop" from intelligence. Roast beef, gravy, kidney beans, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. Showers caught on fire about 6:45PM. Three shots fired by guard warned us. Sgt Iseldyke almost suffocated in attempt to extinguish blaze with carbon tech. 1985 firefighters arrived with CO2 cylinders. Immediately put Ike in gas mask this time. Fire truck tore down wire for lights. Installed gas in tent. No luck. Explosion. Removed gas line and went back to wood. Retired 10:30PM.” Iseldyke, LeRoy J. “Ike”, Sgt, gunner, personnel, 1st Sgt Moose, Roy C., 2Lt, intelligence Ritger, Frederic Charles., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS

Wednesday, 3 January 1945

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

In Italy, medium bombers score direct hits on 2 railroad bridges at Lavis and fly good coverage of the Chiusaforte, Canale d'Isonzo, and Padua railroad bridges; fighter-bombers hit a large number of communications targets (mainly railroad targets) in the Po Valley which is also subjected to intruder missions during the night of 2/3 Jan, when pontoon bridges, vehicles, and Ghedi Airfield are hit.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Padua North Railroad Bridge was again hit – this time with a 100 percent concentration. The 24 plane mission to Chiusaforte ended up hitting an approach of the primary and an approach of the alternate, the Latisana Railroad Bridge. A target of opportunity – the Chiusaforte East Railroad Bridge was also bombed but missed. Lt. Lind, assistant S-2, flew this one in order to test a new 16mm camera which will be used to photograph formations, flak and bomb strikes – the results to be shown at Special Service’s presentations of regular movies. A nickeling mission to the Po Valley was also flown. Lind, Ragnar G. "Jeffery Lynn", 1Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG

Note: Possibly another mission number adjustment – numbers 652 thru 670) – appears to be to assign numbers to Weather Reconnaissance missions that were not previously numbered.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 671/mission 671) Group Mission # 671: Padua North Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 672/mission 672) Group Mission # 672: Chiusaforte West Railroad Bridge, Northern Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 673/mission 673) Group Mission # 673: Nickeling Mission, Po Valley. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron snapped back “on the ball” today when they helped attack the Padua north rail diversion, Italy with 100 per cent bombing accuracy resulting. It was the work of old reliable 1st Lt. Lloyd Finkhouse who chalked up his eleventh straight perfect mission. He is the leading bombardier in the group. Captains Russell and

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

Casaburi: Lts. Galindo and Richardson; and Sgts. Hickey, Plott and Marinucci were reported prisoners of war through official channels. Sgt. Lemke was reported a prisoner of war by his mother through a letter to his organization. Cpl. Tronolone was unofficially reported wounded but a prisoner of war. The only man not accounted for in the two crews is Lt. R.A. DiFulvio. There was the usual training today. Capt Hatcher escorted a nurse into the operations-intelligence hut today, thus marking the first time a nurse has entered the sacred portals of this hut. Casaburi, Robert Roland, Capt, navigator DiFulvio, Rudolph A. “Rudy”, 2Lt, bombardier Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt, bombardier Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot Hickey, William R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt, armorer-gunner Marinucci, Andrew J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Plott, John M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Richardson, John S., 1Lt, pilot Russell, Lawrence Lee "Scrap Iron", Capt, pilot Tronolone, Joseph R., Cpl, turret gunner

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 671/mission 671) Group Mission # 671: Group Mission #671; Squadron Mission # 423: Capt. Jeffery led a formation of 24 planes – 12 (10) from this squadron in an attack on the Padua west railroad diversion, Italy. Area cover was furnished and the bombers went to 10,500 and 11,000 feet to drop 1000 pound bombs. No flak or fighters reported. RESULTS: All bombs in the target area with several direct hits seen. North span appeared down before bombing.

A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” (previously “Modern Design”) P Jeffery, James C., Capt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., T/Sgt Woody, Louie M., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Brunda, John G., Cpl G Baker, Max E., Cpl Henry, William W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing Portchester” lady) P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP Buckham, John K., 2Lt Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None None B Wren, Frank J., 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Garza, Manuel (NMI), S/Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Beauty” Can Wait” P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Doris, Robert E., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B None listed Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Cpl Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl R Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Cpl Edwards, Jack M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27509 Tail # ? P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt N None None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Gum, Paul V., Cpl R Ott, James V., Cpl Rousso, Ralph L., Cpl G Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl Kabrich, Henry Lee, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Fancy Pants” Baby” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Miron, Leno L., 2Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N None None B Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Lowrey, James S., Cpl Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Teague, Phillip B., Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 672/mission 672) Group Mission # 672: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 673/mission 673) Group Mission # 673: Squadron Mission #424 was flown on this date when 3 ships went out on a nickeling mission.

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Belle Fontaine” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt N None None B Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt R Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), S/Sgt Matter, Dean R., Sgt G Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F Clayton, Ross W., Cpl None A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N None B Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt E Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Nuttall, John H., Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt F None

446th BS War Diary: Lucky combat personnel get long-awaited travel orders to the states; Capt. Jordan, Lieut. Davis, Lieut. Ritger, Sergeants Knapp and South. The two enlisted men, original members of the squadron, had flown their 100th mission a few weeks previously. The squadron sends up 15 ships to fly against Padua railroad bridge, Italy. Davis, Robert L., 2Lt, pilot Jordan, Henry L., Capt, pilot Knapp, Walter E., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Ritger, Frederick C., 1Lt, pilot South, William R., Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 671/mission 671) Group Mission # 671: Squadron Mission 465 TARGET: Padua N, RR Diversion, Italy. DATE: 3 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 Lb. 446th Planes: 9 Captain Jeffery and Lt. Matthews were the leaders. All bombs in target area. Several direct hits seen. N span appeared down before bombing. No flak, no fighters. Jeffery, James C., Capt, pilot, 445th BS

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Leading Lady”, previously “Miss 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Petrella, Luigi C., T/Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Cpl R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., T/Sgt G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon seated lady - no name/lettering) Lu” P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt E Utz, James W., Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Bryan, Dwight L., S/Sgt Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Tiny?” Bull” (later Darlene) P Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 1Lt CP Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Benedict, William P., Sgt Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little “Barbara” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt Fein, William F., 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt CP Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Vannah, Harold B., Jr., F/O Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt Lamm, Earl D., Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Wimert, Donald A., Cpl G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 672/mission 672) Group Mission # 672: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 673/mission 673) Group Mission # 673: Squadron Mission 466 TARGET: Nickeling Mission, Po Valley. DATE: 3 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: Leaflets. 446th Planes: 6 Captain Smedley led the formation. Mission accomplished. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. No fighters.

A/C No. 43-27696 Tail # 41 “Baby A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy Blue Eyes” Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O N Codd, Russell G., F/O None B Mayo, Jack D., Capt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Hatcher, James T., Cpl Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” Girl” P Berge, Gail B., 2Lt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt CP Long, Emmett N., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl R Beck, Junior D., Cpl Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt F None None Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s ”Hauling Ass II” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt CP Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Chase, William H., Cpl R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Griffin, John A., Cpl Springer, Walter H., Cpl F None None

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 23) “No. 23) Made a good mission on Padua R.R. Bridge. 4x1000. Loads of fighters. Had P-47 escort. Matthews.” Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: S/Sgt. Jack Bowman on orders to U.S., Hq. 12th AF Ltr. 22 Dec. 1944. S/Sgt. Herbert Dimondstein and S/Sgt. Millard C. Freeman on rotation to U.S. Par. 1, Ltr. Orders, Hq. 12th AF, 26 Dec. 1944. Following men promoted to indicated grade this date: to T/St.: S/Sgt. Gaston G. Poulin and S/Sgt. George D. Schnaars. To S/Sgt: Sgt. Andrew C. Dubbs. To Sgt: Cpl. Roy H. Bartram and Cpl. Paul W. Finnegan. These promotions authorized by Par 1, SO 1, Hq. 321st Bomb Gp., 1 Jan. 1945. Bartram, Roy H., Sgt, gunner Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt, gunner Freeman, Millard C., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 671/mission 671) Group Mission # 671: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 672/mission 672) Group Mission # 672: 13 of our planes participated in a raid on Chiusaforte West Railroad Bridge in Northern Italy. Our flight was led by Capt. Wiginton and 100% bombing accuracy was achieved.

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Antry, Jack B., 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O Gould, Joe W., 1Lt E Keenan, Harry A., Sgt Perl, Richard H., Sgt R Schnaars, George D., Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt G Lejman, George T., Sgt Staub, Edward C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-4069 Tail # ? “Ruptured Doll” Duck” P Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt Murchland, Robert Keith, 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Nyman, Emil R., F/O N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl Hopp, Charles J., Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Hourahan, William F., Jr., Cpl G West, Edgar M., Cpl Drew, Horace E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless Fosdick” P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt N None None B McDermott, James W., 1Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Huntley, Bruce H., Cpl Price, Charles J., Cpl R Finnegan, Paul W., Cpl Newton, James R., Cpl G Gorden, Robert L., Cpl Jones, Robert A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 “Superstitious Aloysius” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Brice, David W., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Davies, John V., 1Lt Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl Keefe, John A., T/Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Young, Robert E., Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave David” Maria” P Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt N None None B McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt R Guild, Bernard Robert, S/Sgt Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Cpl G Hagan, Richard E., Cpl Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4029 Tail # ? “Mike Hunt” A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” P Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt N None None B Stokes, Robert C., Sgt Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Cpl Daniels, Carl N., Sgt R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, S/Sgt G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Goldman, Jerome (NMI), Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel Devil” (Wing spare) P Dodson, Jackson R., 2Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt N None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt E Cohen, Sam M., Cpl R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 673/mission 673) Group Mission # 673: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: The 448th flew two missions today, despite the cloudy and threatening weather. Lieutenants Mallin, Kruse, and Reedy and Sergeant Hersh left this morning for the good old United States on combat rotation. Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt, gunner Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt, pilot Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Reedy, Walter W., 1Lt, pilot

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 671/mission 671) Group Mission # 671: (448th BS did not participate) Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 672/mission 672) Group Mission # 672: The target for the first mission was the railroad bridge at Chiusaforte, Italy. Captain Ovard led the 448th’s flight of eleven (11) planes on this mission. Hits were scored on the east section and east approach to the bridge. Several of the planes, however, dropped their bombs on the alternate target, the rail bridge at Latisana, due to difficulty in finding the primary target, with possible hits on the west approach. No anti-aircraft fire was encountered, and all the planes returned safely at 1544.

A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Ovard, Glen S., Capt Smith, Milford A., 2Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt Lee, Howard M., 1Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Allendorph, John B., 2Lt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Pineda, Nico M., T/Sgt Wright, Melvin M., Sgt R Fletcher, William H., T/Sgt Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Justice, Conway J., Jr., Sgt Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” But Not Out” (first # 87) P Gladwill, James G., 1Lt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 1Lt CP Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Varga, Frank K., Cpl Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt G Ederer, Robert J., Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? Swing” (first # 76) P Cooper, James W., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt CP Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt N None None B Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Ward, Paul D., Cpl E Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., T/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Sullivan, Timothy V., T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27508 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt CP Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt E Turner, James H., Cpl Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt G Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F Lind, Ragnar G. “Jeffrey Lynn”, 1Lt, None HQ 321st BG A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Bard, John A., 1Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt CP Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Carter, Eugene F., T/Sgt E Powell, Neil J., Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt Shields, Robert L., Cpl G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 P Burks, Richard W., Capt CP Smith, Richard H. “Red”, Col, HQ 321st BG Commander N Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG B Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 673/mission 673) Group Mission # 673: The second mission was a nickeling mission over the Po Valley. The 448th had three planes on this mission, which dropped all the leaflet bombs on the designated targets. Only slight anti-aircraft fire was encountered, and no damage or casualties suffered. All the planes were down safely at 1530.

Wednesday, 3 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 P Lyons, John B., 1Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt None B McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Cpl R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of Bounds” P Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt E Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl R Petix, Ignatius D., Pvt G Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Clear and warmer. Briefing at 9:10AM. Fresh fried eggs, whole- wheat cereal, bread, coffee, orange juice. Lt Autrey (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”) carrying 1000 lb GP's. Bridge in northern Italy near Austria. Take off 10:45AM. Right wing last element. Colonel Smith, pilot of lead of our element. Clear and warm (-2 degrees). No flak. Missed target at 1:22PM. Colonel Smith very rough as pilot. Landed 3:45PM. Showered. Missed dinner. Supper - spaghetti, beans, fresh small onions, chocolate cake, coffee. Burning a can of gas in stove. Cold evening. Retired 10:30PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Smith, Richard H. "Red", Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander

Thursday, 4 January 1945

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

In Italy, medium bombers hit bridges at Lavis and Calliano; fighters and fighter-bombers interdict Po Valley communications and hit an ammunition dump at San Felice del Benaco; during the night of 3/4 Jan, A-20s successfully hit a stores dump and bridge near Mestre, and destroy or damage 50+ vehicles. The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, based at Pisa, Italy with Mosquitoes, sends a detachment to operate from Etain, France attached to the 425th Night Fighter Squadron.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Rovereto bridge was missed today but the Calliano Bridges Numbers one and two were reported well hit in spite of the heavy, accurate flak.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 674/mission 674) Group Mission # 674: Rovereto railroad bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 675/mission 675) Group Mission # 675: Calliano RR Bridge, #2, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: There was practice bombing today together with a practice nickeling mission and a few cross-country flights. A total of ten gunners spent some time on the “Jam Handy” gun trainer while 6 bombardiers were on the bomb trainer. The mission today was “rough” with extremely accurate flak injuring Lt. Silnutzer and Flight Officer Brooks while Lt. Ottinger’s plane was badly shot up and he landed without brakes. He coasted the entire length of the runway and the ship finally rolled off the end and into the rough ground. Nobody was injured. A number of the men were sick today due to the shots. Chicken was served for supper. It rained late in the evening. Brooks, William F., F/O, bombardier Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt, pilot Silnutzer, Joseph A., 2Lt, bombardier

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 674/mission 674) Group Mission # 674: Group Mission #673 (actually 674); Squadron Mission # 425: Capt. Dyer led a formation of 20 ships – 10 from the 445th – to attack the Rovereto railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped on enemy gun positions. Area cover was provided. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate and accurate. It started 30 to 40 seconds before bombs away and stopped soon after breakaway. 12 ships were holed, two men were wounded but no planes were lost. No enemy air opposition reported. RESULTS: 12 ships dropped but bridge believed missed. All bombs over to northeast of target. 2 ships dropped incendiaries on known gun areas with fairly good results.

Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Dyer, Robert H., Capt, pilot Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt CP Buckham, John K., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, S/Sgt Hagains, John R., Cpl R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., Sgt G Abrams, Samuel (NMI) “Sam”, S/Sgt Edwards, Jack M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St (returned early due to engine trouble) Louis” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., T/Sgt Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt G Garza, Manuel (NMI), Cpl Clayton, Ross W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Beauty” (first # 06) P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., Jr., 2Lt Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt N None None B None listed None listed E Pearson, George E., Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Cpl G Lile, Keith B., Cpl Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., S/Sgt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Nuttall, John H., Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Bierly, Glenn E., Sgt Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of Belle Fontaine” Portchester” (Incendiary plane) P Miron, Leno L., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt CP Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, Commander N None None B Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt Wren, Frank J., 1Lt E Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt R Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt Johnson, John P., T/Sgt G Osborn, Jack R., Sgt Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Baby” (Wing spare – filled in 2nd element, 2nd position) P Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O N None B Brooks, William F., F/O E Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Barnett, Frank E., Cpl G Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 675/mission 675) Group Mission # 675: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: Another combat mission today as the new year gets under way. Some mail arrives with a few late Xmas packages.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 674/mission 674) Group Mission # 674: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 675/mission 675) Group Mission # 675: Squadron Mission 467 TARGET: Calliano RR Bridge, #2, Italy DATE: 4 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 13 Lt. Pietrowski led the formation. Good concentration covering S approach with possible hits on S end of bridge. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate. No fighters. Lt. Everhart was a spare and returned early. Capt. Smedley flew the anti-flak ship, but did not drop due to interference on run.

Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” (later name dropped from nose art) P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Utz, James W., Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Cpl R Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Bryan, Dwight L., S/Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27696 Tail # 41 “Baby seated lady - no name/lettering) Blue Eyes” P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N None None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Tiny?” “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS (later Darlene) PAOLA II) P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Doyle, John D., 1Lt CP McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Ziglar, Frank C., Maj Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Benedict, William P., Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Arabella” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Fein, William F., 2Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., T/Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Carl, Edgar W., Cpl G Springer, Walter H., Cpl Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee Bull” Girl” P Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt CP Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Vannah, Harold B., Jr., F/O E Winegarden, Leslie R., T/Sgt Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The ”Hauling Ass II” (Wing spare - did not Leading Lady”, previously “Miss fill in) Dallas”) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt Anderson, William H., F/O N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Freck, Byron P., Sgt F None None

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 24) “No. 24) Had a very good mission today. Got lost and got flak on the way in. Lots more flak over target. Hit Rovereto R.R. Bridge Brenner Pass. Picked up about 100 holes. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The weather has been getting colder and the snow appears to be creeping down the mountains. Usual camp duties throughout the day. Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 674/mission 674) Group Mission # 674: 10 of our planes, led by Lt. Remmel participated in a raid on Rovereto Bridge in Northern Italy. Our flight dropped North and East of target.

A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt CP Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt Murray, Richard E., Capt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt Darrell, Franklin Lloyd Jr., 1Lt E Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt R Bartram, Roy H., Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Sgt Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4069 Tail # ? “Ruptured A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? Duck” “Superstitious Aloysius” P Fairchild, George S., 2Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt N None None B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Cpl Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Cpl G Citarelli, James E., Sgt Fromm, Samuel E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Maria” Nine” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 2Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 2Lt N None None B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O Davies, John V., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl G Harvey, John A., Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 assigned a 2 digit Tail #) P Dodson, Jackson, R., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Cohen, Sam M., Cpl Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Cpl G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Sims, James W., Sgt F None None Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4029 Tail # ? “Mike Hunt” A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt N None None B McDermott, James W., 1Lt Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt Henkler, Edward H., Cpl R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl G Gorden, Robert L., Cpl West, Edgar M., Cpl F None None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 675/mission 675) Group Mission # 675: (447th BS did not participate)

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

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 674/mission 674) Group Mission # 674: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 675/mission 675) Group Mission # 675: With one mission on the schedule for this morning, the 448th sent thirteen (13) planes led by Captain Grady out to bomb the railroad bridge at Calliano, Italy. Over the target, Sergeant LaBella, one of the Squadron’s gunners flying as bombardier, was wounded by a burst of flak near the nose of his plane. Despite the flak wounds which caused profuse bleeding about his face, he remained at his post. An excellent bomb pattern was scored on the bridge with many direct hits. The bridge was reported down after the attack. Despite the heavy anti-aircraft fire only a few of the planes were holed and none were lost. The formation returned at 1350.

A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 Swing” (first # 76) P Grady, John R., Capt Fleming, George B., 1Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Kiska, George P., 1Lt Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Cpl R Hulse, Donald W., S/Sgt Sullivan, Timothy V., T/Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Ward, Paul D., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? Bounds” P Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt CP Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Powell, Neil J., Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl G Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt CP Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None None B Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt E Turner, James H., Cpl Parham, Ralph E., Cpl R Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt G Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver But Not Out” (first # 87) Belle” P Gladwill, James G., 1Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Lee, Howard M., 1Lt N None None B Varga, Frank K., Cpl Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Ederer, Robert J., Sgt Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 1Lt CP Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Brown, Charles A., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt Lang, Robert H., F/O B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., S/Sgt Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl R Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 4 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27508 Tail # ? P Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 2Lt CP Russell, John D., 2Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Carter, Eugene F., T/Sgt E Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., T/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Shields, Robert L., Cpl G Gage, Robert L., Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Doughty, Paul V., T/Sgt G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:10AM. Very cold and frosty. Briefing 8:05AM. Fresh boiled eggs, bacon, oatmeal, coffee, bread, tomato juice. Lt Autrey (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”) carrying 1000 GP's (1-24 hour delayed action). Target is RR and road bridge at Calliano in Brenner Pass. 10/10 coverage all the way in. Heavy fleecy and thick overcast. No flak until 30 seconds before bombs away. LaBella hit in face, but went back to station and dropped bombs. No. 2 ship 2nd element 2nd flight. Flew at 13,000 feet. Cameraman. Good photos. First mission I've flown in some time that I can honestly say I was not nervous. Broke away from formation over coast and high-tailed for home due to LaBella's injury. Landed 1:30PM. First time I checked bomb bays over enemy territory. Boiled and fried chicken, rice, bread, butter, coffee, fruit salad. Still have GI's (diarrhea), no cramps. Hit the bag a bit. Gill (8th Airforce), who is drunk per usual had a fight with another newly arrived combat man. Drew pistol. Gill to be court- martialed. Boiled beef, potatoes, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. Attended "Step Lively". Light rain throughout movie. Retired 10:30PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier

Friday, 5 January 1945

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): During the night of 4/5 Jan, A-20s on a S Po Valley intruder mission bomb the Modena, Italy area. Bad weather cancels all other operations.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: We were stood down for the day about 0830 in the morning but Operations and Intelligence who are the ones most affected by a mission seemed to have lots of work to catch up on since Christmas and most of their time has been devoted directly to the missions. It seems that there is always a sizeable backlog of paper work that has piled up. Mr. Snyder, the A.R.C. representative for the group scrounged quite a bit of candy from the 319th Bomb Group and spent all afternoon touring the Corsican countryside giving out the “bon bon” to the lucky schools that happened to be around. It rained practically all day and the fellows at the movies got drenched when they were caught in a snap squall. Wing placed the 319th Bomb Group area off limits. Snyder, Mr., American Red Cross

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Nine planes scheduled for flight training took off in a pouring rain but returned soon afterward being airborne about 25 minutes. It rained hard today and the armorers had a bad time out in the mud on the line. When they are forced to drop bombs from the ships, the big missiles sink nearly four inches in the ground and there is quite a bit of “bitching” when the armorers are ordered to change the bomb load. Coffee and doughnuts were served in the enlisted men’s club this afternoon with Janie presiding. Dock Smith and a few of the “Mitchell- Aires” entertained with some music at the same time. Jane "Janie”, American Red Cross Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, Flight Surgeon

446th BS War Diary: Routine duties are performed as the group is unable to get off a combat mission because of the weather, either here or at the target region.

447th BS War Diary: No mission due to unfavorable weather conditions. Usual camp duties.

448th BS War Diary: Rain greeted the men as they awoke this morning and the mission was quickly called stand-down. So most of them just turned over in their sacks and made with some more horizontal time. Later in the morning the rain turned to hail and the little pellets really peppered the tents for awhile. Nothing else, particularly, happened during the day in the camp area.

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 8:00AM. Rushed to make chow. Met a big line. Stand-down on mission. Raining. Today is a regular run of the mill. Chow isn't too good. Just hanging about reading. Gossip is concerning a possibility of our moving. Van is on guard. Quiet peaceful evening. Retired 11:00PM.” Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Saturday, 6 January 1945

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Bad weather over N Italy grounds the medium bombers. In Italy, XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers hit rail lines and bridges in the Genoa-La Spezia coastline area, and bomb vessels in the harbors at Genoa and Imperia. The air echelon of the 417th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth AF (attached to Mediterranean Allied Coastal Air Force and air echelon attached to the 422nd Night Fighter Squadron), based at La Vallon, France, begins operating from Florennes, Belgium with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Stood down again today. The party in the Enlisted Men’s club was postponed because the guest of honor, Miss Margaret Winship, A.R.C., Sgt. Cooley’s Fiancée, was unable to reach the island due to adverse weather conditions. Captain Ilg, the Group Personal equipment Officer, gave a talk to all Headquarters Enlisted Men in regard to the use of the Mae West, life raft and parachute. Cooley, Pemberton (NMI) “Pem”, Jr., S/Sgt, operations clerk Ilg, Joseph M. “Joe”, Jr., Capt, personal equipment, Materiel Officer Winship, Margaret “Winsome Winship”, Miss, American Red Cross

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. The bad weather continued with more rain falling today. Eleven of the combat crew members received promotions today. Some mail arrived today. The engineering department is conducting quite a few engine changes recently. The changes are being accomplished despite the inclement weather and the extremely unfavorable condition of the ground. Despite the many difficulties and handicaps, engineering personnel usually average 10 hours on an engine change. Capt. Napple went to turn the gas heat on in his tent and failed to get a flow of gas at the twist of his wrist. He jumped on Lt. Galny for not filling the can but the latter assured him that he had indeed filled the gasoline can just a few hours previous. Capt. Napple investigated outside his tent, discovered his entire gasoline set gone. “Beats me” was his answer. Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt, pilot Napple, Francis L., Capt, navigator

446th BS War Diary: Routine duties are performed as the group is unable to get off a combat mission because of the weather, either here or at the target region.

447th BS War Diary: The following men promoted to indicated grades, Par. 5, SO 2, Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. 4 January 1945: To be T/Sgt.: S/Sgt. Theodore A. Fiocca and S/Sgt. Bernard R. Guild. To be Sgt: Cpls: Horace E. Drew, Robert L. Gorden, William F. Hourahan, Harold Phares, Jr., Samuel E. Fromm, Richard E. Hagan, Bruce H. Huntley, and Edward C. Staub. Morning Report for week: Officers 88, Enlisted Men-360. Drew, Horace E., Sgt, turret gunner Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Fromm, Samuel E., Cpl, aerial gunner Gorden, Robert L., Sgt, gunner Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt, aerial gunner Hagan, Richard E., Cpl, gunner

Saturday, 6 January 1945 (continued)

Hourahan, William F., Jr., Sgt, gunner Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt, gunner Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Sgt, radio-gunner Staub, Edward C., Sgt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: The bad weather of yesterday continued unabated today. Needless to say, the mission scheduled for today was stand down. Rain, hail, and occasional flashes of lightening was the dish of weather, somewhat unusual, for the day. The usual camp duties were stand down also.

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Briefing 10:20AM. Raining and windy. French toast, bacon, oatmeal, coffee, fruit juice, jelly. Enjoying "Canal Town" and "Turnabout". Stand-down on mission. Raining. Usual run of poor chow. GI's still bothering me. Gill awaiting court martial at stockade. This will make his 3rd court martial since entering the army. It was told to me on the QT that I am making T/Sgt this month.”

Sunday, 7 January 1945

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

In Italy, weather grounds the medium bombers and A-20s; XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers make 6 cuts on the Brenner rail line, damage the W end of the rail bridge at Cittadella, and hit the marshalling yard S of Trento; most of the XXII Tactical Air Command's effort is concentrated against land and water communications in the La Spezia-Genoa area, including attacks on shipping at Savona and San Remo harbors.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. Usual camp duties prevailed.

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Two B-25s formerly assigned to the 319th Group were ferried in today and were assigned to this squadron. Lt. Robson went to rest camp in southern France today by C-47 courier. There was an extensive training program carried out today both on the ground and in the air. The two new B-25s were assigned to Sgts. Raley and Hayes both of whom had crewed cargo ships for some time. Three good meals were served today with roast turkey the best for supper. The S-2 section put up a fine map of the Philippines area following the landings on Luzon. Hayes, William R., Jr., Sgt, engineering, crew chief Raley, Alvin T., Sgt, engineering, crew chief Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt, bombardier

446th BS War Diary: Routine duties are performed as the group is unable to get off a combat mission because of the weather, either here or at the target region.

447th BS War Diary: No mission. Bad weather. Usual camp duties and no change in morning report.

448th BS War Diary: The weather cleared off somewhat this morning, but bad weather over Italy and the muddy conditions of the field prevented the mission from taking off this morning. Captain Grady and Lieutenant Bard left this morning for the AAF rest camp at Cannes, France. The rest camp has just recently been opened to the 12th Air Force. It had been formerly used by the 9th Air Force. Bard, John A., 1Lt, pilot Grady, John R., Capt, pilot

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Terrific cramps. Still have GI's. Fair AM. Feeling a bit empty. Been moving my bowels about six times a day. Briefing 10:10AM. Scrambled eggs, whole- wheat cereal, bread, coffee. Plan "A" Stand-down. Briefing changed to Plan "B" 11:15AM. Plan "B" also stand-down. Slight rain, heavy overcast. Twelve ships mock formation and bombing. Roast turkey, stuffing, peas, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. Commenced reading "Genesis" from the Holy Scripture. Took dose of Paregoric for Sunday, 7 January 1945 (continued)

GI's. Gets very boring just hanging around. Rations $2.10 - 12 pkg cigarettes, 3 cigars, 1 beer, 2 cokes, 1 bar soap, 1 pkg pretzels, 1 can peanuts, 1 Hershey bar, 3 Baby Ruths, 2 Butterfingers. Took another dose of paregoric. Roast beef, gravy, beans, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. No appetite. Still running. Retired 11:00PM.”

Monday, 8 January 1945

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

In Italy, XXII Tactical Air Command A-20s fly 33 effective sorties in the Po Valley during the night of 7/8 Jan; bad weather sharply reduces daytime operations; of 3 medium bomber missions dispatched, only 1 reaches the target (the Chivasso railway bridge) where only 6 medium bombers bomb through the overcast; less than 20 XXII Tactical Air Command fighters hit scattered targets in the Po Valley; HQ 51st Troop Carrier Wing moves from Lido di Roma to Siena; and HQ 62nd Troop Carrier Group moves from Malignano Airfield to Tarquinia. The 437th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 319th Bombardment Group (Medium), begins a movement from Serragia, Corsica to the US (the squadron will convert to A-26s and transfer to the Pacific in Jul 45).

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission due to inclement weather. The party in the Enlisted Men’s club in honor of S/Sgt. Pem Cooley’s recently acquired fiancée, Miss Margaret Winship, A.R.C., finally came off today and was adjudged the best so far. Blouses were worn and a more than usual decorum was maintained throughout the evening. With plenty of local “belles” also present, quite a bit of dancing to the music of Doc Smith’s Mitchell-Aires was done and the better than average liquors flowed freely. Pem’s fiancée immediately snowed the boys under with her amiable personality and it wasn’t long before she was “Winsome Winship”. Jacqueline Nordlinger, our regular Red Cross girl also graced the affair with her presence. Cooley, Pemberton (NMI) "Pem", Jr., S/Sgt, operations clerk Nordlinger, Jacqueline, Miss, American Red Cross Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, Flight Surgeon, 445th BS Winship, Margaret "Winsome Winship", Miss, American Red Cross

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. The day was windy and rainy. Seven of the practice bombing ships were forced to land at the 310th Group’s base at Ghisonaccia due to the severe cross-winds. There is at present an acute shortage of toilet paper and the men are using anything from second sheets of typewriter paper to any magazines or newspapers available. There is a rumor going around to the effect that the 310th is packing for a move. Some of the men state that the 310th is headed for the States; others scoff at this and say that the group is merely moving to Italy. The new theater opened this evening. Sergeant Joseph Beresh, a very worth armorer, was promoted to staff sergeant today. Beresh, Joseph (NMI) “Joe”, S/Sgt, armorer

446th BS War Diary: Routine duties are performed as the group is unable to get off a combat mission because of the weather, either here or at the target region.

447th BS War Diary: No mission. Bad weather again. The general concern of all members of the organization at present is to keep warm and dry. Usual camp duties.

Monday, 8 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: The mission scheduled for today was stand down as threatening weather once again prevailed. This afternoon strong winds threatened to do damage to some of the tents. It was a typical Corsican gale. The Rome rest camp has been opened up the personnel of the 57th Bomb Wing. This afternoon Lieutenants Norris and Garrett, and Sergeants Enderle, Justice, Wimberly and Yarbrough left for the rest camp. Enderle, Melvin J., Sgt, gunner Garrett, Thaddeus D., 1Lt, pilot Justice, Conway J., Jr., Sgt, gunner Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt, pilot Wimberly, Charles G., Sgt, intelligence Yarbrough, Edward B., Sgt, engineering

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Van had stove going full blast. Cold and clear. Briefing 10:10AM. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, fruit juice, bread, coffee. Plan stand-down "A" (cancels incendiary ship). Plan "B" also stand-down. Chow is regular run of the mill. Very windy. Slight rain. Longing for mail. Ever since arriving on Corsica my thoughts have always been with #19, #8, #636. I don't believe I've ever retired one single night when I haven't longed to be with them all. I hope God grants me such good fortune. On first shift of guard 6-10PM (tech supply). One guard at 310th to look after three of our planes that landed there due to heavy gusts of crosswinds at our field. Still taking medicine for my GI's. Retired 11:00PM.” Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Tuesday, 9 January 1945 USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Palazzuolo sull'Oglio, Pontetidone, Romano di Lombardia, and an assembly area at Crespellano; fighters and fighter-bombers in an excellent day against communications in the W and C Po Valley and other points in N Italy make numerous rail cuts, destroy or damage many vehicles and trains and effectively hit ammunition and fuel dumps, guns, and strongpoints along the US Fifth Army front in the N Apennines; the 4th and 8th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, move from Malignano Airfield to Tarquinia with C-47s; the 18th and 35th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 64th Troop Carrier Group, move from Ciampino to Rosignano Airfield with C-47s. The 438th, 439th and 440th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 319th Bombardment Group (Medium), begin a movement from Serragio, Corsica to the US (they will convert to A-26s and move to Okinawa in Jul 45).

HQ 321st BG War Diary: One 18 plane formation today turned back due to route weather before reaching their Pontevico Railroad Bridge target. The other 18 A/C were also aborted at their primary, the Romano Railroad bridge, but split up to attack three bridges. Two at Parma and one at Fornova di Toro – all as targets of opportunity. All three were hit, either well or on approaches.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxxW (A): Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 676/mission 676) Group Mission # 676: Pontevico Railroad Bridge target (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 677/mission 677) Group Mission # 677: Romano Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed two targets today – the Parma west railroad bridge and the Fornovo di Toro railroad bridge, Italy – both with 100 per cent bombing results. Lt. Fischer, a former pilot with the squadron, returned today to greet one and all. He is stationed in Italy piloting a general around. There are a number of bets being made as to when this group will return to the States. Anything to break the dull routine on the island. Many packages arrived today, including a number of Christmas parcels. A film was shown illustrating the Articles of War. After the latter a sex film was shown to the men. Bob Testa, a topnotch public relations man in the squadron, passed out during the film. It was very cold today. Fischer, Franklyn R., 2 Lt, pilot Testa, Robert W., Sgt, intelligence Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

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

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 676/mission 676) Group Mission # 676: Group Mission #676; Squadron Mission # 426: Lt. Poteete led 3 ships in a mission which was unable to bomb the primary due to cloud coverage and bombed the target of opportunity, Fornovo di Toro railroad bridge, Italy. No escort was furnished. No flak or enemy fighters were reported. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 10,500 feet. RESULTS: Bombs hit west approach.

A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Can Wait” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), S/Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Matter, Dean R., Sgt G Stack, James T., Cpl Abrams, Samuel (NMI) “Sam”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” House Mouse” (previously “Modern Design”) (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Rice, Rudolf G., 2Lt Devine, Donald D., F/O N None None B Doherty, Charles S., S/Sgt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Ott, James V., Cpl Lowrey, James S., Cpl G Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 677/mission 677) Group Mission # 677: Group Mission #677; Squadron Mission # 427: Capt. Wagner led 6 ships to bomb the target of opportunity, the Parma west railroad bridge, Italy. Poor weather conditions prevented bombing the primary. No flak or fighters reported. RESULTS: Compact concentration of bombs covering east end of bridge and across the east approach.

Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Lou” P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt 321st BG N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl Henry, William W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 “Tail # 18Spirit of A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Portchester” Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., T/Sgt Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Clayton, Ross W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Fancy Pants” Belle Fontaine” P Miron, Leno L., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt CP Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Brunda, John G., Cpl Engleman, Bud (NMI), S/Sgt G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl F None None

446th BS War Diary: Rest campers return from their holidays as another group leaves for vacationland on the mainland.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxxW (A): Squadron Mission 468 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 9 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: -- 446th Planes: 1 1Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters. Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 676/mission 676) Group Mission # 676: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 677/mission 677) Group Mission # 677: (446th BS did not participate)

447th BS War Diary: Cpl. C.A. Willis assg and joined Sq. Willis, Clinton A., Cpl, transportation

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

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 676/mission 676) Group Mission # 676: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 677/mission 677) Group Mission # 677: Finally got a break in the weather and 9 of our planes participated in a raid on Parma W. Road Bridge in Northern Italy. Our flight, led by Lt. Rice, received very good results— 97% bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” assigned a 2 digit Tail #) P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt CP Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Gould, Joe W., 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Huntley, Bruce H., Cpl R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, S/Sgt Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., Cpl Lejman, George T., Sgt F None None Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel A/C No. 43-4069 Tail # ? “Ruptured Devil” Duck” P Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt Murchland, Robert Keith, 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt Nyman, Emil R., F/O N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Price, Charles J., Cpl Stokes, Robert C., Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Merlino, Camille J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Appenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt CP King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Cpl G Gorden, Robert L., Sgt Hagan, Richard E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 David” P Brice, David W., 2Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Davies, John V., 1Lt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl See, Russell K., T/Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Williams Jones H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 2Lt CP Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt N None B McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt E Hopp, Charles J., Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt F None

Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Captain Kneisle returned from DS with the 319th Bomb Group this morning. He is the Squadron communications officer, and had been with the 319th for over a month. Staff Sergeants Hulse, LaBella, and Schaffer were promoted to Technical Sergeants today, and Sergeants Enderle, Gage, Justice, and Langley were promoted to Staff Sergeants. They are radio and tail gunners. Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt, gunner Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt, gunner Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Kneisle, Herman M., Capt, communication LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt, gunner Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, gunner

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxxW (A): (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 676/mission 676) Group Mission # 676: The mission scheduled for today took off about noon, after being delayed by bad weather here. But it was unable to reach the target due to stormy weather over Italy, and returned early. (Crew list missing)

A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 10 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 11 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 12 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Tuesday, 9 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 13 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 14 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 677/mission 677) Group Mission # 677: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Briefing 10:15AM. Pancakes, whole-wheat cereal, jam, coffee, fruit juice. Windy, cloudy. Plan "A" Stand-down. Plan "B" in effect. Briefing 11:20. Early chow. Cheese, spam, bread. Carry 1000 lb GP's. Some delayed action bombs. Lt Stromberg pilot (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”). Take off 12:45. Filled in right wing lead. Made landfall over friendly territory. Very heavy cloud formations. Flew for awhile at 14,000 feet. 28 degrees below zero centigrade. Official announcement of making T/Sgt. Fairly clear. Landed 2:30PM. No mission. Van and John had a run in. Did not go to chow. This is my ninth consecutive day of GI's Taking bismuth and paregoric. Attended "My Pal Wolf" - fair. New theater nearly completed. Slight snow flurries. As a rule we make toast every night.” Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt, pilot Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Wednesday, 10 January 1945

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather restricts operations but fighter-bombers effectively attack communications and supply dumps in the C and N Po Valley; the strikes are concentrated in the N and around Piacenza, and score nearly 50 rail cuts, along with destruction of 80 motor transports and several trains; fuel and ammunition dumps in the Milan area are bombed and a 400-foot (122 m) naval vessel at Venice is destroyed; HQ 64th Troop Carrier Group and the 16th and 17th Troop Carrier Squadrons move from Ciampino to Rosignano Airfield with C-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. S/Sgt. Robert K. Mehren is taking the basketball team in tow and getting them into shape by having a court built on the smooth ground near the Enlisted Men’s mess hall. A U.S.O. show consisting of a very fine quartet and Peggy Jean the national champion drum-majorette was presented today in the newly built theater and its program was very well received. The new theater is a large metal structure called a Romany hut and seats about 600. Jean, Peggy, U.S.O. Mehren, Robert K., S/Sgt, personnel

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxxW (A): Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. There was an extensive training program carried out today. More packages and some mail arrived today. Bob Logan impressed a number of the men this morning by the adroit and clever manner in which he made an exit from formation to escape the rigors of the daily drill session. The shortage of toilet paper continues. The USO show this afternoon was especially good and won the enthusiasm and approval of all the men. Bobby Seymour, youthful operations clerk, shined today as the group touch football team scrimmaged. Logan, Robert R. “Bob”, T/Sgt, intelligence Seymour, Robert J., Sgt, operations

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

446th BS War Diary: More idle flying days because of the weather. A mail call or two brightens up the life of the men.

Wednesday, 10 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxxW (A): Squadron Mission 469 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance. DATE: 10 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: - - 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Reeves, Charles F., S/Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)

447th BS War Diary: No mission. The following officers and E/M left for Rest Camp on Isle of Capri: 2nd Lts. Richard G. Briggs, Paul R. Peck, Carl W. Cahoon, Sgts. Verlin B. Rowley and George T. Steele. Usual camp duties. Briggs, Richard G., 2Lt, pilot Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt, pilot Peck, Paul R., 2Lt, pilot Rowley, Verlin B., Sgt, intelligence Steele, George T., Sgt, engineering

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order xxx/mission xxx) Group Mission # xxxW(A): Designated mission # 668 from block of numbers from 1 Jan 45: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: The mission for today was stand down once again. It’s the same ole story about the fickle Corsican weather. A USO show starring Peggy Jean, the baton twirler, visited the base for two performances in the Group theater, one this afternoon and the other tonight. From all indications it was enjoyed by everyone, some even going back for seconds on Peggy Jean. Lieutenant Matthews left this morning for TD with XII AFSC at Naples. Lieutenant Gilbert, the ordnance Officer, Lieutenants Lyons, Rubin and Autrey and Sergeants Gage and Baird left for five days at the AAF rest camp at Capri. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt, pilot Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Sgt, gunner Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Gilbert, Ralph W., 1Lt, ordnance Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt, pilot Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt, pilot

Wednesday, 10 January 1945 (continued)

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

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:45AM. Van had stove going full blast. Briefing 8:15AM. Hard and soft boiled eggs, hot cereal, fruit juice, coffee, bread. Carrying 1000 lb GP's. Marshaling yards at Rovereto. Defended. Lt Lee (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”), pilot. All ships awaiting take off. Stand-down on mission. Clear and warm. Usual run of the mill chow. Still have the GI's. Van, Lew and I carried gas from trailer to 50-gallon drum for stoves' supply. Retired 9:15PM.” Lee, Howard M., 1Lt, pilot Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt, engineer-gunner Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Thursday, 11 January 1945

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

In Italy, during the night of 10/11 Jan, A-20s attack targets of opportunity in the W Po Valley; clearing weather during the day enables an increase of fighter and fighter-bomber attacks in the Po Valley and in the US Fifth Army battle area in the N Apennines; many ammunition and fuel dumps, rail lines, trains, and vehicles are pounded, and an alcohol refinery at Piacenza is severely damaged.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No flying today except for a weather recce. Routine camp duties.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 678/mission 678) Group Mission # 678: Weather Reconnaissance. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. A 5-minute radium application was given to combat personnel having suffered discomfort from colds by Major Mikell of the 12th Air Force. It happened at the officers club today. There was some formation flying today. Brief but spirited snow flurries fell today tingeing the countryside with a white cover. The sun soon dispelled this, however. The payroll was signed today. The chicken supper was especially enjoyed today. Some mail arrived while Christmas packages continue to trickle in. Mikell, Maj, HQ 12th Air Force, medical

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 678/mission 678) Group Mission # 678: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: More idle flying days because of the weather. A mail call or two brightens up the life of the men.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 678/mission 678) Group Mission # 678: Squadron Mission 470 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance. DATE: 11 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: - - 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

Thursday, 11 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Reeves, Charles F., S/Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)

447th BS War Diary: No mission. The following E/M trfd to 448th Sq from DS 446th Sq: T/Sgt. Wayne E. Damon, James C. Heinbaugh, S/Sgts. Edward J. Kruppa, James S. Skimp, Sgts. Howard W. Crawford, William Handler, Cpls. Julian N. Lester, Daniel A. Spelich. Communications Personnel: Crawford, Howard W., Sgt Damon, Wayne E., T/Sgt Handler, William (NMI), Sgt Heinbaugh, James C., T/Sgt Kruppa, Edward J., S/Sgt Lester, Julian N., Cpl Skimp, James S., S/Sgt Spelich, Daniel A., Cpl

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 678/mission 678) Group Mission # 678: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: No mission. A nice blanket of snow greeted the personnel once again this morning as they arose for the day’s work. It snowed most of the morning, but the crew members of today’s mission were called over to Group once again before being told that it was stand down. Captain Rogers and Captain Shear left today for the Zone of Interior, after having flown their last mission. Captain Grady and Lieutenant Bard returned from the 9th Air Force rest camp at Cannes, France. They looked refreshed and eager to take up where they left off and really enthusiastic about the set up there. Bard, John A., 1Lt, pilot Grady, John R., Capt, pilot Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., Capt, pilot Shear, Meyer (NMI), Capt, pilot

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 678/mission 678) Group Mission # 678: (448th BS did not participate)

Thursday, 11 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:15AM with cramps. Commenced fire. Corn fritters, hot cereal, coffee, fruit juice. Briefing 8:15AM. Stand-down on mission. Capt Farwell gave Markiewicz, Wald and me permission to go wild boar hunting. Left squadron at 9:30 with carbines. After a several hour climb, we set foot on some Frenchman's property and were invited in. Ate dinner and drank beaucoup vino. Fireplace heated the room. Very hospitable. Left our overshoes there. Gave them candy and cigarettes. A bit drunk. No boar, rabbits, etc. Returned squadron 4:30PM. Very tired. Met some boys down from the 340th. Clear PM. Snowing the morning. Retired 7:45PM.” Farwell, Harold S., Capt, Commander Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner Wald, Douglas A., Sgt, gunner, bombardier

Friday, 12 January 1945

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

In Italy, weather severely curtails operations, but fighters and fighter- bombers of the XXII Tactical Air Command score successfully against communications targets in W and C Po Valley, claiming 50+ rail cuts and destruction or damage of 100+ vehicles.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Only another weather recce today and routine camp duties.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 679/mission 679) Group Mission # 679: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Aircraft 509 cracked up on takeoff for training flight this afternoon when Lt. Rice raised the landing gear before the plane was airborne. Lt. DeBoer was the pilot. The plane is wrecked beyond repair. There were many practice bombing flights made today together with other training flights. The men are not turning out for drill these days. Just 11 men were counted today as they participated in drill on the motor pool lot. Tripoli beer arrived and two bottles were sold to each man at 10 francs a bottle at the club. Spaghetti and meat balls were served for supper. Heavy rain and snow fell at night. DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 679/mission 679) Group Mission # 679: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/12/45: 07:45 hours “The mornings lately have been viciously cold. A little snow fell in camp New Year’s night and again yesterday morning. For at least seven consecutive days we have loaded ten planes with thousand pound bombs only to drop them the next morning in order to fly transition or practice missions. The utterly stupid practice of loading the night previous to the mission remains the cause of most of our trouble as well as discomfort. Yesterday I finished connecting up the Rube Goldberg contraption for heating water through a coil in the gas stove. We now have a plenteous supply of constantly hot water. Several days ago I took a walk in the bright morning sunshine which was very invigorating. I concluded that there is still much of beauty in nature, truth and the greatness of friends.”

446th BS War Diary: More idle flying days because of the weather. A mail call or two brightens up the life of the men.

Friday, 12 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 679/mission 679) Group Mission # 679: Squadron Mission 471 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance. DATE: 12 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: - - 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Reeves, Charles F., S/Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)

447th BS War Diary: No mission due to bad weather. Capt. W.E. Levine, Sq Intelligence Officer, returned from 15th Fld. Hosp where he has been confined for the past two weeks with pneumonia. The following E/M returned from rest camp at Capri: Cpls. Frank P. Bauer, Ernest E. Fischinger, James B. Shields, Pfc. Robert P. Biscailus. Bauer, Frank P., Cpl, intelligence Biscailus, Robert P., PFC, armament Fischinger, Ernest E., Cpl, engineering Levine, William E., Capt, intelligence Shields, James B., Pvt, radio-gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 679/mission 679) Group Mission # 679: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: No Mission. More bad weather greeted the men this morning, as the mission scheduled for today was, of course, stand down. Captain Joyce and Lieutenant Myers left this morning for the Cannes, France, rest camp, to find out for themselves about its excellence. Who knows, they too, may come back with bear stories about it. Nothing else happened today other than the usual routine. Joyce, Robert W., Capt, bombardier Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt, pilot

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 679/mission 679) Group Mission # 679: (448th BS did not participate)

Friday, 12 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:10AM. Feeling OK. Awoke 3:15AM. Had cramps and the GI's. Stove kept going all night. Briefing 8:25AM. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, fruit juice, coffee, bread. Partly cloudy AM. Same target as we have been trying to bomb for almost two weeks. (Rovereto Marshalling yards). Carrying 1000 lb GP's and some delayed action bombs. Lt Lee, pilot (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”). Still wing spare. Standby in area until 11:30AM. At 10:50AM. Stand-down on mission. Canned corn-beef, tomato sauce, lima beans, sliced beets, coffee, bread, fruit salad. Went out to line. Weiss gave me instruction on Norden Bomb Sight, also cut a scarf from a parachute. Having heavy punching bag made at 341st service squadron. Raining. Spaghetti and sauce, lima beans, sliced beets, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. John went to mountains for potatoes??? Raining, snowing and hailing. Retired 10:30PM.” Lee, Howard M., 1Lt, pilot Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Weiss, Arthur A., Sgt, bomb system maintenance (BSM)

Saturday, 13 January 1945

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

In Italy, Bad weather prohibits all but weather reconnaissance and a scramble mission, all uneventful.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions due to weather over Italy and at our base. We got our first taste of snow and ice this morning and to the Yankees here at Headquarters it looked good. The Rebels however wondered if all snow and ice had treacherous puddles of mud and water underneath its white innocent exterior. Mail Orderly Sgt. Noto is looking more harried than usual as the mail is barely coming in, in insignificant dribbles while we all wonder “why”? Miss Winship has been staying over here in Corsica a little longer than expected because of the adverse flying weather, but finally took off in a Navy Amphibian which force-landed here today. The Group received another battle star today – for the Southern France campaign. Pfc. Diamond is looking pretty glum as a result. He came in one day too late to be entitled to the campaign star. Diamond, Phillip R., PFC, intelligence Noto, Joseph A., Sgt, personnel Winship, Margaret "Winsome Winship", Miss, American Red Cross

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. The mail situation has slowed down quite a bit and the men are complaining about it. The area is very muddy these days due to the abundant precipitation. Public relations pictures were taken out on the line today. The highlight of the day’s activities was the showing of a syphilis film which was revealing to put it mildly. The frequent scenes showing the administering of long, ugly needles made many of the men wince while the distasteful showing of venereal cases sickened many others. After the show, T.J. Byrne officially discarded his pin-up girls. His walls now wear only a map and a picture of Ernie Pyle. Byrne, Thomas J., Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Doyle is assigned to 57th Wing. Doyle, John D., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The ground was covered with snow and ice this morning and from all appearances it probably will get another coat before noon. Morning Report: Officers—88; E/M—353.

448th BS War Diary: It was another morning of snow on the ground as it snowed most of the night. As the sun came out things really became muddy and sloppy. Of course the mission this morning was stand down. The field was too muddy to use. Sergeants Damon, Heinbaugh, Kruppa, Skimp, and Crawford and Corporals Handler, Lester and Spelich were assigned to the Squadron from the 447th and place on DS with the 446th. They are all ground personnel. Communications Personnel: Crawford, Howard W., Sgt Damon, Wayne E., T/Sgt Saturday, 13 January 1945 (continued)

Handler, William (NMI), Cpl Heinbaugh, James C., T/Sgt Kruppa, Edward J., S/Sgt Lester, Julian N., Cpl Skimp, James S., S/Sgt Spelich, Daniel A., Cpl

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Cramps. Still GI's. Ground covered with ice and snow. Briefing 9:50AM. Dismal looking sky. Fresh fried eggs, hot cereal, bread, fruit juice, coffee, apple butter, bacon. Dressed and all set for mission. Stand-down. Hamburgers, tomato sauce, mashed potatoes, beets, fruit salad, coffee, butter, bread. Took off for mountains with Vanderberg and Markiewicz. Went to look up a bella senorina Markiewicz is always raving about. Spoke in Italian to old man of house. Said she left for another village. Her baby died and husband is in French army in Algeria. Returned to squadron to hear my name being paged over PA system. Major Knievel told me I am to leave for Florence, Italy. S-2 told me I am to be featured in a broadcast from the AEF station about my set over the Galliate raid. Leaving Tuesday AM. Pork chops, fresh mashed potatoes, beets, cold canned sauerkraut. Noticing a change in George Huha lately. Used to be very congenial and friendly. I believe the change is due to John Nelson's influence. I try to be a regular guy. Everything has a limit. Cloudy night. Retired 10:00PM.” Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Knievel, Arthur W., Maj, executive Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Sunday, 14 January 1945

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

In Italy, weather again cancels all combat missions.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission. A visit by Doris Duke Cromwell, “The Richest Woman in the World” and General Knapp highlighted the days activities. Private Hiltibidal returned from a linemen’s school in Naples and goes down in history as being one of the few persons who has ever been glad to get back to Corsica! Headquarters personnel had ringside seats for the big fire in the 448th Squadron last night – their supply tent burned down. Getting up at night for a fire recalls the days when the group got up to see the bombings at Bizerte, Bari, and Alesani (340th field in Corsica) Cromwell, Doris Duke, American philanthropist and tobacco heiress Hiltibidal, Charles E., Pvt, communications Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. It was learned that Pvt. Murray P. Carnot was court-martialed and sentence to 18 months at hard labor. He will be dishonorably discharged from the service. Pvt. Irving L. Haynes was promoted to corporal and placed back on flying status. Extra guards were placed on the line tonight following last night’s incident when a 448th guard fired at someone tampering with an airplane. The person escaped. A steady rain fell today but stopped in late afternoon. Doris Duke Cromwell, the millionaire tobacco heiress, visited the officers club and the line area today along with General Knapp. An investigation is being conducted concerning the crackup of Lt. DeBoer’s ship. Carnot, Murray P., Pvt, duty soldier Cromwell, Doris Duke, American philanthropist and tobacco heiress DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot Haynes, Irving L., Cpl, armorer-gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/14/45: Sunday morning “Yesterday morning we awoke to find the island a single large glare of thin ice. The rain that began falling early in the evening had turned to sleet and then gave way to a sudden freeze. By noon everything had turned to slush. Early last evening the rain began falling and by bedtime the steady patter of raindrops on the tent had reached the pitch of a snare drum in a jazz band. Quite early this morning I was awakened by loud thunder and blinding flashes of lightening. It has continued so until the present hour, 10:30 hours and there is still no sign of a let up. I regarded the storm too severe to face to go to church and have remained in the tent reading and preparing the lesson I was to give. I regret that I could not go, but I am sure none would have been present on such a day. The lightening struck near the huge gasoline storage at Travo causing a fire that threatened the tank of high-octane gas. It was extinguished by the fire section without any damage. It looks like a long day of storms but we are warm and dry. Piccolo just came Sunday, 14 January 1945 (continued) in wearing his new long pants. Fitch took him to school and got him started again. Now he goes all by himself and gets a great kick out of it. We see him only on Sundays and Thursdays when there is no school.” Fitch, Donald A., T/Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: Another quiet day as weather hinders bombing operations.

447th BS War Diary: It has been raining, sleeting and snowing for the past twelve hours. The linemen stayed in the area, except a minimum number for guard. Sgt. Earl Dulaney tried to obtain a film so we could have a movie in the club but he was unsuccessful. Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: Rains continued this morning. The mission was stand down before the crew members departed for the briefing hut. A sex hygiene movie was shown the Enlisted Men in the mess hall this afternoon at 1330. The weekly I & E meeting was held this evening at 1830 in the Enlisted Men’s mess with Sergeant Sullivan relating some of his experiences on his first tour of duty in the Southwest Pacific. Lieutenant Zinkand assumed the duties of Squadron Bombing Officer, succeeding Captain Joyce, who has completed his illustrious tour of duty. Joyce, Robert W., Capt, bombardier Sullivan, Timothy V., Sgt, gunner Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt, bombardier

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 8:00AM. Raining fiercely. Stand-down on mission. Fresh scrambled eggs, oatmeal, fruit juice, coffee, bread, apple butter. Had a very disturbing dream last night. Dreamt John tried to knife Van and shoot me with 45 caliber pistol. I finally disarmed him. Lightning and thunder throughout the night terrific. Very odd to hear this time of year. Sgt Scott called for me at 9:30AM. Went over to group photo lab for picture that Dave Crowley took. (Got him out of bed). Picture is in accordance with radio broadcast scheduled for this Tuesday. Scotty writing script. Macaroni and tomato sauce, carrots, boiled potatoes, fruit salad, coffee, bread, apple butter. Still working out about 1/2 hour a day. Boiled beef, beans, carrots, chocolate pudding, coffee, bread, apple butter. Taking sulfa guanidine for GI's. Took 7 pills at 5:00PM. Clear, starry night. Retired 10:00PM.” Crowley, David F., Jr., S/Sgt, photo lab Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Monday, 15 January 1945

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, operations resume as the weather clears; medium bombers concentrate on the Brenner rail line, flying nearly 150 sorties against bridges at San Michele all'Adige, Rovereto, Ala, Lavis, Santa Margherita d'Adige, and Motta di Livenza; the XXII Tactical Air Command attacks communications in the Po Valley and further N, destroying or damaging several bridges and a very large number of railway cars (most of them at the Como marshalling yard); during the night of 14/15 Jan, A-20s hit targets in the Po Valley, including Po River crossings at Borgoforte, Piacenza, and San Benedetto Po.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Flew two 24 A/C missions today to the Rovereto area – the Railroad bridge and the Marshalling yards. The Railroad bridge was missed with the South approach cut but the Marshalling yard was hit with a solid concentration.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 680/mission 680) Group Mission # 680: Rovereto Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 681/mission 681) Group Mission # 681: Rovereto Marshalling Yard (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: An officer and two enlisted combat crew members arrived today from Columbia. The Borgo Val di Toro railroad bridge, Italy was slugged with 100 per cent bombing accuracy. Capt. Collins and crew left for Cairo today. Jackie, the Red Cross girl, served doughnuts and coffee out on the line this morning. Bob Testa really went to town on public relations pictures today, taking some 50 odd snaps out on the line. His work in increasing the output of better pictures has received many favorable comments. A good supply of mail and some Christmas cards arrived today. The usual training program was in effect. Collins, Daniel P., Capt, pilot Nordlinger, Jacqueline, Miss, American Red Cross (321st BG "Red Cross girl") Testa, Robert W., Sgt, intelligence, public relations

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 680/mission 680) Group Mission # 680: Group Mission #680; Squadron Mission # 428: Lt. Kendall led 10 ships in the second flight of a 20-ship formation sent out to bomb the Rovereto railway bridge, Italy. The planes dropped 1000 pound bombs from 12,000 and 12,500 feet. Area cover was furnished but no enemy fighters were reported. Flak was heavy, scant and inaccurate but didn’t hole any of the ships and there were no losses. There was no flak on the bomb run and the flak stopped when the incendiaries fell. These bombs covered the Rovereto gun area very well. RESULTS: South approach to Rovereto bridge hit with good Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued) concentration. Bridge believed not hit. First 6 aircraft of second flight encountered haze over primary and went to the alternate. This, however, was heavily covered with clouds so they bombed the target of opportunity the Borgo Val Di Toro railway bridge, Italy. There was a good concentration on the center of this bridge and it was believed hit. A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 (previously “Modern Design”) P Kendall, Wayne E., 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Doris, Robert E., 2Lt Brown, William G., F/O N Cravey, Robert P., 1Lt None B Skebey, Robert J., 1Lt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl R Engleman, Bud (NMI), S/Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Cpl G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Freidli, William M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Portchester” P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Wren, Frank J., 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), S/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., Sgt G Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Beauty” Fancy Pants” P Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 2Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Buckham, John K., 2Lt N None None B None listed Doherty, Charles S., S/Sgt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Larson, Richard A., Cpl R Brunda, John G., Cpl Reagin, Charles T., Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Cpl Edwards, Jack M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Can Wait” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Gum, Paul V., Cpl Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl Lowrey, James S., Cpl G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy Belle Fontaine” Lou” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt Divine, Donald D., F/O N None None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt Jackson, William H., 2Lt E Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Cpl Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Ott, James V., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt Clayton, Ross W., Cpl F Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 681/mission 681) Group Mission # 681: Group Mission #681; Squadron Mission # 429: The squadron supplied 1 incendiary ship on the mission. Only one of the group’s incendiary ships hit the gun area. The flak on the mission started just before bombs away and lasted 30 to 40 seconds.

A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Dyer, Robert H., Capt CP Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt N None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Russo, Paul A., Cpl G Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None

446th BS War Diary: More homeward-bound personnel of the squadron leave for sunny shores: Lieuts. Gittings, Goodrich, Grove, Hogman, Lippy and EM Clickner, Cohen, Lundtoft, McFarland, Rousos. Rovereto railroad bridge in northern Italy is the target for a combat mission. Clickner, Albert H., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Cohen, Irwin (NMI), T/Sgt, gunner Gittings, Raymond W., 1Lt, pilot Goodrich, John W., 1Lt, pilot Grove, Russell V., 1Lt, pilot Hogman, Frans H., 1Lt, bombardier Lippy, Harvey W., 1Lt, bombardier Lundtoft, Hans G., T/Sgt, gunner McFarland, Charles W., T/Sgt, gunner Rousos, Milton P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 680/mission 680) Group Mission # 680: (446th BS did not participate)

Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 681/mission 681) Group Mission # 681: Squadron Mission 472 TARGET: Rovereto Station Yards, Italy DATE: 15 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. and 500 M-17 Incend. 446th Planes: 13 Captain Farwell led the formation. Excellent patterns covered all four aiming points with possible direct hits on S overpass. Fairly large explosion of fire N of S choke point. One incendiary ship laid pattern across S most section of gun area. Flak was heavy, moderate, inaccurate. No fighters. Lt. Taylor did not take off because of hydraulic leak. Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot, Commander, 448th BS

A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Frolic Pad” (first # 42) (did not take off 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) due to a/c malfunction) P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt Long, Emmitt N., 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1lt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt E Utz, James W., Sgt Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” “Barbara” (previously “Tiny?”) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Benedict, William P., Cpl Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Baby” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Reda, John J., Sgt Shettleworth, William E., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl F None None

Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27696 Tail # 41 “Baby A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? Blue Eyes” “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N O’Conner, Richard W., 2Lt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt Boylan, James P., Cpl R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Bruner, Edward (NMI), Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”)” P Carlson, Lowell, A., 1Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt CP Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B DeSorbo, John S., Sgt Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl Henry, Clark H., Sgt R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Cpl Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The We Bob Along” (spare – filled in with Leading Lady”, previously “Miss 448th as wingman) Dallas”) (Incendiary) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., F/O None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Sgt Carl, Edgar W., Cpl G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of (later name dropped from nose art) seated lady - no name/lettering) P Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt CP Anderson, William H., F/O French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B Law, John B., Sgt Fein, William F., 2Lt E Edwards, David R., T/Sgt Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Freck, Byron P., Sgt Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 25) “No. 25) Had very good mission. Had a lot of flak but very little damage. 4x1000 - Hit Rovereto M/Y in Brenner. Pietrowski.” Pietrowski, Stanley J., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following officer and E/M relieved from assignment and transferred on combat rotation to 7th Replacement Depot for transshipment to U.S., Par 1, Ltr. Orders, Hq. 12th AF, 9 Jan 1945: Capt. Edward Krafka, S/Sgts. Vincent A. Mango, Robert P. Quintenz. Sgt. Harry Wanner trfd on combat rotation to 7th Repl. Depot for transshipment to U.S. Par 2, Ltr. Orders, Hq., 12th AF, 11 Jan. 1945. Krafka, Edward (NMI), Capt, pilot Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, S/Sgt, aerial gunner Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt, armament-gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 680/mission 680) Group Mission # 680: Ten of our planes on mission over Rovereto Italy. Our flight was led by Lt. Marchant. The mission as a whole was not so good with few bombs on target.

A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” Devil” P Dodson, Jackson, R., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr. 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 1Lt E Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie David” Teddie” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 2Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt N None None B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Cpl G Williams, James H., Sgt Fromm, Samuel E., Sgt F None None

Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never Doll” assigned a 2 digit Tail #) P Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Davies, John V., 1Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt G West, Edgar M., Cpl Merlino, Camille J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B McDermott, James W., 1Lt Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt R Hourahan, William F., Jr., Sgt Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt G Householder, Joe F., Cpl Cunningham, Paul W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Nine” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt Fairchild, George S., 2Lt CP Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None None B Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt Bartram, Roy H., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl Citarelli, James E., Sgt F None None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 681/mission 681) Group Mission # 681: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: Captain Joyce returned from TD at the Cannes, France, rest camp this morning and received his orders to leave for the good old USA. Lieutenants Tetlow, Rosenau and Norris and Sergeants Perillo, Dembrowski, Wald and Bell left this morning also to return to the US after completing their tour here. Privates Morian and Petix were prompted to Corporals today. Private Woodward was transferred to the 40th Station Hospital after a leave of illness there. Bell, Flavious J., T/Sgt, gunner Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt, gunner Joyce, Robert W., Capt, bombardier Morian, Charles R., Cpl, gunner Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt, pilot Perillo, Anthony L., T/Sgt, gunner Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl, gunner Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt, pilot Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

Tetlow, John S., 2Lt, pilot Wald, Douglas A., Sgt, gunner Woodward, Theodore B., Pvt, duty soldier

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 680/mission 680) Group Mission # 680: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 681/mission 681) Group Mission # 681: Despite the mud today the mission took off, although delayed about an hour. The target was the marshalling yards at Rovereto, Italy. Bad weather prevailed most of the way to the target, but cleared up somewhat just before the Po Valley was reached. Some enemy reaction was encountered, but it was light with only a couple of the planes being holed. Captain Farwell, Squadron CO, led this flight which scored an excellent pattern over the target, causing one large explosion. The incendiary planes scored hits on gun emplacements. A direct hit was seen on the south overpass. A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 P Farwell, Harold S., Capt, Commander Burks, Richard W., Capt CP Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., HQ Russell, Harold H., 2Lt 321st BG N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt E Turner, James H., Cpl Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G None listed Holloway, G. (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Reves, Louis E., Sgt E Parham, Ralph E., Cpl McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl Shields, Robert L., Cpl G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? But Not Out” (first # 87) P Gladwill, James G., 1Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N None None B Varga, Frank K., Sgt Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Fletcher, William H., S/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Ederer, Robert J., Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt F None None Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Ovard, Glen S., Capt Cook, Don W., 2Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt E Powell, Neil J., Cpl Haack, Cecil J., T/Sgt R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of Bounds” P Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt CP Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt Ward, Paul D., Cpl E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt White, Frank H., Cpl R Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt G Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Smith, Milford A., 2Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Speer, Melvin J., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O None B McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Codd, James P., Cpl Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” (Wing spare - filled in with 446th) P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Russell, John D., 2Lt N None B Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt E Gutierres, Ralph (NMI), Cpl R Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Atherton, Robert C., Sgt F None

Monday, 15 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Fair AM. Briefing 9:50AM. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, bread, apple jelly, fruit juice. Area guard fired three shots about 1:00AM last night which awoke me to the cry of 'fire'. Supply tent in flames. 1985 fire fighters on the job. Ammunition exploding all over the place. Van and I stood guard over our tent to protect it against sparks. Target is marshalling yards at Rovereto, Italy (Po Valley). Lt Lee, pilot (43- 27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”) wing spare. Take off 11:45. Filled in as right wing. 1st element, 2nd flight. Temperature at 11,000 feet was - 10 degrees Celsius. Over target 1:45PM. Light inaccurate flak. Weather clear over target. Landed 3:30PM after having a malfunction in releasing our nose wheel. Warm day. Retired 10:30PM.” Lee, Howard M., 1Lt, pilot Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Tuesday, 16 January 1945

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

In Italy, during the night of 15/16 Jan, A-20s exploit a break in the bad weather and blast motor transport around Genoa and NE of Milan; during the day bad weather returns, grounding the medium bombers and limiting fighter-bombers to 16 completed sorties against communications in the Po Valley and NE Italy; the 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Malignano to Peretola Airfield, Florence with F-5s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions – weather. Routine camp duties.

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Lt. Wren and Sgt. Andrews, two of the older combat men, were placed on DS to the 12th Air Force. They are scheduled to ferry supplies to partisan forces in the Balkans. A heavy rain put a stop to all ground and air activities today. The chicken supper tonight was inadequate in the minds of many of the men. Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt, gunner Wren, Frank J., 2Lt, pilot/bombardier

446th BS War Diary: Lieuts. Matthews, Pietrowski and Wozniak get those railroad tracks. Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt, pilot Pietrowski, Stanley J., Capt, pilot Wozniak, Stanley E., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: No mission today due to unfavorable weather. The following officers promoted to rank of 1st Lt. Par. 1 SO 9, Hq. 12 AF, 10 Jan. 1945: 2nd Lts. Donald A. Amundson, Richard D. Appenzeller, Aaron E. Autry, Louis C. Breckenridge, David W. Brice, Lyle N. Brown, Jr., Paul I. Buckley, Helmut K. Buechner, Carl W. Cahoon, Elmore Cammack, Jackson R. Dodson, George S. Fairchild, Frederick E. Loewus. Following F/O’s appointed to rank of 2nd Lt., Ltr. Hq, 12th AF, 24 Dec. 1945: F/O’s Shelby D. Wallis, John B. Bokum. Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt, pilot Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt, pilot Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt, pilot Bokum, John B., 2Lt, bombardier Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt, pilot Brice, David W., 1Lt, pilot Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt, pilot Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt, pilot Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt, pilot Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt, pilot Fairchild, George S., 1Lt, pilot Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt, pilot Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: After yesterday’s brief spell of clear weather the rains came once again this morning, raining most of the day. Of course the mission was stand down. Nothing else occurred during the day other than the usual camp duties necessary to keep the Squadron functioning.

Tuesday, 16 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Raining hard. Rained all night. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, jelly, bread, coffee, fruit juice. Scotty called for me at 8:10AM with carryall. Went to 57th Bomb Wing. Picked up orders at wing HQ area and left for flight line at 310th. C-47 on field. All flights canceled because of weather. Water rising in all streams. Returned to squadron at 9:30AM. Commenced reading from book Elliott sent me "Stories of the Great Operas and Their Composers" by Ernest Newman. (Read Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro") John, Wesley, Huha and Lt Bosick left for Bastia. Fresh fried chicken, fresh boiled potatoes, gravy, fruit salad, bread, butter, coffee. Raining continually. Water getting in our gas supply. Covered it with half shelter. Corn beef hash, tomato sauce, kidney beans, dehydrated carrots, chocolate pudding, coffee. Attended meeting at 8:45PM at EM club. Capt Farwell (CO) spoke about fire hazard in area and immediate check up on clothing as records were destroyed in fire that destroyed supply tent. Still raining. Capt Leonard checked our tent. Retired 11:00PM.” Farwell, Harold S., Capt, Commander Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Leonard, Lee V., Capt, pilot Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Schaffer, Elliott, Irving Schaffer’s brother Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence

Wednesday, 17 January 1945

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

In Italy, medium bombers, taking advantage of improved weather conditions, attack 6 rail targets on the Brenner rail line, blocking the line at Calliano, cutting tracks at Ora, and destroying a section of the bridge at Sacile;

in NE Italy fighters and fighter-bombers concentrate their large effort on rail lines and bridges, destroying 4 and damaging another, cutting tracks at numerous points, and blasting vehicles and trains; HQ 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance) and the 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron move from Rosia and Malignano respectively to Florence/Peretola with A-20s, B-25s and F-5s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Three 18 A/C missions today to the Ora Railroad Diversion Bridge and the Railroad bridge and to the San Michele Rail Fill. The San Michele was particularly well hit and approaches cut at the Ora targets which met our formation with withering anti-aircraft fire. The U.S.O. show today was very well received with the three girls involved receiving most of the plaudits of the crowd. The whole troupe ate evening chow at the Enlisted Men’s mess and while S/Sgt. Bob Mehren commenced to snow the pretty xylophone player under, just a look at the pretty American girls was enough for most of the fellows. C.B.I. officials toured the area today which gave rise to some more inevitable rumors. The fellows want to finish off the Japs but would like to reach the Orient by way of the U.S. which many have not seen for two years. Mehren, Robert K., S/Sgt, personnel, Mail Clerk

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 682/mission 682) Group Mission # 682: Ora Railroad Diversion Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 683/mission 683) Group Mission # 683: Ora Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 684/mission 684) Group Mission # 684: San Michele Rail Fill (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Wednesday, 17 January 1945

445th BS War Diary: The squadron attacked the San Michele rail fill, Italy with 100 per cent bombing accuracy as the results. Capt. Farrell was unable to get one engine started in time for takeoff and when he finally managed to take off, he was too far behind the formation to catch up. However, he picked out his own target and bombed the Borgo Val di Toro railroad bridge with 100 per cent bombing accuracy. This mission was destined Wednesday, 17 January 1945 to become humorously famous and was tagged “Farrell’s Folly”. He received quite a ribbing over this incident. Doris Duke Cromwell and General Knapp were on hand out on the line to watch the ships take off. Ironically enough, the general’s son was in ship 227 (43-36227 “Tail # 04) which happened to be stuck in the mud and was the only ship unable to take off. There was a USO show today, some mail arrived and macaroni and meat balls was on the supper menu. The generator broke down in the officers’ area tonight. Cromwell, Doris Duke, American philanthropist and tobacco heiress Farrell, Robert A., Capt, pilot Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl, engineer- gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 682/mission 682) Group Mission # 682: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 683/mission 683) Group Mission # 683: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 684/mission 684) Group Mission # 684: Group Mission #684; Squadron Mission # 430: Capt. Weld led a formation of 19 ships – 17 from this squadron – to bomb the San Michele rail fill, Italy. Area cover was furnished but no fighter opposition was reported. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 11,000 to 11,500 feet. There was no flak. RESULTS: All bombs in the target area with a good concentration of bombs at south culvert and road bridge approach. A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Mae” Bobby” P Weld, Willis R., Capt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl R Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Lou” Fancy Pants” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Miron, Leno L., 2Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Divine, Donald D., F/O N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, S/Sgt E Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt G Stack, James T., Cpl Freidli, William M., Cpl F None None Wednesday, 17 January 1945

A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde House Mouse” Beauty” P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O None listed E Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl R Matter, Dean R., Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Clayton, Ross W., Cpl Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Engleman, Bud (NMI), S/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Cpl G Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” (first # 06) P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O Dyer, Robert H., Capt N None Cravey, Robert P., 1Lt B None listed Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt Gum, Paul V., Cpl R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Morisi, David D., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Can Wait” Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, 2Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Brunda, John G., Cpl Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Heintz, Edward R., Cpl Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl F None None

Wednesday, 17 January 1945

A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” Belle Fontaine” P Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt Poteete, Max W., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt E Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Cpl Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt Ott, James V., Cpl G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing (previously “Modern Design”) lady) P Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP White, Edward A., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), S/Sgt R Lowrey, James S., Cpl Nuttall, John H., Cpl G Edwards, James M., Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 (Stuck in Portchester” (Target of opportunity - mud - did not take off) only one plane) P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Reagin, Charles T., Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/17/45: “Today has been the first fair one day this week. Rain fell constantly for 48 hours and the camp is a veritable swamp. The sun appeared for a few hours and our planes got off for a mission. The squadron sent 18 planes in what was an all out effort the Group has been trying for several days. All got back though there were, I heard, some casualties in another squadron. I attended a fair USO show this afternoon. By far the most encouraging news in several months is the opening of the Russian offensive. Warsaw was captured this afternoon and news of it headlines all newscasts. The world looks forward with confidence in the Russians’ ability to beat the German army and the announcement of their great winter offensive is wonderful for morale. In my opinion this may be the opening round of the blow that will end the war. Persistent distrust of the Russians is a wrong attitude among Americans.” Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: The squadron sends up 16 planes as its share of a formation to bomb in northern Italy.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 682/mission 682) Group Mission # 682: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 683/mission 683) Group Mission # 683: Squadron Mission 473 TARGET: Ora RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 17 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 16 Captain Pietrowski led the formation. Bombs covered entire bridge and NE approach, starting S of target in the river and walking across the target. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, accurate. Six planes holed. No fighters. A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee “Barbara” Girl” P Pietrowski, Stanley J., Capt Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt E Utz, James W., Sgt Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt Carl, Edgar W., Cpl G Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” Lu” (previously “Tiny?”) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt Chase, William H., Cpl R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? (later name dropped from nose art) “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N None None B Cimino, William C., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl Boylan, James P., Cpl R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” We Bob Along” P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt CP Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., F/O None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Baby” Little Boy Val”) P Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Corra, Andre J., 2Lt E Winegarden, Leslie R., T/Sgt Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Bull” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt CP Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B DeSorbo, John S., Sgt Law, John B., Sgt E Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Cpl Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Frolic Pad” (first # 42) Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) (Delay in take off resulted in element lead) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Derringer, Albert J., 1Lt Fein, William F., 2Lt E Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl R Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” (Wing spare - completed mission) P Everhart, Herman E., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt CP Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Flasher, Henry F., Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Hatcher, James T., Cpl Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 684/mission 684) Group Mission # 684: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 26) “No. 26) Lavis R.R. Bridge in Brenner. Had lots of flak. Picked up about 50 holes and flat tire. Maj. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following men promoted to indicated grade: Par. 4 SO 6, Hq., 321st Bomb Gp. 14 Jan. 1945: To S/Sgt.: Sgts. Robert F. Buzby, Robert C. Megivern, Thomas J. McKinney, Olney W. Morris, John J. Smith, Jr. To Sgt: Cpl. Warren L. Coffey, Jr. To Cpl: Pvt. Aleis Betmarik, Jr. Pfc. Merle Franklin, Pfc. Herman C. Wikle. Betmarik, Aleis (NMI), Jr., Cpl, radio-gunner Buzby, Robert F., S/Sgt, armament Coffey, Warren L., Jr., Sgt, cook Franklin, Merle (NMI), Cpl, armament McKinney, Thomas J., S/Sgt, armament Megivern, Robert C., S/Sgt, gunner Morris, Olney W., S/Sgt, armament Smith, John J., Jr., S/Sgt, armament Wikle, Herman C., Cpl, mess

447th BS Mission Summary: (No non-mission information)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 682/mission 682) Group Mission # 682: 11 of our planes on raid on Ora road bridge in northern Italy. Bombing results excellent with 100% bombing accuracy. However, all the news was not good. Sgt. Roy H. Bartram, radio-gunner on Lt. Morrison’s crew, was killed by flak over the target.

Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” P Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt CP Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt Neumann, Robert H., Maj, HQ 321st BG N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 1Lt E Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt R Bartram, Roy H., Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt G Cunningham, Paul W., Cpl Fromm, Samuel E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-4029 Tail # ? “Mike Hunt” P Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Cpl Stokes, Robert C., Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Harvey, John A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? Jamoke” “Superstitious Aloysius” P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt N None None B Gary, Neil F., Sgt Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl Price, Charles J., Cpl R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl Newton, James R., Cpl G Lejman, George T., Cpl Jones, Robert A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie assigned a 2 digit Tail #) Teddie” P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., Cpl Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-36054 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt CP Brice, David W., 1Lt Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt N None None B Davies, John V., 1Lt Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl Henkler, Edward H., Cpl R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Merlino, Camille J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless Fosdick” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None B McDermott, James W., 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., Sgt F None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 683/mission 683) Group Mission # 683: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 684/mission 684) Group Mission # 684: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Campbell, Flight officers Baird and Higby and Corporals Dittman and Nelson, combat men, were assigned to the Squadron this afternoon. A USO camp show gave two performances for the Group at the newly erected indoor Group theater here this afternoon and evening. From all indications it was enjoyed very much by everyone. The Unit ate dinner in the Enlisted Men’s mess hall and thoroughly enjoyed the meal with the G.I.’s. Baird, James L., F/O, pilot Campbell, Knox L., 2Lt, pilot Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl, gunner Higby, Paul K., F/O, bombardier Nelson, William M., Cpl, gunner

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 682/mission 682) Group Mission # 682: Although cloudiness prevailed this morning, the mission took off on time to attack the railroad diversion bridge at Ora, Italy. The 448th had ten planes led by Captain Swanson for this mission. The weather cleared over the target affording better observation of the Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued) results. Heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered causing damage to several of the planes, but no casualties. Hits were scored on both approaches to the target causing great damage. Six planes dropped their bombs on a target of opportunity, the Parma east railroad bridge, when their bombsights fogged over the primary target. Hits were scored on the approaches here also, but none on the bridge itself.

A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of Bounds” P Ovard, Glen S., Capt Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt Styers, Charles S., 2Lt E Morian, Charles R., Cpl White, Frank H., Cpl R Fletcher, William H., Cpl Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl G Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt N None None B Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Murray, Francis J., Cpl R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey J., Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Turner, James H., Cpl Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Smith, Milford A., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Cannon, John L., 2Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl Varga, Frank K., Cpl G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 683/mission 683) Group Mission # 683: The following 5 ships were on same flight (Mission # 482), but dropped on another target. The target: Ora, Italy Time: 3:55, Mission # 683.

A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Swing” (first # 76) P Burks, Richard W., Capt Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt CP Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E Reves, Louis E., Sgt Carter, Eugene F., T/Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., T/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? Belle” P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt CP Sanders, William A., 2Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt E Harageones, George J., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), S/Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Cpl Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 P Leonard, Lee V., Capt CP Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N None B Kiska, George P., 1Lt E Haack, Cecil J., T/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 684/mission 684) Group Mission # 684: The 448th had one plane on the second Group mission of today, loaded with 1000 lb. long delay fused bombs. The target, the San Michele rail fill, was covered with a good concentration of bombs. No enemy opposition was encountered, and the plane and its crew returned with the formation safely to base.

Wednesday, 17 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 (Lead spare - filled in with the 445th BS) P Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Cloudy. Rain ceased during the night. French toast, syrup, oatmeal, fruit juice, coffee. Scotty and I left for 310th. Courier going to Florence but not Rome. Returned to squadron 10:30 AM. Van off on mission. Macaroni and meat balls, gravy, sliced beets, chocolate pudding, coffee. Attended USO camp show at 2:30PM. Enclosed theater almost complete (hangar). Show was fair. Showers caught on fire again resulting from a short circuit. Slight damage. Mission returned 4:00PM - very rough. Several of our ships badly shot up. No injuries. 447th radio operator killed and tail gunner wounded. Target was way up in Po Valley. John returned from Bastia (shacked up). Cloudy PM. Roast beef, gravy, dehydrated potatoes, sliced beets, chocolate pudding, coffee, bread, butter. Retired 10:30PM.” Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl, gunner

Thursday, 18 January 1945

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

In Italy, during the night of 17/18 Jan, A-20s attack Po River crossings, lights and movement throughout the Po Valley; during the day medium bombers pound targets on the Brenner line, including a temporary bridge between San Michele all'Adige and Ora, and an overhanging cliff over the railroad at San Ambrogio di Valpolicella; fighters and fighter-bombers blast communications lines in NE Italy and fuel and supply dumps in the Piacenza area, destroying numerous railroad tracks, trains, and vehicles, and causing explosions or fires in most of the dumps.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission weather. Routine camp duties.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 685/mission 685) Group Mission # 685: Ala RR Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 686/mission 686) Group Mission # 686: Rovereto RR Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron attacked the Ala railroad bridge and the Borgo Val di Toro bridge in Italy with 95.8 and 100 per cent bombing accuracy respectively. Sgts. Larkin, Doherty and Chambers were promoted to technical sergeant today while Cpls. Clayton and Edwards were advanced to the grade of sergeant. Five officers and two enlisted men were sent to rest camp today. There was some ground and air training held today. Major Bounds went duck-hunting today on a clear day. Cpl. Ferrell Phaup was relieved of his duties as duty sergeant and broken to the grade of private for inefficiency. He was relieved by K.C. Jones. There was a fairly good mail call today. Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Clayton, Ross W., Sgt, gunner Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt, gunner Edwards, Jack M., Sgt, gunner Jones, Casey (NMI), 2Lt, ordnance Larkin, Francis C. "Charley", T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Phaup, Ferrell, G., Pvt, transportation

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 685/mission 685) Group Mission # 685: Group Mission #685; Squadron Mission # 431: Capt. Weld led a 22-ship formation – 11 from this squadron – to bomb the Ala railroad bridge, Italy. Area cover was furnished with no enemy fighter opposition reported. 1000 pound bombs and some 500 pound incendiaries were dropped from 12,500 feet. Several planes were unable to bomb the primary and attacked the alternate target, the Borgo Val Di Toro railroad bridge. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate with 2 ships holed and one lost. RESULTS: Excellent concentration on the Ala bridge with several strings through the bridge. There was a good concentration in the center of the Borgo bridge.

A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing Mae” lady) P Weld, Willis R., Capt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt Divine, Donald D., F/O N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., Sgt G Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, T/Sgt E Gum, Paul V., Cpl Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt Matter, Dean R., Sgt G Stack, James T., Cpl Edwards, Jack M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Can Wait” Bobby” P Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” (previously “Modern Design”) (Anti- (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Dyer, Robert H., Capt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt Brown, William G., F/O N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Ott, James V., Cpl G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy Lou” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Brunda, John G., Cpl G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt F None

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

TARGET: Borgo Val Di Toro Railroad Bridge, Italy. Third Element of First Flight:

A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” Portchester” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 1Lt Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., 2Lt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Pearson, George E., Sgt R Reagin, Charles T., Sgt Lowrey, James S., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt Henry, William W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 P Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None B Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt E Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Freidli, William M., Cpl F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 686/mission 686) Group Mission # 686: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: Another mission is flown as the weather gives the group a chance to knock out some more bridges in the Po Valley region.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 685/mission 685) Group Mission # 685: Squadron Mission 474 TARGET: Ala RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 18 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb., and Incendiaries. 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Ramsay was the pilot. One incendiary ship reported hits on N gun positions, two missed their objectives and one returned bombs to base, gun position not identified. Primary target reported hit. The formation received flak but the incendiary planes did not. One plane was shot down by flak (447th). Five chutes seen.

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily We Bob Along” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt E Carl, Edgar W., Cpl R Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Cpl G Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 686/mission 686) Group Mission # 686: Squadron Mission 475 TARGET: Rovereto RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 18 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 10 Captain Matthews led the formation. First flight’s bombs covered the bridge with a good concentration. Second flight hit over to E of target. Last element of the second flight had a poor run on the primary target and attacked the alternate, reporting a string of bombs across the center of bridge. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate barrage type. Lt. Crisp the spare returned early.

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS Leading Lady”, previously “Miss PAOLA II) Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Derringer, Albert J., 1Lt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Luitjens, Harvey J., T/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little (later name dropped from nose art) Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl R Benedict, William P., Cpl Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Holdridge, John F., Sgt F None None Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” (previously “Tiny?”) P Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt Anderson, William H., 2Lt N None None B Law, John B., Sgt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Winegarden, Leslie R., T/Sgt Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Andrews, James Robert, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Girl” Bull” P Ziglar, Frank C., Maj Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 1Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl Henry, Clark H., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Sgt Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Little Boy Val”) 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt CP Long, Emmett N., 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None Codd, Russell G., F/O B DeSorbo, John S., Sgt Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl Lamm, Earl D., Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt Wimert, Donald A., Cpl G Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt Springer, Walter H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 “Barbara” (did not complete mission) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt R Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt F None

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 27) “No. 27) Went back to Rovereto R.R. Bridge. Loads of flak. Picked up about 30 holes. Hit in Hand and Thigh. 4x1000. Matthews.” Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt, pilot

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

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 685/mission 685) Group Mission # 685: 9 of our planes flew mission on Ala Rail Bridge in northern Italy. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. Lt. Murchland’s plane had the left engine shot out and the crew bailed out 17 minutes from target in the Po Valley. It is known for certain that five chutes were seen to open and there is a strong possibility that all six men jumped. The ship was under control until just before it crashed and burned. The crew was as follows: 1st Lt. Robert K. Murchland, pilot; F/O Emil R. Nyman, co-pilot; 2nd Lt. John B. Bokum, bombardier; Sgt. Charles J. Hopp, engineer; Sgt. William F. Hourahan, Jr., radio-gunner; and Sgt. Samuel E. Fromm, armorer-gunner.

A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Maria” Teddie” P Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Haage, Frederick W., F/O N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Davies, John V., 1Lt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt Mullis, Paul C., Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Cpl G Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless Fosdick” P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt Hardage, Charles W., Cpl R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl G Gorden, Robert L., Sgt Williams, James H., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel A/C No. 43-4069 Tail # ? “Ruptured Devil” Duck” (MACR-11713 - shot down) P Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt Murchland, Robert Keith, 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt Nyman, Emil R., F/O N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Bokum, John B., 2Lt E Perl, Richard H., Sgt Hopp, Charles J., Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Hourahan, William F., Jr., Sgt G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Fromm, Samuel E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” David” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Cpl G Goldman, Marvin S., Cpl Young, Robert E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None B Gary, Neil F., Sgt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Sgt G Citarelli, James E., Sgt F None

447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 11713:

A/C No. 43-4069 Tail # ? “Ruptured Duck” (MACR-11713 - shot down) P Murchland, Robert Keith, 1Lt - MIA, evaded enemy, RMC CP Nyman, Emil R., F/O - MIA, POW, returned N None B Bokum, John B., 2Lt - MIA, POW, returned E Hopp, Charles J., Sgt - MIA, POW, returned R Hourahan, William F., Jr., Sgt - KIA G Fromm, Samuel E., Cpl - KIA F None Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

Eyewitness Account: Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

447th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF A.P.O. 650 20 January 1945 360:33 Murchland, R. K., and Crew.

SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report

TO : Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)

1. I was Pilot of the Plane flying on Lt. Murchland’s left wing on January 18, 1945. Lt. Murchland was leading the second element of the second flight of nine planes.

2. On the break-away from the target, his ship was flying normally and seemed to be undamaged. As soon as the formation rolled out level, after the break, we received several bursts of flak and immediately afterward gasoline began to pour out of the ship’s left nacelle. I notified 069 immediately and he stated that he was going on single engine. Just after that, he began to lose power and, as a result, airspeed and altitude. Lt. Murchland tried to feather the left engine but was unsuccessful. Not being able to maintain his altitude, he decided to bail out, that being the only possible thing he could have done under the circumstances.

3. The plane was under control and at approximately 5,000 feet when the last man bailed out. As the last man left the plane, the plane turned to the right and crashed and burned. Five chutes were seen by the men on my crew, but I feel reasonably sure that all of the crew bailed out, since the ship was under control until the last man bailed out. JACKSON R. DODSON, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Pilot. (Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 20 Jan 45, 447th Bomb Sq (M) Pilot: 1st Lt. Robert K., Murchland, 0-764759, B-25J, A/C No. 43-4069)

J. MAURICE WIGINTON, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. Incl 3. ------

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

Eyewitness Account: Williams, James H., S/Sgt, gunner, 447th BS

447th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF A.P.O. 650 20 January 1945 360:33 Murchland, R. K., and Crew.

SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report

TO : Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)

1. Just off the target I noticed 069 falling behind and called the Pilot of my ship but he already knew that the ship was in trouble--left engine trouble and unable to feather the prop. The ship in which I flew as Tail Gunner and one other ship had dropped back with 069, which was losing altitude. We followed him down part of the way.

2. When the fellows began to leave the plane, they were below and to the left of us and banking back and forth gently. I saw something fly away from the plane which I believe was one of the hatches and almost instantly a figure came out. I followed it with my eyes until the chute opened. Then I saw another body falling and another chute open. That is all that I saw near the ship, but later circling around, I saw three open chutes in the air. The plane in its weaving was out of my sight most of the time because of being under us. JAMES H. WILLIAMS, Sergeant, 18052033. (Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 20 Jan 45, 447th Bomb Sq (M) Pilot: 1st Lt. Robert K., Murchland, 0-764759, B-25J, A/C No. 43-4069) J. MAURICE WIGINTON, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. Incl 4. ------

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

Eyewitness Account: Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt, bombardier-gunner, 447th BS

447th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF A.P.O. 650 20 January 1945 360:33 Murchland, R. K., and Crew.

SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report

TO : Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)

1. On the mission on January 18th I was Bombardier on the plane flying on Lt. Murchland’s left wing. Just after coming off the target it was obvious that Lt. Murchland’s plane was in trouble. The first thing that I saw leave the ship looked like a bomb, but it was a delayed jump and the chute opened at about 1000 feet. In just a few seconds another came out and opened, and then two more blossomed out. Then it seemed a minute before the last man that I saw jump came out, and his chute opened

NORMAN B. LUBINSKY, Sergeant, 39577232 (Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 20 Jan 45, 447th Bomb Sq (M) Pilot: 1st Lt. Robert K., Murchland, 0-764759, B-25J, A/C No. 43-4069) J. MAURICE WIGINTON, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. Incl 5. ------

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 686/mission 686) Group Mission # 686: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Myers returned this morning from the 9th Air Force rest camp at Cannes, France, and Captain Furey and Lieutenant Gladwell left this afternoon for it. Lieutenant Garrett and Sergeant Sullivan left this morning for DS with the 12th Air Force (rear). Lieutenants Lyons, Autrey, Gilbert, and Rubin and Sergeants Baird and Gage returned from the Capri AAF rest camp and Lieutenant Ivory and Kuoni and Sergeants Brusa and Turner left as the 448th’s quota to the Capri rest camp. Privates White and Hochron were transferred to Hq. MATS and left this afternoon. Sergeant Schaffer and Sergeant Scott left today to go to Rome to make a Public Relations Release radio recording of a combat experience. It was the first radio release for the 448th. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt, pilot Baird, James (NMI), Jr., Sgt, gunner Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, gunner Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Garrett, Thaddeus D., 1Lt, pilot Gilbert, Ralph W., 1Lt, ordnance Gladwell, James G., 1Lt, pilot Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Pvt, engineer-gunner Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt, pilot Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt, pilot Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, gunner Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence Sullivan, Timothy V., Sgt, gunner Turner, James H., Sgt, gunner White, Joseph J., Pvt, engineer

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 685/mission 685) Group Mission # 685: Lieutenant Lee flew the 448th’s lone plane on today’s mission. Loaded with incendiary bombs they were to attack gun positions at the target, the Ala railroad bridge. The gun positions were well covered with a good pattern of bombs, knocking out several of them resulting in only moderate but accurate anti-aircraft fire being encountered by the formation. No casualties or damage was suffered by the 448th’s plane.

A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Swing” (first # 76) P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N None B McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Cpl R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 686/mission 686) Group Mission # 686:

A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Bard, John A., 1Lt Smith, Milford A., 2Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt E Reves, Louis E., Sgt Codd, James P., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Wilson, James M., 2Lt Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt CP Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Nolkemper, Harold J., S/Sgt N None None B Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt E White, Frank H., Cpl Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Smith, Norman L., Cpl Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of Bounds” P Cooper, Richard J., 2Lt Cooks, Don W., 2Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt N None None B Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Murray, Francis J., Cpl R Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N None None B LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Varga, Frank K., Cpl E Morian, Charles R., Cpl Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 18 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Burks, Richard W., Capt Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 1Lt CP Russell, John D., 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., 2Lt None B Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 1Lt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Left squadron area at 8:30 with Scotty by jeep. Took off from 310th on #479 (43-27479) which is a 57th BW ship. Lt Sculley, pilot. Landed Ciampino Airfield, Rome 11:00AM. Field quite muddy. Sun shining. ATC bus took us to town. (Command car). Went to MAA - PRO headquarters. Script censored. Passed OK. Made recording for broadcast at Radio Rome. (4:30PM) Very successful. Scotty and I hired apartment at California Pensione. $1.00 per person. Radio, piano, bathroom, etc. Dominic, padrone of apt remembered me from last November. Developing a bad chest cold. No heat in building. Spent very uncomfortable night.” Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence Sculley, Thomas S., 1Lt, pilot

Friday, 19 January 1945

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, during the night of 18/19 Jan, A-20s bomb motor transport movements, lights, roads, and railroads throughout the Po Valley; weather cancels medium bomber operations and prevents fighter-bombers from completing the XXII Tactical Air Command's only mission airborne during the day.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. Permanent rotation took one of the Group’s original officers when Captain Joe Ilg went back to the states. Very conscientious and methodical, Captain Ilg has served with the S-4 section as Materiel Officer and of late with S-3 as Personal Equipment Officer. “Joe’s” prowess as an athlete will also be missed in the Intra-Group athletic programs. S/Sgt. Wirthman, S-2’s contribution to physical culture came back from the hospital looking and feeling only a little bit better than when he left. Seems like G.I. grub has been doing things to his digestive system. “Van” came back praising the hospital food – and nurses too. Ilg, Joseph M. “Joe”, Jr., Capt, personal equipment, Materiel Officer Wirthman, Vander E. "Van", S/Sgt, intelligence

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Three officers and two enlisted men combat crew members were assigned to the squadron today. Three combat officers and two enlisted men were sent to rest camp. Sgt. Owens and Pvt. Borck left the squadron today for rotation. Sgt. Owens, a crew chief, is going home on 30-day rotation while Borck had sweated out permanent rotation for several months and finally made the team. Old Man Weather cooked up a rare mixture of freak weather including rain, winds and some fancy rainbows that caught the fancy of squadron personnel. Some members of this squadron joined the group team that played the 340th 9-man touch football team in the mud at Knapp Field today. Both teams slogged in the goo and finally the game wound up in a 6-6 tie. Capt. Hargrave, the group air liaison officer, gave a lecture on the war at the enlisted men’s club this evening. Borck, Jess S., Pvt, armament Owens, Fred S., Sgt, engineering, crew chief Hargrave, Frederick M., Capt, Allied Liaison Officer, HQ 321st BG

446th BS War Diary: Squadron duties and a bit of maintenance work on the line as no mission is flown.

447th BS War Diary: No mission due to bad weather. The following officers relieved from assignment and assigned to 7th replacement depot on combat rotation for transshipment to U.S. Par. 1, Ltr. Hq, 12th AF, 15 Jan. 1945. Capts. William C. Huffman, Richard E. Murray and Harold N. Lindell. T/Sgt. Fred C. Wilczynski relieved from assignment and assigned to 7th Repl. Depot for transshipment to U.S. Par. 1, Ltr. Orders, Hq 12th AF, 15 Jan 45. Cpl. Charles Davenport and Pfc Patrick L. Kelly duty to TD US. Davenport, Charles (NMI), Cpl, armament Huffman, William C., Capt, bombardier Kelly, Patrick L., PFC, ordnance Lindell, Harold N., Capt, navigator Murray, Richard E., Capt, pilot Wilczynski, Fred C., T/Sgt, engineering, crew chief Friday, 19 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Private Lellis left today for TD with the 310th Bomb Group. Lieutenant Friedman, a celestial navigator, was assigned to the Squadron today. Second Lieutenants Autrey, Cherry, Churchill, Cook, Cooper, Copes, Ivory, and Smith were promoted to First Lieutenants today. There were beaucoup free drinks in the Officer’s club in celebration of the promotions. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, pilot Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt, pilot Cook, Don W., 1Lt, pilot Cooper, James W., 1Lt, pilot Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt, pilot Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt, celestial navigator Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Lellis, Michael C., Pvt, duty soldier Smith, Milford A., 1Lt, pilot

448th BS Mission Summary: Once again bad weather intervened to make the mission for today stand down.

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:00AM. Room very cold and washing water the same. T/Sgt Sam Levine, HQ Sq 57th bomb wing and Cpl James L Madden of same, out with Pat Fred Allen of the 310th bomb group are staying in same apt building. Capt John Gilluly of the 310th bomb group was also on broadcast. Ate chow at GI restaurant. Did some shopping. Prices are very high. Spasmodic rain throughout the AM. Went to the Jewish soldier's club and enjoyed a breakfast of pastry and coffee. (incidentally I met Lobley and Tony (5th army) at Mario's bar last night. Also seen usual run of prostitutes. Fixed the boys up with females for a good night's sleep. After that we went to Gori's - favorite eating spot where all these wenches bring their soldier boys. Retired 11:30PM. After kibitzing with Anna (landlady) and her tall, blond good-looking daughter.” Gilluly, John W., Capt, pilot, 380th BS, 310th BG (former 447th BS) Levine, Sam, T/Sgt, HQ 57th BW Madden, James L., Cpl, HQ 57th BW (also 486th BS, 340th BG)

Saturday, 20 January 1945

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

In Italy, medium bombers destroy 1 and damage another bridge near San Michele all'Adige, and score good coverage on the Trento marshalling yard; the XXII Tactical Air Command fighter-bombers very successfully blast communications and fuel and ammunition dumps in the Po Valley.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission –weather. The daily detail led by Sergeant Clifford “Muscle Builder” Dodson has been fixing the road leading into the Headquarters area and right now it’s in pretty good shape. Any enlisted man below the first three grades, or otherwise excused, is subject to this detail about once every 12 days. Dodson, Clifford W. "Muscle Builder", Sgt, personnel

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Lt. Rice, who was responsible for cracking up aircraft 509 by raising the landing gear before the plane was airborne on a training flight on January 12, is under-going a training program outlined by group operations by flying with staff officers of the various squadrons. Luxury rations were distributed this afternoon. Overseas service stripes were given out to the men – four of them to the old boys of the squadron. Several letters arrived in the mail call today addressed to Capt. James O. Jackson. They were written by his ever-loving wife and they beat him here. He is due “any day now”. Jackson, James Oliver, Capt, intelligence Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Home-bound personnel of the squadron include two of the original men. Cpl. Ilnicki and Line Chief Council Walker. Combat personnel getting orders to go home include Lieut. Kiernan and EM Freeman, C.O., Petrella, and Bryan. Promotions for two armament men are posted: Sosnika is made a staff, Lancaster a sergeant. Bryan, Dwight L., S/Sgt, gunner Freeman, Cecil O., T/Sgt, gunner Ilnicki, William N., Cpl, engineering Kiernan, Noble J. 1Lt, bombardier Lancaster, Francis M., Sgt, armament Petrella, Luigi C., T/Sgt, gunner Sosnika, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt, armament Walker, Council T., M/Sgt, engineer-gunner

447th BS War Diary: No mission due to bad weather. Usual camp duties were the order of the day. Morning Report for week ending Jan. 20th: Officers—84, E/M—349.

448th BS War Diary: At briefing this morning a shake-down inspection was conducted on the combat personnel of the Squadron there. Numerous discrepancies were found in violation of security regulations. Warning was given to them with disciplinary action as punishment for further violations. Lieutenant Riley and Sergeants Doughty, Pineda, Carrick, and Knauss left this morning for the USA after completing their combat flying here. Sergeant Freeman, airplane mechanic with the Squadron left on 30 days TD in the US, and Corporal Tucker, chemical warfare man with the Squadron, left on ground rotation for the US today also. Saturday, 20 January 1945 (continued)

Carrick, Kenneth M., Sgt, gunner Doughty, Paul V., Sgt, gunner Freeman, Abraham (NMI), Sgt, engineering Knauss, Charles F., Sgt, gunner Pineda, Nico M., T/Sgt, gunner Riley, Robert L., 1Lt, pilot Tucker, George M., Cpl, chemical warfare service

448th BS Mission Summary: The mission took off as scheduled this morning but it was forced to turn back over Italy due to bad weather there. No credit for the mission was given.

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:10AM because Lobley was urging us to get up. Ate chow at GI restaurant. Bid Lobley and Tony so long and checked out of our apt. Went out to airfield. 442nd at field - pilot in town. Waited at field until 5:30PM. (Field closes) Lt Huggan, pilot of ship went and goofed off in town. Registered at rest camp after a lot of hustling about (9:00PM). Dilly, dallying around due to inefficiency of man in charge. Spoke with Clarence Butterfield. Attended dance at Tibre Terrace. Negroes attend same as whites. Very aggravating. Our quarters at rest camp very warm. Ate midnight chow. Retired 1:00AM. Cold is slightly better.”

Sunday, 21 January 1945

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

In Italy, weather restricts operations during the night of 21/22 Jan to armed reconnaissance by 5 A-20s; the A-20s bomb communications targets in the Po Valley. During the day B-25s hit bridges at Rovereto and Lavis, destroy a bridge at Pontetidone, and blast a railroad fill at San Michele all' Adige, and supply dump at Cremona; fighters and fighter-bombers concentrate on communications in the same area as the medium bombers, destroying 1 bridge, inflicting 36 rail cuts, hitting fuel and ammunition dumps, and destroying and damaging many vehicles and much railroad rolling stock, mostly in Milan area.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Twenty-four planes to the Lavis Railroad Diversion reported fair coverage with North approach cut in several places.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 687/mission 687) Group Mission # 687: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 688/mission 688) Group Mission # 688: Rail Diversion Bridge at Lavis (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 689/mission 689) Group Mission # 689: Lavis Rail Viaduct (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron helped attack the Lavis rail viaduct, Italy with 100 per cent bombing accuracy resulting. It rained today. Capt. Hatcher returned from the rest camp at Cannes, France. He spent several days at the hospital there. Angelo Kangas was especially sharp in his cutting wit tonight as he parried verbal thrusts with both officers and enlisted men. Although he is as versatile with the officers as he is with the enlisted men, his jibes with the officers are all the more enjoyed for obvious reasons. The chicken served for supper was poor again. There was no mail today. Alas and alack. Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot Kangas, Angelo J., Cpl, operations

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 687/mission 687) Group Mission # 687: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 688/mission 688) Group Mission # 688: (445th BS did not participate) Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 689/mission 689) Group Mission # 689: Group Mission #689; Squadron Mission # 432: Lt. Bowling led 13 ships from this squadron forming the third flight of a 24-plane formation sent out to attack the Lavis rail viaduct, Italy. Area cover was provided. The ships dropped 1000 pound bombs from 12,500 to 13,000 feet. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate with 13 ships being holed although none were lost. However, 1 man from another squadron was killed and another wounded. A total of some 15 unidentified single-engine aircraft were sighted near Vicenza but did not attack. RESULTS: Bombs fell across the west section of the viaduct and to the north and south but the main concentration fell between the viaduct and the nearby river.

A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 Mae” P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt CP Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., 2Lt N Cravey, Robert P., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, T/Sgt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, S/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., Sgt Henry, William W., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Lou” House Mouse” P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E Taylor, Marian R., S/Sgt Hagains, John R., Cpl R Reagin, Charles T., Sgt Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Stack, James T., Cpl Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss A/C No. 44-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Bobby” (first # 06) P Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt None listed E Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl R Brunda, John G., Cpl Matter, Dean R., Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Belle Fontaine” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N None None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Cpl R Engleman, Bud (NMI), S/Sgt Ott, James V., Cpl G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Osborn, Jack R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Portchester” Beauty” P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O None listed - likely the gunner - Jones, Harvey J., Cpl E Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl Jones, Harvey J., Cpl F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Can Wait” Louis” P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 2Lt E McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Nuttall, John H., Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Edwards, Jack M., Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” (Lead spare - did not fill in) (Wing spare - filled in first flight - third element - no. three position) P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Russo, Paul A., Cpl G Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown to Lavis railroad Diversion, Italy.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 687/mission 687) Group Mission # 687: Squadron Mission 476 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 21 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: - - 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Shaw, C. M., 1Lt (weather officer)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 688/mission 688) Group Mission # 688: Squadron Mission 477 TARGET: Lavis RR Diversion, Italy DATE: 21 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12 Captain Grady led the formation. One box of six hit several hundred feet short and to the E. Others hit in the target area with best concentration hitting N end and approach. Smoke pots ineffective. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, accurate. Fifteen planes holed, one crash-landed at base. No fighters. Lt. Crinnion landed at 310th field with rudder and control cable shot away. Grady, John R., Capt, pilot, 448th BS

A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little We Bob Along” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Ziglar, Frank C., Maj Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 1Lt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably seated lady - no name/lettering) ”Hauling Ass II” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt N None None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Law, John B., Sgt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” (later name dropped from nose art) P Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Long, Emmett N., 2Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B DeSorbo, John S., Sgt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Griffin, John A., Cpl Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS Leading Lady”, previously “Miss PAOLA II) Dallas”) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” (previously “Tiny?”) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt Anderson, William H., F/O N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl Boylan, James P., Cpl R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Anderson, Chester S., Cpl Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Baby” Bull” P Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N None None B Beecher, Everett F., Sgt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Reda, John J., Sgt Utz, James W., Sgt R Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl G Hatcher, James T., Cpl Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt CP Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl G Springer, Walter H., Cpl F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 689/mission 689) Group Mission # 689: (446th BS did not participate)

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

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 687/mission 687) Group Mission # 687: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 688/mission 688) Group Mission # 688: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 689/mission 689) Group Mission # 689: Eight plane mission against Lavis Viaduct, Lavis, Italy, on the Brenner Pass line. Lt. Roland G. Bullion, pilot, was killed by a direct flak hit. The co-pilot, Lt. Briggs, and Sgt. Perl, engineer, who took the pilot’s seat, did a fine job of bringing the plane back safely.

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Davies, John V., 1Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl Stokes, Robert C., 1Lt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt G Drew, Horace E., Sgt Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 Doll” P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt McDermott, James W., 1Lt E Price, Charles J., Cpl Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Harvey, John A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel Maria” Devil” P Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 1Lt CP Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt Gary, Neil F., Sgt E Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt Perl, Richard H., Sgt R Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Sgt Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little (Meet Mrs. Runyon) David” P Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt CP Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt N Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, 1Lt None B Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O E Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt MacMullen, Clarence C., Cpl R Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl G Young, Robert E., Sgt Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Staff Sergeant Bass was promoted to Technical Sergeant today, Sergeants Edwards and Reves were promoted to Staff Sergeant and Corporals Turner, Vandenberg and Weese were promoted to Sergeant. Sergeants Schaffer and Sergeant Scott returned from Rome today. From all reports the recording went over perfectly. Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt, gunner Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt, photographer Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt, gunner Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, gunner Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence Turner, James H., Sgt, gunner Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner Weese, Charles F., Sgt, gunner

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 687/mission 687) Group Mission # 687: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 688/mission 688) Group Mission # 688: On the first mission today the 448th had 12 planes, the lead element led by Captain Grady. The target was the rail diversion bridge at Lavis, Italy. Taking off on schedule despite the threatening weather, the formation encountered heavy cloud formations over Italy but over the target area it was CAVU. On the bomb run enemy fire was heavy and intense with a number of the planes being holed, but no casualties suffered. The enemy attempted to obscure the target with smoke pots but these were also ineffective. Excellent patterns were scored in the target area with the heaviest concentrations being at the north end and approach. One shell fragment punctured one of Lieutenant Rubin’s tires over the target, and when he attempted to land, he ground-looped his plane. No one was injured however in the landing.

A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 Swing” (first # 76) P Grady, John R., Capt Fleming, George B., , 1Lt CP Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Morian, Charles R., Cpl Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Cpl R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Ward, Paul D., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 P Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Rutz, Victor H., F/O Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt R Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt G Atherton, Robert C., Cpl Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27652 Tail # ? “Out of A/C No. 44-28081 Tail # 81 Bounds” P Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 1Lt CP Sanders, William A., 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 2Lt N None None B Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt E Parham, Ralph E., Cpl Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl R Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl Hunter, Dewey G., Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) But Not Out” (first # 87) P Cook, Don W., 1Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N None None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl R Fletcher, William H., Cpl Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt G Tangren, Donald E., Cpl Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt Smith, Milford A., 1Lt CP Russell, John D., 2Lt Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Allendorph, John B., 2Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Cpl Wright, Melvin M., Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Wilson, James M., 2Lt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Mann, James R., 2Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N None None B Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Reves, Louis E., Sgt E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Cpl Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Cpl G Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None

Sunday, 21 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 689/mission 689) Group Mission # 689: The 448th had three planes with the formation that attacked the Lavis rail viaduct on the second mission. The weather over the target was CAVU and heavy and intense anti- aircraft fire was encountered damaging one of the planes. Sergeant Hawthorne received lacerations about the face when a shell fragment shattered plexiglass canopy of his compartment. Ten to fifteen unidentified fighters were seen in the target area, but they made no passes at the bombers. A good concentration of bombs was scored on the west section of the viaduct. All planes returned safely at 1425.

A/C No. 43-27673 Tail # ? A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt Varga, Frank K., Cpl E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt N None B Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt G Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Fair weather. Ate chow at rest camp. Checked out. Met pilot at officers’ billeting. Hung around airfield for three hours waiting for engineer (shacked up). Took off 12:50PM. Landed 310th at 1:40PM. 57th BW command car took us to 321st. Mission out. Pilot in 447 killed - very rough. Glad to be back. Cold about the same. Rations: 6 bottles beer, 2 cokes, 14 pkg cigarettes, 3 pkg gum, 3 cigars, 10 candy bars, 1 cake soap, 1 bar Fig Newtons, 1 can peanuts. Vanderberg awarded air medal and also made buck Sgt. Feeling very tired. Didn't do a thing. Retired 8:00PM.” Bullion, Roland G. “Rollo”, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner

Monday, 22 January 1945

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

In Italy, B-25s score damaging hits at Rovereto, San Michele all' Adige and on the Dogna bridge, and attack the Chiari and Crema bridges with fair results; fighter-bombers range over practically all of N Italy destroying and damaging a large number of vehicles and railway cars and several locomotives, also hitting fuel and ammunition dumps around Mantua. The air echelon of the 417th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth AF (attached to 422nd Night Fighter Squadron) operating from Florennes, Belgium with Beaufighters, returns to base at La Vallon, France.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Of the 24 planes sent to the Lavis Railroad Diversion, 7 bombed and hit the North approach while 15 bombed the alternate target of Crema with a healthy concentration on West end and approach. The 2nd flight of 18 planes also split – one element hit the primary at San Michele Tracks while the other 15 planes laid a perfect concentration on the center of the Chiari Railroad Bridge. The German class reached an attendance of 25 today, reports one of the students of Prof. T/Sgt. Hodgen, Sgt. Harry Zerbel. With the Russians pushing toward Berlin the way they are, “die Studenten” probably figure they might get to use the language they are learning so readily. Hodgen, Allen J., T/Sgt, personnel Zerbel, Harry R., Sgt, personnel

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 690/mission 690) Group Mission # 690: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 691/mission 691) Group Mission # 691: Lavis Railroad Diversion - Alternate Crema Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 692/mission 692) Group Mission # 692: San Michele tracks, Italy - Alternate Chiari Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The day was perfect with no wind and a bright sun shining. To fit the perfect weather, the squadron flew two perfect missions, blasting both the San Michele tracks, Italy and the Chiari railroad bridge, Italy with 100 per cent bombing accuracy. The weather was extremely cold and Sgt. Kabrich had both legs frozen on the mission. There was the usual flight training. Some mail and packages arrived in late afternoon. Sgt. Lipshin was relived of his duties in the kitchen due to sickness and was made sergeant of the guard. A total of 23 men were counted in the operations- intelligence hut listening to the 9 P.M. news tonight. The remarkable progress made by the swiftly-advancing Russian armies have created a lively subject for discussion among the men. Sgt. Kabrich was sent to the 40th Hospital for observation. Kabrich, Harry Lee, Sgt, gunner Lipshin, Philip P., Sgt, mess Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 690/mission 690) Group Mission # 690: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 691/mission 691) Group Mission # 691: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 692/mission 692) Group Mission # 692: Group Mission #692; Squadron Mission # 433: TARGET: Chiari Rail Bridge - Alternate (bombed by first six planes) San Michele Rail Line (bombed by third element) TAKE OFF: 1010 hours RETURN: 1410 hours Capt. Weld led 9 ships of this squadron in the lead of a 17-ship formation sent out to bomb the San Michele tracks, Italy. The alternate target was the railroad bridge at Chiari, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 feet at both targets. Weather was good at both targets. There was no flak at either target. RESULTS: Compact concentration on center of both bridges.

A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” P Weld, Willis R., Capt Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Murphy, John P., 2Lt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Lowrey, James S., Cpl G Jones, Harold G., Sgt Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Louis” Cookin’?”) P Cox, Harold L., 1Lt McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N None None B Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl F None None

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Beauty” House Mouse” P Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B None listed Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, T/Sgt E Gum, Paul V., Cpl Larson, Richard A., Cpl R Barnett, Frank E., Sgt Matter, Dean R., Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Puchalla, John M., 2Lt E Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Reagin, Charles T., Sgt G Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl Freidli, William M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Bobby” (Wing spare - did not fill in) P Santone, Michael A., 1Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt Hagains, John R., Cpl R Ott, James V., Cpl Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl F None None

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/22/45: “This evening I began writing a birthday letter to Don. I was surprised to find I had made no entry under this date of last year and decided to correct that oversight in my present journal. As I recall last year we were called together on the eve of the 21st by Col. Olmsted and given in detail the projected plans for the Anzio landing which took place a year ago this morning, and the part we were to have in it. We were all quite certain Rome would be taken in a few days. Now we are just as geared up over the Russian offensive. Tonight the radio says they are 160 miles from Berlin and it appears they will go right on in. It’s amazing the speed of their advance and the war picture is brighter now than it has ever been before. It’s the topic of continuous conversation.” Olmsted, Charles T., Col, pilot, Executive, HQ 321st BG

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Another mission to the Lavis region is flown.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 690/mission 690) Group Mission # 690: Squadron Mission 478 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 22 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: --- 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Shaw, C. M., 1Lt (weather officer)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 691/mission 691) Group Mission # 691: Squadron Mission 479 TARGET: Lavis RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 22 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 13 Lt. Wozniak led the formation. Seven a/c bombed primary, hitting N of the bridges, possibly cutting railway at the N dyke. Fifteen a/c bombed alternate because of poor bomb run due to extreme turbulence at the primary. Smoke pots greatly reduced visibility at the primary. Alternate received good concentration on W half of bridge which was believed hit. Flak was heavy, moderate, inaccurate. One plane holed. No fighters.

A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov (previously “Tiny?”) 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Wozniak, Stanley E., Capt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., F/O None B Derringer, Albert J., 1Lt None - Pilot Release E Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably ”Hauling Ass II” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Taylor, Richard E., 2Lt CP Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Anderson, Chester S., Cpl Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) P Crinnion, Edward V., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N None None B None - Pilot Release Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt R Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Bull” (Wing spare - filled in on wing with 448th BS) P Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt Anderson, William H., F/O N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Beecher, Everett P., Sgt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy Girl” Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) (Bombed alternate - Crema) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt Law, John B., Sgt E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None None

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? Baby” (Bombed alternate - Crema) “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) (Bombed alternate - Crema) P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Utz, James W., Cpl Boylan, James P., Cpl R Carl, Edgar W., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) (Bombed alternate - Crema) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt B Leith, William V., 1Lt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 692/mission 692) Group Mission # 692: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 28) “No. 28) Lavis R.R. Div. Very little flak But very accurate. 4x1000. For once no holes. Lt. Everhart” Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Ernest C. Rice promoted to captain, Par. 2, SO 15, Hq. 12th AF, 17 Jan 1945. The following officers and E/M assigned and joined squadron from Hq., 57th Bomb Wing, Par. 3, SO 10, 19 Jan. 1945: 2nd Lts. Herbert E. Barrett, Robert O. Britt, William V. Gough, Donald P. Twieg, Robert H. Young, F/O Tony Pobereyko, T/Sgts. Philip L. Judkins, Freeman P. Tyler, S/Sgt. Luther A. Pennington, Cpls. John T. Smith, Thomas J. Maloney, Frederick J. Krauss, and Joseph E. Flanagan. Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt, pilot Britt, Robert O., 2Lt, pilot Flanagan, Joseph E., Cpl, gunner Gough, William V., 2Lt, bombardier Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt, gunner Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl, gunner Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl, gunner Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt, gunner Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O, bombardier Rice, Ernest C., Capt, pilot Smith, John T., Cpl, gunner Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt, pilot Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt, gunner Young, Robert H., 2Lt, pilot Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 690/mission 690) Group Mission # 690: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 691/mission 691) Group Mission # 691: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 692/mission 692) Group Mission # 692: 10 of our planes flew on a mission over Chiari Railroad bridge in northern Italy, the alternate target. The squadron came through with 100% bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave assigned a 2 digit Tail #) Maria” P Haage, Frederick W., F/O Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt N None None B Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt R Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt Smith, John T., S/Sgt G Householder, Joe F., Cpl Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Doll” P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None None B McKnight, John A., Jr., S/Sgt Davies, John V., 2Lt E Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt G Flanagan, Joseph E., Cpl Gorden, Robert L., Sgt F None None

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless Fosdick” P Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt N Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt None B Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O E Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt Hardage, Charles W., Cpl R Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Cpl Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl G Sims, James W., Sgt Williams, James H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 10 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

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

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 690/mission 690) Group Mission # 690: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 691/mission 691) Group Mission # 691: Lieutenant Bard led the 448th’s eleven planes on today’s mission which attacked the rail bridges at Lavis and Crema. Good weather prevailed enroute to and over the target, and heavy but inaccurate flak was met at Lavis. None of the planes were holed, however. The enemy made a vain attempt to obscure the target with smoke pots. One ME-110 was seen near there, and it followed the formation to the target but made no passes at it. The first element dropped on the Lavis bridge and scored numerous hits on the north approach, cutting the railway at the north dyke. Due to turbulent air there, the second element went to the Crema bridge. A good concentration was scored on the west half of the bridge, and some bombs were dropped on the east approach. All the planes retuned safely at 1410.

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Bard, John A., 1Lt Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Cpl Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N None None B Rutz, Victor H., F/O Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt E Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Sevier, Fred L., Cpl Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt E Powell, Neil J., Sgt Weese, Charles F., Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 P Wilson, James M., 2Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt Langley, Edward P., Jr., S/Sgt E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Murray, Francis J., Cpl R Varga, Frank K., Cpl Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Ederer, Robert J., Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None None

Monday, 22 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt Smith, Milford A., 1Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt None B Gardner, Phillip K., 2Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Cpl Wright, Melvin M., Sgt R Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 P Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt N None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt E Harageones, George J., Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Cpl G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 692/mission 692) Group Mission # 692: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Clear, cold. Briefing 9:00AM. Pancakes, oatmeal, fruit juice, jelly, coffee. Target is Lavis RR bridge in Brenner Pass. Carrying 1000 lb GP's. Defended. (43-27726) Lt Autrey, pilot. Flying with 16mm movie camera as PRO from group. Take off 10:15AM. #2 ship, 3rd element, 2nd flight. Italy completely covered with snow. Over primary at 12:50PM. Lead bombardiers' bombsight froze up. Did not bomb, scant flak. Bombed alternate target at Crema RR bridge (100% hit). Very cold and clear. 28 degrees below Celsius. Landed 3:15PM. Very tired. Supper - roast beef, gravy, beans, ice cream, bread, jelly, coffee. Clear, cold evening. Lt Autrey came over and we killed a quart of champagne I brought back from Rome, plus some combat whiskey. Retired 11:45PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot

Tuesday, 23 January 1945

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

In Italy, during the night of 22/23 Jan, A-20s bomb lights, roads, and river crossings at over 50 locations in the Po Valley, hit several targets of opportunity, and attack Borgoforte and San Benedetto Po and airfields at Villafranca di Verona and Ghedi; weather cancels medium bomber operations during the day; fighter-bombers operate mainly against communications, principally railroad targets, in the Po Valley but also hit ammunition dumps, shipping, guns, vehicles, and other targets in N Italy scattered from Genoa to NE Italy.

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

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 693/mission 693) Group Mission # 693: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Enlisted bombardiers attended a lecture on the bombsight on the line this afternoon. Lts. Middleton and Epstein were the instructors. Eight gunners received promotions today. There was the usual training program in effect. Three members of this squadron joined the group football team to play the 340th team. Once again they played on a wet field turned gradually into a sea of mud by a driving rain. This time the score was 7-7. Some mail and packages arrived today. The men enjoyed some coca colas at the club tonight. An unusually excellent movie was shown at the theater tonight. It was “Rhapsody in Blue”, one of the more recent pictures base on the life of the renowned song-writer George Gershwin. Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt, bombardier Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 693/mission 693) Group Mission # 693: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: No missions are flown and maintenance work is caught up with.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 693/mission 693) Group Mission # 693: Squadron Mission 480 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 23 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: --- 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

Tuesday, 23 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Griffing, George W., Capt, HQ 321st BG (weather officer)

447th BS War Diary: No mission today due to unfavorable flying weather. The following officers and E/M returned from rest camp at Capri: 2nd Lts. Richard G. Briggs, Paul B. Peck, Carl W. Cahoon, Sgts. Verlin B. Rowley, George T. Steele. Briggs, Richard G., 2Lt, pilot Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt, pilot Peck, Paul R., 2Lt, pilot Rowley, Verlin B., Sgt, intelligence Steele, George T., Sgt, engineering

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 693/mission 693) Group Mission # 693: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: Rain and cloudiness most of the day made the mission stand down, as all other operational flights were halted also. Sergeant Bergstrom returned from the hospital this morning. He had been there since he was seriously wounded in the Galliate mission. He is now awaiting orders to return to the United States. Nothing else other than the usual routine was the order for today. Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt, gunner

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 693/mission 693) Group Mission # 693: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:15AM. Briefing 8:35AM. Fried eggs, bacon, oatmeal, coffee, fruit juice, bread. Same target as yesterday. Take off 9:55. Stand-down. Flew local T for one hour. Landed 11:15AM. Cloudy. Meeting of all radio operators at 1:15PM at operations. Capt Burks spoke about group’s complaint about bad photography. Yours truly submitted suggestion regarding a plexiglass panel over camera hatch which is to be used. Lt Bennett, engineering officer taking over matter. Raining on first shift of guard, 6 to 10. Was put on motor pool. Fair evening. After guard, attended a brief chow at Scotty's tent. Very tired. Retired 12:00AM.” Bennett, Samuel J., 1Lt, engineering Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot Scott, Joseph M. “Scotty”, Sgt, intelligence Wednesday, 24 January 1945

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

In Italy, cloud conditions and ground fog at bases nearly halt operations; 1 medium bomber flies weather reconnaissance over the Venice area and P- 47s fly weather reconnaissance over the Bologna-Parma area; 2 of the P-47s destroy a truck and damage a train near Parma.

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

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 694/mission 694) Group Mission # 694: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. A navigator-bombardier and an armorer-gunner were assigned to the squadron today. Lts. Poteete and Vaughan went to the rest camp at Cannes, France by C-47 transport. Lts. Huchingson and Middleton; Sgts. Krauk, Apperson and Cpl. Brubaker went to the Rome rest camp. The enlisted bombardiers were given another lecture on the Norden bombsight, this time having Sgt. Beasley as instructor. A total of 10 ships went to the bombing range today while 5 others went to the instrument range. The rate machine went into action today at long last after it had been broken down for some time. Interest is still high on the progress of the lightning Russian armies who seem to steamroller the Germans without rest. Another unusually fine movie was enjoyed by the men tonight. It was “Mrs. Parkington” with Greer Garson and Walter Pidgeon turning in another swell job of acting teamwork. The men howled at a short showing the 12th Bomb Group at its new base in Burma. The mud was terrific. Apperson, John Ross, Sgt, personnel Beasley, Alvis A., Jr., Sgt, armament Brubaker, Guy E., Cpl, mess Huchingson, Lee F., Lt, Adjutant Krauk, Edward J., Sgt, gunner Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt, pilot Poteete, Max W., 2Lt, pilot Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt, bombardier

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 694/mission 694) Group Mission # 694: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/24/45: Yesterday in the threat of a storm Rucker, Joe, Beasley and I took off in a jeep for Ghisoni. We had food to remain overnight and in addition, the phonograph and a number of records. Part way up the canyon we encountered a fresh fall of several inches of snow which lent the decoration of winter to the rough rocky mountains. Scenes along the stream were of the first order of beauty. Our friends at the Hotel Romani were glad to see us and immediately began preparation for our stay. The girls had arranged to go to Ghisonaccia for a squadron dance at the 310th which rather upset our plans for

Wednesday, 24 January 1945 (continued) the evening but the GIs who were to take them got stuck in the snow about a mile down the canyon and one of them came back for us to help them out. We went down in the jeep, and with no trouble, got them started on their way. However they were soon stuck again and instead of reaching Ghisonaccia in time for the dance, one of the fellows had to walk there for a command car in which to take the girls back to Ghisoni, where they arrived at 2 A.M. Meanwhile we had a good time dancing with Antoinette and each other to the music of our phonograph. We also had an excellent meal of home-cured sausage, very highly seasoned, and delicious fried potatoes and soup. We sat around the fireplace in company with some very likable French boys until 11:00. Beasley, John B. "Jack", Jr., Sgt, armament Beresh, Joseph (NMI) "Joe", S/Sgt, armorer Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament Rucker and I slept together in a sumptuously soft bed and our sleep was that of a child. This morning we took a few pictures, warded off several snowball attacks and went upstream from the bridge and power house where I had my picture taken bathing in the stream. For dinner we had more sausage, pickled pig feet and french fries. We came home then arriving in camp at 13:00 hours. I was hoping the Russians had taken Breslau and Poznan but they haven’t yet. I found a letter from Merline, and a billfold also from her, waiting for me. Tonight I received a v-mail from Don. Finished reading The Apostle tonight.”

446th BS War Diary: No missions are flown and maintenance work is caught up with.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 694/mission 694) Group Mission # 694: Squadron Mission 481 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 23 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: --- 446th Planes: 1 Lt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., 1Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)

Wednesday, 24 January 1945

447th BS War Diary: No mission because of bad weather. Combat crews sent to Line to clean airplanes this afternoon. Usual camp duties. No change in morning report.

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 694/mission 694) Group Mission # 694: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: Clear weather prevailed here most of the day, but bad weather over the target area made the mission stand down before the crews reached the briefing hut. Captain Furey and Lieutenant Gladwell returned from the beautiful rest camp at Cannes, France, in the Riviera. Captain Swanson left as the Squadron’s quota to this rest camp for the next period. Lieutenants Sturgis and Stow, Sergeant Hildreth and Corporals Zimmerman, Payne and Glass were assigned to the Squadron this afternoon. Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot Gladwell, James G., 1Lt, pilot Glass, David H., Cpl, gunner Hildreth, Elmer L., Sgt, gunner Payne, Robert B., Cpl, engineer-gunner Stow, Charles E., 2Lt, pilot Sturgis, Cloral S., 2Lt pilot Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt, pilot Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl, gunner

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 694/mission 694) Group Mission # 694: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Nelson calling me. Briefing 9:50AM. Sunny AM. Cream of wheat, pancakes, bacon, fruit juice, coffee, jam. Stand-down on mission. On detail at supply. Called out for local flying. (44-28927) Lt Smith, pilot. Local bomb range. Flying as photographer. Take off 10:30. Shot 24 photos. Zero degrees temp. Landed 1:30PM. No chow. Ate buttered toast. Clear warm day. Evening meal regular run of the mill. Donald Bergstrom, fellow I took care of on Galliate raid back in squadron for a spell. Awaiting to go home. Looks, fair. Poteet leaves for home tomorrow. Fire in officer's area at 9:00PM. Lt Wyman's tent burned. Retired 11:00PM.” Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Poteet, Edward J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier Smith, Milford A., 1Lt, pilot Wyman, 1Lt, S-2, I & E Officer

Thursday, 25 January 1945

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

In Italy, during the night of 24/25 Jan, A-20s make several intruder attacks on roads, motor transport, bridges, and trains; bad weather during the day greatly curtails flying; the only medium bomber mission dispatched achieves poor results on the Cremona ammunition dump; fighter-bombers and fighters of the XXII Tactical Air Command hit communications and dump areas, mainly in the Milan area, with good general success.

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

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Capt. Collins and his Cairo crew returned to the squadron today. Those who were short of gas masks, tent pegs and poles were able to draw same at supply today. Mail and packages arrived today. After a chicken supper, the men drank some Tripoli and quite a few personnel were beer- logged and tipsy. The squadron was startled to receive word that Pvt. Murray P. Carnot, the convicted misappropriator of government, had made good an escape from the stockade and was on the loose again. This news brought an extra detail of guard out and many excited men were seen milling around the area with machine guns ready. Carnot, Murray P., Pvt, duty soldier Collins, Daniel P., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Taylor is made a First Lieut. Taylor, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: There were a few local training flights. Cpl. Sam W. Cohen reduced to grade of private by request of E/M, Par 3, SO 12, Hq. 321st Bomb Gp., 23 Jan 45. Cohen, Sam M., Pvt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: The big news of the day was the Commanding Officer’s promotion to Major. Congratulations were in order from all sections of the Squadron, and by the end of the day Major Farwell, one of the best-liked CO’s the Squadron has had was suffering from a badly shaken right arm and hand. This evening in the Officer’s club he proceeded to give a party in honor of this well-earned promotion. Everything, of course, was on him, and before the evening had ended everyone was feeling no pain from his “cheer”. Staff Sergeants Brandon, Rappaport, Crowley, and Reno, Sergeants Baldo, Yaffee and Schriebel, Corporals Levin, Sommers, Heaston, Pierce and Surdi, and Privates Thompson, Unger, Bilodeau and Denny, were placed on DS with Hq Sq of 321st Bomb Group this afternoon. Baldo, Louis A., Sgt, communications Bilodeau, Arthur (NMI), Pvt, cook Brandon, James L., S/Sgt, communications Crowley, David F., Jr., S/Sgt, photo lab Denny, Joseph C., Pvt, radio-gunner Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander Heaston, Edward E., Cpl, communications Levin, Jerome K., Cpl, photographer Thursday, 25 January 1945 (continued)

Pierce, Wilbur E., Cpl, communications Rappaport, Louis (NMI), S/Sgt, photographer Reno, William F., S/Sgt, communications Schriebel, Paul J., Sgt, communications Sommers, Robert F., Cpl, gunner Surdi, Benjamin J., Cpl, gunner Thompson, Lewis A., Pvt, communications Unger, Wilmer H. “Buzz”, Pvt, communications Yaffee, Frank (NMI), Sgt, communications

448th BS Mission Summary: Although clear weather prevailed once again over Corsica, bad weather in the Po Valley made the mission stand down for the day.

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “George awoke me at 7:45AM. Clear, sunny AM. Briefing 10:10AM. Van coughed all night (bad cold). Pancakes, syrup, wheatena, fruit juice, bacon, coffee. Stand-down on mission. War progress looks very good. Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, canned tomatoes, stewed apricots, bread, coffee. To fly on bomb range as photographer. Local flying canceled. Went out to line to clean guns (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”). Engineering to adopt my suggestion on camera. Clear, Warm day. Salmon, lemon potatoes, fruit salad, peanut butter, coffee. Attended "Mrs Pinkerton". Excellent movie. Cloudy evening. Capt Farwell (CO) made major today. Retired 10:30PM.” Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner

Friday, 26 January 1945

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

In Italy, during the night of 25/26 Jan, A-20s fly armed reconnaissance of the Po Valley, bombing Po River crossings, Ghedi Airfield, and general movement throughout the area; both the 57th Bombardment Wing and the XXII Tactical Air Command cancel all operations for the day because of bad weather.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission –weather. Rumors finally materialized and a move is in the offing. Probably the best indication is the wholesale stenciling that is going on and the lists of weight and cubic feet being made up for the Move Officer, Major Gaffney, the Group Executive and Major Gale, the Squadron Executive of the 447th made their appearance today after a 30 day leave in the states. Made the trip to and from in less than three months – better than expected. Gaffney, Charles H., Maj, Executive Officer Gale, Myron (NMI), Maj, Executive Officer, 447th BS

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Three combat crews practiced dry ditching on the line. Preparations are now under way for a move in the near future to the Falconara airbase north of Ancona, Italy. The men aren’t too enthusiastic about the base since all expect it to be very cold and miserable. Capt. James O. Jackson, who left the squadron in October 1944 for a 30-day stay in the States, returned to the squadron today. In the evening, there were warnings of a high wind but the night was calm, clear and beautiful. Jackson, James Oliver, Capt, intelligence

446th BS War Diary: More squadron duty days as weather hinders flying.

447th BS War Diary: No mission—bad weather. Major Myron Gale, the Squadron’s Executive Officer, returned from TD USA to duty. The following E/M promoted to indicated grade, Par. 3, SO 13, Hq 321st Bomb Gp, 24 Jan 1945: To Sgt: Cpls. Carroll G. Appleman, Marvin S. Goldman, and Harvey Stocker. The following E/M reclassified to 521: S/Sgt. Harold R. Bauder, Sgt. Neil F. Gary, and Pvt. Sam M. Cohen. Appleman, Carroll G., Sgt, gunner Bauder, Harold R., S/Sgt, aerial gunner Cohen, Sam M., Pvt, gunner Gale, Myron (NMI), Maj, Executive Gary, Neil F., Sgt, personnel Goldman, Marvin S., Sgt, gunner Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: Professor Trowbridge, one of the Red Cross workers, gave a lecture for the enlisted men and officers this afternoon, about Russia and the Balkan countries. It was extremely interesting and educational. Having spent most of his time since World War I traveling in Europe and Russia, Professor Trowbridge had a wide background of experience for this lecture. This talk was in place of the weekly I & E lecture given every Sunday evening. Trowbridge, Professor, Red Cross Friday, 26 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary: The day dawned clear once again but stormy weather over northern Italy made the mission stand down, but not before the crew members had gone to briefing hut. It is a sad sight sometimes to see them trudging back from the briefing hut after receiving the sad news of a stand down.

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:356AM. Clear AM. Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, bacon, fruit juice, coffee. Stand-down on mission. Left for Bastia with Jerry Kurs and Vandenberg at 11:00AM. Arrived 1:00PM. Drank beaucoup Cap-Corse. A bit drunk. Van and Jerry got fixed up. Left Bastia at 5:00PM. Conversed with Nazi prisoners for a few moments. Decrepit and sad looking soldiers. Arrived squadron 7:15PM. Ate canned sardines sent from home. Retired 9:00PM.” Kurs, Jerome H. "Jerry", T/Sgt, operations Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner

Saturday, 27 January 1945

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

In Italy, bad weather during the morning causes all medium bombers to abort except for an attack on a bridge at Bressana Bottarone; XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers continue the interdiction of communications with good results against motor transport, trains, rail lines, bridges, and storage dumps; P-47s of the 57th Fighter Group destroy an oil plant near Fornovo di Taro. The 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, based at Pontedera, Italy sends a detachment to operate from Florennes, Belgium with Beaufighters attached to the 422nd Night Fighter Squadron.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Missions to Lavis and Ala were both abortive due to route weather. The twelve ship nickeling mission dropped at one point then had to return because of the weather. Lt. Morton’s entire crew bailed out on our front lines when an engine cut out and the plane was losing altitude and flying instruments in the mountains. Pfc. Richard Doruff has been selected to pose for a PRO shot saying goodbye to a Corsican lassie and hello to an Italian Signorina. He’s hoping his Chicago girl-friend is more liberal than he thinks she is when she sees the picture. Doruff, Richard E., PFC, personnel Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 695/mission 695) Group Mission # 695: Ala Rail Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 696/mission 696) Group Mission # 696: Lavis Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 697/mission 697) Group Mission # 697: Nickeling Mission to Eastern Po Valley (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: There was no flying the better part of the day due to violent crosswinds that achieved 40 miles per hour velocity. Six men were injured this morning when a fuse from an incendiary bomb exploded while changing a bomb load on the line. Sgt. Malle from ordnance was the only one seriously injured. He sustained severe lacerations of the leg and was moved to a hospital where he received several blood transfusions. Aircraft 535 piloted by Capt. Wagner enroute to Naples had one engine catch fire near the Italian coast. A fire extinguisher put out the fire and Capt. Wagner went on single engine to land at Ciampino airdrome. Once again the 321st touch football Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued) team met the 340th at Knapp Field. This time, the ground was fairly firm and the 321st broke the tie by winning, 12-0. Word was received that Pvt. Carnot returned to the stockade under his own power. Carnot, Murray P., Pvt, duty soldier Malle, Joseph R., Sgt, ordnance

A/C No. 43-3535 Tail # ? “Rum Runner” (crew not identified) P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt CP N B E R G F

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 695/mission 695) Group Mission # 695: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 696/mission 696) Group Mission # 696: Group Mission #696; Squadron Mission # 434: Lt. Bowling led a flight of bombers from this squadron out on the mission for this date but it was forced to return due to weather. A mission was officially credited to the men.

A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, T/Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., Cpl G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (previously “Modern Design”) (first # 06) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O None listed E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl Nelson, Jacob M., S/Sgt R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl F None None Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” House Mouse” P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None None B Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Lile, Keith B., Cpl Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Portchester” Louis” P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Lowrey, James S., Cpl Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt G Edwards, Jack M., Sgt Clayton, Ross W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Belle Fontaine” Fancy Pants” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship - Load: 500 LB Incendiaries) P McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt Jeffery, James C., Capt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Brown, William G., F/O N None None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt E Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship - Load: 500 Lou” (Lead spare - did not fill in) LB Incendiaries) P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Murphy, John P., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Ross, Reginald J., S/Sgt G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 697/mission 697) Group Mission # 697: Group Mission #697; Squadron Mission # 435: Lt. Webb led a flight of 12 planes out on a nickeling mission in which 1 plane was lost to the flak but the crew was safe. Weather was 7 to 8/10 coverage.

A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim” 2Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Young Paul L., 2Lt N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Larson, Richard A., Cpl R Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl G Jones, Harvey J., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” P Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N None B Epstein, Phillip (NMI), 2Lt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Freidli, William M., Cpl F None

445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 01/27/45: “Today has been an eventful one. This morning we had some incendiary bombs and some propaganda bombs to load before the mission. The crew working on incendiary bombs were obliged to move them from a ship that would not check out, to another plane. Sgt. Malle of the Ordinance Section was doing it and some of our boys were helping him. As one of the bombs was lifted onto the trailer, the fuse was detonated by a slight jar, and several boys were injured by the metal fragments. Malle was the worst off of the bunch and his situation is still not good from loss of blood. Several transfusions have been made. The other boys, including Howard, Houlton, Whitey, Hall and Al Kuhlmann were cut up by the bits of metal, but none were hurt badly. Hall, James C., Cpl, ordnance Houlton, Lawrence J. "Jack", Sgt, armament Howard, Glenn L., Cpl, armament Kuhlmann, Alvin W. "Al", Sgt, engineering Malle, Joseph R., Sgt, ordnance White, Victor H. "Whitey", Cpl, ordnance, armament

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

On the mission, the planes met no opposition, but could not get through to their target on account of weather and returned with their bombs. Over the field, the weather was very rough and on #545 (43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie”) two bombs were tossed off the racks, falling through the bomb bay doors. One of them came very near falling in our camp area. A plane returning from the propaganda mission, not of our squadron, was observed circling the field with his main landing gear not securely locked in the “down” position. The latch was in place preventing the crew from unlocking the nose gear which was fully extended and locked. Everything loose was thrown out of the plane and much gas was used up in an hour of circling before the pilot tried to come in. A good approach was made and the landing was smooth. The plane slid along the runway on nose and tail until the speed decreased to the point that it dropped over on one wing, stopping the left engine. So far all was good, but luck left them at this point and just as the plane was opposite a rough section of drainage ditches, it left the runway and slid to a stop. It looked like a nasty crash and I thought once flames had started, but all the crew were out in a second and no one was injured. The plane was a complete wreck. We all anxiously await Uncle Joe Stalin’s orders of the day each evening and so far he has not disappointed us. Tonight the Russians are reported on the Reich frontier fifty miles north of Poznan. It looks as if they will make good their promise to reach Berlin. We have been advised of a big hairy move before the 20th of February to near Rimini, Italy, which has the prospect of being rough and interesting.”

446th BS War Diary: More squadron duty days as weather hinders flying.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 695/mission 695) Group Mission # 695: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 696/mission 696) Group Mission # 696: Squadron Mission 482 TARGET: Lavis Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 27 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 13 Major Farwell led the formation. Did not drop due to adverse weather enroute to primary and at alternate target. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Crisp the spare, returned early. (Crew list missing) Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander, 448th BS

A/C No. 1 (Spare - returned early) A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew unidentified plane & crew P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt CP N None None B E R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt G F None None Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 10 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 11 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 12 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 13 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 697/mission 697) Group Mission # 697: Squadron Mission 483 TARGET: Eastern Po Valley DATE: 27 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: Leaflets 446th Planes: 3 Lt. Webb led the formation. Only two dropping points used due to weather. Flak was heavy, scant, fairly accurate. One plane crash-landed at base with landing gear retracted. One plane was lost in enemy territory. The crew bailed out and are safe. Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS

A/C No. 43-27697 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Rigler, Frank C., Maj Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt None listed E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Carl, Edgar W., Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” P Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt CP McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt N None B Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Koos, Walter V., S/Sgt G Andrews, James Robert, Sgt F None

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 29) “No. 29) Lavis R. Div. Carried 4x1000. Couldn’t get in due to WX. Lost on way back due to snow storm - Matthews.” Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: The following Officers and EM assigned and joined the Squadron from Hq. 57th Bomb. Wing, Par. 3, SO 14, Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. 25 Jan. 1945: 2nd Lt. Edwin C. Vantrease, 2nd Lt. Roy V. Bryson, 2nd Lt. Frank Calabrese, S/Sgt. Emil C. Goethe, Cpl. George K. Lamb, Cpl. Robert E. Neely. 1st Lt. Ralph T. Grimes relieved from assignment and assigned on combat rotation to 7th Replacement Depot for transshipment to U.S., Ltr. Orders, Hq. 12th AF, 23 Jan. 1945. 1st Lt. Joe W. Gould and T/Sgt Russell K. See relieved from assignment and assigned on combat rotation to 7th Repl. Depot for transshipment to U.S., Lot. Orders, Hq. 12th AF, 18 Jan. 1945. Morning Report: O-87, EM-355. Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Gould, Joe W., 1Lt, bombardier, navigator Grimes, Ralph T., 1Lt, pilot Lamb, George K., Cpl, gunner Neely, Robert E., Cpl, gunner See, Russell K., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt, bombardier

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 695/mission 695) Group Mission # 695: Mission of 9 planes led by Lt. Gates took-off but due to bad weather returned early without reaching target. They experienced some difficulty in landing because of a strong cross wind.

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Maria” Teddie” P Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Britt, Robert O., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B McDermott, James W., Lt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Price, Charles J., Cpl Stokes, Robert C., Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Cpl G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Harvey, John A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Nine” P Brice, David W., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None None B Davies, John V., 1Lt Radel, Henry D. 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Young, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Gough, William V., 2Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl MacMullen, Clarence C., Cpl R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl G Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl Dolezal, Albert (NMI), Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Haage, Frederick W., F/O Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Sgt G Householder, Joe F., Cpl Sims, James W., Sgt F None None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Highsmith, John R., 2Lt Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None None B Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt E Netzel, Carl F., Sgt Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt R Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Cpl Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt G Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt F None None

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 696/mission 696) Group Mission # 696: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 697/mission 697) Group Mission # 697: We also had 3 planes on a nickeling mission. Just as the nickels were away the planes received flak. Lt. Morton and crew, consisting of F/O Greene, Lt. Lankester, Sgt. Flanigan, Sgt. Ruiz, S/Sgt. Klimkowicz, in plane 506 had trouble after crossing back into friendly territory and bailed out. All reports are that all members are safe with 5th Army. Lt. Appenzeller who was also on the Nickeling Mission returned over the home field only to find that his hydraulic system was out of order. His wheels came down but failed to lock. After circling the field in order to expend his fuel supply he made a belly landing. All crew members escaped injury, but the plane is a complete wreck.

A/C No. 43-27506 Tail # ? “Rebel A/C No. 43-27718 Tail # (never Devil” (crashed) assigned a 2 digit Tail #) (belly landing) P Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt CP Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O Stephens, James J., 2Lt N None None B Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt E Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt Lejman, George T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 P Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt N None B Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl F None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Good weather permitted the two missions scheduled for today to take off. Lieutenants Ivory and Kuoni and Sergeants Brusa and Turner returned from the Capri rest camp. Lieutenants Bechtle and Birkhead and Sergeants Berman and Hawthorne left for the Capri rest camp this morning. Sergeant Poteet left to return to the USA this morning after completion of his tour of duty over here. Captain Marrich returned from the US to resume his duties with the Squadron as Adjutant. After his 30 days TD in the US, that place we want to go back to some day, you know, the good Captain looked like he had added some weight. But he says the US is not like it was when we were last there. It has really changed; He said, frankly, he was glad to be back with the Squadron, and his many friends here. Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt, pilot Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt, gunner Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, gunner Hawthorne, Ralph C., Sgt, gunner Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Marrich, Martin K., Capt, adjutant Poteet, Edward J., Sgt, gunner Turner, James H., Sgt, gunner

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 695/mission 695) Group Mission # 695: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 696/mission 696) Group Mission # 696: The target for the first mission was the rail diversion bridge at Lavis, Italy. The 448th had 13 planes for this mission led by Major Farwell, the Squadron CO. Heavy overcast and rough weather forced the formation to return without dropping the bombs. The rough weather caused heavy damage to some of the planes, as bombs were shaken loose in bomb bays and hydraulic lines cut. Fortunately no enemy opposition was encountered.

A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Farwell, Harold S., Maj, Commander Smith, Milford A., 1Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Cpl Wright, Melvin M., Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Edward, Jesse R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt E Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt F None None Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) P Cook, Dan W., 1Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Sanders, William A., 2Lt Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Tangren, Donald E., Cpl Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Burks, Richard W., Capt Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., Sgt McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt E Harageones, George J., Sgt Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Shields, Robert L., Cpl Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 Fizz” P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl R Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl Fletcher, William H., Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N None B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Cpl R Varga, Frank K., Cpl G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 697/mission 697) Group Mission # 697: The second mission was a nickeling mission over the Eastern Po Valley. The 448th had three planes on this mission with some of the leaflet bombs, but due to bad weather most of them were returned. Some fairly accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered. The 448th’s planes returned safely at 1500.

A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 Swing” (first # 76) P Wilson, James M., 2Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Grady, John R., Capt Bard, John A., 1Lt N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Murray, Francis J., Cpl R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N None B Ward, Paul D., Cpl E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Cpl R Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None

Saturday, 27 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:10AM. Briefing 9:20AM. Pancakes, hot cereal, jam, fruit juice, coffee. Clear, warm AM. Target is Lavis RR bridge in Brenner Pass. Carry 1000 lb GP's. Target defended. Take off 1:00PM. Very rough. Flying right wing third element (43-27911). Lt Autrey. Weather bad - unable to get into either primary or alternate target. Hit terrific wind pocket. Threw ship into confusion. Yours truly hit in head with loose armor plating. Jettisoned loose plating. Bomb hung in bay. In fact two are hung. Hydraulic system damaged. Pumped down wheels, flaps. Lt Autrey made fine landing at 310th. Very narrow escape. Feeling nervous. Pork, kidney beans, string beans, custard pudding, bread, butter, coffee. Autrey and Langley released hung bombs. Autrey came over to tent. Drank a bit. Retired 12:00AM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier

Monday, 28 January 1945

321st Bomb Group Headlines:

Monday, 28 January 1945 (continued)

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

In Italy, weather again hampers operations; B-25s have good results on railroad bridges at Lavis and San Michele all'Adige; XXII Tactical Air Command aircraft operate effectively against communications and transport targets throughout N Italy including at Milan, Pavia, Cremona, Nervesa della Battaglia, Treviso, Genoa, Padua, and the Lake Maggiore areas.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Again hitting the Lavis Rail Diversion, 26 A/C reported an excellent concentration in the target area but the recce reported approaches only cut. A startling, and generally unexpected, order appeared on the bulletin board today which contained the information that Lt. Col., Charles F. Cassidy Jr. assumes command of the 321st Bombardment Group. Colonel Richard H. Smith is returning to the United States after over two and one half years overseas. He assumed command of this group on March 26, 1944 and since then has always emphasized a continuous training program for the air crews. The program paid off in results and the group soon paced the Air Force in bombing accuracy and destruction. During his 69 combat missions in B-17’s and B-25’s. Colonel Smith has won the Air Medal with eleven Oak Leaf Clusters, the Distinguished Flying Cross with a cluster, the Silver Star with a cluster, the Purple Heart and the Legion of Merit pending. Colonel Cassidy was assigned to the 321st 17 May 1944 and appointed the Deputy Group Commander. He has also served as the Group Tactical Inspector, Co- ordination and Compliance Officer and head of the Flying Evaluation Board prior to his becoming C.O. Also a veteran combat man, Colonel Cassidy has earned the Air Medal with eight Oak Leaf Clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross with two oak leaf clusters. Lt. Col. Earl B. Young, formerly Mediterranean Allied Transport Service Executive Officer, is the new Deputy Group Commander. Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Col, pilot, Commander Smith, Richard H. "Red", Col, pilot, Commander Young, Earl B., Lt Col, Deputy Commander

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 698/mission 698) Group Mission # 698: Lavis RR Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Due to severe cross- winds, the mission was cancelled. Other flights were also grounded due to existing weather conditions. The operations-intelligence hut has blossomed out with some fine pin-ups mostly due to the efforts of young Bobby Seymour. Sgt. Kabrich returned from the hospital where he underwent treatment for his frozen legs incurred on the January 22nd mission. There was some training today. Some mail arrived. Pork chops and apple pie were enjoyed at supper. Kabrich, Harry Lee, Sgt, gunner Seymour, Robert J., Sgt, operations

Monday, 28 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 698/mission xxx) Group Mission # 698: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: Sgt. Cassidy is started homeward on combat rotation as the mission goes to the Brenner Pass area. Cassidy, Warren J., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 698/mission 698) Group Mission # 698: Squadron Mission 484 TARGET: Lavis RR Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 28 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 13 Capt. Leonard led the formation. Good concentration reported on both bridges. Direct hits seen on the N bridge. Some bombs were N of target cutting the rail line. Incendiary a/c reported good coverage of both flak positions. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate. Eight planes holed, one man wounded. Leonard, Lee V., Capt, pilot, 448th BS

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Baby” Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., F/O Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Utz, James W., Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy We Bob Along” Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl Bass, Charles L., Cpl R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Anderson, Chester S., Cpl F None None

Monday, 28 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) (previously “Tiny?”) P Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None None B Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt None listed E Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl R Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Bull” 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt CP Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt Brock, Thomas E., F/O N Codd, Russell G., F/O None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt Winegarden, Leslie R., T/Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Springer, Walter H., Sgt Dickey, Jack F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” ”Hauling Ass II” P Berge, Gail B., 2Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N None None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt Wagner, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Gallagher, Andrew Paul, 2Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Law, John B., Sgt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., Cpl G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 28 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of Arabella” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) seated lady - no name/lettering) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Ingram, William T., 1Lt CP Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Leith, William V., 1Lt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Andrews, James Robert, Cpl F None None

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 30) “No. 30) Went to Lavis R. Div - 4x1000 lbs - Lots of flak and very accurate. Picked up a few holes and flat tire. Matthews.”

447th BS War Diary: An 11 plane mission was scheduled for a target in Northern Italy, but after 9 ships had taken off, the mission was cancelled and due to a terrific cross wind, they landed at 310th. Later in the day all planes were flown back to home base.

447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 698/mission 698) Group Mission # 698: (447th BS did not participate)

448th BS War Diary: Nothing else of any particular importance other than the usual routine of Squadron duties happened during the day.

448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 698/mission 698) Group Mission # 698: The day dawned clear once again and the mission took-off as scheduled on time. The target was the railroad bridge at Lavis once again. It was the only mission for the Squadron today. Only slight anti-aircraft fire was encountered, and the planes suffered no damage. The 448th had 12 planes on this mission led by Captain Leonard. A good concentration was scored on both approaches to the bridge, and several direct hits were seen.

A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) P Leonard, Lee V., Capt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Powell, Neil J., Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 28 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Cpl Varga, Frank K., Cpl G Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) Fizz” P Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Turner, James H., Sgt Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Petruzzi, Evo J., Sgt G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Fleming, George B., 1Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Cannon, John L., 2Lt Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E Weese, Charles F., Sgt Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt G Ward, Paul D., Cpl Enderle, Melvin J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt N None None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt E Parham, Ralph E., Cpl Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt F None None

Monday, 28 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? Belle” P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Harageones, George J., Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Cpl Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Grady, John R., Capt CP Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N None B Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Codd, James R., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:10AM. Feeling very tired. Pancakes, oatmeal, bacon, tomato juice, coffee, canned butter. Not on today's mission. Fair weather. Much warmer. Laid in sack and read. Usual run of the mill for chow. Picked up pictures at photo lab. Horsed around area. Finishing heavy punching bag. Capt Marrich (adjutant) back from states. Married. Clear, windy day. Mission pretty badly shot up. Beaucoup flak souvenirs. One man hit in 446th (leg). Retired 11:00PM.” Marrich, Martin K., Capt, adjutant

Tuesday, 29 January 1945

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

In Italy, due to high winds and generally bad weather, medium bombers successfully bomb only 2 targets, the railway bridges at Calliano and Rovereto, and attack with less success bridges at Motta di Livenza, Lavis, Mantua, and Chiusaforte, and railway station at Lavis; XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers operate primarily against communications throughout the Po Valley; results are generally good and a bridge at Nervesa della Battaglia is cut; bridges or their approaches at Cittadella, Santa Margherita d'Adige and Cismon del Grappa are damaged along with a variety of targets. During the night of 28/29 Jan, A-20s hit rail facilities, pontoon bridge, lights, and motor transport at nearly 50 locations in the Po Valley. The 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), based at Peretola Airfield, Florence with F-5s, sends a flight to operate from Pisa.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Weather played havoc on our three 18 A/C formations and our planes were pretty well scattered. Only one primary, the Lavis Rail Diversion was hit by an entire formation. The Ala Rail Bridge was not hit because of an unexpected down draft at the target and bombs were returned. Only three planes dropped on another primary at the Lavis Marshalling Yards, but the other 15 planes reported excellent coverage of the Mantua causeway. Major George Silver, the Group Flight Surgeon, gave a talk to the Headquarters Enlisted Men in their club – covered all the medical subjects which were of significance to the men on their prospective move to Italy. Silver, George A., III, Capt, medical officer

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 699/mission 699) Group Mission # 699: Ala Railroad Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 700/mission 700) Group Mission # 700: Lavis Marshalling Yards primary - Alternate Mantua E RR Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 701/mission 701) Group Mission # 701: Lavis Rail Diversion primary - Alternate Mantua East Railroad Bridge. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The men were interested to learn that Lt. Col. Charles F. Cassidy replaced Col. R.H. Smith as Group Commander. Lt. Col. Earl B. Young was named as the Deputy Group Commander. Some of the most severe winter weather was encountered today with some snow flurries falling in the morning. Despite the cold weather, the 321st went out to Knapp Field and whipped the 340th Bomb Group, 31-14 to Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued) win the Wing championship. This entitles the individual members to a gold, engraved medal. Winners of this medal from the 445th include Sgts. Wellnitz, McNevin and Pfc. Seymour. Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, pilot, 321st BG, Commander McNevin, John L., Jr., S/Sgt, intelligence/1st Sgt Seymour, Robert J., PFC, operations Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander Wellnitz, Lorton A., Sgt, statistical Young, Earl B., Lt Col, Deputy Commander, 321st BG

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 699/mission 699) Group Mission # 699: Group Mission #699; Squadron Mission # 436: Capt. Weld led a mission consisting of 25 ships including 4 chaff and 1 incendiary ship to attack the railroad bridge at Ala, Italy. The escort consisted of anti-flak fighters. There was no flak. RESULTS: Bad terrain causing strong drifts caused the mission to be abortive. The planes had used an unusually high amount of gas on the assembly made difficult due to weather and hence did not have enough gas left to make another pass at the target.

A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing Lou” lady) P Weld, Willis R., Capt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt Brown, William G., F/O N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 (previously “Modern Design”) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), 2Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Brunda, John G., Cpl G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Freidli, William M., Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Beauty” Belle Fontaine” P Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Young, Paul I., 2Lt Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B None listed Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt Gum, Paul V., Cpl R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Portchester” Baby” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Louis” P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Clayton, Ross W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Bobby” Can Wait” P Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., 2Lt E McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Otterness, William B., S/Sgt G Stack, James T., Cpl Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” (Scheduled Lead A/C - didn’t get off due to engine trouble) P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Miron, Leno L., 2Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Ott, James V., Cpl G Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” House Mouse” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship - Load: 500 LB Incendiaries) P Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Milton H., 1Lt Jackson, William H., 2Lt E Hagains, John R., Cpl Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl R Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt Lowrey, James S., Cpl G Edwards, Jack M., Sgt Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Fancy Pants” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship - Load: 500 LB Incendiaries) P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt CP Buckham, John K., 2Lt N None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Swinson, Carl R., Cpl F None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 700/mission 700) Group Mission # 700: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 701/mission 701) Group Mission # 701: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: 15 of the squadron’s ships join with the group on Mission 700 to attack Mantua railroad bridge, Italy. Squadron ship #501 flies its century mission. Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 699/mission 699) Group Mission # 699: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 700/mission 700) Group Mission # 700: Squadron Mission 485 TARGET: Mantua E RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 29 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 15 Captain Matthews led the formation. Bombs concentrated to S and W end and approach of bridge. Due to local weather conditions, too much gas was expended in assembly to reach primary so alternate target was bombed. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl R Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Lu” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Anderson, William H., F/O N None None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt None listed E Davis, Virgil F., S/Sgt Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Benedict, William P., Sgt Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? Baby” “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt Boylan, James P., Cpl R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Cleland, Donald S., Cpl Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s seated lady - no name/lettering) Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Utz, James W., Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov ”Hauling Ass II” 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (501’s 100th mission) P Ziglar, Frank C., Maj DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Alward, Charles W., 2Lt Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., F/O None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Meade, Harold W., Cpl Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” (previously “Tiny?”) P Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt Haynes, Allen C., 2Lt CP Wallace, Merwin William “Bill”, 2Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt N None None B None listed Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Karuzas, Alexander W., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Darnielle, George W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 We Bob Along” “Barbara” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt N None None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Chase, William H., Cpl R Carl, Edgar W., Sgt Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl G Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” P Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt CP Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N None B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Reda, John J., Sgt R Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Hatcher, James T., Cpl F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 701/mission 701) Group Mission # 701: (446th BS did not participate)

447th BS War Diary: Usual Camp Duties.

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 699/mission 699) Group Mission # 699: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 700/mission 700) Group Mission # 700: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 701/mission 701) Group Mission # 701: 12 planes participated in mission on Lavis Marshalling Yard in Northern Italy. Excellent results were achieved with 100% bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Jamoke” Teddie” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Gough, William V., 2Lt Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 1Lt E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt R Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt G Harvey, John A., Sgt None listed F None None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” “Superstitious Aloysius” P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Smith, John T., Cpl G Goldman, Marvin S., Cpl Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 54 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Haage, Frederick W., F/O King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None None B Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O E Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl Netzel, Carl F., Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl G Householder, Joe F., Cpl Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 P Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt CP Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt N Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O None B Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O E Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt Henkler, Edward H., Cpl R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl G Sims, James W., Sgt West, Edgar M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- (Meet Mrs. Runyon) Nine” (returned early - did not fill in) P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Price, Charles J., Cpl Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G James, Robert A., Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued) A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Peck, Paul R., 2Lt Young, Robert H., 2Lt N None None B McDermott, James W., 1Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt Lamb, George K., Cpl G Gorden, Robert L., Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None B Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt G Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt F None

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

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 699/mission 699) Group Mission # 699: (448th BS did not participate)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 700/mission 700) Group Mission # 700: The first mission got off on time as scheduled this morning. The 448th had nine planes led by Lieutenant Bard. The target was the Lavis marshalling yards that the group has tried to knock out on several occasions. The weather was clear with only a few fleecy clouds floating about over Italy. Only light flak was encountered, but only three planes were able to drop on the target. A large mountain near it obscured the view until they were right over it. The remainder of the formation then turned to the alternate target, the causeway at Mantua, where they achieved a good concentration near the south end. Several direct hits were seen.

A/C No. 44-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) P Bard, John A., 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 2Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Smith, Norman L., Cpl Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N None None B Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt E Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt Turner, James H., Sgt R Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N None None B Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Shields, Robert L., Cpl G Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 2Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Libby, Donald E., F/O Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, S/Sgt G Atherton, Robert C., Cpl Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Fleming, George B., 1Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Farwell, Harold S., Maj, Commander Sanders, William A., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Cannon, John L., 1Lt Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt E Wright, Melvin M., Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt G Ward, Paul D., Cpl Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 701/mission 701) Group Mission # 701: The 448th had three chaff planes loaded with incendiary bombs for the second mission. The target was the Lavis rail diversion bridge with the incendiary planes dropping their bombs on flak positions to silence them. Due to local weather conditions, however, the formation was unable to assemble properly and was forced to bomb the alternate target of Mantua East railroad bridge. A good concentration was achieved on the south end and approach. No flak was encountered and all planes returned safely.

A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Varga, Frank K., Cpl E White, Frank H., Cpl Parham, Ralph E., Cpl R Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Fizz” Swing” (first # 76) (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Russell, John D., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt N None B Allendorph, John B., 2Lt E Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Cpl G Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None

Tuesday, 29 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Heavy overcast. Snowed during night. Cold AM. On 2nd mission. Briefing 9:25AM. Very restless on retiring last night. Leg muscles felt very tense. In fact my whole body still feels taut. Chest still bothering me from the Ostiglia raid. Eggs in form of pancakes, hot cereal, bread, army butter spread, fruit juice, coffee. Target is Lavis Marshalling yards. Carry 1000 lb. #3 ship, 3rd element. Lt Autrey (43-27528). Take off 10:45AM. Weather bad. Weather fine over Italy. Very rough flying.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt

Wednesday, 30 January 1945

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, good weather in the Po Valley permits full-scale operations against communications lines; during the night of 29/30 Jan, A-20 Intruders pound scattered movement (much of it near Milan), several Po River crossings including Borgoforte, Piacenza, and San Benedetto Po, the harbor at La Spezia, and fuel dumps and other targets at many locations; B-25s effectively strike the Brenner rail line during the day, especially the Lavis and Trento marshalling yards and bridges at Lavis and Calliano; XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers strike railroads and bridges in NE Italy cutting many lines and damaging several bridges, and hit fuel dumps and factories around Parma.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two 18 plane formations to the Rovereto area were abortive due to weather along the route. However another 18 plane group got to their primary at the Calliano Railroad Bridge but all the bombs were over and little damage done.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 702/mission 702) Group Mission # 702: Calliano Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 703/mission 703) Group Mission # 703: Rovereto Marshalling Yards, Italy (Abortive due to weather) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 704/mission 704) Group Mission # 704: Rovereto Area, Italy (Abortive due to weather) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: Two officers and two enlisted men combat crew members were assigned to the squadron today. Lts. Cravey and Born were sent to the rest camp at Cannes, France. Red Cross coffee and doughnuts were served in the area this morning. Two of the old members of the squadron – Sgts. Larkin and Doherty – were officially grounded from combat. Larkin had flown 66 missions and Doherty chalked up 65 before finishing. They were well up on their liquid refreshments when last seen. Their orders went in and they’re expected to leave in a week or so. Capt. Johnson and Cpl. Beccarelli were chosen to leave tomorrow to form an advanced echelon to the new base. Their job is to be orientated on the various locations of supply depots and other places of business frequented by the squadron in operation. More packages arrived today. Beccarelli, Christopher (NMI) "Galom", Cpl, engineering Born, Walter E., 1Lt, pilot Cravey, Robert P., 2Lt, bombardier Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt, gunner Johnson, Stanton W., Capt, Armament Officer Larkin, Francis C. "Charley", T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 702/mission 702) Group Mission # 702: (445th BS did not participate)

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 703/mission 703) Group Mission # 703: Group Mission #703; Squadron Mission # 437: Capt. Wagner led a flight of 21 ships including 1 chaff plane to attack the Rovereto marshalling yards, Italy. Area cover was furnished. This mission was abortive due to weather.

A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” Tail # 00 P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt CP O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt Divine, Donald D., F/O N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 (previously “Modern Design”) P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Larkin, Francis C. “Charley”, T/Sgt E Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt R Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt Coale, Julian R., Jr., 1Lt CP White, Edward A., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt E Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R Seigler, William B., Cpl Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl F None None

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Lou” House Mouse” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt CP O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Brunda, John G., Cpl Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Portchester” Bobby” P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Moorehead, Lewis E., Sgt Edwards, Jack M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Can Wait” Louis” P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Miron, Leno L., 2Lt CP Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Ott, James V., Cpl Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Belle Fontaine” P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Lowrey, James S., Cpl Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt G Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” Beauty” P Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt Jeffery, James C., Capt CP Doris, Robert E., 2Lt Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B None listed Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Cpl Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Otterness, William B., S/Sgt G Hickman, Jefferson M., Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 704/mission 704) Group Mission # 704: (445th BS did not participate)

446th BS War Diary: (January 30 and 31): The railroad bridge at Lavis, Italy is paid another call by the group on the second of these days. Another pay-day rolls around and the second overseas anniversary of the group approaches.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 702/mission 702) Group Mission # 702: Squadron Mission 486 TARGET: Calliano Rail Bridge, Italy DATE: 30 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 16 Major Ziglar led the formation. First flight’s bombs walked across center of target. Direct hits on fill reported. Second flight had good concentration on N end of fill, and N approach. Anti-flak a/c had good coverage of center of flak area. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. No fighters. The other three squadrons did not bomb due to weather.

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Baby” Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Ziglar, Frank C., Maj Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov “Barbara” 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Bass, Charles L., Cpl R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Swann, Homer W., Cpl G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) Lu” P Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt CP Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt Brock, Thomas E., F/O N None None B Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl Nigrelli, Ernest J., Sgt R Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” seated lady - no name/lettering) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Wagner, William M., Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss We Bob Along” Arabella” P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Young, Earl B., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Wallace, Merwin William “Bill”, 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” (previously “Tiny?”) P Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None listed E Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Carl, Edgar W., Cpl Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Holdridge, John F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? (later name dropped from nose art) “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Berge, Gail B., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt Boylan, James P., Cpl R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Springer, Walter H., Cpl Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably Frolic Pad” (first # 42) ”Hauling Ass II” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Jackson, Roland B., 1Lt N None Codd, Russell G., F/O B Law, John B., Sgt McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt E Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt Reda, John J., Sgt R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Cleland, Donald S., Cpl Hatcher, James T., Cpl F None None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 703/mission 703) Group Mission # 703: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 704/mission 704) Group Mission # 704: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 31) “No. 31) Rovereto East R.R. Bridge. Had a very good mission. Just a few bursts of flak. Lt Col Young as Co-Pilot. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Major Myron Gale rld. Fr. Asgmt. and transferred to Hq. 57th Bomb. Wing, par. 2, SO 22, Hq. 57th Bomb. Wing, 28 January 1945. Pvt. Sam M. Cohen transferred to 981st MP Co., par. 1, SO 21, Hq. 57th Wing, 27 Jan 1945. Capt. Joe L. Beal relieved of duties as Adjutant and appointed Administrative Executive Officer, par 1, 04, 447th Bomb. Sq., 321st Bomb. Gp, 30 Jan. 1945. 1st Lt. James F. McGill relieved of duties as Supply and Transportation Officer and appointed Sq. Adjutant. Par. 2, 04, 447th Bomb Sq., 321st Bomb. Gp, 30 Jan. 1945. Beal, Joe L., Capt, Administrative Executive Officer Cohen, Sam M., Pvt, gunner Gale, Myron (NMI), Maj, Executive McGill, James F., 1Lt, Adjutant

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 702/mission 702) Group Mission # 702: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 703/mission 703) Group Mission # 703: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 704/mission 704) Group Mission # 704: A mission of 12 planes took off for target in Northern Italy, but because of bad weather they turned back without bombing the objective.

A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Jamoke” Maria” P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Young, Robert H., 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Perl, Richard H., Sgt Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Sgt G Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Cpl Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 P Brice, David W., 1Lt Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt CP Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Peck, Paul R., 2Lt N None None B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt R Lamb, George K., Cpl Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl Gorden, Robert L., Sgt F None None

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Fosdick” Teddie” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Cpl G Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- (Meet Mrs. Runyon) Nine” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Gough, William V., 2Lt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Stokes, Robert C., Sgt Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G Harvey, John A., Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 4-36059 Tail # 54 Melting Pot” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Haage, Frederick W., F/O N None None B Davies, John V., 1Lt Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Householder, Joe F., Cpl F None None

Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

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

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 702/mission 702) Group Mission # 702: Good weather prevailed once again for today’s mission, which took off to bomb the Calliano rail bridge fill. The 448th had four planes on this mission, which scored hits on the north end and approach and on gun positions. Only scant and inaccurate flak was encountered, and all the planes returned safely, none of them being holed.

A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Swing” (first # 76) (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Grady, John R., Capt CP Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt None B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl Parham, Ralph E., Cpl R Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt CP Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt E Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Sevier, Fred L., Cpl Shields, Robert L., Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 703/mission 703) Group Mission # 703: On the second mission, the 448th had one plane to bomb gun positions near the Rovereto rail yards. The formation was unable to reach the target due to bad weather, however, and returned back at 1155.

A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 P Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Russell, Harold H., 2Lt N None B Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Codd, James P., Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 704/mission 704) Group Mission # 704: The third mission was unable to reach its target also, due to adverse weather en route. The 448th had nine planes in this formation led by Lieutenant Myers, which was to bomb the Rovereto rail bridge. They turned back at 1157.

A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt E White, Frank H., Cpl Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt Higby, Paul K., F/O E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Weese, Charles F., Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Varga, Frank K., Cpl G Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 Fizz” P Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None None B Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt E Turner, James H., Sgt Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Mann, James R., F/O N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Baird, James (NMI), S/Sgt E Wright, Melvin M., Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None None Wednesday, 30 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt E Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:00AM. Very cold and clear AM. Briefing 9:25AM. Pancakes, oatmeal, bacon, stewed prunes, fruit juice, coffee. There has been much talk about our moving to Italy. Rumors are plentiful, but that's the way of a rumor. I can notice that when spitting, that when drawing from the lungs, a black color saturates the spit. In all probability, this is due to the burning of gas. 321st won the championship of the Island in the touch football league. Ike, Danny and Jerry played. Will wait until I return to the states before securing a gift for the folks for their anniversary next month. Flying (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”). Lt Autrey, pilot. Target is Rovereto RR bridge. Carry 1000 lb GP's delayed action. #2 ship, 3rd element, 2nd flight. Autrey very skeptical about our ship. Smoking engine on take off. Take off 10:45. Made landfall over enemy territory at Sestri- Levante. Turned around after fifteen minutes of flight. Heavy, blinding storms. Landed 12:45PM. This made my 40th mission. Cloudy skies. Vienna sausage, tartar sauce, diced beets, canned sliced peaches, bread, butter, soup. Visited Taylor at 445th. Ate supper there. Clear, starry evening. Autrey, pilot, complained about #530. CO giving us different ship tomorrow. Retired 9:30PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander Hurley, Daniel J. "Danny", S/Sgt, personnel Iseldyke, LeRoy J. “Ike”, Sgt, gunner, personnel, 1st Sgt Kurs, Jerome H. "Jerry", T/Sgt, operations Taylor, Marion R., Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Thursday, 31 January 1945

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

In Italy, medium bombers attack railroad bridges at Chiusaforte, Voghera, Lavis, Rovereto, and San Michele all' Adige, and the marshalling yard at Rovereto, with only fair results; fighters and fighter-bombers hit bridges, rail lines, trains, vehicles, and other targets over widespread areas of N Italy; during the night of 30/31 Jan, A-20s hit several railroad targets during intruder missions in the Po Valley.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Thirty-six planes diverted from their primary bridge target at Piacenza because their fighters could not rendezvous attacked their alternate at Voghera with good to excellent results. Eighteen planes also attacked and hit the Lavis Railroad Diversion. The first advance echelon left for our new field in Italy – Ancona/Falconara.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 705/mission 705) Group Mission # 705: Lavis RR Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 706/mission 706) Group Mission # 706: Piacenza Railroad Bridge, Italy primary - Alternate Voghera North Railroad Bridge. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------

445th BS War Diary: The squadron helped attack the Voghera railroad bridge, Italy with 97.6 per cent bombing accuracy resulting. A new aircraft was assigned to the squadron. Lts. Kourafas and PL Young were sent to the Ile Rousse rest camp on Corsica. Today was payday for the squadron. The men enjoyed a delicious roast beef supper. Packages and some letters arrived late in the evening. There were some cross-country flights. Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt, pilot Young, Paul L., 2Lt, pilot

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 705/mission 705) Group Mission # 705: Group Mission #705; Squadron Mission # 438: This squadron furnished two ships to drop chaff in a 20-plane formation sent out to attack the Lavis rail diversion bridges, Italy. 1000 pound and 500 pound bombs were dropped from 12,000 and 12,500 ft. Area cover was provided. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate and fairly accurate. RESULTS: three close concentrations, one on south bridge, another north and west of the tracks and another started short and walked up to the bridge and possibly to north of the bridge.

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Jeffery, James C., Capt Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M.,2Lt Jackson, William H., 2Lt E Gum, Paul V., Cpl Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Seigler, William B., Cpl G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None

445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 706/mission 706) Group Mission # 706: Group Mission #706; Squadron Mission # 439: Lt. Bowling led 15 ships from this squadron which formed the third flight of a 40-plane formation sent out to attack the Piacenza railroad bridge, Italy. Failure to rendezvous with the anti-flak fighters resulted in the bombing of the alternate target, Voghera north railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 10,500 feet to 12,500 ft. Flak was light, scant and inaccurate. RESULTS: Excellent concentration on center of bridge with a number of direct hits reported.

A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt CP Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty”, S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Portchester” House Mouse” P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E Knapp, Robert Duane, Cpl Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt F None None

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St A/C No. 43-27741 Tail # 14 “Val” Louis” (previously “Modern Design”) P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None None B Schnieringer, Frank M., 2Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt Larson, Richard A., Cpl R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt G Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Lou” Beauty” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank” Jr., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt None listed E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Ott, James B., Cpl Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (first # 06) P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt None listed E Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R Lowrey, James S., Cpl Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Edwards, Jack M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss lady) Bobby” P McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP White, Edward A., 2Lt Buckham, John K., 2Lt N None None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl Russo, Paul A., Cpl G Stack, James T., Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued) A/C No. 13 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 14 unidentified plane & crew (Spare) (Spare) P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 15 unidentified plane & crew (Spare) P CP N None B E R G F None

446th BS War Diary: (January 30 and 31): The railroad bridge at Lavis, Italy is paid another call by the group on the second of these days. Another pay-day rolls around and the second overseas anniversary of the group approaches.

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 705/mission 705) Group Mission # 705: Squadron Mission 487 TARGET: Lavis RR Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 31 Jan.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 15 Captain Smedley and Lt. Ingram were the leaders. Bombs fell in three close concentrations. One covering the S bridge, another to N of target and W of tracks and the third starting short and walking up to and possibly on the N bridge. Anti-flak a/c reports good coverage of gun positions. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate, fairly accurate. No fighters.

A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little We Bob Along” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester S., Cpl F None None Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Lu” Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Brock, Thomas E., F/O N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Pouse, Alfred H., Jr., 2Lt E Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl Chase, William H., Cpl R Benedict, William P., Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Dickey, Jack F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Baby” Arabella” P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt CP Anderson, William H., F/O Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt N None Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt B Fein, William F., 2Lt Leith, William V., 1Lt E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Lamm, Earl D., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Wimert, Donald A., Cpl G Darnielle, George W., Cpl Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably ”Hauling Ass II” P Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt CP Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Carl, Edgar W., Cpl G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 34 “Darlene” seated lady - no name/lettering) (previously “Tiny?”) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Pietrowski, Stanley J., Capt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt None listed E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s “Barbara” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Wallace, Merwin William “Bill”, 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N None None B Hensler, Donald O., F/O Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? (later name dropped from nose art) “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Berge, Gail B., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N None None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Utz, James W., Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Meade, Harold W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Di Norma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt N None B Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt E Bass, Charles L., Cpl R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None

446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 706/mission 706) Group Mission # 706: (446th BS did not participate)

446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 32) “No. 32) Lavis R.R. Bridge 4x1000 lots of flak second flight got it. Picked up a few holes in ship. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: The following officer and EM assigned and joined organization from Hq. 57th Bomb. Wing, par 2, SO 17, Hq. 321st Bomb. Gp. 30 Jan. 1945: 2nd Lt. Albert W. Fach, Cpl. Harry H. Judy, Jr. Fach, Albert W., 2Lt, bombardier Judy, Harry H., Jr., Cpl, gunner

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 705/mission 705) Group Mission # 705: (447th BS did not participate)

447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 706/mission 706) Group Mission # 706: 14 plane mission took part in raid on Voghera N. Rail Bridge in Northern Italy. The Squadron came through with 100% bombing accuracy.

A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Rice, Ernest C., Capt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 4-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Fosdick” Teddie” P Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None None B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Smith, John T., Cpl G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Flanagan, Joseph E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Antry, Jack B., 2Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Gough, William V., 2Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt Stokes, Robert C., Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., Sgt Harvey, John A., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Melting Pot” Nine” P Brice, David W., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G Hagan, Richard E., Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 54 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Highsmith, John R., 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None None B Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Netzel, Carl F., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt R Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl G Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Haage, Frederick W., F/O N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Cpl Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl G West, Edgar M., Cpl Householder, Joe F., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big “Superstitious Aloysius” (Anti- Jamoke” (Lead spare) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Peck, Paul R., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None None B Davies, John V., 1Lt Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Young, Robert E., Sgt F None None

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Captain Bongiovanni and Burks left this morning for the 9th AAF rest camp at Cannes, France. Captain Ovard and Sergeants Haack, Hallman, Walker, and Carter left this morning to return to the US after completing their tour over here. Sergeant Willey, one of the crew chiefs, left for the US also this morning on emergency rotation. Lieutenant Stokes, F/Os Chakmakian and Libby and Corporal O’Brien were assigned to the Squadron today. Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt, navigator Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot Carter, Eugene F., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Chakmakian, George E., F/O, pilot Haack, Cecil J., T/Sgt, gunner Hallman, Robert I., T/Sgt, gunner Libby, Donald E., F/O, bombardier O'Brien, Brendan M., Cpl, gunner Ovard, Glen S., Capt, pilot Stokes, George M., 2Lt, pilot Walker, Jack L., T/Sgt, gunner Willey, Charles E., Sgt, engineering

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 705/mission 705) Group Mission # 705: On the first of two missions today the 448th had three planes that attacked the Lavis rail diversion bridge with a group formation of 20 planes. The weather over the target area was clear, and good concentration on the target was scored. Hits were scored on both the north and south bridges. Some flak was encountered, damaging several planes on this mission.

A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 A/C No. 4-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Fleming, George B., 1Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Cannon, John L., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt Codd, James P., S/Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Ward, Paul D., Cpl Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O N None B Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt E Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt F None

Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 706/mission 706) Group Mission # 706: The 448th had 11 planes on the second mission today. The target was the Piacenza rail bridge. Due to inability to rendezvous with fighter escort, however, no bombs were dropped, and the formation turned to the Voghera north rail bridge. Here an excellent pattern was scored on the target. Direct hits with the concentration of bombs were made on the northern end of the bridge. Only light and inaccurate flak was encountered with none of the planes being damaged. A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt Lyons, John B., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O Friedman, Lester Z., F/O B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Cpl Powell, Neil J., Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? Fizz” P Stromberg, Carl K., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Brown, Royden 9NMI), 1Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N None None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Turner, James H., Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 4-27668 Tail # 83 P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Fletcher, William H., Cpl Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt None B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt Sutton, James W., 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), S/Sgt Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., Sgt F None None Thursday, 31 January 1945 (continued)

A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Belle” Swing” (first # 76) P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Sanders, William A., 2Lt Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt N None None B LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Harageones, George J., Sgt Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Cpl Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None B Langley, Edmund P., S/Sgt E Nelson, William M., Cpl R Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None

448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:45AM. Clear morning. Briefing 11:35AM. Van on first mission at 9:30AM. Fresh fried eggs, bacon, stewed raisins, hot cereal, bread, peanut butter, coffee. John left for the mountains again. Ate early chow at 11:00PM. Carry 1000 lb. Target is Piacenza RR bridge. Temporary standby. Take off 1:30PM (#44-28927). Lt Autrey, pilot. Circled near enemy territory twice awaiting fighter escort. Finally went in and bombed alternate target. 100% hit. Landed 4:20PM. #2 ship, 3rd element, 2nd flight. Yours truly to go to Capri Rest Camp tomorrow. Canned pork, sweet potatoes, cabbage salad, canned pears, bread, jelly, coffee. On first shift of guard. Motor pool. Retired 11:00PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner

January 1945

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1945

HEADQUARTERS 321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) APO 650

1 February 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records

TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing, APO 650, US Army. Attention: Historian

1. Outline History of the 321st Group Headquarters for the period 1 January to 31 January 1945, inclusive.

a Original Unit (1) Original designation: 321st Bombardment Group (M). (2) Place of activation: Barksdale Field, Louisiana. (3) Date of activation: 26 June 1942. (4) Authority for activation: War Department Letter. (5) Sources of personnel: Transfer from other units, voluntary enlistments, selective service, National Guard.

b Changes in Organization. (1) Changes in designation: None. (2) Echelons or units. (a) Transferred--none. (b) On DS or TD--none. (c) Attached to other headquarters for operational control: One B-25 crew to XII Air Force Headquarters for indefinite period. (3) Change of commanding officers: 321st Bombardment Group Commanding Officer. General Order No. 4, 28 January 1945 stated that Lt. Colonel Charles F. Cassidy, Jr., assumes command. Colonel Richard H. Smith to return to the United States. Special Order No. 22, 57th Bombardment Wing, 28 January 1945paragraph 6 relieved Colonel Smith; paragraph 7 announced the appointment of Colonel Cassidy as the new Commanding Officer. (4) Changes of staff officers: Pursuant to authority contained in Special Order 16, 29 January, 321st Bombardment Group Headquarters. Lt. Colonel Earl B. Young is the new Deputy Group Commander. (5) Changes in T/O: None.

January 1945 (continued) c Strength, commissioned and enlisted. (1) Month of January 1945. (a) At Beginning: Enlisted Men: 73 Officers: 29 (inc. 1 W.O.) (b) Net Increase: Enlisted Men: 0 Officers: 0 (c) Net Decrease: Enlisted Men: 0 Officers: 1 (d) At End : Enlisted Men: 78 Officers: 28 (inc. 1 W.O.) d Stations of units or echelons. (1) Name of Station: Solenzara Air Field, Solenzara, Corsica. (a) Date of Arrival: 25 April 1944. e Movements of unit or echelons. (1) None. f Campaigns. (1) Names: Tunisian; Sicilian; Italian (North of the Arno River and Naples- Rome); Southern France. (2) Duration: March 15---still in progress. g Operations. (1) Campaign: North of Arno River in Italy. (2) Nature of operations: Predominantly destruction of bridges in Northern Italy and destruction of dumps. (3) Number of mission and sorties for period: Sorties: 654 Number of Missions: 39 (4) Results of the most important missions. (a) See “Raid of the Month” (Inclosed) (b) Bridges destroyed at: (1) Padua North Rail Diversion (2) Ala Railroad Bridge (3) Lavis Rail Viaduct (4) Chiari Railroad Bridge (5) Voghera Railroad Bridge (c) Unit was subjected to enemy anti-aircraft fire at many of the targets attacked. Five aircraft and one crew were lost due to enemy action during the month. h Command Officers in important missions. (1) Lt. Colonel Cameron, Operations Officer, was Flight Commander on mission number 681 to the Rovereto Station Yard. (2) Major Neumann, Group Gunnery Officer, was Flight Commander on mission number 683 to Ora Rail Diversion.

January 1945 (continued)

(3) Lt. Colonel Young, Group Deputy Officer, was Flight Commander on mission number 702 to the Calliano Rail Fill.

i Losses in action. (1) Mission and dates. (a) Killed---None. (b) Wounded---Major Neuman, 17 January 1945 (c) Missing---None (d) Prisoner---None

j Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action. (1) Major Robert H. Neumann. (a) Engagement: Mission No. 683 to Ora Rail Diversion. (b) Act: De-fusing on accidentally released 1000 pound bomb. (c) Reward: Soldiers Medal. General Order No. 9. Headquarters XII Air Force, 15 January 1945.

k Number of photographs being submitted. (1) One (“Raid of the Month”).

2. Inclosed are War Diary, 321st Group Headquarters, for the period 1 January 1945 to 31 January 1945; and “The Raid of the Month” for January.

For the Commanding Officer:

Incl: S. P. NEPRASH, War Diary Capt., Air Corps, Raid of the Month Group Historian ------

HEADQUARTERS, 321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) APO 650

THE RAID OF THE MONTH July, 1944

This month the Group Navigation Officer, Captain Arthur E. Franklin, selects the one raid that from photo coverage and interpretation and relative importance has been outstanding during the month..

This month’s selection:

PAVIA AMMO DUMP Attacked: 1 January 1945 January 1945 (continued)

FLIGHT LEADERS: Lt. Swanson (now Captain); Capt. Murray, 448th Squadron 447th Squadron

SITUATION: At Pavia, the Krouts had stored a large quantity of their supplies and ammunition, and were using this dump to supply their forward troops that were fighting stubbornly to delay the Allied advance into the Po Valley. To the 321st Bombardment Group was assigned its destruction.

RESULTS: Target was well carpeted causing one terrific explosion and many lesser ones—continuing for a considerable time. Smoke columns rising to 7000’ were visible for 60 miles after the breakaway. Photos showed a hundred percent concentration in the target area.

January 1945 (continued)

January 1945 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1945

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Group (M) APO 650

1 February 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records

TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing Attention: Historian

1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period January 1, 1945 to January 31, 1945. a Original unit (1) 445th Bombardment Squadron, 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57th Bombardment Wing, 12th Air Force. (2) Barksdale Army Air Base, La., was place of activation (3) June 23, 1942 was date of activation (4) GO #145, Hq. 3rd Air Force, 23 June 1942 was authority for activation (5) National guard, selective service and regular army were sources of personnel

b Changes in organization (1) No changes in designation, no transfer, unit was not placed on DS or TS nor was it attached to other headquarters for operational control (2) There was no change of commanding officers. (3) There were no changes of staff officers (4) There was no new T/O.

c Strength, commissioned and enlisted (1) Month of January 1945 (a) At beginning – 465 (b) Net increase ------(c) Net decrease 1 2 (d) At end - 463

d Stations of units or echelons (1) Name of station – Solenzara Airfield, Corsica (a) Date of arrival – April 24, 1944 (b) Still present at this base

e Movements of unit (1) There was no movement during the month

January 1945 (continued) f Campaigns (1) Italy (2) From January 1, 1945 to January 31, 1945 (still in progress) g Operations (1) Campaign – Italian (2) Nature of operations – objective bombing (3) 20 missions and 165 sorties flown during the month (4) Results of an important mission (a) Mission: January 21st attack on Lavis rail viaduct, Italy. 1. Target was important because it facilitated traffic along the Brenner line, main rail line supplying German armies in Italy. Lavis is located about 50 miles north of the important supply diffusion point of Verona. 2. Despite known flak positions, there was a good probability of a successful mission. 3. The successful completion of this mission would represent a blow struck at an important enemy supply line, thus indirectly aiding the Allied troops in Italy. 4. Aerial photographs disclosed the damage done to this target. 5. Despite the accurate barrage of flak which killed one, wounded one and holed 13 aircraft, the 445th Bombardment Squadron achieved 100 per cent bombing accuracy. h Command Officers in important missions 1. On January 22, Captain Hatcher (Leon F., Jr., pilot) – Operations Officer – flew as co-pilot with Capt. Weld (Willis R., pilot) in the lead ship of a formation which attacked the Chiari railroad bridge, Italy and the results showed 100 per cent bombing accuracy. 2. On January 29, Capt. Hatcher (Leon F., Jr., pilot) also flew as co-pilot with Capt. Weld (Willis R., pilot) on an attack on the important Ala railroad bridge, Italy on the Brenner Pass line. Once again, 100 per cent bombing was in the offing with no flak offered and a good run practically insured. But unusually strong drift spoiled the bomb run and the bombers were low on gas due to the time spent on assembly made difficult by poor weather conditions. Consequently, this mission was abortive due to the above mentioned conditions. i Losses in action (1) January 4, Rovereto railroad bridge, Italy. (a) None killed (b) Wounded 1. 1st Lt. Joseph A. Silnutzer (bombardier) 2. F/O William F. Brooks (bombardier) January 1945 (continued)

(c) None missing (d) None taken prisoner

j Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action: GO #5, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 9 January 1945 listed the following awards: 1st Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal (Meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight) S/Sgt. Robert C. Jones (engineer-gunner), Pico, Italy, May 12 1944

3rd Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal S/Sgt. Harvey J. Jones (gunner), Bologna, Italy, December 10 1944

k No photographs submitted

2. Enclosed is War Diary, 445th Bombardment Squadron for the period January 1, 1945 to January 31, 1945.

For the Commanding Officer:

Incl: THOMAS W. ASHTON, War Diary. 1st Lt., Air Corps, Squadron Historian.

January 1945 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1945

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Group (M) APO 650 1 February 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records

TO : Commanding General, 57th Bomb Wing, APO 650 U.S. Army

1. Outline History of the 446th Squadron for the period 1 January 1945 to 31 January 1945: a Original unit (1) 446th Bomb Sqdn (M), 321st Bomb Group (M), AAF . (2) Organized 1 August 1942 (3) Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, S.C. (4) Activated at Barksdale Field, La., 23 June 1942 (5) Personnel obtained by transfer from other units, training schools and replacement centers

b Changes in organization (1) No change

c Strength, commissioned and enlisted (1) 1 January 1945 95 Officers, 360 Enlisted Men (2) Net Increase None None (3) Net Decrease None 2 Enlisted Men (4) 31 January 1945 95 Officers, 358 Enlisted Men

d Stations of units or echelons (1) None

e Movements of unit (1) None

f Campaigns (1) Rome-Arno (2) From 21 January 1944 to: Still in progress.

g Operations (1) Rome-Arno (2) Bombing missions in support of the Allied Armies in Northern Italy. Attacks against enemy communications predominated. (3) Missions- 24, Sorties- 186 (4) Results of the important missions. January 1945 (continued)

(a) Mantua Rail Bridge, Italy, 29 January. (b) Lavis Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy, 28 January. (c) Rovereto Station Yards, Italy, 15 January. (d) Padua Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy, 3 January. 1 These targets, lying on vital enemy communication lines, were attacked in an attempt to cut off much needed supplies reaching the Italian Front. 2 100% bombing accuracy was registered on these objectives. h Command Officers in important engagements. 1. Lt. Colonel Paul T. Cooper (pilot) i Losses in action (1) None j Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action: (1) Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to: (a) 1st Lt. Frederic C. Ritger (pilot), GO #13, XII Air Force (b) S/Sgt Alex E. Slezak (gunner), GO #13, XII Air Force (2) Soldiers Medal awarded to: (a) 2nd Lt. William C. Cimino (bombardier), GO #13, XII Air Force (3) Bronze Star Medal awarded to: (a) 1st Lt. Richard F. Fox (supply), GO #16, XII Air Force (b) S/Sgt Richard B. Mougey (operations), CO #16, XII Air Force (4) Air Medal awarded to: (a) 2nd Lt. Samuel E. Clark, Jr. (bombardier), GO #5, XII Air Force (b) 2nd Lt. Allan A. Maki (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (c) 2nd Lt. James E. Ratliff (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (d) 2nd Lt. Melvin G. Hahn (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (e) 2nd Lt. Dan A. Sheetinger (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (f) 2nd Lt. Harvey C. Barbee Jr. (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (g) 2nd Lt. Gail B. Berge (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (h) 2nd Lt. Roland B. Jackson (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (i) 2nd Lt. Thomas M. Sloan (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (j) F/O Russell G. Codd (bombardier), GO #5, XII Air Force (k) 2nd Lt. Paul L. Heaberlin (pilot), GO #5, XII Air Force (l) 2nd Lt. Floyd W. Bogan (pilot), GO #10, XII Air Force (m) 2nd Lt. Joseph (NMI) Treadwell (pilot), GO #10, XII Air Force (n) Cpl Edgar J. Dobrow (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (o) Sgt Alexander W. Karuzas (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (p) Sgt Thomas J. Kelly (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (q) Sgt Robert H. Falls (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force

January 1945 (continued)

(r) Cpl Tullis (NMI) Taylor (gunner), GO #10, XII Air Force (s) Sgt John S. DeSorbo (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (t) Sgt Earl D. Lamm (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (u) Cpl Donald A. Wimert (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (v) Sgt James W. Utz (gunner), GO #5, XII Air Force (w) Cpl Walter H. Springer (gunner), GO #10, XII Air Force

2. War Diary enclosed.

PAUL T. COOPER, Lt. Colonel, Air Corps, Commanding.

January 1945 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1945

447TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) 321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) APO 65 4 February 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records. TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing. Attention: Historian.

1. Outline History of the 447th Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 January 1945 to 31 January 1945.

a. 447th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st bombardment Group (M).

(1) 447th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57th Bombardment Wing (M), 12th Air Force. (2) Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, South Carolina. (3) 23 June 1942 (4) G.O. 145, Hq. 11 AF, 23 June 1942 (5) Transferred from other units and Selective Service.

b. Changes in Organization. (1) No Change (2) Echelons or units. (a) Transferred. 3 enlisted men trfd to 7th Replacement Center. 8 enlisted men trfd to 7th Replacement Center. 8 enlisted men trfd to 448th Squadron 3 enlisted men and 1 officer trfd to 7th Replacement Center for shipment to US. 1 E/M and 2 officers trfd to 7th Replacement Center. 1 officer trfd to 57th Bomb Wing. (b) On DS or TD. 2 enlisted man and 3 officers TD rest Camp Capri. 2 enlisted men on TD to the United States. (3) No change in commanding officers during the month (4) Captain Joe L. Beal appointed Executive Officer and relieved Major Myron Gale. (5) No Change in T/O during the month.

January 1945 (continued)

c. Strength, Commission and enlisted. (1) Month of January 1945. (a) At Beginning. 88 Officers; 363 Enlisted Men (b) Net increase. None None (c) Net decrease. 1 Officer: 8 Enlisted Men. (d) At end: 88 Officers; 363 Enlisted Men.

d. Stations of units or echelons. (1) Name of station (a) Solenzara Air Field, Corsica. May 3, 1944 (b) Still at the same station.

e. Movement of units or echelons. (1) No movements during the month of January 1945. f. Campaigns. (1) Italian Campaign. (2) Duration: From 1 January to present date.

g. Operations. (1) Italian campaign. (2) Objective Bombing (3) 16 missions, 136 sorties (4) Results of the most important missions. (a) Mission to Ora Rail Diversion Bridge. 1. The target was important because it lies in the Brenner Pass line. 2. The mission was a success because the bridge was rendered impassable to traffic. 3. The bridge was on the rail line that runs through the Brenner Pass and over which the re-enforcements and supplies to the German Army must pass. 4. Aerial photographs showed direct hits on the target. 5. In the destruction of this bridge the much needed supplies for the German army were curtailed and therefore the efficiency was diminished. The 447th Bombardment squadron score 100 % bombing accuracy and 100 % bombing efficiency. (5) The unit was subjected to heavy, accurate intense anti-aircraft fire during the Month. h. We had no command officers on missions during the month.

January 1945 (continued) i. Casualties during the month. (1) (a) Lt. Bullion (Roland G., 1Lt, pilot) Killed, 21 Jan. 1945 on mission to the Lavis Rail Viaduct. Sergeant Bartram (Roy H., Sgt, gunner) KIA 17 Jan 1945 on mission to the Ora Rail Diversion Bridge. (b) Wounded. 1. Sgt. Lejman (George T., Sgt, armorer-gunner) IWA – 21 Jan 1945- Lavis Rail Viaduct Lt. Briggs (Richard G., 2Lt, pilot) IWA - 21 Jan 1945- Lavis Rail Viaduct. Lt. Darrel (Franklin L., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier), F/O Atkins (William T., F/O, bombardier) and Sgt. Loux (Robert E., Sgt, gunner) all IWA 17 Jan on the Ora Rail Diversion Bridge. Cpl Hunsaker (Frank W., Jr., Cpl, gunner) and Cpl. Fromm (Samuel E., Cpl, armorer-gunner) IWA on 4 Jan 1945 on the Rovereto Rail Bridge. (c) Missing: 1. Lt. Murchland (Robert K., 1Lt, pilot), F/O Nyman (Emil R., F/O, pilot), Lt. Bokum (John B., 2Lt, bombardier), Sgt. Hopp (Charles J., Sgt, engineer- gunner), Sgt. Hourahan (William F., Jr., Sgt, radio-gunner), Sgt. Fromm (Samuel E., Cpl, armorer-gunner) MIA on 18 Jan 1945 on the Ala Railroad Bridge. (d) Taken prisoner. We as yet do not know about the men missing in action being prisoners. j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action and have been presented with awards during the month. On General Order No. 5 dated 9 January 1945 from the 12th Air Force the following awards were presented to personnel of the squadron. 1st Lt. George J. Schweda (pilot) the 3rd OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Earl W. Hall (pilot) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. George J. Schweda (pilot) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Guy M. Washburn (pilot) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Richard J. Woods (pilot) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Robert W. Engels (gunner) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Frank J. Flowers (aerial gunner) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. James R. O’Neil (engineer-gunner) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Grover C. Brown Jr. (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Earl W. Hall (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. George J. Schweda (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt Guy M. Washburn (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Richard J. Woods (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal T/Sgt. Francis S. Torrey (radio-gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Frank J. Flowers (aerial gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. James R. O’Neil (engineer-gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. William L. Smith (engineer-gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal January 1945 (continued)

1st Lt. Earl W. Hall (pilot) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. George (NMI) Schweda (pilot) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal T/Sgt. Andrew (NMI) Pelak (radio-gunner) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal On General Order No 7 dated 11 January 1945 from the 12th Air Force Headquarters the following awards were given. S/Sgt. Edward J. Carpenter (armament) was given the Bronze Star Medal

On General Order No. 10 dated 16 January 1945 from the 12th Air Force Headquarters the following awards were given to the personnel. 2nd Lt. Norman I. Rose (pilot) was given the Air Medal F/O Frederick W. Haage (pilot) the Air Medal 2nd Lt. Robert A. Balboni (bombardier) the 1st OLC to the Air Medal 2nd Lt. George S. Fairchild (pilot) the 1st OLC to the Air Medal 2nd Lt. Frederick E. Loewus (pilot) the 1st OLC to the Air Medal 2nd Lt. Burton E. Stroupe (bombardier) the 1st OLC to the Air Medal 2nd Lt. John W. Yerger (pilot) the 1st OLC to the Air Medal Cpl. Harold (NMI) Phares, Jr. (radio-gunner) the 1st OLC to the Air Medal Sgt. Paul W. Finnegan (gunner) the 2nd OLC to the Air Medal Capt. Svend P. Olsen (navigator) the 3rd OLC to the Air Medal Sgt. Earl W. Dulaney (gunner) the 3rd OLC to the Air Medal Sgt. Zigmond (NMI) Klimkowicz (gunner) the 3rd OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Joe W. Gould (bombardier) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Charles G. Wakeley (pilot) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt Jack (NMI) Bowman (aerial gunner) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Robert P. Quintenz (engineer-gunner) the 4th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Ralph T. Grimes (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Earl H. Remmel (pilot) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal T/Sgt. Russell K. See (radio-gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Robert W. Engels (gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal Capt. Edward (NMI) Krafka (pilot) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. John R. Gillis (pilot) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal T/Sgt Francis S. Torrey (radio-gunner) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Millard C. Freeman (engineer-gunner) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. William L. Smith (engineer-gunner) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal On General Order No. 15 dated the 25th January 1945 from 12th Air Force Headquarters the following awards were presented to the personnel. Capt. Harold N. Lindell (navigator) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Joe W. Gould (bombardier-navigator) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt Jack (NMI) Bowman (aerial gunner) the 5th OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt Robert P. Quintenz (engineer-gunner) the 6th OLC to the Air Medal k. No Photographs were submitted for this month.

January 1945 (continued)

2. The enclosed is War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 January 1945 to 31 January 1945. No special accounts for the month. Squadron Statistics for the month of January 1945.

For the Commanding Officer: 2 Incls: WILLIAM E. LEVINE, Incl 1 – War Diary Capt. Air Corps, Incl 2 – Squadron Statistics. Historian

Missions Flown: 16 Sorties Flown: 136 Bombs dropped (weight): 423,600 Nickels: 1 mission Planes lost: 3 Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None

January 1945 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for January 1945

HEADQUARTERS 448th Bombardment Squadron (M) APO 650, US ARMY 8 February 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records

TO : Commanding General, 12th Air Force, A-2 Section, Attention: Historian

1. Outline History of the 448th Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 January to 31 January 1945. a Present Designation: 448th Bombardment Squadron, 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57th Bombardment Wing (M).

b Changes in organization (1) No changes. (2) No changes. (3) No changes. (4) Captain Marrich (Martin K., Adjutant) returned from TS to US. Lieutenant Stannard (Louis J., Jr., 1Lt) relieved of duties as Act’g Adjutant. (5) No Change.

c Strength, commissioned and enlisted (1) Month of January 1945 (a) 100 Officers assigned, 359 Enlisted Men assigned, 3 Enlisted men attached at beginning of period. (b) No officers, no enlisted men increase. (c) 2 officers, 3 enlisted men decrease (d) 98 Officers, 356 Enlisted Men assigned, 3 Enlisted Men attached.

d Stations of units or echelons (1) Solenzara Air Field, Solenzara, Corsica (a) April 21, 1944 (b) None

e Movements of unit or echelons. (1) No change.

f Campaigns (1) Rome – Arno Campaign. (2) Duration: from January 22, 1944 - still in progress.

January 1945 (continued) g Operations (See enclosure #2) h Command Officers in important missions (1) Captain Swanson (Earl G., Jr.) as pilot, Lieutenant Freund (John F., 1Lt) as Navigator and Captain Joyce (Robert W.) as Bombardier led Group mission against ammunition dump at Pavia, Italy. (2) Captain Ovard (Glen S.) as pilot, Lieutenant Freund (John F., 1Lt) as Navigator and Lieutenant Gardner (Philip K., 2Lt) as Bombardier led second flight in mission against railroad bridge at Ora, Italy. (3) Lieutenant Myers (Harold C., 1Lt, pilot), Lieutenant Lang (Robert H., 2Lt bombardier-navigator) & Lieutenant Gardner (Philip K., 2Lt, bombardier) led second flight in mission against railroad bridge at Voghera, Italy. i Losses in action (1) Mission: Rail bridge at Rovereto, Italy, 4 Jan ‘45. (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. Staff Sergeant Dante (NMI) LaBella (T/Sgt, gunner). (c) Missing. 1. None. (d) Taken Prisoner. 1. None. (2) Mission: Rail bridge at Rovereto, Italy, 15 Jan ‘45 (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. 1st Lt. Royden (NMI) Brown (pilot). 2. 2nd Lt. Harold L. Arnold (bombardier). (c) Missing. 1. None (d) Taken prisoner. 1. None. (3) Mission: Rail bridge at Lavis, Italy, 21 Jan ’45. (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. Staff Sergeant Ralph C. Hawthorne (gunner). (c) Missing. 1. None. (d) Taken prisoner. 1. None.

January 1945 (continued)

j Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action: (See enclosure #3)

k Number of photographs being submitted. (1) None.

2. Enclosed are War Diary, 448th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 January to 31 January 1945; Account of important missions for month of January 1945; Account of personnel who have distinguished themselves for month of January 1945.

For the Commanding Officer:

ROY C. MOOSE, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Squadron Historian. Incl. 1. War Diary (2 cps) 2. Account of important missions (2 cps) 3. Account of pers distinguishing themselves (2cps).

448th BS War Diary: Account of Important Missions for January 1945: Perhaps the most important mission flown during the month of January from the standpoint of results achieved was the New Year’s Day mission against an ammunition dump near Pavia, Italy. This was the Group’s 650th combat mission, a fitting way to begin the new year. A fine, white blanket of snow greeted everyone as they awoke this morning to begin the day’s work, and snow flurries continued throughout the morning. But this did not prevent the scheduled mission from being briefed on time. While snow continued to fall intermittently, the crews scrambled into their planes and took off into the gray of the morning to attack this vital Kraut target. Odds were, before take-off, that they would not be able to reach the target, but this did not deter the determined crew members. At Pavia, the Krauts had stored a large quantity of their supplies and ammunition, and were using this dump to supply their forward troops that were fighting stubbornly to delay the Allied advance into Po Valley. Its destruction would mean at least a temporary large dent in their supply system, and coupled with continued large scale attacks on the Brenner pass line, would deprive them of a large portion of their badly needed supplies there. This is just what the crews on this mission set out to do on this snowy, blustery, New Year’s morning, and weather was not going to stop them. Captain Swanson led the group formation out toward Northern Italy on this long remembered morning, playing tag with fleecy snow clouds all the way to the Italian mainland where a solid overcast greeted them with hungry, outstretched, icy fingers. They were forced to climb above this cloud carpet and fly in the bitter cold of 13,000 feet. Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt, pilot

January 1945 (continued)

The Krauts knew the value of this vital target and had constructed strong anti- aircraft defenses nearby, but these were well taken care of by incendiary planes that accompanied the B-25 formation. The flak positions were well plastered, so much so in fact, that the Krauts were able to put up only a few feeble bursts of fire. These were extremely inaccurate, causing only slight damage to a few of the planes and no casualties. When the attacking formation broke through a pin-point hole in the overcast and suddenly loomed upon the unsuspecting Krauts, they were caught completely by surprise and immediately, despite their hurried efforts, overwhelmed. What followed was beautiful to behold. In a matter of seconds Captain “Dead-eye” Joyce, who was flying as lead bombardier, had the pin-point target in his sights, and their first bombs were on their way to the snow-covered earth below. A few more seconds and all the planes had dropped their load. A breath-taking silence followed, then when the bombs struck home a series of explosions erupted like a volcano below, and huge fingers of smoke began reaching skyward in pursuit of the fleeing formation. Repercussions from the explosions buffeted the bombers about like leaves in an autumn breeze. Suddenly, there was one huge explosion and a cloud of smoke climb upward to over 9000 feet. Fires could be seen for 60 miles after the formation had left for home. Nothing could have survived in this devastating bombing. Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, Capt, bombardier And nothing did, for when the photographs were released; they revealed the target to have been completely destroyed. One huge crater about 150 feet wide by 50 feet deep was seen near the center surrounded by numerous smaller ones. Nothing could be seen of the buildings that had been nearby. The job had been done. Despite the almost complete overcast all the way to the target, Captain Ovard led his second flight determinedly on to it. The Krauts threw up their anti-aircraft fire that caused damage to several of the planes, and when the formation broke out of the clouds over the target, the Germans made an effort to obscure it by the use of smoke pots. This failed utterly, however, as Lieutenant Gardner, flying as lead bombardier with Captain Ovard, showed his skill by picking out the pin-point target and releasing his bombs devastatingly upon it. Another 100% bombing accuracy mission went into the record books for the Squadron. Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt, bombardier Ovard, Glen S., Capt, pilot Ending the month with a 100% bomb accuracy mission was a fitting way, which is exactly what happened on January 31, when Lieutenant Myers led the second flight in attacking the railroad bridge at Voghera, Italy. It was what is commonly called a “milk run” as far as enemy reaction was concerned, but the formation encountered rough weather before reaching the target that caused damage to some of the planes and malfunctions in the bomb release mechanisms. Over the target a hazy blur greeted the formation as they prepared for the bomb run. Despite this, Lieutenant Gardner showed his skill as a bombardier once again by picking out the target and releasing his bombs upon it. Numerous direct hits were scored on it. Thus ended the month of January, operationally. Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt, bombardier Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt, pilot January 1945 (continued)

For the month of January 1945, a total of 172 sorties in 23 missions were flown by the 448th Squadron. These were medium altitude bombing missions to tactical support of the Allied armies fighting northward in the Rome-Arno campaign. The sum total of 560,000 lbs of bombs were dropped by the Squadron on vital German targets during the month of January.

448th BS War Diary: Personnel Who Have Distinguished Themselves in Action:

GO # 5, 9 Jan. ’45 12th Air Force For Meritorious Achievement

Cpl. Vandenberg (Edward V., gunner) Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 Air Medal Sgt. Braun (Joseph M., bombardier-gunner) Velletri, Italy 27 Jan 44 1st OLC to AM Sgt. Hajny (Zdenek {NMI}, gunner) Viterbo, Italy 14 Apr 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Braun (Joseph M., bombardier-gunner) Genzano, Italy 30 Jan 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Gilpatrick (Jack H., radio-gunner) Viterbo, Italy 14 Apr 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Riss (Royal C., gunner) Genzano, Italy 30 Jan 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Crow (Roscoe J., gunner) Viterbo, Italy 14 Apr 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Hajny (Zdenek {NMI}, gunner) Sassaferrato, Italy13 Jun 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Robertshaw (David F., gunner) Castrocielo, Italy 24 Mar 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. VanCura (Edward W., gunner) Metkovic, Yugoslavia 8 Jan 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Neuman (Robert A., gunner) Castrocielo, Italy 24 Mar 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. Braun (Joseph M., bombardier-gunner) Spoleto, Italy 13 Mar 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Gilpatrick (Jack H., radio-gunner) Montepescali, Italy 8 Jun 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Riss (Royal C., gunner) Spoleto, Italy 13 Mar 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Crow (Roscoe J., gunner) Subiaco, Italy 1 Jun 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Robertshaw (David F., gunner) Subiaco, Italy 1 Jun 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Neuman (Robert A., gunner) Sassaferrato, Italy 13 Jun 44 3rd OLC to AM Lt. Kuoni (Charles F., Jr., pilot) Mira, Italy 31 Aug 44 4th OLC to AM Sgt. Braun (Joseph M., bombardier-gunner) Castrocielo, Italy 24 Mar 44 4th OLC to AM Sgt. Gilpatrick (Jack H., radio-gunner) Sassaferrato, Italy 13 Jun 44 4th OLC to AM Sgt. Crow (Roscoe J., gunner) Montepescali, Italy 8 Jun 44 4th OLC to AM Sgt. Qualls (Thomas B., gunner) Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 5th OLC to AM

GO # 7, 11 Jan. ’45 12th Air Force For Meritorious Service

Sgt Lawther (Robert G., engineering) 15 Jul ’44 to 18 Jul ’44 Bronze Star Medal

GO # 10, 16 Jan. ’45 12th Air Force For Meritorious Achievement

Lt. Armstrong (David R., pilot) Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Daniels (John {NMI}, gunner) Castrocielo, Italy 24 Mar 44 Air Medal January 1945 (continued)

Cpl. Jeffrey (Louis J., gunner) Anzio, Italy 19 Feb 44 Air Medal Cpl. Sevier (Fred L., gunner) Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Cpl. Ward (Paul D., gunner) Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Pvt. Petix (Ignatius D., gunner) Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Cpl. Jeffrey (Louis J., gunner) Castrocielo, Italy 24 Mar 44 1st OLC to AM Sgt. Dean (Wilmer J., gunner) Spoleto, Italy 13 Mar 44 2nd OLC to AM Cpl. Jeffrey (Louis J., gunner) Viterbo, Italy 14 Apr 44 2nd OLC to AM Sgt. VanCura (Edward W., gunner) Perugia, Italy 14 Feb 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Dean (Wilmer J., gunner) Perugia, Italy 28 Mar 44 3rd OLC to AM Cpl. Jeffrey (Louis J., gunner) Perugia, Italy 14 Feb 44 3rd OLC to AM Sgt. Riss (Royal C., gunner) Castrocielo, Italy 24 Mar 44 4th OLC to AM Sgt. Dean (Wilmer J., gunner) Sassaferrato, Italy 13 Jun 44 4th OLC to AM