12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing (M) 321st Bombardment Group (M) History: February 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: February 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.)
Thursday, 1 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, bad weather curtails operations; A-20s and medium bombers are grounded and fighters and fighter-bombers fly only 14 sorties, 12 against communications targets N of the battle area and 2 weather reconnaissance sorties.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. General Knapp attended ceremonies today to present awards earned during the past six weeks. Among the awards presented were two Silver Stars, twenty Distinguished Flying Crosses, six Soldiers Medals, twenty Purple Hearts, twenty Bronze Stars and numerous Air Medals. Lt. Colonel Cooper and Major Neumann received the Silver Stars for gallantry in action. After the awards ceremony the Enlisted Men of Headquarters put on a two-year anniversary party. The new club committee is comprised of Master Sergeant V. T. O’Donnell, president; Staff Sergeant O. C. Vogen, treasurer recorder; Corporal Frank Noble, member. Decorations were by Master Sergeant Kees and Sergeant Ginsberg. Highlights were the drinking bout between Technical Sergeant Al Hodgen and Sergeant Ben Cable and Colonel Smith’s final words to the fellow, “Doc” Smith and his band, Jackie Nordlinger, American Red Cross and the fifteen Corsican girls she brought as dancing partners, Captain “Steamboat” Henry and, of course, our new Commanding Officer, Colonel Cassidy also attended. Cable, Ben (NMI), Jr., Sgt, communications Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Col, pilot, 321st BG, Commander Cooper, Paul T., Lt Col, pilot, Commander, 446th BS Ginsbeg, Bernard (NMI), Sgt, mess Henry, Forrest R. "Steamboat", Capt, intelligence Hodgen, Allen J. "Al", T/Sgt, personnel Kees, Frank M., Jr., M/Sgt, intelligence Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Neumann, Robert H., Maj, pilot, Group Gunnery Officer Noble, Francis L. "Frank", Cpl, armament Nordlinger, Jacqueline, Miss, American Red Cross (321st BG "Red Cross girl") O'Donnell, Vincent T., M/Sgt, engineering Smith, Richard H. "Red", Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, Flight Surgeon, 445th BS Vogen, Obert C., S/Sgt, personnel
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 707/mission 707) Group Mission # 707: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Thursday, 1 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. General Knapp was present at ceremonies at the motor pool area this afternoon when awards were presented to various members of the squadron. The weather was balmy, very ideal for a move as some of the men put it. The rumor of a move is in the warm, sunny air these days. Lts. Dyer and Payne and Sgts. Cavanaugh and Freiler went home on rotation today. Lt. RG Rice, who was responsible for cracking up an aircraft recently when he raised the landing gear before the ship was airborne on take-off, was acquitted at a hearing today and was recommended for flying duty. Luxury rations were distributed to the men today. Beer was distributed in the evening along with some coca cola. Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Sgt, gunner Dyer, Robert H., Capt, pilot Freiler, Walter C., Sgt, gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt, pilot Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 707/mission 707) Group Mission # 707: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Major Ziglar goes on temporary duty and Sgt. Beets gets orders to go home. Beets, Frank T., S/Sgt, gunner Ziglar, Frank C., Maj, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 707/mission 707) Group Mission # 707: Squadron Mission 488 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 1 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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 Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Bass, Charles L., Cpl R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)
447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today but cancelled because of bad weather. A formation was held in the 448th area for 447th and 448th officers and enlisted men in order that General Robert D. Knapp could present medals and clusters to a number of men. Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Thursday, 1 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 707/mission 707) Group Mission # 707: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: The day here was nice one, despite the few clouds that floated lazily overhead, but with stormy weather in the Po Valley the mission was stand down. This afternoon General Knapp, 57th Wing Commander visited the Group and in an impressive ceremony presented the following awards to officers and enlisted men of the Squadron: Distinguished Flying Cross: Major Farwell, Captain Furey, Lieutenant Lyons; Bronze Star: Major Knievel, Master Sergeant Courtney, Staff Sergeants Libero, Schaeffer, and Wilcox, Sergeant Lison. Air Medal: 1st Lt. Brown, Second Lieutenants Allendorph, Armstrong, Bartlett, Cannon, Gardner, Russell, H., Russell, J., Schwartz, Sheppard, Steely, Stout, Sutton, West, Wilson, Zakopcsan, Staff Sergeant Magers, Sergeants Ferrell and Foote, Corporals Sevier, Turner, Vandenberg, Ward, Weese, Petix. Purple Heart: First Lieutenant Brown, Second Lieutenant Arnold, Technical Sergeant LaBella, Staff Sergeants Hawthorne and Qualls. First Oak Leaf cluster to Air Medal: Lieutenants Allendorph, Freund, Gardner, Steely, Staff Sergeants Bergstrom, Ferrel, Magers, Sergeants Turner and Weese. Second Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Staff Sergeants Bergstrom, Justice, Mardeuse, Reves, Sergeant Wright. Third Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Technical Sergeants Bass, Hulse, and Schaffer, Staff Sergeants Abiecunas, Bergstrom, Baird, Edwards, Enderle, Gage, Goethals, Justice, Langley, Mardeuse, Moleski, Pealer, Ratcliffe, Sharp, Sergeant Wright. Fourth Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Technical Sergeants Berman, Morefield, Randall, and Seward, Staff Sergeants Bergstrom, Holloway, Markiewicz. Fifth Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Staff Sergeants Bergstrom, Hawthorne, and Veeck. This afternoon, Captain Swanson returned from the rest camp at Cannes, France, also this afternoon Lieutenants Russell, H., Russell, J., Stout, and Sergeants Morefield and Schaffer left for the AAF rest camp at Capri, and Sergeants Berman and Hawthorne returned from the Isle. Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt, gunner Allendorph, John B., 2Lt, bombardier Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt, bombardier Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Bartlett, Thomas M., 2Lt, pilot Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt, gunner Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt, gunner Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt, gunner Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Cannon, John L, 2Lt., bombardier Courtney, Howard W., M/Sgt, armament Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt, photographer Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt, gunner Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander Ferrel, Bruce M., S/Sgt, gunner Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt, gunner Freund, John F., 1Lt, bombardier-navigator Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt, bombardier Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt, gunner Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt, gunner Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt, gunner Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander
Thursday, 1 February 1945 (continued)
Knievel, Arthur W., Maj, executive LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt, gunner Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Libero, Victor P., Sgt, armament Lison, George C., Sgt, Bomb System Maintenance Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt, gunner Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt, gunner Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt, gunner Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt, gunner Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt, gunner Petix, Ignatius D., Cpl, gunner Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt, gunner Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt, gunner Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt, gunner Russell, Harold H., 2Lt, pilot Russell, John D., 2Lt, pilot Schaeffer, John H., S/Sgt, armament Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, gunner Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Sevier, Fred L., Cpl, gunner Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt, gunner Sharp, Russell L., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Sheppard, John W., 2Lt, bombardier Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt, bombardier Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt, bombardier Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt, pilot Turner, James H., Sgt, gunner Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt, gunner Ward, Paul D., Cpl, gunner Weese, Charles F., Sgt, gunner West, Alden A. "Bud", 2Lt, pilot Wilcox, John F., III, S/Sgt, armament Wilson, James M., 2Lt, pilot Wright, Melvin M., Sgt, gunner Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 707/mission 707) Group Mission # 707: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Departed Corsica 9:30AM. Arrived Rome 10:30AM. Dropped off Lt Gardner. Departed 10:45AM. Arrived Naples 11:15AM. Billeted at Rest Camp Hotel. Ate dinner at black market restaurant (small steak, french fries, salad, wine). Also had a meal (15 cents) at GI restaurant downtown - not so hot. Walked about Naples. Followed a couple of kids who propositioned us regarding some women who promiscuously engage in love. Climbed about the city to what seemed like a village all of its own. Many winding and narrow alleys. Made entrance to a very small, cold, poorly furnished several rooms where 2 young girls, 1 older woman, a man and us made it eight. Jim did the honors. Yours truly still maintains himself. Jim paid her $3.00. Disposed of carton cigarettes and sweater. Ate at private home (also black market). Our room in the Rest Camp Hotel has 5 cots, no mattresses, three blankets. Not too chilly on 6th floor. No elevators. Naples still in blackout. Civilians are still begging and trying to buy anything. Many vendors selling products at exorbitant prices. Retired 11:00PM.” Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt, bombardier Herod, James E. “Jim”, Sgt, radio-gunner
Friday, 2 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers, taking advantage of improving weather conditions in NE Italy, hit bridges at Lavis, Chiusaforte, Calliano, Mantua, Rovereto, Calcinato, and Dogna; bad weather at bases restricts XXII Tactical Air Command aircraft to 5 weather reconnaissance sorties.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Went to the Calliano Railroad Bridge #3 in the Brenner Pass with twenty planes. Good results were reported with main concentration just over the bridge. The other two eighteen aircraft missions went to the Mantua Causeway and Mantua East Railroad Bridge and photos showed good to excellent results. Major Charles H. Gaffney, on Special Order #18, 321st Bombardment Group Headquarters, 2 February 1945, is appointed the Headquarters Commanding Officer in addition to his other duties. He will have Staff Sergeant Mehren and Sergeant Zimmerman as his enlisted aides. 57th Wing suggested the new set-up to handle the affairs of the men attached and assigned to Headquarters of the Group. Gaffney, Charles H., Maj, Executive Officer, HQ Commander Mehren, Robert K., S/Sgt, personnel, Mail Clerk Zimmerman, Edward C., Sgt, personnel
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 708/mission 708) Group Mission # 708: Weather Reconnaissance. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 709/mission 709) Group Mission # 709: Calliano Railroad Bridge # 3. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 710/mission 710) Group Mission # 710: Mantua Causeway. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 711/mission 711) Group Mission # 711: Mantua East Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: The attack on the Calliano railroad bridge, Italy resulted in 100 per cent bombing accuracy. Lt. Kendall had just left the ground with his B-25 on a routine training flight when one of his engines cut out. He managed to gain enough altitude to land the plane again on the airdrome. It was a close call as Lt. Skebey, bombardier-passenger on the flight, will readily acknowledge. Sergeant Bertling was acquitted in a trial today. He was courts-martialled for negligence in the Sgt. Dexter accident on December 3 last. Four officers and two enlisted man combat crews were assigned today. The good weather persists. There was some mail today. Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt, gunner Dexter, Richard W. “Dex”, Sgt, armament Kendall, Wayne E., 1Lt, pilot Skebey, Robert J., 1Lt, bombardier
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 708/mission 708) Group Mission # 708: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 709/mission 709) Group Mission # 709: Group Mission #709; Squadron Mission #709: Capt. Wagner led 17 squadron ships in a 20 plane mission sent out to bomb the Calliano railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound and 500 pound bombs were dropped from 12,000 ft. Area cover was provided. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate, inaccurate to fairly accurate tracking in bursts of 4 from 20 seconds before bombs away to breakaway. No ships holed, none lost. RESULTS: It was difficult to identify the target due to haze and ground snow but the main concentration was in the target area with a few possibly over.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt CP Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., S/Sgt Hagains, John R., Cpl R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Edwards, Jack M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Baby” P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Miron, Leno L., 2Lt CP Buckham, John K., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Seigler, William B., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing Bobby” lady) P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt CP Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt Brown, William G., F/O N None None B Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt R Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt Nuttall, John H., Cpl G Clayton, Ross W., Sgt Bierly, Glenn E., Cpl F Lind, Ragnar G. “Jeffrey Lynn”, 1Lt, None HQ 321st BG A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Portchester” Fancy Pants” P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt CP Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt E Larson, Richard A., Cpl Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Cpl R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Peters, Andrew D., Cpl G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Swinson, Carl R. M., 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 Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Gum, Paul V., Cpl Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Morisi, David D., T/Sgt Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” Lou” P Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Ott, James V., Cpl Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl Teague, Phillip B., Cpl F None None
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (previously “Modern Design”) (first # 06) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O None listed E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Beauty” (late take off - filled in 2nd Belle Fontaine” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Flight, 3rd Element No.3) Ship) P McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B None listed Miller, Edward A., 1Lt E Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl Lowrey, James S., Cpl G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Can Wait” P Jeffery, James C., Capt CP White, Edward A., 2Lt N None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 710/mission 710) Group Mission # 710: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 711/mission 711) Group Mission # 711: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Hurley is promoted to Captain and Lt. Perlman is made a 1st Lt. A 15 plane mission is flown to northern Italy. Hurley, John R., Capt, pilot Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt, pilot
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 708/mission 708) Group Mission # 708: Squadron Mission 489 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 2 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Bass, Charles L., Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Mesnard, James M., 2Lt, HQ 321st BG (observer)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 709/mission 709) Group Mission # 709: Squadron Mission 490 TARGET: Calliano Rail Bridge, Italy. DATE: 2 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Capt. Wagner led the formation. Target identification difficult due to haze and ground snow. Main concentration in target area but possibly just over. Two three ship elements bombing separately report hits on bridge and North approach. Third element of second flight dropped on second run. One ship dropped incendiaries on gun position with unobserved results. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate, inaccurate. No fighters. Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The ”Haulin Ass II” Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt CP Anderson, William H., F/O Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., 2Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl R Wimert, Donald A., Cpl Benedict, William P., Sgt G Springer, Walter H., Cpl Wagner, William M., Sgt F None None
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” P Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt CP Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N None B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 710/mission 710) Group Mission # 710: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 711/mission 711) Group Mission # 711: Squadron Mission 491 TARGET: Mantua East Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 2 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12 Capt. Pietrowski led the formation. Due to clouds in target area lead six a/c did not drop, others dropped on second pass. Results generally unobserved because of clouds. No flak, no fighters.
A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Baby” 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Pietrowski, Stanley J., Capt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Chase, William H., Cpl R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 (later name dropped from nose art) “Barbara” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl Reda, John J., Sgt R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Darnielle, George W., Cpl Hatcher, James T., Cpl F None None Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued) A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) Bull” P McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt Perlman, Jacob L., 2Lt CP Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt Brock, Thomas E., F/O N None None B Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl R Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl McEuen, Richard W., Cpl G Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl Cleland, Donald S., Cpl 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 DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Law, John B., Sgt E Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Swann, Homer W., Cpl G Meade, Harold W., Cpl Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Girl” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl R Carl, Edgar W., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS Frolic Pad” (first # 42) PAOLA II) P Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N None None B Freck, Byron P., Sgt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Boylan, James P., Cpl Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Beck, Junior D., Cpl Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 33) “No. 33) Milk Run - But couldn’t get into the target Because of a overcast. Pietrowski.” Pietrowski, Stanley J., Capt, pilot Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS War Diary: Sgt. Neil F. Gary reduced to grade of private for failure to fly combat. Usual camp duties. Gary, Neil F., Pvt, personnel
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 708/mission 708) Group Mission # 708: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 709/mission 709) Group Mission # 709: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 710/mission 710) Group Mission # 710:
A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt CP Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 1Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl Mullis, Paul C., Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Cpl G West, Edward M., Cpl Drew, Horace E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Jamoke” Nine” P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None None B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Price, Charles J., Cpl Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Fosdick” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt E Neely, Robert E., Cpl Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt R Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl G Williams, James H., Sgt Hagan, Richard E., Sgt F None None
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 711/mission 711) Group Mission # 711:
A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” Melting Pot” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Highsmith, John R., 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Netzel, Carl F., Sgt Flanigan, Bernard A., Sgt R Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., Sgt G Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” Maria” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None None B Gough, William V., 2Lt Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt E Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt R Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl Smith, John T., Cpl G Flanagan, Joseph E., Cpl Citarelli, James E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Brice, David W., 1Lt CP Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Lamb, George K., Cpl G Merlino, Camille J., Cpl Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl F None None
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Bechtle and Birkhead returned from Capri rest camp this afternoon. Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt, pilot Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 708/mission 708) Group Mission # 708: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 709/mission 709) Group Mission # 709: (448th BS did not participate)
Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 710/mission 710) Group Mission # 110: Despite cloudiness and threatening weather today, the mission took-off as scheduled. The 448th had twelve (12) planes on the mission which attacked the Mantua Causeway. Heavy cloud formations were encountered all the way to the target. Despite the limited visibility at the objective good concentration of bombs was scored on the south end with several direct hits reported. No enemy anti-aircraft fire was encountered and the formation returned safely to base. A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Leonard, Lee V., Capt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 1Lt None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) But Not Out” (first # 87) P Gladwill, James G., 1Lt Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt CP Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E White, Frank H., Cpl Powell, Neil J., Sgt R Varga, Frank K., Cpl Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt G Ederer, Robert J., Sgt Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt Rutz, Victor H., 2Lt E Wright, Melvin M., Sgt Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl R Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., S/Sgt F None None Friday, 2 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Campbell, John E., 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Libby, Donald E., F/O Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Fletcher, William H., Cpl Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry Belle” Fizz” P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None None B Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt E Harageones, George J., Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Cpl Sevier, Fred L., Cpl G Smith, Norman L., Cpl Glass, David H., Cpl F None None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 711/mission 711) Group Mission # 711: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 8:00AM. Missed breakfast. Slept quite well. Ate breakfast at black market Restaurant. Been drinking quite a bit of wine. Mostly Marsala. Checked out of hotel. Secured tickets etc for the Isle of Capri. Boarded boat at 2:30PM. Met a couple of Wacs also going to Capri. Billeted at Hotel Pagano Vittoria. Regular hotel. Private room (2 beds). Running water - similar to American hotel. Chow served in dining room by Italian waiters. 4 piece orchestra provides music. Italian waitresses also on the job. American Red Cross girls are in charge. Bar just off lobby. Very clean. Attended dance at "Seaside Club". Met Nappy, ARC worker who used to attend Skidmore College. The weather is quite warm in comparison to Rome or Corsica. Retired 11:30PM.”
Saturday, 3 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, weather restricts combat operations to an attack by 4 P-47s on the Sonico marshalling yard.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. The hustle and bustle of moving is very evident. The theater and the area pre-fabricated offices are torn down and being crated. “Sad Sack” of the Group is Sergeant Zerbel who received the news that his fiancée has been commissioned as a nurse and is wondering what the regulations say about kissing 2nd Lieutenants! The class for illiterates is now convening six nights a week and has seventeen pupils. The teacher is Sergeant Fred E. Opitz of the 448th Bombardment Squadron. Zerbel, Harry R. "Sad Sack", Sgt, personnel Opitz, Fred E., Sgt, communications, 448th BS
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 712/mission 712) Group Mission # 712: Weather Reconnaissance. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. There was a stand-down on the mission today and 12 aircraft were unloaded for training flights. The training program was extensive with many transition flights made. The armorers had their usual “bitch” about unloading the ships after spending some arduous hours loading the planes the night before. Theirs is a thankless and dirty task. Since the shortage in bombardiers appears over, the pilots release for bombing in 714 was removed. Lts. Kendall and Skebey are now on DS to the 310th in order to study the new radio-bombing. It is just a spare time proposition. There was a big party at the squadron Officers club tonight when Colonel Smith was feted by all the “big wheels” of this group and some from the 340th. Col. Smith is to be relieved and will be sent to the United States. Lt. Col. Cassidy, his successor, was also present at the blowout. Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, pilot, 321st BG, Commander Kendall, Wayne E., 1Lt, pilot Skebey, Robert J., 1Lt, bombardier Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 712/mission 712) Group Mission # 712: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Staff Sgt. George LeMoine, squadron mess Sergeant, is killed in an automobile accident near the airbase. He was one of the original members of the 446th. Flight Officer Codd is appointed a 2nd Lieut. Codd, Russell G., 2Lt, bombardier LeMoine, George F, S/Sgt, cook
Saturday, 3 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 712/mission 712) Group Mission # 712: Squadron Mission 492 TARGET: Reconnaissance DATE: 3 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Bass, Charles L., Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Shaw, C. M., 1Lt (weather officer)
447th BS War Diary: Mission scheduled but cancelled due to unfavorable weather. 13 planes were up on local training and 7 planes practicing PDI runs. First Lieutenant Henry J. Magne relieved from assignment and assigned on combat rotation to the Replacement Depot for transshipment to US, Ltr. Hq. 12th AF 27 January 1945. Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 712/mission 712) Group Mission # 712: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: The mission for today was stand down, because of bad weather conditions over the Po Valley area. Second Lieutenants Kuoni, Rubin, and Stromberg were promoted to First Lieutenants today. Sergeant Posnansky left this morning for TD with the 176th Signal Warning Platoon. Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Posnansky, Frederick H., Sgt, communications Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt, pilot Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 712/mission 712) Group Mission # 712: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 8:00AM. Very sunny. Ate breakfast. Instead of taking Red Cross tour to the Blue Grotto, Jim and I hired a smart, clean looking lad to row us there. This boat is home made. Before the war its construction costs 99 cents. Today $20.00. Sea quite calm. The Blue Grotto is a subterranean cove which is immense inside but its opening barely permits a row boat. In addition to paying our boy Gino, it costs another 35 cents
Saturday, 3 February 1945 (continued) apiece to enter. In the afternoon we met Gino again and we hiked up to the Tiberian ruins. Took pictures. Very educational and interesting. Capri is very compact - population is about 10,000 - 6 1/2 x 1 3/4 miles. Paid Gino $4.00 for day plus several bars of soap. Began to rain. About 4:30PM. Jim retired. Ate supper by myself. Picked up emblems, ribbons etc, that I had made at gift shop. Retired 9:00PM.” Herod, James E. “Jim”, Sgt, radio-gunner
Sunday, 4 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers bomb railroad bridges at Ala, San Michele all' Adige, Lavis, Dogna, and Bodrez, and attack the Ala marshalling yard; XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers escort the medium bombers and, in widespread areas of N Italy, destroy 2 bridges, damage 8 others, and blast rolling stock.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Forty-two planes to the Piacenza bridge were abortive due to weather at primary and alternates. However the eighteen aircraft to San Michele reported excellent coverage on the Diversion Bridge there.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 713/mission 713) Group Mission # 713: San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 714/mission 714) Group Mission # 714: Piacenza Bridge, Italy - Abortive (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: A crew sent to Ciampino airdrome, Rome, today to change an engine on aircraft 535 (43-3535 “Rum Runner”) which made forced landing there several days ago on a cross-country. Duty sergeant James and his detail-men erected a new wall tent for the use of the S-2, operations personnel who are scheduled to tear down their hut tomorrow. A move is in the offing and the new tent will be used temporarily until the move actually takes place. The balmy weather continues. This morning the kitchen served corn flakes for the first time overseas. Drinks at the enlisted men’s club tonight were “on” the Major. Cols Cassidy and Young attended for a while and then left. Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, pilot, 321st BG, Commander James, Sgt, duty sergeant Young, Earl B., Lt Col, Deputy Commander, 321st BG
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 713/mission 713) Group Mission # 713: Group Mission #713; Squadron Mission #461: The squadron sent 3 planes along with 15 others to attack the San Michele rail diversion bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 12,000 ft. Area cover was furnished. There was no flak. RESULTS: One concentration was slightly over and to the right. Another pattern was believed to have crossed the bridge. Shadow and snow-covered tracks made observation difficult.
A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Lou” Belle Fontaine” P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt CP Doris, Robert E., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., S/Sgt Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Cpl R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None None
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Fancy Pants” P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., Cpl F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 714/mission 714) Group Mission # 714:
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt CP Young, Earl B., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Gum, Paul V., Cpl R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Morisi, David D., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Can Wait” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt G Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Beauty” (first # 06) P O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt Brown, William G., F/O N None None B Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt None listed E Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, Cpl F None None
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Portchester” Bobby” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Ott, James V., Cpl Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl Stack, James T., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” (previously “Modern Design”) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Freidli, William M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing A/C No. 4-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s lady) Baby” P Santone, Michael A., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., 2Lt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt Lile, Keith B., Cpl F None None
446th BS War Diary: Promotions go to the following men: Billups, Clark, A., Nigrelli, Robbins, Toper are new Staff Sgts.; Dobrow and Johnson, M.W., are made Sgts. A 15 plane mission is flown and Lt. Meier returns from the United States. Billups, Joseph E., S/Sgt, engineering Clark, Ashbrook (NMI), S/Sgt, engineering Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt, gunner Johnson, Moses W., Sgt, communications Meier, Donald J., 1Lt, communications Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt, gunner Robbins, James S., S/Sgt, engineering Toper, Raymond S., S/Sgt, engineering
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 713/mission 713) Group Mission # 713: Squadron Mission 493 TARGET: San Michele Railroad Diversion, Italy DATE: 4 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 15 Capt. Smedley led the formation. One concentration over and slightly to right, another pattern believed to have crossed bridge. Shadow and snow cover made identification difficult. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Crisp, the spare, returned early.
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon We Bob Along” Baby” P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Anderson, William H., F/O Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester S., Cpl F None Lind, Ragnar G. “Jeffrey Lynn”, 1Lt, HQ 321st BG 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 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 Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl R Benedict, William P., Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O N None None B Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Cpl Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl Falls, Robert H., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon (later name dropped from nose art) Lu” P Berge, Gail B., 2Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt N McGann, Edom K., 2Lt None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt Law, John B., Sgt E Utz, James W., Sgt Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Chapin, Correll C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss seated lady - no name/lettering) Arabella” P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., 2Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Wimert, Donald A., Cpl G Meade, Harold W., Cpl Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt 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” P Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt CP Long, Emmett N., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Sgt Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl G Griffin, John A., Cpl Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt CP Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Fox, David (NMI), Cpl DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Darnielle, George W., Cpl Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl F None None
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My “Barbara” Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) (Lead Spare - did not fill in) P Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl Boylan, James P., Cpl R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Beck, Junior D., Cpl G Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl F None None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 714/mission 714) Group Mission # 714: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 34) “No. 34) Milk-Run on the San Michelle R.R. Bridge. 4x1000 - bombs looked very good. Capt. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot 20 Mar 45
447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Joseph G. Boyle transferred to 340th par 7, SO 29, HQ. 321st Bomb Gp. The following officer and enlisted men assigned and joined squadron from 57th Bomb. Wing par 4, SO 18 Hq. 321st Bomb. Gp. F/O Lewis W. Tougaw, Cpl. William Marion, Cpl. Marlin J. Plough. Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier Marion, William T., Jr., Cpl, gunner Plough, Marlin J., Cpl., gunner Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O, bombardier
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 713/mission 713) Group Mission # 713: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 714/mission 714) Group Mission # 714: A mission of 15 planes flew to northern Italy but no bombs dropped due to over cast.
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Doll” Teddie” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., Sgt Darrell, Franklin Lloyd Jr., 1Lt E Mullis, Paul C., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Cpl None listed F None None A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Melting Pot” P Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Cpl Judy, Harry H., Jr., Cpl G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Flanigan, Joseph E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 Maria” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt N None None B Gough, William V., 2Lt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Stokes, Robert C., Sgt MacMullen, Clarence C., Cpl R Poulin, Gaston G., Sgt Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Brice, David W., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Neely, Robert E., Cpl Applegarth, Smith B., S/Sgt R Lamb, George K., Cpl Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Cpl G Citarelli, James E., Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Fosdick” Nine” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Britt, Robert O., 2Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None None B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G Williams, James H., Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 Jamoke” P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt CP Young, Robert H., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None None B Perl, Richard H., Sgt McKnight, John A., Jr., Sgt E Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., Cpl Hagan, Richard E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? David” “Superstitious Aloysius” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O E Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Sgt G West, Edgar M., Cpl Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt CP Peck, Paul R., 2Lt N None B Davies, John V., 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., Sgt F None
448th BS War Diary: Corporal Masbruch, a tail gunner was assigned to the Squadron this morning. Masbruch, Arthur G., Cpl, gunner Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 713/mission 713) Group Mission # 713: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 714/mission 714) Group Mission # 714: The mission got off as scheduled this morning but had to turn back over Italy before reaching the target area; bad weather once again over the Po Valley.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 P Lyons, John B., 1Lt Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O Sheppard, John W., 2Lt B Allendorph, John B., 2Lt Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt E Powell, Neil J., Sgt Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt R Randall, Charles R., Jr., Sgt O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 Fizz” P Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Campbell, John E., 2Lt Sanders, William A., 2Lt N None None B Qualls, Thomas B., S/Sgt Libby, Donald E., F/O E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Fletcher, William H., Cpl G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Cpl Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Fleming, George B., 1Lt Smith, Milford A., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt None B Cannon, John L., 2Lt Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Cpl Wright, Melvin M., Sgt R Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl Mardeuse, Alfred K., S/Sgt G Ward, Paul D., Cpl Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt F None None Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N None None B Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., S/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Biersdorff, Charles J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) P Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt CP Stokes, George M., 2Lt Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt N None None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., S/Sgt E Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl Shields, Robert L., Cpl G Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down Swing” (first # 76) But Not Out” (first # 87) P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Capt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Lt Col, Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt HQ 321st BG N None None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt E Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt Head, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl Varga, Frank K., Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Cpl Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt N None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None
Sunday, 4 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:30AM. Ate breakfast. Jim and I hired automobile (open touring) and guide. Ascended upper most peak of Capri. Visited San Michele with all its historical remembrance. Especially the hand sculptured busts of many Roman notables. Visited the ruins of former German and Italian forts overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Saw the better part of the interior of Certosa (monastery). Monk acted as guide. Every spot we visited signs requested donations. Paid driver of car $5.00 and guide $3.00 and 1 pkg cigarettes. Returned hotel 11:30AM. Can plainly see Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento. Met a young lady from NYC who is a secretary for UNRRA while touring Ana Capri. Not much to look at but very pleasant. All civilian bars and restaurants are "off limits". Water shortage on island. Attended dance at Seaside Club. Met UNRRA female and Nappy there. Italian band (OK) playing all popular American tunes. Jim doesn't dance, but spends most of his time at the bar in hotel. Retired 11:30PM.” Herod, James E. “Jim”, Sgt, radio-gunner
Monday, 5 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, B-25s score excellently against the San Ambrogio di Valpolicella landslide (the overhanging cliff collapses on the railroad by bombing) and bridges at San Michele all' Adige and Calliano; during the night of 4/5 Feb, XXII Tactical Air Command A-20 intruder missions hit lights, motor transport, and roads in the Po Valley and areas S of Bologna; fighters and fighter-bombers fly 270+ sorties against communications targets in N Italy; incendiary bombing of a truck park damages numerous vehicles.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions – weather. Routine camp duties.
445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. The operational mission was cancelled this morning. S-2, operations personnel moved to the new wall tent this morning only to discover later in the afternoon that the move was postponed indefinitely. Plans are now to move back into the hut which luckily has not yet been dismantled. Packing was accomplished by all departments but on a small scale so that unpacking wasn’t such a terrific task after all. Anyway the weather continues to be perfect. Lts. Mogren and Doris were “wracked back” for buzzing today. Buzzing is strictly taboo theses days. Some packages arrived today. Lt. Born veteran of 60 missions was transferred to MATS today. Born, Walter E., 1Lt, pilot Doris, Robert E., 2Lt, pilot Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt, pilot
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 02/05/45: “This morning I placed an additional 100 dollars on deposit in the Soldier’s Fund. Sgt. Pool checked my previous deposit which was in amount of 350 dollars making a total of 450 dollars. I make mention of the fact for the reason that I do not approve of the policy of not issuing receipts when deposits are made and I want to preclude the possibility of a misunderstanding arising between him and me. Pool, Charles R., S/Sgt, personnel Preparations for our move to the Italian mainland are being completed with regularity, the date set being February 23. Everything is to be taken with us including the lumber from all buildings and tent floors. Most of the equipment will move by boat, but the more vital necessities will be transported by our planes and C-47s. Some personnel will go by each means. At last the long battle to change our policy of loading bombs at night appears to have been won. By relentless propagandizing and setting up several demonstrations of loading in the morning when there were few ships to be loaded, our cause became popularized. Last week when Sgt. Lash went to Capri, leaving Tony Cser in charge (Cser has ability and courage, if not refinement and education) we loaded 18 planes for a seven thirty o’clock briefing and have continued ever since with the new policy. Everyone is more satisfied.
Monday, 5 February 1945 (continued)
My present opinion is that the war in Europe will end in April or May, and after that, depending upon the military situation, our Group will go either home or to the Pacific in the early fall.” Cser, Anthony J., Sgt, armament Lash, Wayne H., Sgt, armament
446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties are performed as there is no flying. Some mail reaches the squadron after a lull in news from home.
447th BS War Diary: The following enlisted men promoted to indicated grade, SO 19, Hq. 321st Bomb. Gp. 3 Feb. 1945: To T/Sgt.; S/Sgt. Smith B. Applegarth, S/Sgt. Isidore Ifshin, To S/Sgt.; Sgt. James E. Citarelli, Sgt. Earl W. Dulaney, Sgt. Zigmond Klimkowicz, Sgt. Carl F. Netzel, Sgt. James H. Williams, Sgt. Carl Daniels, Sgt. Paul W. Finnegan, Sgt. John A. McKnight, Sgt. James W. Sims, Sgt. Robert E. Young. Applegarth, Smith B., T/Sgt, gunner Citarelli, James E., S/Sgt, gunner Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt, gunner Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt, gunner Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner McKnight, John A., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt, gunner Sims, James W., S/Sgt, gunner Williams, James H., S/Sgt, gunner Young, Robert E., S/Sgt, gunner
448th BS War Diary: Staff Sergeant Manning who had been on TD with the 6660th Signal School Company returned to the Squadron this afternoon. Staff Sergeants Qualls and Mardeuse were promoted to Technical Sergeants and Corporals Atherton, Brentar, Fletcher, Oliver, Shields, Varga, White, Biersdorff, Gutierrez, Parham, Sevier, Tangren, Ward, Petix, DiSalvo, and Wolfe were promoted to Sergeants today. Atherton, Robert C., Sgt, gunner Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt, gunner Brentar, Joseph C., Sgt, gunner DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt, gunner Fletcher, William H., Sgt, gunner Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt, gunner Manning, James F., S/Sgt, communication Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt, gunner Oliver, Walter A., Sgt, gunner Parham, Ralph E., Sgt, gunner Petix, Ignatius D., Sgt, gunner Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt, gunner Sevier, Fred L., Sgt, gunner Shields, Robert L., Sgt, gunner Tangren, Donald E., Sgt, gunner Varga, Frank K., Sgt, gunner Ward, Paul D., Sgt, gunner White, Frank H., Sgt, gunner Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt, gunner
448th BS Mission Summary: It was a stand down mission once again this morning, despite the clear weather that prevailed over Corsica, but not before the crews had been briefed and were out at the planes. Apparently poor conditions over Northern Italy was the cause once again.
Monday, 5 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:30AM. Packed and ate chow. Jeep took us to pier at 8:00AM. Boat left at 8:30AM. Wacs, Red Cross, civilians, etc. on boat. Porpoises followed bow of boat. Naples full of freighters and one American light cruiser. Cloudy sky. Coffee and cookies served on boat. About 2 hours by water from Capri to Naples. Trucks carried us to airfield. No ship from 448th. Wing ship (42-87442). Lt Duggan, pilot. 12 men on ship - only 9 chutes. Saw B-25 crash land on runway at Naples. Took off 3:00PM. Stopped at Rome. Took off 4:00PM. Landed Corsica 4:30PM. Hitched to 448th. Fair chow. Van also returned from Rome today. Stand-down of moving. New field in Italy (near Ancona) strafed. Retired 10:00PM.” Duggan, Raymond E., 2Lt, pilot Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner
Tuesday, 6 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s attack railroad targets on the line running N to the Brenner Pass, damaging bridges at Rovereto and Ala; marshalling yards at Rovereto and San Ambrogio di Valpolicella and a bridge at Crema are less successfully hit; fighter- bombers cut railroad bridges at Nervesa delta Battaglia and San Michele all'Adige; the P- 47s claim 3 fighters destroyed in combat N of Verona and attack numerous targets of opportunity throughout the target areas; during the night of 5/6 Feb, A-20s attack lights, roads, and motor transport in the C Po Valley.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Eighteen aircraft to the Rovereto Marshalling Yard had only three planes drop at the primary due to enemy action and poor identification qualities. Eight other planes smothered the alternate at Crema with a 100 percent pattern which probably destroyed the bridge. The first element of three ships of the 2nd flight is missing from this operation including Captain Remmel of the 447th Squadron flying his 69th mission. Eighteen aircraft to the Rovereto Rail Bridge has its results confirmed by photo- recce – span knocked into the river bed. The eighteen plane formation sent to crater the Mori Rail Fill accomplished same with a 100 percent concentration in the target area despite the fact that the lead bombardier was injured on the run. Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 715/mission 715) Group Mission # 715: Rovereto M/Y, Italy (Primary) - Crema Railroad Bridge, Italy (Alternate) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 716/mission 716) Group Mission # 716: Rovereto Railroad Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 717/mission 717) Group Mission # 717: Mori Railroad Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The Rovereto railroad bridge was today’s target in Italy and 100 per cent bombing accuracy was the result. Capt. Wagner and Lts. Cox, Ottinger and Palmer were sent to the Cannes, France rest camp today. Lt. Mogren was grounded 30 days for buzzing yesterday. This restriction isn’t expected to last very long since the pilots are badly needed these days. It was decided that the S-2, operations personnel would move back into the hut and preparations were made for such a change. Some mail and packages arrived today. Hamburgers were served for supper tonight. Cox, Harold L., 2Lt, pilot Mogren, Edward G., 2Lt, pilot Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt, pilot Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt, bombardier Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 715/mission 715) Group Mission # 715: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 716/mission 716) Group Mission # 716: Group Mission #716; Squadron Mission #463: Capt. Jeffery led 15 planes from the squadron to lead 20 planes from the group in an attack on the Rovereto railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 lb and 500 lb bombs were dropped from 11,500 to 12,500 ft. A total of 8 P- 47s dive-bombed flak positions. The flak was heavy, intense and fairly accurate from the initial point through the bomb run and breakaway. Eight ships were holed but none lost. RESULTS: Bombs started just short of the center of the bridge and walked through the bridge. Target was well hit with excellent concentration of bomb hits.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” P Jeffery, James C., Capt, pilot Buckham, John K., 2Lt CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., 1Lt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Cpl F None None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss (previously “Modern Design”) Fancy Pants” P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Miron, Leno L., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 (early return) P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N None None B Puchalla, John M., F/O Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Larson, Richard A., Sgt R Barnett, Frank E., Sgt Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt G Teague, Phillip B., Cpl Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Portchester” (first # 06) P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt O’Neill, Phillip W., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl R Ott, James V., Cpl Heckman, Kenneth W., Cpl G Edwards, Jack M., Sgt Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27917 Tail # 20 Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) P Collins, Daniel P., Capt O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt CP Badger, Joe G., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Morisi, David D., S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s lady) Baby” P Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt N None None B Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Lowrey, James S., Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Cpl Hieronimus, Philip J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt CP Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Sgt R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Seigler, William B., Cpl G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy Beauty” Lou” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt Brooks, William F., F/O E Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt, Watts, Joseph T., Jr., S/Sgt R Matter, Dean R., S/Sgt Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt F None None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 717/mission 717) Group Mission # 717: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Another mission is flown to Brenner Pass as the squadron is called upon for 12 planes.
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 715/mission 715) Group Mission # 715: Squadron Mission 494 TARGET: Rovereto M/Y, Italy (Primary) DATE: 6 Feb.1945 Crema Railroad Bridge, Italy (Alternate) Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 5 Lt. Remmel led the formation. Our element of three ships bombed primary target laying pattern across yards just N of main station building. Eight ships unable to pick up primary in time for bomb run bombed alternate with excellent concentration on W half of bridge. Five ships failed to drop when lead plane was lost to flak at primary. Two ships dropping incendiaries had good coverage of gun positions. The spare did not drop. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate, both barrage and tracking. Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
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 Berge, Gail B., 2Lt Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Brock, Thomas E., F/O N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt Fein, William F., 2Lt E Boylan, James P., Cpl Chase, William H., Cpl R Beck, Junior D., Cpl Moncure, James D., Jr., Cpl G Jakielek, Ernest F., Cpl Broderick, Emmett P., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily Frolic Pad” (first # 42) (Spare - did not We Bob Along” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary fill in) Ship) P Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt CP Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt E Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt G Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” (previously “Tiny?”) P Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None B Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Freeman, Harold W., Cpl R Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 716/mission 716) Group Mission # 716: Squadron Mission 495 TARGET: Rovereto Railroad Bridge, Italy DATE: 6 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 4 Capt. Collins led the formation. Bombs started just short of center of bridge and walked through it. Target well hit, with excellent concentration. Flak was heavy, intense, fairly accurate. Collins, Daniel P., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
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 Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Cpl Benedict, William P., Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Wagner, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My Arabella” Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O Hurley, John R., Capt CP Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N None None B Hensler, Donald O., F/O Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt E Reda, John J., Sgt Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt R Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Hatcher, James T., Cpl Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Wing spare) P Holt, Noel P., Jr., 2Lt CP McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt N None B DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 717/mission 717) Group Mission # 717: Squadron Mission 496 TARGET: Mori Railroad Bridge, Italy DATE: 6 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Lt. Lyons led the formation. Majority of bombs in target area. Some over to W. Incendiary planes report good coverage. Flak was heavy, intense, accurate. Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt None B Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Cpl Bass, Charles L., Cpl R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Swann, Homer W., Cpl G Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of ”Hauling Ass II” seated lady - no name/lettering) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt Ingram, William T., 1Lt CP Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt Welsh, Cecil L., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Cimino, William C., 2Lt Leith, William V., 1Lt E Lamm, Earl D., Sgt Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Sgt Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Springer, Walter H., Jr., Cpl Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 35) “No. 35) Really had a rough one. Carried incendiaries to go after gun positions. Got us before bomb run. Picked up about 60 holes. Tail gunner got hit. Capt. Smedley.” Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt, gunner Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: Crews on the three planes that failed to return are as follows: Lt. Earl H. Remmel, Lt. Leslie T. Speer, Lt. Franklin L. Darrell, Lt. Harlan N. Tulley, T/Sgt. Isidore Ifshin, T/Sgt Bernard R. Guild, Sgt. Silas A. Barrett; Lt. Carl W. Cahoon, Lt. Robert H. Young, S/Sgt. John A. McKnight, S/Sgt. Robert G. Jones, , Cpl. Thomas J. Maloney; Sgt. Richard E. Hagan, Lt. Jackson R. Dodson, Lt. John L. Dickson, Sgt. Norman B. Lubinsky, Cpl. Joseph H. Cruce, Sgt. Vincent E. Theiss, Cpl. John E. Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
McCready. Lt. Donald J. Colgan received several scratches on his face from flak. T/Sgt. George Schnaars was hit in the forearm by flak but neither man was seriously wounded. Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt, gunner Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt, pilot Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt, bombardier Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl, engineer-gunner Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 1Lt, bombardier Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt, pilot Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Hagan, Richard E., Sgt, gunner Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt, bombardier-gunner Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl, radio-gunner McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl, gunner McKnight, John A., Jr., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt, pilot Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt, gunner Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt, pilot Theiss, Vincent E., Sgt, radio-gunner Tulley, Harlan N., 1Lt, navigator Young, Robert H., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 715/mission 715) Group Mission # 715: 16 planes mission against Crema Rail Bridge in northern Italy. 3 planes failed to return and are unaccounted for. Lt. Hutson landed at Pisa on the way to the target, because of engine failure. A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? (MACR-12134 - shot down – inverted “Superstitious Aloysius” (MACR- and crashed into hill at north end of Lake 12133 - shot down) Garda) P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt CP Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt Young, Robert H., 2Lt N Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt None B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 1Lt McKnight, John A., Jr., S/Sgt E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, T/Sgt Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt R Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl G Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt Hagan, Richard E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 (MACR-12131 - shot down – left target under control, with 1 engine out) P Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt N None None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt McDermott, James W., 1Lt E Cruse, Joseph H., Cpl Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt R Theiss, Vincent E., Sgt Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl Gorden, Robert L., Sgt F None None Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., 2Lt Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Cpl Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl Marion, William T., Jr., Cpl G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- David” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Nine” (landed at Pisa on the way to the target – due to engine failure) P Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Davies, John V., 1Lt Schmoke, Vernon L., 2Lt E Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Smith, John T., Cpl Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Doll” Teddie” P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Britt, Robert O., 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Stokes, Robert C., Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Cpl Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Cpl Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Maria” (returned early from mission - a gunner was sick) P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None None B Gough, William V., 2Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Mullis, Paul C., Sgt Citarelli, James E., Sgt R Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt Appleman, Carroll G., Cpl G Drew, Horace E., Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Cpl F None None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The Fosdick” Melting Pot” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt N None None B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl Price, Charles J., Cpl R Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt Newton, James R., Cpl G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Jones, Robert A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 Jamoke” P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt N None None B Perl, Richard H., Sgt Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O E Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl G Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Cpl West, Edgar M., Cpl F None None
447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12134:
A/C No. 43-36240 Tail # ? “May Be” (MACR-12134 - shot down – inverted and crashed into hill at north end of Lake Garda) P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 1Lt - KIA CP Speer, Leslie Thomas, 2Lt - KIA N Tulley, Harlan Norval, 1Lt - POW - liberated per NARA records B Darrell, Franklin Lloyd, Jr., 1Lt - POW - liberated per NARA records E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, T/Sgt - POW - liberated per NARA records R Guild, Bernard Robert, T/Sgt - POW - liberated per NARA records G Barrett, Silas Alfred, Sgt - POW - liberated per NARA records F None
Eyewitness Account: Cubbage, Robert (NMI), S/Sgt, Radio Gunner, 446th BS
447th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF A.P.O. 650
08 February 1945 360:33 Remmel, E. H. and Crew. SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
TO : Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)
1. I was flying as a gunner in one of the planes that followed the 447th Squadron over the target on February 6, 1945. I saw a ship after his right engine was feathered and it was sliding off to the left losing altitude. Four parachutes opened out of the ship. The plane then went into an inverted spin, tail down, to crash about half way up the side of a mountain at north end of Lake Garda. 2. One of the chutes floated over the mountain peak and into the valley toward Rovereto. The other three men went down on the side of the peak.
ROBERT (NMI) CUBBAGE, Staff Sergeant, 35701733 Radio Gunner. (Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 8 Feb 45, 447th Bomb Sq (M) Pilot: 1st Lt. Remmel, Earl H., 0-761624, B-25J, A/C No. 43-36240) J. MAURICE WIGINTON, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. Incl 3. ------
Eyewitness Account: Allendorph, John B., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator, 448th BS
447th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF A.P.O. 650 08 February 1945 360:33 Remmel, E. H. and Crew.
SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report
TO : Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)
1. On the mission on February 6, 1945, I was flying as Bombardier of the lead plane of the second flight of one of the Squadrons following the one which Lt. Remmel was leading. 2. I saw the ship go into a spin and almost immediately one chute opened behind it. Then in very short order, two more left the plane. It fell for a good length of time then two more chutes appeared, very close together. I didn’t see the plane hit although I watched it until I lost it against the mountain side. I am positive that there were five parachutes that came from the plane.
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
JOHN B. ALLENDORPH, 2nd Lt., Air Corps, Bombardier. (Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 8 Feb 45, 447th Bomb Sq (M) Pilot: 1st Lt. Remmel, Earl H., 0-761624, B-25J, A/C No. 43-36240) J. MAURICE WIGINTON, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. Incl 4. ------
Statements from INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE completed by 1Lt Harlan Norval Tulley: 1. Bombardier, engineer, and navigator bailed in that order from bottom hatch in front; radio and tail gunner bailed about same time from bottom hatch in waist; all landed on mountaintop about 5 miles from target; started bailing when ship began spin about one minute past target. Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
2. German soldiers informed us they found two men in the plane wreckage-- believed to be pilot and co-pilot. 3. Found in pilot’s cockpit. Both dead; one had arm broken, other with broken leg according to German soldiers. ------
447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12134:
A/C No. 43-27542 Tail # ? “Superstitious Aloysius” (MACR-12133 - shot down) P Cahoon, Carl W., 1Lt - POW, liberated and returned to 447th CP Young, Robert H., 2Lt - POW, liberated and returned to 447th N None B McKnight, John A., Jr., S/Sgt - POW, liberated and returned to 447th E Jones, Robert G., S/Sgt - POW, liberated and returned to 447th R Maloney, Thomas J., Cpl - POW, liberated and returned to 447th G Hagan, Richard E., Sgt - POW, liberated and returned to 447th F None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12131:
A/C No. 43-27730 Tail # ? “Katie” (MACR-12131 - shot down – left target under control, with 1 engine out) P Dodson, Jackson R., 1Lt, MIA, returned to 447th BS on 25 Mar 45 CP Dickson, John L., Jr., 2Lt, MIA, returned to 447th BS on 25 Mar 45 N None B Lubinsky, Norman B., Sgt, MIA, returned to 447th BS on 25 Mar 45 E Cruce, Joseph H., Cpl, MIA, returned to 447th BS on 25 Mar 45 R Theiss, Vincent E., Sgt, MIA, returned to 447th BS on 1 Apr 45 G McCready, John E., Jr., Cpl, MIA, returned to 447th BS on 1 Apr 45 F None
Eyewitness Account: Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS
447th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF A.P.O. 650
08 February 1945 360:33 Dodson, J. R. and Crew.
SUBJECT: Missing Air Crew Report
TO : Headquarters, Army Air Forces, Washington, D. C. (Thru Channels)
1. In as much as there were three aircraft involved (the entire lead element) and there occurred confusion and dispersion of the aircraft that followed, due to the loss of the lead element, it becomes difficult to disseminate all reports of returning crews. No one observer can give a complete sequence of happenings regarding each or all three aircraft in distress.
2. In the light of the above, it is reasonable to conclude that the following did happen to plane 730: At approximately bomb-release point, the plane was hit by flak and immediately fell out of formation and dived to about 7000 feet. As the plane was in a dive two parachutes were seen to leave the plane. The plane leveled out at about 7000 feet and one engine was feathered.
3. The last that anyone saw of it, it seemed to be under control and going west, just north of Lake Garda. The formation tried to contact him by radio but failed.
J. MAURICE WIGINTON, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
(Attachment to MAC Rpt dtd 8 Feb 45, 447th Bomb Sq (M) Pilot: 1st Lt. Jackson R. Dodson, 0-768481, B-25J, A/C No. 43-27730)
Incl 2. ------
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 716/mission 716) Group Mission # 716: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 717/mission 717) Group Mission # 717: (447th BS did not participate)
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Matthews returned today from the 12th AFSC where he had been on TD. He is grounded and awaiting rotation home. Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 715/mission 715) Group Mission # 715: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 716/mission 716) Group Mission # 716: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 717/mission 717) Group Mission # 717: The mission got off in clear weather this morning with the 448th having fifteen (15) planes loaded with 1000 lb. GP bombs and two planes with incendiary bombs in the formation that attacked the rail fill at Mori, Italy. Lieutenant Bard led the formation battling heavy overcast all the way to the target where they met heavy, intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire that holed several of the planes. Despite the adverse weather and enemy opposition, an excellent pattern was scored on the target with many direct hits reported. It was another 100 % bombing accuracy mission. Lieutenants Autrey and Barile were wounded when a burst of flak sent fragments through the pilot’s compartment of their plane. They were not hospitalized, however.
A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Bard, John A., 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 1Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Smith, Norman L., Cpl Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Autry, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Baird, James L., F/O Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Langley, Edmond P., Jr., S/Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 44-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Cook, Don W., 1Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt CP Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Morian, Charles R., Cpl Harageones, George J., Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Shields, Robert L., Sgt G Tangren, Donald E., Sgt Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/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., 1Lt Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt N None None B Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt Libby, Donald E., F/O E Turner, James H., Sgt Weese, Charles F., Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Glass, David H., Cpl Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Lyons, John B., 1Lt CP Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt Freund, John F., 1Lt B Armstrong, Sherman T., 2Lt Allendorph, John B., 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Powell, Neil J., Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Fleming, George B., 1Lt N None None B Bottom, James W., 2Lt Varga, Frank K., Sgt E Parham, Ralph E., Sgt Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt R Sevier, Fred L., Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl F None None
Tuesday, 6 February 1945 (continued) A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Swing” (first # 76) P Wilson, James M., 2Lt Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N None None B Rutz, Victor H., F/O Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt E Qualls, Thomas R., T/Sgt Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt Petruzzi, Evo J., Cpl G Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt Brentar, Joseph C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt CP Chakmakian, George E., F/O Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt N None B Gardner, Philip K., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Cpl R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt F None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Clear, sunny AM. Briefing 10:00AM. Had a difficult time sleeping last night. Very nervous. Combat is commencing to creep up. Oatmeal, fried eggs, bread, jelly, coffee. (44-28940) Lt Autrey carrying 1000 lb GP's. Target is at Rovereto (Brenner Pass). Defended. Take off 11:15AM. Clear and cloudy. 11,500 feet. Beaucoup enemy fighters. Over target 1:59PM. ME109 made a pass. Accurate flak. Yours truly dispersing chaff. Pilot and co-pilot hit. Left formation at Sestri-Levante. Landed 3:45PM. 447th last lead ship. Lt Sam Barile (co-pilot) had three stitches taken in left eye where he was hit. Autrey slight facial plexi-glass wounds. Roast beef, lima beans, peas, fruit salad, bread, jelly, coffee. Feeling fair. Received beaucoup mail. Clear, starry evening. Retired 10:00PM.” Autry, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt , pilot Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Wednesday, 7 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 6/7 Feb, A-20s bomb lights and movement over extensive areas of N Italy; during the day B-25 blasts cut bridges at Bodrez and Lavis, a viaduct at Lavis, and block rail lines at San Michele all'Adige and Mantua; XXII Tactical Air Command P-47s destroy 4 railroad bridges and damage another severely in the NE and C Po Valley and Brenner Pass, and blast dumps and sugar refineries in the Mantua, Brescia, and Reggio Emilia areas.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Lavis area received the brunt of an attack today as three 18 aircraft formations hit the Rail Diversion, Viaduct, and Marshalling Yard with good to excellent results. The Viaduct and Diversion had spans down after the attack and the Mantua Causeway (alternate for six planes) had direct hits scored on it. One plane lost from these operations.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 718/mission 718) Group Mission # 718: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 719/mission 719) Group Mission # 719: Lavis Viaduct, Italy (Primary) - Mantua Causeway, Italy (Alternate) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 720/mission 720) Group Mission # 720: Lavis station yards, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: A bombing accuracy of 70.8 per cent was achieved on the raid on the Lavis station yard, Italy today. Operations-Intelligence personnel moved back into their hut today. The group is now referring to its aircraft by the large numbers painted on the tail fins recently rather than the smaller numerals. Roast beef was served for supper tonight and it was greatly enjoyed. Basketball practice was held in the area today. Four officers and three enlisted men combat crews were sent to rest camp today. The squadron ambulance rolled off a mountain cliff tonight enroute to the saw mill. It is not immediately known who was hurt in the accident.
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 718/mission 718) Group Mission # 718: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 719/mission 719) Group Mission # 719: (445th BS did not participate) Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 720/mission 720) Group Mission # 720: Group Mission #720; Squadron Mission #464: Capt. Collins led 18 ships from the squadron on a mission to attack the Lavis station yards, Italy. 500 pound bombs were dropped from 11,000 ft. Area cover was provided. This flight of bombers received no flak. It was directed at a flight of ships hitting the Lavis bridges nearby. RESULTS: Patterns across south section of yard, south of main building. Some bombs short, some over.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” P Collins, Daniel P., Capt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Silnutzer, Joseph H., 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Posillico, Frank A., Cpl G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Clayton, Ross W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (previously “Modern Design”) (first # 06) P Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, Capt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Nelson, Jacob M., 2Lt R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Bobby” Cookin’?”) P Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt Buckham, John K., 2Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Gum, Paul V., Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Cpl Stack, James T., Cpl F None None
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) lady) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt N Brown, Milton H., 1Lt None B Brooks, William F., F/O Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Cpl Hafferkamp, Edwin H., Cpl R Russo, Paul A., Cpl Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Lou” Can Wait” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., S/Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Lowrey, James S., Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Beauty” Fancy Pants” P O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Miron, Leno L., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt Ott, James V., Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., 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 Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Young, Earl B., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Caron, Philip H., 2Lt E Larson, Richard A., Sgt Hagains, John R., Cpl R Otterness, William B., S/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Cpl Edwards, Jack M., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O White, Edward A., 2Lt N None None B Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Barnett, Frank E., Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Teague, Phillip B., Cpl Freidli, William M., Cpl F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Belle Fontaine” P Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt CP O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Stansberry, Robert C., Cpl Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None None
446th BS War Diary: More promotions. To be Staff Sgt.: Beavers, Demmitt, Cubbage and Luitjens; to Sergeant: Anderson, C., Boylan, Broderick, Freeman, Lind, McEuen, Nichols, Taylor, T., Beck, Brady, Carl, Jakielek, Martin, T.J., Moncure, Springer, Wimert. Anderson, Chester S., Sgt, gunner Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt, gunner Beck, Junior D., Sgt, gunner Boylan, James P., Sgt, gunner Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt, gunner Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt, gunner Carl, Edgar W., Sgt, gunner Cubbage, Robert (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Demmitt, Henry H., S/Sgt, gunner Freeman, Harold W., Sgt, gunner Jakielek, Ernest F., Sgt, gunner Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt, gunner Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, gunner Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt, gunner McEuen, Richard W., Sgt, gunner Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt, gunner Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt, gunner Springer, Walter H., Sgt, gunner Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Sgt, gunner Wimert, Donald A., Sgt, gunner
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 718/mission 718) Group Mission # 718: Squadron Mission 497 TARGET: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 7 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Lt. Ingram led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area. Some bombs cut N approach at dyke, others reported to have hit embankment between two bridges and N bridge. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate, three men wounded.
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Anderson, William H., 2Lt Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Andrews, James Robert, Cpl Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 “Barbara” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Benedict, William P., Sgt Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably (previously “Tiny?”) ”Hauling Ass II” P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt CP Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt McCloud, Ray L., 2Lt N None None B Beecher, Everett F., Sgt Pouse, Alfred H., Jr., 2Lt E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Cpl Wimert, Donald A., Cpl G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The Arabella” Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N Cooper, Paul T., Lt Col, Commander None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) P Maki, Allan A., 2Lt CP Berge, Gail B., 2Lt N None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Utz, James W., Sgt R Nichols, Henry J., III, Cpl G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt F None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 719/mission 719) Group Mission # 719: Squadron Mission 498 TARGET: Lavis Viaduct, Italy (Primary) DATE: 7 Feb.1945 Mantua Causeway, Italy (Alternate) Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Lt. Swanson led the formation. Good concentration on center of viaduct. Smoke obscured accurate results. At the alternate, there was very good concentration on causeway; appeared to be split. Flak was heavy, intense, accurate, one man wounded. Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? seated lady - no name/lettering) “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Cpl Demmitt, Henry H., Sgt R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Cpl Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Cpl Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Frolic Pad” (first # 42) (Lead spare - did Little Boy Val”) not fill in) P DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Law, John B., Sgt DeSorbo, John S., Sgt E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Cpl Karuzas, Alexander W., Sgt R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl G Chapin, Correll C., Cpl Meade, Harold W., Cpl F None None Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick H., Jr., 2Lt N None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Cpl G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 720/mission 720) Group Mission # 720: (446th BS did not participate)
447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 718/mission 718) Group Mission # 718: 9 planes participated in a mission against Lavis Diversion Bridge in northern Italy. All planes returned safely but four crewmen were slightly injured. They were as follows: 2nd Lt. Edwin C. Vantrease, 2nd Lt. Shelby D. Wallis, Sgt. Daniel P. McMenamin, Cpl Robert E. Neely. The squadron received 100 % bombing accuracy for this mission.
A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Jamoke” P Haage, Frederick W., F/O Rice, Ernest C., Capt CP Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt Gargiulo, Vincent J. “Vince”, 1Lt E Neely, Robert E., Cpl Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Cpl Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Cpl G Householder, Joe F., Cpl Lejman, George T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Brice, David W., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None None B Fach, Albert W., 2Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., Sgt R Lamb, George K., Cpl Thomas, Hazen A., Cpl G Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl Cunningham, Paul W., Cpl F None None Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 David” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Fairchild, George S., 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None None B Gough, William V., 2Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Cpl Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Cpl G Goldman, Marvin S., Sgt Merlino, Camille J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Peck, Paul R., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Atkins, William T. “Bill”, F/O Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Cpl G Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The Melting Pot” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt N None B Davies, John V., 1Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 719/mission 719) Group Mission # 719: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 720/mission 720) Group Mission # 720: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Martin, McRee, Copes and Cooper left this morning for the Cannes, France, rest camp, and Captains Burks & Bongiovanni returned from Cannes. Lieutenants Cannon and Valenti, and Sergeants Shields and Ward left for the AAF rest camp at Capri also, and the plane returned this afternoon with Lieutenants Russell, J.D. Russell, H.H., and Stout and Sergeants Morefield and Schaffer from Capri.
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
Lieutenants Kirk and Kiska left today for the United States after completing their tour of duty here. Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt, navigator Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot Cannon, John L., 2Lt, bombardier Cooper, James W., 2Lt, pilot Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt, pilot Kirk, Theodore (NMI) “Ted”, 2Lt, pilot Kiska, George P., 2Lt, bombardier Martin, James M., Jr., Lt, bombardier McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt, bombardier Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt, gunner Russell, Harold H., 2Lt, pilot Russell, John D., 2Lt, pilot Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, gunner Shields, Robert L., Sgt, gunner Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt, bombardier Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt, pilot Ward, Paul D., Sgt, gunner
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 718/mission 718) Group Mission # 718: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 719/mission 719) Group Mission # 719: The 448th had fourteen (14) planes on its only mission today, attacking the Lavis viaduct. Captain Swanson led this mission which encountered heavy cloud formations over the Italian mainland, but found the target clear. Here the enemy put up a desperate barrage of anti-aircraft fire that holed several of the planes, wounded one man, and shot down one plane. Smoke pots were used to obscure the target. Despite this, Captain Swanson led his planes in where they scored another 100% bombing accuracy mission. The concentration of bombs was in the center of the viaduct with many direct hits scored. The missing plane was last seen losing altitude going away from the target with a large hole in the left wing, knocking out the left aileron, and numerous other holes in it. At that time all crew members were still in the plane. Lieutenant Meyers was unable to lead his second flight into the Lavis target, so turned to the Mantua causeway, where his flight likewise scored a 100% bombing accuracy. Only light flak was encountered there, and the causeway was well covered. Direct hits appeared to have split it. The crew of the missing plane was Lieutenants Sheffield and Sanders and Sergeants Reves, Petruzzi, Lasskow and Brentar.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Campbell, John E., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt E Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 Fizz” P Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt N None None B Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt E Turner, James H., Sgt Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Sevier, Fred L., Sgt Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt Lang, Robert H., F/O B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Allendorph, John B., 2Lt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt White, Frank H., Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 Swing” (MACR-12135 - Ship MIA) (first # 76) P Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Sanders, William A., 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt E Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt Codd, James P., S/Sgt R Petruzzi, Evo J., Sgt O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Brentar, Joseph C., Sgt Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Stokes, George M., 2Lt N None None B Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Nelson, William M., Sgt R Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl Fletcher, William H., Sgt G Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down Engine Sadie” But Not Out” (first # 87) P Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Varga, Frank K., Cpl E Parham, Ralph E., Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Baird, James L., F/O N None None B Rutz, Victor H., F/O Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt N None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Harageones, George J., Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt G Glass, David H., Cpl F None
448th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12135:
A/C No. 43-4067 Tail # 76 “The Big Swing” (MACR-12135 - Ship MIA) (first # 76) P Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt - MIA, interned & later returned CP Sanders, William A., 2Lt - MIA, interned & later returned N None B Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt - MIA, interned & later returned E Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt - MIA, interned & later returned R Petruzzi, Evo J., Sgt - MIA, interned & later returned G Brentar, Joseph C., Sgt - MIA, interned & later returned F None Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
43-4067 “The Big Swing” severely damaged by flak
Eyewitness Account: Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
448th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
APO 650, US Army, 8 February 1945
1. After leaving target and starting towards home, I was called by one of our escort and advised that he had intercepted a message from 067 for us. The pilot of 067 said that if we could slow up our airspeed, he would be able to catch us before we reached the Italian coast.
2. I few home at 180 MPH indicated but could not contact 067 at any time. I advised the second flight, who had gone to the alternate target to try to contact 067. They could not do so and the fighters advised that they could not locate the ship.
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
ERLE G. SWANSON Jr. Captain, Air Corps, Flight Leader.
(Attachment to MAC Report, Sheffield, Woodrow W. (O) and crew, dated 8-2-45)
Incl 4. ------
Eyewitness Account: Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS
448th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
APO 650, US Army, 8 February 1945
Upon interrogating crew members returning from the mission on 7 February 1945 I learned that one of our aircraft was missing.
Crew members of other ships stated that 067 piloted by Lieut. Sheffield started falling behind and passed under the formation on the break-away from the target. Several men noticed a large gaping hole in 067’s left wing. Lt. Sheffield called the lead ship and said that he was in trouble but could catch the formation if the leader would slow down. Captain Swanson leader of the mission slowed down to an indicated airspeed of 180 MPH. Captain Swanson also contacted the leader of the second flight Lt. Myers to be on the lookout for 067.
All crew members that I talked with said that Lt. Sheffield’s aircraft seemed to be under control but was losing a little altitude.
FRANK M. FUREY Captain, Air Corps, Ass’t Operations Officer. (Attachment to MAC Report, Sheffield, Woodrow W. (O) and crew, dated 8-2-45)
Incl 5. ------
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 720/mission 720) Group Mission # 720: (448th BS did not participate)
Wednesday, 7 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:00AM. Van had radio and lights on. Briefing at 7:35AM. Yours truly not flying. Lewis going to Rome Rest Camp. Clear sunny AM. Pancakes, syrup, oatmeal, coffee, fruit juice. John Nelson involved in selling rations and government equipment. More or less a barter deal. MP's pick him and Gardner up in an off limits area in the mountains. Had rations in a jeep. Did not answer detail call today. Canned corned beef, rice, tomatoes, cake, bread, butter, coffee. Pick up gloves at tech supply. Clear, warm day. Mission went to Lavis (Brenner Pass). Very rough. 1 ship missing. Lt Sheffield (P) Lt Saunders (CP) Lasskow (E) Sevier (R) Reeves (B) Brentar (G). Ham, mashed potatoes, peas, apple sauce, bread, butter, coffee. Capt Burks returned from France. Clear evening. Retired 11:00PM.” Brentar, Joseph C., Sgt, gunner Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot Gardner, Thomas G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, armament Lasskow, Maxwell J. “Max”, Sgt, engineer-gunner Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt, engineer-gunner Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Petruzzi, Evo J., Sgt, radio-gunner Reves, Louis E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier Sanders, William A., 2Lt, pilot Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt, pilot Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner
Thursday, 8 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 7/8 Feb, A-20s on intruder missions bomb various targets at 58 points in the Po Valley and Brenner Pass area; medium bombers during the day attack bridges at Calliano, Chiusaforte, Dogna and Piacenza; fighters and fighter-bombers closely support US Fifth Army forces in the Serchio Valley where counterattacks oppose the Allied offensive and destroy the Nervesa della Battaglia railroad bridge and oil dump N of Mestre.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Rough targets continued today as the two formations received heavy, intense, accurate flak as they attacked the Galliano Bridges #2 and #3. A total of two aircraft were lost, 1 man killed, and nine wounded. Yet despite the heavy opposition both targets were covered with over ninety percent concentrations. With the move definitely postponed until further notice, S-1, S-2, S-3 and S-4 have found new “homes” although only S-1 has moved back into their pre-fabricated office. S-2 is in a pyramidal, S-3 in the old link-trainer building, S-4 in an elongated hospital-type tent. In a meeting of the Enlisted Men tonight, Captain Bailey emphasized some uniform requirements – O.D.’s for office workers plus ties, stripes and Army Air Force patches. He further announced that men of this unit would henceforth be eligible for furloughs of up to ten days duration. Lt. Dulaney of the 446th Squadron, assigned as Group Personal Equipment Officer by Special Order, 20, this Headquarters, 5 February 1945, moved into his new office in S-3. In their first game of the year the Enlisted Men’s basketball team lost a fast, well-played game to the 448th Squadron 42-28. Bailey, George L., Capt, statistical Dulaney, Fred H., 2Lt, engineering
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 721/mission 721) Group Mission # 721: Calliano Railroad Bridge # 3, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 722/mission 722) Group Mission # 722: Calliano Railroad Bridge # 2, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: Master Sergeant Wendell J. Bell, Corning, N.Y., was the hero today. He was the one who taxied aircraft 928 away from its hardstand to a point of refuge while a large fire was blazing away around four thousand pound bombs lying near some gasoline drums. After Sgt. Bell had taxied the plane out of danger, the bombs exploded sending shrapnel and rocks all over the area. Many of the maintenance tents were wrecked but only one plane was damaged by the flying rocks and shrapnel. The force of the explosion was such as to send a wrench clean across the runway and onto a wing of a B-25 in another squadron almost a half mile away. No one was seriously injured. Today is the second anniversary overseas for the group. Baked ham and apple Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued) pie were especially enjoyed for supper. In the evening, a big champagne party was held in the enlisted men’s club and many “celebrities” were present. These included many of the squadron’s “alumni” such as Major Neumann, Lt. Humphrey, Capt. Anderson and others. Major Bounds and many of the staff officers of the squadron were present. It was a gala affair enjoyed by one and all. Lts. Miron, McFatter and Shutters made 1st Lieutenant today. Anderson, Melvin Anders “Andy”, Capt, bombardier Bell, Wendell J., M/Sgt, engineering Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Humphrey, Malcolm R., 1Lt, supply McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt, pilot Miron, Leno L., 1Lt, pilot Neumann, Robert H., Maj, pilot, Operations Officer Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 721/mission 721) Group Mission # 721: Group Mission #721; Squadron Mission #465: Lt. Webb led 12 ships from the squadron which formed the second flight of a formation sent out to attack the Calliano railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound and 500 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft. Escort was P-47s. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate at the first flight for 30 seconds before bombs away, tracking on breakaway. The second flight received heavy, moderate and fairly accurate flak mostly on breakaway. Six unknown aircraft were seen in the area but they did not attack. 1 ship was lost, 6 men wounded and 10 ships were holed. RESULTS: Greatest concentration just over. Some bombs may have walked through target. Flak ships got good coverage on gun positions.
A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N Cravey, Robert P., 2Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Louis” P Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt E Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Rousso, Ralph L., Sgt R Reagin, Charles T., S/Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Clayton, Ross W., Sgt F None None Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Baby” Fancy Pants” P Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt Buckham, John K., 2Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 1Lt Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N None None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Vargas, Cleofas M., Cpl Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Seigler, William B., Cpl Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 Portchester” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Larson, Richard A., Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Cpl R Otterness, William B., S/Sgt Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Freidli, William M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” Beauty” (previously “Modern Design”) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Young, William J. “Dusty”, 2Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt Brooks, William F., F/O E McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt R Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Baker, Max E., Sgt Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) House Mouse” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Miron, Leno L., 1Lt CP Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Hagains, John R., Sgt R Ott, James V., Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt Bierly, Glenn E., Sgt F None None
Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued) A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P McFatter, Joe H., 2Lt CP Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None B Caron, Philip H., 2Lt E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Stack, James T., Cpl F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 722/mission 722) Group Mission # 722: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 721/mission 721) Group Mission # 721: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Starczewski is made a 1st Lieut., as Flight Officers Smith, Atkins and Anderson are made second lieutenants. A 12-plane mission is flown and two of our ships make forced landings in Italy after a “hot” flight. Anderson, William H., 2Lt, pilot Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Smith, Clarence J. H., 2Lt, pilot Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt, bombardier
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 722/mission 722) Group Mission # 722: Squadron Mission 499 TARGET: Calliano, Italy DATE: 8 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12 Lt. Marchant led the formation. Bombs hit just short of bridge and walked through target to river, covering bridge. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, very accurate. One man killed, twelve planes holed. Lt. Crisp landed on single engine at Pisa. Lt. Chandler crash-landed at Florence, crew safe. One report of ME-109s being sighted, but they did not attack. Lt. Berge, the spare, returned early. Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS A/C No. 43-3989 Tail # 37 “My A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” Georgia Peach” (on co-pilot side - “The (previously “Tiny?”) Leading Lady”, previously “Miss Dallas”) (single engine landing at Pisa) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Wozniak, Stanley E., Capt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N Starczewski, Phillip R., 2Lt None B O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Freeman, Harold W., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., S/Sgt G Meade, Harold W., Cpl Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F None None Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably Girl” ”Hauling Ass II” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Reda, John J., Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Sgt Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Holdridge, John F., Sgt Hatcher, James T., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Barbee, Harvey C., 2Lt Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B DeSorbo, John S., Sgt Freck, Byron P., Cpl E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt G Cleland, Donald S., Cpl Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Bass, Charles L., Cpl Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt Beck, Junior D., Sgt G Springer, Walter H., Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet Bull” Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt N None Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt Leith, William V., 1Lt E Chase, William H., Cpl Demmitt, Henry H., S/Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Wagner, William M., Cpl F None None
Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-27496 Tail # ? Arabella” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) “PRINCESS” (previously PRINCESS PAOLA II) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) (crash landed at Florence) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N None None B Law, John B., Sgt Beecher, Everett F., Sgt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., S/Sgt Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Darnielle, George W., Cpl Beavers, Marqus F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Berge, Gail B., 2Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N None B Williams, Thomas A., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl R Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 36) “No. 36) Went after Calliano R.R. Bridge - very rough. Got flak about 6 min. Picked up about 200 holes. Single engine and a flat tire. Had just 20 gallons of gas left. Capt. Crisp.” Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 721/mission 721) Group Mission # 721: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 722/mission 722) Group Mission # 722: 9 planes participated in a mission to Calliano Rail Bridge No. 2 in northern Italy. All planes returned safely, but many planes were holed. 1st Lt. Donald J. Colgan, bombardier in lead ship was killed over the target by flak. Capt. S.P. Olson navigator on lead ship was severely wounded about the face by flak. He is recovering in the 40th Station Hospital. Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt CP Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt N None Olsen, Svend P., Capt B Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), 2Lt Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt E Price, Charles J., Cpl Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Appleman, Carroll G., Sgt G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 Fosdick” P Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Haage, Frederick W., F/O Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., 2Lt Davies, John V., 1Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Cpl Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Cpl Smith, John T., Cpl G Householder, Joe F., Cpl Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little David” P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Stephens, James J., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Perl, Richard H., Sgt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Cpl Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Cpl G West, Edgar M., Cpl Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Doll” Teddie” P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Gough, William V., 2Lt Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Keenan, Harry A., Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Cassidy, Raymond S., JR., Cpl G Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None
Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 P Peck, Paul R., 2Lt CP Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt N None B McDermott, James W., 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Cpl G Flanagan, Joseph E., Cpl F None
448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 721/mission 721) Group Mission # 721: Nine of the 448th’s planes flew on the only mission today for the Squadron, the Calliano Railroad Bridge. Lieutenant Lyons led the formation which attacked in clear weather through a heavy barrage of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Several of the planes received damage from the flak but Lieutenant Lyons led his formation on to the target where another extremely successful mission was scored. Numerous hits were made in the center of the bridge, but smoke obscured clear observation. Captain Bongiovanni, Lieutenants Sheppard and Styers and Sergeant Hildreth receive slight wounds on today’s mission. Lieutenant Schweitzer and Sergeant Powell received more serious wounds and were rushed to a hospital immediately. One plane was lost. It was last seen heading northward, losing altitude with one engine smoking. The crew of the missing plane was Lieutenants Birkhead and Pruitt and Sergeants Ratcliffe, Hovorka, Randall and Hawthorne.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Lyons, John B., 1Lt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt None B Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E Powell, Neil J., Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Libby, Donald E., F/O Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt Codd, James P., S/Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Sgt O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 (MACR-12126 shot down by flak) P Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N None None B Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Cpl Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “The Cherry Fizz” P Fleming, George B., 1Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt CP Campbell, John E., 2Lt Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt Turner, James H., Sgt R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt N None B Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt G Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt F None
448th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12126:
A/C No. 44-28918 Tail # 82 (first # 82) (MACR-12126 shot down by flak) P Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt - MIA - KIA per NARA records CP Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt - MIA - KIA per NARA records N None B Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt - MIA - KIA per NARA records E Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Sgt - MIA - KIA per NARA records R Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt - MIA - KIA per NARA records G Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt - MIA - KIA per NARA records F None Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
Eyewitness Account: West, Alden A. "Bud", 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
448th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF
APO 650, US Army, 9 February 1945
On the mission of February 8, 1945 to Calliano Rail Road Bridge, I flew directly behind and beneath Lieut. Birkhead’s aircraft 44-28918 which was lost to intense enemy anti-aircraft fire. Just at the moment of “Bombs Away” Lieut. Birkhead’s aircraft was struck by flak and fell directly in front of me and passed under the formation as we broke to the right.
I slipped inside of my element leader and watched the crippled aircraft descend rapidly (approximately 2000 ft a minute) then turn Northward and continue his decent up the Brenner Pass toward the city of Trento.
Lieutenant Birkhead’s aircraft appeared to be under control at all times, but heavy volumes of white gasoline vapor were escaping from his right engine nacelle. There was no fire visible to me nor was the right propeller feathered.
I lost sight of 918 as it passed behind some mountains about 5000 feet below the formation.
ALDEN A. WEST 2nd Lt., Air Corps, Pilot.
(Attachment to MAC Report, Birkhead, Charles F. Jr. (O) and crew, dated 2-9-45)
Incl 2. ------
Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 722/mission 722) Group Mission # 722: (448th BS did not participate)
Thursday, 8 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:45AM. Sunny AM. Feeling fair, but somewhat nervous. Martin went to Rome Rest Camp yesterday. Fresh fried eggs, hot cereal, bacon, fruit juice, coffee, bread, marmalade. Briefing 10:25AM. Carry 1000 lb. 721 (90) (44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug”) Lt Autrey, pilot. Target is Calliano RR bridge in Brenner Pass. Six anti-flak ships and fighter escort. Take off 11:30AM. Partly cloudy sky. Over target at 2:05PM. Using K-1. Heavy intense and accurate flak. 918 (82) (44-28918 Tail # 82) hit on bomb run. Broke away and disappeared in mountains. Many ships in distress. Our bombardier hit in head. Flak helmet saved his life. Lead navigator and bombardier injured. Lead bombardier in 447th killed. Powell engineer severely wounded in left knee. Landed 3:00PM. 100% hit on target. Lt Birkhead, Lt Saunders, S/Sgt Ratcliffe, S/Sgt Hawthorne, T/Sgt Randall, Sgt Hovorka went down with 918. No word yet from Lt Sheffield's ship. Canned pork, dehydrated potatoes, canned corn, vanilla pudding, bread, jelly, coffee. Colored band from Bastia playing at club tonight. Marks the second anniversary of this group being overseas. Free beer and food. All the boys are down in the dumps tonight. Miss our buddies. Clear, starry night. Retired 10:30PM.” Autry, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt , pilot Birkhead, Charles F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt, navigator (448th BS lead navigator) Colgan, Donald J., 1Lt, bombardier, 447th BS (447th BS lead bombardier) Hawthorne, Ralph C., S/Sgt, gunner Hovorka, Leo F., Jr., Sgt, engineer-gunner Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt, engineer-gunner Powell, Neil J., Sgt, engineer-gunner Pruitt, Henry L., 2Lt, pilot Randall, Charles R., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Ratcliffe, James E., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier Sheffield, Woodrow W., 2Lt, pilot Sheppard, John W., 2Lt, bombardier Zinkand, Willard T., 1Lt, bombardier (448th BS lead bombardier)
Friday, 9 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 8/9 Feb, A-20s and A-26s on intruder missions attack communications targets throughout the C and NE Po Valley; weather restricts daytime operations to weather reconnaissance and supply dropping missions.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. The Headquarters Officers paced by Major Neumann, ex-Seton Hall star, went out and trimmed the Enlisted men to the tune of 45-31 in a tune up for both teams with a league schedule coming up. Neumann, Robert H., Maj, pilot, Group Gunnery Officer
445th BS War Diary: It was “stand-down” on the mission today. Lts. Robson and Finkhouse gave a lecture on bombing to all the bombardiers. Two of the most popular and faithful members of the squadron left today on rotation orders taking them to the States. They are technical sergeants Charlie Larkin and Charlie Doherty. Capt. Weld and Sgt. H.J. Jones also left. The men on the line were rebuilding damaged tents and installations on the line today following yesterday’s explosions. The weather was warm again but it was a bit windy in the afternoon making landings difficult for the men on practice bombing. Doherty, Charles S., T/Sgt, gunner Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 1Lt, bombardier Jones, Harvey J., S/Sgt, gunner Larkin, Francis C. "Charley", T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt, bombardier Weld, Willis R., Capt, pilot
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 02/09/45: “Yesterday marked the second anniversary of our sailing from New York harbor for service overseas. It was a typical day and one that will be remembered by everyone. We had a mission to load and so we went to the line quite early. Just as my crew was preparing to hoist the last bomb in one ship we noticed a big smoke rising from the hard-stand next to us, and at the same time Edward Shafer came “giggin” down the taxi strip, definitely in a state of alarm. I asked him what the trouble was and he said a pool of gasoline had caught fire and was burning dangerously near the plane. There were six 1000-pound bombs lying in the gas. I passed the alarm to the other boys and we all took off down the taxi strip. I heard engines being started and looked around in time to see the plane, aileron burning, taxi out and cross the strip to a vacant hard-stand. Shafer, Edgar H., Sgt, engineering We had reached a shallow flood way near my airplane, #572, and were waiting for the explosion we were sure would come. The fire had died out somewhat and I was about to remark that perhaps the bombs were not going to blow when a flash of flame shot into the air and a tremendous ear-splitting crash followed by a thunderous boom told us it was all over now. We hit the ditch and debris began falling all around us. It continued to rain stones and pieces of metal for what seemed a long time, but we were
Friday, 9 February 1945 (continued) not struck by anything but small stuff. Shafer got a rather bad bruise on the knee. We went up to view the resultant damage, which was terrific. Several planes were damaged so badly that they had to be taken to the service squadron. The one we were loading was hardest hit of any. All the administration tents, Armament Tech supply, engineering, etc. were flattened by the blast. A section of brush was cleared away and a huge crater gaped at where the bombs had lain. Fortunately and strangely, no one was hurt. Shafer, Edgar H., Sgt, engineering M/Sgt. Bell had started engines and taxied away the plane nearest the fire and the only damage to it was a burned aileron. For the marvelous job he deserves the very highest of praise. He is one of the very few men who would have tried to do it and a combination of courage, ability, confidence and luck is all that saved him and the plane. Bell, Wendell J., M/Sgt, engineering Bomb fragments, pieces of tools and equipment, etc. were scattered into every squadron area on the line, and numerous incidents occurred elsewhere. A crew chief working on his engine a mile or more away asked his assistant for a 5/16 box end wrench. Ping! Here it came right through the engine cowling almost into his hand. Men were in every attitude of nature when the explosion occurred and some claim to have been knocked off their feet. Several were hit in the back by falling stones. We were standing less than a hundred yards away and I felt no overwhelming effect of the blast. I was expecting it to come and was neither unnerved or frightened. Shortly after it happened, General Knapp landed his “cub” on the taxi strip and taxied up to the crater. After looking things over to his satisfaction, he asked to have the narrow strip cleared and without the least of ceremony, took off again. Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Our planes took off on the mission as per schedule and soon the business of reconstruction was well underway. The 447th and 448th Squadrons ran into heavy flak and I saw several wounded taken from a couple of planes. One bombardier was killed and the pilot of the same plane had both eyes shot out. The Armament “wheels” were attending Steve’s court-martial for the accident that resulted in Dexter’s death and an investigation is being conducted on the incendiary bomb that exploded last week. Now this will call in a great deal of questions. Steve was acquitted. Our move has been postponed and it is my opinion that we shall remain here for a long time. The weather is perfect.” Dexter, Richard W. "Dex", Sgt, armament Pleva, Stephen P., Sgt, armament
446th BS War Diary: Lucky five to get orders to go home are Capt. Mayo, Lieuts. Derringer and Farber and EM Bundy and Bruner. Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Bundy, Garland A., T/Sgt, gunner Derringer, Albert J., 1Lt, bombardier Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt, bombardier Mayo, Jack D., Capt, bombardier
Friday, 9 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS War Diary: No mission today. Cpl. Forman L. Cole assigned and joined from Hq. 19th Repl Bn. Par 9 SO 38 Hq. 19th Repl. Bn. 1st Lt. Lee F. Huchingson assigned and joined from 445th Bomb. Sq. duty Supply Officer, par 6 SO 20 Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. Cole, Forman L., Cpl, armament Huchingson, Lee F., 1Lt, Adjutant
448th BS War Diary: Captain Burks, Operations Officer was promoted to Major, and second Lieutenants Allendorph and Gardner were promoted to First Lieutenant. Allendorph, John B., 1Lt, bombardier Burks, Richard W., Maj, pilot Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt, bombardier
448th BS Mission Summary: Cloudy threatening weather prevailed over most of Corsica today, as bad weather was reported in the Po Valley also. The crews for today’s mission arrived at the briefing hut, however, before being told that the mission was a stand down.
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Joe Ryan came storming in about 7:50AM. Clear, sunny AM. John got quite stinking from drinking. Fresh, fried eggs, oatmeal, bacon, bread, jelly, fruit juice, coffee. Chow is the general run of the mill. Weather is fair. Mission bombed alternate at Mantua. 100%. No Flak. No Fighters. Feeling fair. Been thinking a lot about the folks and Shyrle. Nothing special took place today. 1st shift of guard.” Nelson, John F. “Chief”, Cpl, engineer-gunner Ryan, Joseph C. "Joe", Sgt, personnel, Detail Sgt Shyrle, Irving Schaffer’s future wife
Saturday, 10 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 9/10 Feb, A-20s and A-26s hit railroads, lights, and movement in the Po Valley and Brenner area and bomb docks at La Spezia; weather cancels all but 2 medium bomber missions; however, the B-25s cut bridges at Palazzuolo sull' Oglio and Romano di Lombardia; fighter-bombers concentrate on railroads in NE Italy, and destroy numerous vehicles in a truck park in the Mantua area.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The two formations sent to hit the San Michele area had to attack the alternates because of the inclement weather in the Brenner Pass and, with no flak, reported excellent concentrations in the target area.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 723/mission 723) Group Mission # 723: Weather Reconnaissance. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 724/mission 724) Group Mission # 724: Romano Di Lombardo Rail Bridge, Italy (Alt) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 725/mission 725) Group Mission # 725: San Michele Diversion Fill, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The Palazzolo railroad bridge, Italy was bombed today with 100 per cent bombing accuracy resulting. Three combat officers went to the Ile Rousse rest camp today while three combat enlisted men went to the rest camp at Rome. The weather was again ideal and some packages arrived which made the day all the better. With the outdoors so perfect lately, many of the men are getting their quota of exercise via basketball, horseshoes, softball and other games. There was a party held at the enlisted men’s club tonight in honor of 1st Sgt. Matt Campbell’s 43rd birthday. Campbell, Matthew (NMI), S/Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 723/mission 723) Group Mission # 723: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 724/mission 724) Group Mission # 724: (445th BS did not participate)
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 725/mission 725) Group Mission # 725: Group Mission #725; Squadron Mission #466: Lt. Bowling led 9 ships from this squadron in a formation of 18 ships sent out to attack the San Michele diversion fill, Italy. Due to bad weather over the primary target, the alternate target – Palazzolo railroad bridge – was bombed. 500 pound bombs were dropped from 10,500 ft and 12,500 ft. Area cover was provided. There was no flak. RESULTS: A concentration of bombs went across the east half and east approach with some direct hits reported. 1 pattern over. Some bombs caused several explosions possibly the result of hits on gas stores.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (first # 06) P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Santone, Michael A., 1Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Morisi, David D., S/Sgt Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” (previously “Modern Design”) P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Doris, Robert E., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Caron, Philip H., 2Lt E Gum, Paul V., Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Fancy Pants” Baby” P Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt CP Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N None None B Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Weingartner, William E., Cpl Vaseleski, Andrew C., Sgt G Heintz, Howard R., Jr., Sgt Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl F None None
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Beauty” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Brown, William G., F/O N None None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Miller, Morris M., Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl Lile, Keith B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie House Mouse” Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Buckham, John K., 2Lt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt Badger, Joe G., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Milton H., 1Lt Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt E Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl R Lowrey, James S., Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl G Swinson, Carl R. M., Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F Naughton, John J., Jr., Cpl None
446th BS War Diary: A 9-plane mission is flown.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 723/mission 723) Group Mission # 723: Squadron Mission 500 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 10 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Sherline, David M., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 724/mission 724) Group Mission # 724: Squadron Mission 501 TARGET: Romano Di Lombardo Rail Bridge, Italy (Alt) DATE: 10 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Capt. Smedley Alternate attacked because of weather. Excellent concentration, direct hits reported. Third element of first flight dropped on second run. No flak, no fighters.
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 We Bob Along” “Barbara” P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt CP Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Utz, James W., Sgt Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl G Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Arabella” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt N None None B Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Beck, Junior D., S/Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt 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 DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Long, Emmett N., 1Lt N None None B Law, John B., Sgt Andrews, James Robert, Cpl E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., 2Lt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Wimert, Donald A., Sgt G Chapin, Correll C., Cpl Griffin, John A., Cpl F None None
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt None B Clark, Samuel E., Jr., Sgt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt Darnielle, George W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee (previously “Tiny?”) Girl” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt CP Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), S/Sgt Holdridge, John F., Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt F None None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 725/mission 725) Group Mission # 725: (446th BS did not participate)
447th BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men assigned and joined organization from 57th Bomb Wing, 7 Feb. par 3, SO 22, Hq. 321st Bomb Group: Cpl. Donald Levy, Cpl Frank L. Maples, Cpl John P. Ross, Cpl Bernard Steinhauser, Cpl Charles E. Wilvert. 2nd Lt. Floyd W. Prilliman, 2nd Lt. George A. Wood, F/O Carl B. Brown, F/O Glenn J. Cromley, F/O Robert L. Hoy, Cpl Richard S. Brockman, Cpl. Joel L. Cline, Cpl. Thomas J. Lendino, Capt. Jack L. Erb, 1st Lt. Wallace I. Duty, 2nd Lt. Rodney O. Bradshaw, 2nd Lt. James L. Michael. The following officers promoted to the indicated grade: 1st Lt. Earl H. Remmel to captain, 2nd Lt. Robert A. Balboni and Vernon L. Schmoke to 1st Lt., par 2 SO 33, Hq. 12th Air Force. The following enlisted men promoted to Sergeant par 1 SO 21, Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. Cpl. Charles W. Hardage, Cpl. Leroy Jones, Cpl. Camille J. Merlino, Cpl. James R. Newton, Cpl. Emigdio Ruiz, Cpl. Stanley E. Teutsch, Cpl. Frank W. Hunsaker Jr., Cpl. Walter F. Meiborg, Cpl. Karl N. Mindlin, Cpl Charles J. Price, Cpl Robert A. Stroupe, Cpl Edgar M. West. Morning report: Officers 88; Enlisted Men: 354. Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt, bombardier Bradshaw, Rodney O., 2Lt, pilot Brockman, Richard E., Cpl, gunner Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O, pilot Cline, Joel L., Cpl, gunner Cromley, Glenn J., F/O, bombardier
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt, pilot Erb, Jack L., Capt, pilot Hardage, Charles W., Sgt, gunner Hoy, Robert L., F/O, pilot Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt, gunner Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt, gunner Lendino, Thomas J., Cpl, gunner Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl, gunner Maples, Frank L. Jr., Cpl, gunner Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt, gunner Merlino, Camille J., Sgt, gunner Michael, James L., 2Lt, bombardier Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt, gunner Newton, James R., Sgt, gunner Price, Charles J., Sgt, gunner Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt, navigator Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, Capt, pilot Ross, John P., Cpl, gunner Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt, radio-gunner Schmoke, Vernon L., 1Lt, bombardier Steinhauser, Bernard (NMI), Cpl, gunner Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt, gunner Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt, gunner West, Edgar M., Sgt, gunner Wilvert, Charles E. “Chap”, Cpl, gunner Wood, George A., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 723/mission 723) Group Mission # 723: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 724/mission 724) Group Mission # 724: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 725/mission 725) Group Mission # 725:
A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Melting Pot” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Stokes, Robert C., Sgt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 1Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Cpl Huntley, Bruce H., Sgt R Newton, James R., Cpl Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt Lejman, George T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None None B Gough, William V., 2Lt Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O E Mullis, Paul C., Sgt Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt R Poulin, Gaston G., Sgt Marion, William T., Jr., Cpl G Young, Robert E., Sgt Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt F None None
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Brice, David W., 1Lt CP Peck, Paul R., 2Lt Britt, Robert O., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., 2Lt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Neely, Robert E., Cpl Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Cpl Lamb, George K., Cpl G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Hawthorne, Charles E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Tougaw, Lewis W., Cpl Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Cpl Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Cpl None listed G Flanagan, Joseph E., Cpl Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Cpl G Merlino, Camille J., Cpl F None
448th BS War Diary: Captain Furey, assistant operations officer, was transferred to Group today. Lieutenants Ashland and Boyd, F/O Campbell, and Corporals Nugent and Rayfield were assigned to the Squadron today. Corporal Anderson, an armorer, was assigned also. Anderson, Kenneth A., Sgt, armament or Anderson, Reuben E., Sgt, armament Ashland, Arthur E. “Art”, 2Lt, pilot Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt, bombardier Campbell, John E., F/O, pilot Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot Nugent, Earl W., Cpl, gunner Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl, gunner
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 723/mission 723) Group Mission # 723: (448th BS did not participate)
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 724/mission 724) Group Mission # 724: Captain Leonard led the 448th’s nine planes, flying as the second element in today’s mission, in the attack on the Romano Di Lombardo rail bridge. The formation was originally scheduled to attack the San Michele Rail Diversion bridge, but when the bombers arrived there, they found an overcast which prevented clear observation of the target, so they turned to the alternate. The weather there wasn’t much better, but the bridge was bombed with an excellent concentration in the center and west approach. Direct hits were observed, and the objective was reported down after the attack. It was another 100% bombing accuracy mission for the Squadron. No enemy opposition was encountered, and the formation returned safely to base at 1300.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Leonard, Lee V., Capt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down Fizz” But Not Out” (first # 87) P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 1Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Berman, Marvin A., T/Sgt E Harageones, George J., Sgt Head, Guthrie H., Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Varga, Frank K., Cpl G Foote, Lancel H., Jr., Sgt Smith, Norman L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Russell, John D., 2Lt Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt CP Stokes, George M., 2Lt Stow, Charles E., 2Lt N None None B Libby, Donald E., 2Lt Higby, Paul K., F/O E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl Sevier, Fred L., Sgt G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt F None None
Saturday, 10 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4081 Tail # ? “Dixie Girl” A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Burks, Richard W., Maj Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None None B Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt E Murray, Francis J., Sgt McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt N None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt E Payne, Robert B., Cpl R Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 725/mission 725) Group Mission # 725: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Usual morning arising chow etc. Abiecunas and I left for 340th. Visited Lozowski and Usher. Both are OK. Saw Thomas and Gifford in the 487th. The boys have to fly 70 missions. Saw Alley Baine. Flying #4 bombardier. Returned squadron 5:00PM. Rode part of the way back in truck loaded with freshly cut trees. Clear sunny day.” Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt, gunner Gifford, George (NMI), S/Sgt, turret-gunner, 487th BS, 340th BG Lozowski, Leonard J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG Thomas, Nathan G., 487th BS, 340th BG Usher, Cecil C., Sgt, tail gunner, 486th BS, 340th BG
Sunday, 11 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, A-20s on night intruder missions attack enemy movement and lights at various points in N Italy, hit bridges in the Po Valley, and attack frontline positions in the N Apennines; weather grounds the medium bombers but fighters and fighter-bombers blast railroad bridges and lines in the NE and C Po Valley and stores and supply dumps in the C and W Po River areas.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions – weather. On Special Order #24, Headquarters 321st Bombardment Group, 11 February ’45, Major Damon I. McLain relieved as Group Air Inspector, Captain J. Maurice Wiginton, assigned from the 447th Squadron. Major McLain has his orders to return to the States after completion of his combat tour of duty. McLain, Damon I., Maj, pilot, Group Air Inspector Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", Capt, pilot, Group Air Inspector
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 726/mission 726) Group Mission # 726: Weather Reconnaissance. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Ten crews were standing by for the mission today but it was cancelled probably due to bad weather in the target area. There was some practice bombing and transition flights were made. Capt. Stanton W. Johnson, Aerial Gunnery Officer, gave a lecture on position firing to all the gunners in the squadron. 1st Lt. Herbert E. Robson brought out the “railroad tracks” today as he was promoted to captain. The drinks were on Capt. Robson at the club tonight. Johnson, Stanton W., Capt, Armament Officer Robson, Herbert E., Capt, bombardier
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 726/mission 726) Group Mission # 726: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties are carried out as there is no flying.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 726/mission 726) Group Mission # 726: Squadron Mission 502 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 11 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.
Sunday, 11 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., Capt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Demmitt, Henry H., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Feola, Joseph A., Cpl F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)
447th BS War Diary: No mission today. The following sergeants promoted to staff sergeants: Carroll G. Appleman, Marvin S. Goldman, Bruce H. Huntley, Harry A. Keenan, Michael M. Maslyar, Dan Ochs, Harold Phares Jr., Edward C. Staub, Bernard A. Flanigan, Robert L. Gorden, Dewey D. Jones Jr., George T. Lejman, Daniel P. McMenamin Jr., Richard H. Perl, Kenneth C. Smith, Robert C. Stokes. The following corporals were promoted to sergeants: Arthur F. Anderson, Paul W. Cunningham, Charles E. Hawthorne, Harry H. Judy, Jr., George K. Lamb, William T. Marion Jr., Robert P. Rinard, Raymond S. Cassidy, Joseph E. Flanagan, Joe F. Householder, Frederick J. Krauss, Clarence C. MacMullen, Robert E. Neely, John T. Smith, Hazen A. Thomas. 1st Lt. George G. VenJohn held a meeting of several enlisted men today in order to talk over information and educational program with them. Anderson, Arthur F., Sgt, gunner Appleman, Carroll G., S/Sgt, gunner Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt, gunner Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt, gunner Flanagan, Joseph E., Sgt, gunner Flanigan, Bernard A., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt, gunner Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt, gunner Householder, Joe F., Sgt, gunner Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt, gunner Jones, Dewey D., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt, gunner Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt, gunner Krauss, Frederick J., Sgt, gunner Lamb, George K., Sgt, gunner Lejman, George T., S/Sgt, armorer-gunner MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt, gunner Marion, William T., Jr., Sgt, gunner McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt, gunner Neely, Robert E., Sgt, gunner Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Rinard, Robert P., Sgt, gunner Smith, John T., Sgt, radio-gunner Smith, Kenneth C., S/Sgt, gunner Staub, Edward C., S/Sgt, gunner Stokes, Robert C., S/Sgt, gunner Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt, gunner VenJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence
Sunday, 11 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 726/mission 726) Group Mission # 726: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: The morning dawned bright and clear here on Corsica but bad weather over the Po Valley area prevented the mission from taking off. The weekly I & E lecture was held tonight in the Enlisted Men’s Mess Hall. Nothing else other than the usual Squadron duties happened during the day.
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 726/mission 726) Group Mission # 726: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:15AM. Briefing 8:25AM. Fresh fried eggs, oatmeal, bread, fruit juice, coffee. Stand-down on missions. Van and I went out to line to take pictures. Windy. Capt Furey assigned to group as assistant operations officer. Major Neuman left for home after completing 75 missions. Nothing special happening today. Reading "God's Little Acre" by Erskine Caldwell. Clear, starry evening. Retired 10:00PM.” Furey, Frank M. "Mickey", Capt, pilot, HQ 321st BG Neumann, Robert H., Maj, pilot, HQ 321st BG Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner
Monday, 12 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, A-20s, during the night of 11/12 Feb, bomb communications targets in the Po Valley and NE Italy, including the Brenner Pass area; bad weather during the day restricts medium bomber operations to bombing the bridge at Ala and a sugar refinery at Legnago; only 1 fighter Gp, the 57th, can operate, hitting bridges, rail lines, and guns in the Po Valley.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No missions – weather. Routine camp duties.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 727/mission 727) Group Mission # 727: Weather Reconnaissance. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: Squadron did not participate in mission. Once again ten crews were standing by and once again the mission was cancelled. The operations board shows 18 combat crews available today with 17 operational aircraft ready for action. Lt. Lawrence and Sgts. Clayton and Reagin were sent to rest camp today. There was some formation flying in the morning while practice assembly and formation took place in the afternoon. Major Bounds test hopped 534 (43-27534 Tail # 11) while two ships went to the bombing range. The evening meal will now be served from 5:30 to 6:30 instead of the previous schedule of 5 to 6. Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Clayton, Ross W., Sgt, gunner Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt, pilot Reagin, Charles T., Sgt, gunner
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 727/mission 727) Group Mission # 727: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties are carried out as there is no flying.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 727/mission 727) Group Mission # 727: Squadron Mission 503 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 12 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. Hurley was the pilot. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters.
Monday, 12 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon Lu” (Weather Ship) P Hurley, John R., Capt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N Gale, Benjamin H., Jr., 1Lt B None E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Meade, Harold W., Cpl F Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt (observer)
447th BS War Diary: No mission today. The following officer, flight officer and enlisted men assigned and joined organization from Hq. 57th Bomb. Wing, 10 Feb. 1945 par 1, SO 25 Hq. 321st Bomb. Gp: F/O Armond H. Bethke Jr. F/O John I. Fowler, 2nd Lt. Melvin G. Steffan, Cpl. Emanuel L. Santora. Usual camp duties throughout day. Bethke, Armond H., Jr., F/O, pilot Fowler, John I., F/O, bombardier Santora, Emanuel L., Cpl, gunner Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 727/mission 727) Group Mission # 727: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Martin, McRee, Copes and Cooper returned from the Cannes rest camp today, while Lieutenants Churchill, Cook, Smith and Armstrong left to supply the Squadron’s quota to this beautiful rest Haven. Lieutenant Stromberg and Sergeants Pealer and Fletcher left for the Capri rest camp also today. Lieutenants Butler and Tryon and Corporals Carter, Soltys, Fields, Pituck, Blackard and Schaeffer were assigned to the Squadron today. Private Lellis returned from TD with the 310th Bomb Gp. And Cpl. Morella left for TD with the 310th Bomb Gp. Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr. 2Lt, bombardier Blackard, Hershel L., Cpl, gunner Butler, Glenn D., 2Lt, pilot Carter, Hugh A., Cpl, gunner Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt, pilot Cook, Don W., 1Lt, pilot Cooper, James W., 2Lt, pilot Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt, pilot Fields, James A., Cpl, gunner Fletcher, William H., Sgt, gunner Lellis, Michael C., Pvt, duty soldier Martin, James M., Jr., Lt, bombardier McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt, bombardier Morella, James R., Cpl, cook Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt, gunner Pituck, James J., Cpl, gunner Schaeffer, John H., Cpl, armament Smith, Milford A., 1Lt, pilot Soltys, John J., Cpl, gunner Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt, pilot Tryon, Ben L., 2Lt, pilot
Monday, 12 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary: It was a clear day once again and at briefing time the crew members took off for the briefing hut. It wasn’t long, however, before they came back. Bad weather over the Po Valley, the usual reason, made the mission stand down.
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 727/mission 727) Group Mission # 727: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke usual hour. Stand-down on mission. Nothing special happening.”
Tuesday, 13 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 12/13 Feb, A-20s attack enemy movement in the C and NC Po Valley; medium bombers hit bridges at Calcinato, Dogna, and Chiusaforte and the bridge approach at Lavis; fighter-bombers fly nearly 350 sorties against enemy communications in N Italy including marshalling yards at Verona, Parma, and Vicenza.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions this date. An eighteen plane formation hit the almost indistinguishable Rail Diversion at San Michele with fair results while 24 additional aircraft hit the Lavis Diversion on their second pass with good results.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 728/mission 728) Group Mission # 728: San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 729/mission 729) Group Mission # 729: Lavis Railroad diversion, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: Today’s mission was to bomb the San Michele rail diversion bridges and 66.6 per cent was achieved. Lt. Emler and Sgts. Larson and Josephson were sent to the Rome rest camp today. Capt. Hatcher gave a gunnery lecture to all gunners today. His talk covered gunnery in general, gun maintenance, safety precautions, test firing, etc. There was a formation today in class “A’s” for presentation of awards ceremonies. The Tripoli “rum runner” returned today laden down with plenty of beer. Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 2Lt, pilot Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot Josephson, Sanford L., Sgt, gunner Larson, Richard A., Sgt, gunner
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 728/mission 728) Group Mission # 728: Group Mission #728; Squadron Mission #467: Lt. Webb led 9 ships from this squadron which formed the second flight of a formation sent out to attack the San Michele rail diversion bridge, Italy. 500 pound bombs were dropped form 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft. Area cover was furnished and no flak was encountered. RESULTS: Majority of bombs just west of target in Adige river. Some bombs may have hit bridge. One cluster 300 feet west of target along canal west of Adige.
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Lou” Bobby” P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt CP Jeffery, James C., Capt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., Capt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., T/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Posillico, Frank A., Cpl G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) House Mouse” P Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt R Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt Ross, Reginald J.,T/Sgt G Baker, Max E., Sgt Freidli, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Louis” Beauty” P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt Middleton, Donald M., 2Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Caron, Philip H., 2Lt Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Sgt R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt Seigler, William B., Cpl G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Portchester” (first # 06) P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Buckham, John K., 2Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Stack, James T., Cpl F None None
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27917 Tail # 20 A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” (Lead spare – did not fill in) P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Badger, Joe G., 2Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N None None B Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt Brooks, William F., F/O E Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R Barnett, Frank E., Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Teague, Phillip B., Sgt Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt F None None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 729/mission 729) Group Mission # 729: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Captain Matthews and Sgt. Cifuni head for the good old U.S. Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt, gunner Matthews, John Walker, Jr., Capt, pilot
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 728/mission 728) Group Mission # 728: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 729/mission 729) Group Mission # 729: Squadron Mission 504 TARGET: Lavis Railroad diversion, Italy DATE: 13 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. and 100 lb Phosphorus 446th Planes: 12 Major Farwell led the formation. Target bombed on second run. Main concentration on tracks at S approach of N bridge. Possible pattern on S end. Other strings on either side of tracks. Anti-flak ships dropped phosphorus with fair to good results on gun positions. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate, inaccurate. Three planes holed. No fighters. Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 seated lady - no name/lettering) P Ingram, William T., 2Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Young, Earl B., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Girl” Baby” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt CP Sherline, David M., 2Lt Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Sgt Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Bull” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None None B Murch, George M., Jr., Sgt Andrews, James Robert, Cpl E Chase, William H., Cpl Pelusi, Richard D., Cpl R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov (later name dropped from nose art) 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Boylan, James P., Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl Beck, Junior D., Sgt G Springer, Walter H., Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Di Norma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Callaway, Charles R., F/O N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Law, John B., Sgt E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt Lamm, Earl D., Cpl R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl G Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Heaberlin, Paul L., 1Lt Burklund, Donald K., N None None B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Reda, John J., Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Sgt R Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Hatcher, James T., Cpl Wagner, William M., Sgt F None None
447th BS War Diary: The following sergeants reduced to corporal: Ollie C. Smith, Louis G. Steves. Captain J. Maurice Wiginton transferred to Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. Par 5 SO 24 Hq 321st Bomb Gp. Smith, Ollie C., Cpl, engineering Steves, Louis G., Jr., Cpl, engineering Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", Capt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 728/mission 728) Group Mission # 728: 9 plane formation flew a mission against San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge. All planes returned and excellent results achieved with 100 % bombing accuracy.
A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Jamoke” Teddie” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Erb, Jack L., Capt N None Franklin, Arthur E., Capt, HQ 321st BG B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Balboni, Robert A., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt Antry, Jack B., 2Lt N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt McMenamin, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Smith, John T., Sgt G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Haage, Frederick W., F/O CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None None B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt Anderson, Arthur F., Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Merlino, Camille J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd D., 2Lt B Michael, James L., 2Lt Schmoke, Vernon L., 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, T/Sgt Krauss, Frederick J., Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little David” P Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O N None B Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl R Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt G Brockman, Richard E., Cpl F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 729/mission 729) Group Mission # 729: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: This afternoon, despite threatening weather, General Knapp, in a formation of the Group presented the following awards to personnel of the 448th Squadron: Air Medal: Lieutenants Akers, Barile, Wuest, Sergeants Atherton, Biersdorff, Ederer, DiSalvo, Martin, Tangren, Varga, Wolfe; First Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Lieutenant Wilson; Fifth Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Sergeant Seward. Lieutenants Cannon and Valenti and Sergeants Shields and Ward returned from the AAF rest camp at Capri. Lieutenant Sculley returned from TD with the 57th Bomb Wing where he had been flying as a courier pilot. Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Atherton, Robert C., Sgt, gunner Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt, gunner Cannon, John L, 2Lt, bombardier DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt, gunner Ederer, Robert J., Sgt, gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt, gunner Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt, pilot Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt, gunner Shields, Robert L, Sgt, gunner Tangren, Donald E., Sgt, gunner Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt, pilot Varga, Frank K., Sgt, gunner Ward, Paul D., Sgt, gunner Wilson, James M., 2Lt, pilot Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt, gunner Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 728/mission 728) Group Mission # 728: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 729/mission 729) Group Mission # 729: The mission for today took-off early this morning in order that the crew members would be back in time for the presentation of awards this afternoon. The 448th had twelve (12) planes on this mission; three of them loaded with incendiary bombs, and attacked the Lavis Rail Diversion. Due to haze over the target area, the formation was unable to pick it up on the first run, and dropped their bombs on the second run. The main concentration was on the south approach, some bombs falling on the south end. The phosphorous planes scored numerous hits on gun positions near the target, resulting in only slight opposition by anti-aircraft batteries. All the planes returned safely at 1200.
A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Farwell, Harold S., Maj, Commander Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl Atherton, Robert C., 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., 1Lt CP Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt N None None B Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Read, Guthrie H., Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Varga, Frank K., Sgt O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Ederer, Robert J., Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 Fizz” P Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt CP Grady, John R., Capt Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt N None None B Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt E Turner, James H., Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt G Glass, David H., Cpl Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Burkes, Richard W., Maj Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Campbell, John E., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt None B Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt Martin, James M., 1Lt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt White, Frank H., Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt E Weese, Charles F., Sgt Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Cpl Sevier, Fred L., Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 P Russell, John D., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt Mann, James R., F/O N None None B McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt R Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 13 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:00AM. Briefing 7:10AM. Carry 500 lb GP's. #84 (43-27791) (Autrey, pilot) Lavis Rail Diversion. Lead 2nd element. Over target 10:15AM. Moderate accurate heavy flak on first pass. Did not drop. Similar flak on second pass - 100% although someone dropped stray bombs. Air is always rough in Brenner Pass. Jerries also threw up phosphorous bombs. P-47 cover. Partly cloudy weather - warm weather. Autrey doing swell. Landed 12:00PM. Stood formation for presentation of medals by General Knapp. Waited on the old boy for two hours. Lt Bard and Zinkand made captain today. Lt Cannon insisted on my drinking Paul Jones with him.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Cannon, John L., 2Lt, bombardier Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Zinkand, Willard T., Capt, bombardier, navigator
Wednesday, 14 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 13/14 Feb, A-20s bomb the bridge approach at Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and hit targets of opportunity in the Po Valley; during the day medium bombers bomb bridges or bridge approaches at San Michele all'Adige, Tarvisio, Bressanone, and hit guns near Ponte Gardena; fighters and fighter- bombers, operating in poor weather, attack mainly communications targets in the Po Valley.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: In addition to the two regular bombing missions the Group sent a twelve plane nickeling mission to “bomb” a Bologna Rest and Replacement Area with PWB produced “Front Posts”. The Two bombing formations went to Lavis and San Michele Diversions again and again scored excellent concentrations in the target area with probable hits scored.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 730/mission 730) Group Mission # 730: Nickeling Mission to a Bologna Rest and Replacement Area (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 731/mission 731) Group Mission # 731: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 732/mission 732) Group Mission # 732: San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: Again the squadron bombed the San Michele rail diversion bridges but this time the percentage of bombing accuracy was only 63.8 per cent. Fifteen combat enlisted men received promotions today. Today is Ash Wednesday and church services were held at the group chapel. The squadron personnel signed the payroll today. The weather continued to be wonderfully warm. Roast beef was on the menu for supper and a hypnotist entertained in the evening at the group theater.
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 730/mission 730) Group Mission # 730: Group Mission #730; Squadron Mission #468: Capt. Hatcher led 6 planes from this squadron which formed the first flight of a formation of 11 bombers which went out on a nickeling mission. They dropped their propaganda leaflets on a German rest and replacement camp. 15,000 ft. was the altitude of release. No escort was provided and no flak was encountered. RESULTS: Dropped visually at 1st and 2nd dropping points. On 3rd point, dropped on dead reckoning due to cloud cover.
A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) P Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt Lewis, Max E., 1Lt CP Jeffery, James C., Capt Badger, Joe G., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Robson, Herbert E., Capt Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., T/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27917 Tail # 20 Lou” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Young, Paul L., 2Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Gum, Paul V., Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Cpl R Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt Brunda, John G., Cpl G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss House Mouse” Bobby” P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N None None B Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt Palermo, Antonio (NMI), Sgt R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Cpl Vaseleski, Andrew C., Sgt G Baker, Max E., Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 731/mission 731) Group Mission # 731: (445th BS did not participate)
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 732/mission 732) Group Mission # 732: Group Mission #732; Squadron Mission #469: Capt. Wagner led 9 ships from this squadron which led a formation of 17 planes sent out to attack the San Michele rail diversion bridge, Italy. 500 pound bombs were dropped from 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft. Area cover was provided while no flak was encountered. RESULTS: Patterns east and west of target. Another pattern started short and walked up to bridge. Tracks hit but bridge believed not hit. Smoke pots ineffective.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (first # 06) P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Sgt Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt F None Lind, Ragnar G. “Jeffrey Lynn”, 1Lt, HQ 321st BG A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Belle Fontaine” P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 1Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt R Russo, Paul A., Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Cpl Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Sgt F None Naughton, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Beauty” Louis” P O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Milton H., 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Sgt Hagains, John R., Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt Johnson, John E., T/Sgt G Emberton, Daniel P., Jr., S/Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Portchester” Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N None None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Lowrey, James S., Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Lile, Keith B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) P Santone, Michael A., 1Lt CP Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None B Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Ott, James V., Sgt G Bierly, Glen E., S/Sgt F None
446th BS War Diary: Newest 1st Lieuts. In the 446th include Berge, Clark, Hahn, Heaberlin, Holt, Manolis, McCloud, Panning, Sheetinger, Sloan and Haynes. Enlisted men get long awaited promotions too: to Staff Sgt go the following name men: Beecher, Karuzas, Lamm, Murch, DeSorbo, Kelly, Law, Utz, Wagner. Sergeants are Andrews, Cammack, Chase, Griffin, Jeczewski, Feola, Krider, Swann, Wilkins, Bass, Chapin, Hatcher, Kirwan, Pelusi, Vanderpool. Andrews, James Robert, Sgt, gunner Bass, Charles L., Sgt, gunner Beecher, Everett F., S/Sgt, gunner Berge, Gail B., 1Lt, pilot Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt, gunner Chapin, Correll C., Sgt, gunner Chase, William H., Sgt, gunner Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt, gunner Feola, Joseph A., Sgt, gunner Griffin, John A., Sgt, gunner Heaberlin, Paul L., 1Lt, pilot Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt, pilot Hatcher, James T., Sgt, gunner Haynes, Allan C., 1Lt, pilot Holt, Noel P., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Jeczewski, Joseph M., Sgt, gunner Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt, gunner Kelly, Thomas J., S/Sgt, gunner Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt, gunner Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt, gunner Lamm, Earl D., S/Sgt, gunner Law, John B., S/Sgt, gunner Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt, pilot McCloud, Ray L., 1Lt, pilot Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Panning, Robert F., 1Lt, pilot Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt, gunner Sheetinger, Dan A., 1Lt, pilot Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt, pilot Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
Swann, Homer W., Sgt, gunner Utz, James W., S/Sgt, gunner Vanderpool, Ralph M., Sgt, gunner Wagner, William M., S/Sgt, gunner Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt, gunner
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 730/mission 730) Group Mission # 730: Squadron Mission 505 TARGET: Nickeling Mission DATE: 14 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: Leaflets (Frontpost) 446th Planes: 2 Capt. Hatcher led the formation. Mission accomplished. No flak, no fighters. Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet Sue Girl” Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 2Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Sherline, David M., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl R Leary, Philip B., T/Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Chapin, Correll C., Sgt F None None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 731/mission 731) Group Mission # 731: Squadron Mission 506 TARGET: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 14 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. and 100 lb. Phosphorus 446th Planes: 13 Capt. Smedley led the formation. First box of six did not drop. Bombs of other elements started N of dyke and walked S with good coverage of target area. One element hit several hundred feet W of N bridge. Accurate observation of results impossible because of smoke pots. Anti-flak a/c report good coverage. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate. Three planes holed. No fighters.
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon We Bob Along” Baby” P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Lt Col, Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt HQ 321st BG N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Swann, Homer W., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Cpl G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Cpl, F None None Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Arabella” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., F/O CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Cpl Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Meade, Harold W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting “Barbara” Bull” P Sloan, Thomas M., 2Lt Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt CP Hahn, Melvin G., 2Lt Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Cimino, William C., 2Lt Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Cpl Demmitt, Henry H., S/Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Cpl Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Cammack, Herbert R., Cpl Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Maki, Allan A., 2Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, 2Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Chandley, Sherley S., 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt Bass, Charles L., Cpl R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), S/Sgt Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of ”Hauling Ass II” seated lady - no name/lettering) (filled in with 448th as wing spare) P Long, Emmett N., 2Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 2Lt CP Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N None None B Falk, Jack G., 1Lt Andrews, James Robert, Cpl E Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt Reda, John J., Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Sgt Vanderpool, Ralph M., Cpl G Darnielle, George W., Cpl Hatcher, James T., Cpl F None None
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon (later name dropped from nose art) Lu” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., F/O N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Law, John B., Sgt E Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt Boylan, James P., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Sgt Beck, Junior D., Sgt G Griffin, John A., Cpl Jakielek, Ernest F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N None B Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl R Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 732/mission 732) Group Mission # 732: (446th BS did not participate)
447th BS War Diary: Corporal Edward H. Henkler promoted to grade of sergeant SO 25 Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. 1st Lt. Leland A. Mesna promoted to rank of captain 9 February 1945 par 2 SO 37 Hq 12th Air Force. Henkler, Edward H., Sgt, gunner Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, Capt, bombardier
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 730/mission 730) Group Mission # 730: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 731/mission 731) Group Mission # 731: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 732/mission 732) Group Mission # 732: 8 planes participated in a raid on San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge in northern Italy. All planes returned safely. Results not good as to photo interpretation.
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-35959 Tail # 67 P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Matzinger, Keith Robinson, Capt, 446th BS N None Franklin, Arthur E., Capt, 446th BS B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., S/Sgt Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Antry, Jack B., 2Lt N None None B Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt Smith, John T., Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., S/Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., 2Lt Bradshaw, Rodney O., 2Lt N None None B Fowler, John I., F/O Gough, William V., 2Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Sgt Neely, Robert E., Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt Ross, John P., Cpl G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 Maria” P Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt CP Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt Woods, George A., Jr., 2Lt N Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt None B Schmoke, Vernon L., 1Lt Michael, James L., 2Lt E Lussier, Ernest R., Sgt Price, Charles J., Sgt R Krauss, Frederick J., Sgt Newton, James R., Sgt G Staub, Edward C., Sgt Jones, Robert A., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: When he came back from the mission today, Lieutenant Bard found out that he had been promoted to Captain. Lieutenant Cherry left for TD with Hq 57th Bomb Wing. Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 730/mission 730) Group Mission # 730: The 448th had three planes on the first mission today, a nickeling flight that dropped leaflets on a German rest and replacement area near Bologna. Good weather prevailed all the way and no difficulty was encountered in identifying the target area. No opposition was encountered, and the formation returned safely at 1405.
A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 P Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt CP Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt Grady, John R., Capt N None None B Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt Nelson, William M., Cpl R Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt G Atherton, Robert C., Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin A/C No. unknown (Lead ship returned Engine Sadie” early) (only pilot identified - ship and crew unknown P Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 731/mission 731) Group Mission # 731: Lieutenant Bard led the 448th’s planes, eleven (11) of them in the second flight on the second mission that went after the Lavis rail diversion bridge once again. Clear but rough weather was encountered over the target. Despite this a good concentration was scored near the north dyke. Accurate observation was difficult due to the effect of smoke pots. The gun positions were well covered by phosphorous bombs, resulting in only slight opposition being met. One chaff plane was hit in the bomb bay, however, setting fire to one of the bombs. Sergeant Qualls, the turret gunner climbed into the bomb bay and released the bomb, after all efforts to salvo it had failed. He had to climb into it without his parachute, because of the narrow passage way, and any slip would have met certain death. All the planes returned safely this afternoon. Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Bard, John A., Capt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Payne, Robert B., Cpl Morian, Charles R., Cpl R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Smith, Norman L., Cpl Enderle, Melvin J., 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 Stokes, George M., 2Lt Baird, James L., F/O N None None B Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt Libby, Donald E., F/O E Magers, Marshall P., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Ward, Paul D., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down Fizz” But Not Out” (first # 87) P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Campbell, John E., 2Lt Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Varga, Frank K., Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Ederer, Robert J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 P Burks, Richard W., Maj Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt None B Sheppard, John W., 2Lt Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Baird, James (NMI), S/Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt G Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 14 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Codd, James P., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Sidoti, Nick S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4068 Tail # ? “The Dutchess” P Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O N None B Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt E Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, S/Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 732/mission 732) Group Mission # 732: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 7:10AM. Cloudy AM. On nickeling mission. Other mission going back to Lavis. Fresh fried eggs, hot cereal, bread, fruit juice, coffee. Target is in Florence- Bologna area. G-46 (94) (43-27616) Lt Zakopcsan, pilot. Autrey co-pilot. Checking Zakopcsan out. Following left wing third element. Dropped at three different release points. Take off 11:00AM. Landed 1:00PM. Over enemy territory for about 10 minutes. Mission to Lavis made out OK. One incendiary ship came back with 82 holes. No one injured. Another was hit in the bomb bay on the bomb run. A phosphoric bomb caught on fire. Bombardier (Qualls) went in bomb bay and finally got rid of bomb. Smoke and fire was extremely dangerous as both gas tanks were hit and leaking. Weather is warm. Feeling OK. Punching bag again. Commenced reading Wagner's "Faunhaueser." Retired 9:30PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt, pilot
Thursday, 15 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers bomb the Spilimbergo ammunition dumps through an overcast, but are forced by the bad weather to cancel all other operations; fighter-bombers, limited by weather, concentrate on railway targets in NE and W Po Valley.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. Routine camp duties.
445th BS War Diary: Thirteen crews were scheduled for the combat mission today but a stand down order was issued. 1st Lt. William C. Lower, one of the original members of the squadron and one of the squadron’s most popular officers, was transferred to the 447th squadron today. He was acting as Personal Equipment officer with this squadron before the transfer. There were four transition flights while two pilots checked out on instrument flying. The sport of horseshoes is gaining in popularity as each day finds a number of the men tossing them at the stakes. The movie “Winged Victory” was greatly enjoyed at night. It was an Air Corps film and won praise due to the fact that it had less “corn” than the usual Hollywood flickers based on the Army Air Corps. Lower, William C., 1Lt, personal equipment
446th BS War Diary: No Mission. Squadron duties.
447th BS War Diary: No mission today. Several crews on local transition flights. F/O Haage appointed 2nd Lt. 29 Jan 1945, Hq. 12th AF. Usual duties prevailed throughout the day. Haage, Frederick W., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS War Diary: Sergeants Heinbaugh, Kruppa, Damon, Crawford, Skimp, and Handler, and Corporals Lester and Spelich, who were assigned to the Squadron and placed on DS with the 446th were relieved from assignment and assigned to the other Squadrons and Group Headquarters. 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
448th BS Mission Summary: Due to cloudiness and threatening weather throughout the day the mission was stand down.
Thursday, 15 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Van awoke me at exactly 8:00AM. Briefing 9:50AM. Heavy overcast. Target is Dogma RR bridge several miles from the Austrian border. Slightly defended. At ships for an hour. Stand-down. Attended "Winged Victory." Only fair. Autrey and Atherton came over. Fairly warm evening. Retired 11:00PM.” Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Atherton, Robert C., Sgt, gunner Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, Sgt, gunner
Friday, 16 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, bad weather grounds medium bombers; fighter-bombers cut rail lines at the S end of Garda Lake, and bomb ammunition and fuel dump E of Nervesa della Battaglia and an ammunition dump E of Villafranca in Lunigiana.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather. Big day for the Group today. Right after the stand down was announced, General Cannon’s plane landed at the field and before lunch time the 321st Bomb Group had a Battle Streamer attached to its flag in honor of the Athens, Greece raid by the Group for which it received the Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation. General Knapp also attended the event for which the Group personnel turned out in full regalia. Cannon, John K., Maj Gen, 12th AF Commander Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander
445th BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled. Major General John K. Cannon, 12th Air Force commander, was on hand today to personally award the group a battle streamer for the Presidential citation. After the presentation, officers and enlisted men from the 4 squadrons passed in review. Brig. Gen. Knapp was also present at the ceremony. The men in the squadron were amazed to hear of the startling news that an American task force was pounding Tokyo and sailing calmly within 200 miles of the Jap capital. The mail call was very productive today. The film “Saratoga Trunk” was shown at the movie tonight. Ingrid Bergman won plenty of fans from her performance and her appearance. Jimmie Chambers announced that he had officially fallen in love with Joan Leslie and accompanied that announcement with another to the effect that he and “Moe” Martinez would tour the area and confiscate all Leslie pin-ups. Cannon, John K., Maj Gen, 12th AF Commander Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt, engineer-gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Martinez, Elmo J. "Moe", M/Sgt, engineer-gunner
446th BS War Diary: Cornelius and Wilking are made Technical Sergeants as there is no mission flown. Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/Sgt, gunner Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt, gunner
447th BS War Diary: No mission today. A formation was held at group at 10 o’clock this morning at which time the Group was presented the War Departments unit citation by General John K. Cannon. S/Sgt. Edward Kruppa assigned and joined squadron from 448th squadron 13 February 1945 par 2 SO 26 Hq. 321st Bomb Group (M). Cannon, John K., Maj Gen, 12th AF Commander Kruppa, Edward J., S/Sgt, communications
Friday, 16 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: At an impressive review on the parade grounds this morning, General Cannon, Commanding General of the 12th Air Force, presented the Group its Battle Streamer, symbolic of its Distinguished Unit Citation. Major Gaffney, Group Executive, read the citation, following which General Cannon attached the streamer to the staff of the Group Colors. Following this, the four Squadrons passed in review before General Cannon, then marched off the field. Lieutenant Stromberg and Sergeant Pealer returned from Capri rest camp today, and Captain Bongiovanni, Lieutenant Spaur, F/O Rutz and Sergeants Smith, N.L. and Goethals left for Capri. Lieutenant Matthews left for TD with MATS Hq. and Sergeant Steinberg was transferred to Headquarters Squadron 57th Bomb Wing. Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt, navigator Cannon, John K., Maj Gen, 12th AF Commander Gaffney, Charles H., Maj, Executive Officer, HQ 321st BG Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt, gunner Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt, pilot Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt, gunner Rutz, Victor H., F/O, bombardier Smith, Norman L., Sgt, gunner Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt, pilot Steinberg, Reuben H., T/Sgt, personnel Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary: The mission was stand down once again today due to weather conditions over the target area, but not before the crew members had arrived at the briefing hut.
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “CQ blowing whistle awoke me at 6:40AM. Fairly light. Heavy overcast. General Cannon (2 star) to present group with "Battle Streamers." Briefing 7:45AM. Target is same as yesterday. Co-pilot (Lt Beckman) found huge gash in our right tire. Engineering went to work immediately changing it. Awaited several hours at ship finally a stand-down. Did not attend formation. Group is on the alert again - to move. Retired 11:00PM.” Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt, pilot Cannon, John K., Maj Gen, 12th AF Commander
Saturday, 17 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers bomb bridges at Chiusaforte, Bressanone, Crema, and Dogna; fighters and fighter-bombers hit communications targets in the Po Valley and damage bridges at Nervesa della Battaglia, Cittadella, Calliano, Ala, and Pordenone; also bombed are guns and dumps from the S of La Spezia E to the battle area below Bologna.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The two primaries at Dogna and Chiusaforte were not attacked due to an overcast so the Sacile and Pordenone Bridges were solidly hit instead. 48 planes participated.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 733/mission 733) Group Mission # 733: Dogna Bridges, Italy (primary) - bombed alternate Pordenone Bridges. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 734/mission 734) Group Mission # 734: Chiusaforte Bridges, Italy (primary) - bombed alternate Sacile Rail Diversion Bridge. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The Sacile rail diversion bridge, Italy was today’s target but the bombing accuracy was too low to mention. After all, you can’t get 100 per cent every day. A plane was sent to Catania today to return with the crew of aircraft 535 (43-3535 “Rum Runner”) which was grounded there yesterday on a liquor run following engine trouble. The engine will be changed at Catania. There was some training today. Personnel in the squadron and group are benefiting greatly from the new arrangement at the group theater which allows for two shows every other night. First show starts at 6:30 P.M. and the second at 8:30 P.M. Almost as good as home, ain’t it?
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 733/mission 733) Group Mission # 733: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 734/mission 734) Group Mission # 734: Group Mission #734; Squadron Mission #470: Lt. Webb led 12 ships from this squadron which formed the second flight of a formation of 24 ships sent out to attack the Sacile rail diversion bridge, Italy. This was the alternate target and it was bombed due to the fact that the primary target was weathered in. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft. P-47s flew close escort. There was no flak. RESULTS: Patterns across center, west end and west approach of bridge. Direct hits were reported while some bombs were short and northwest of bridge.
Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (first # 06) P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N Cravey, Robert P., 1Lt None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Cubley, Harold B., 1Lt Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Seigler, William B., Cpl G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Lou” Belle Fontaine” P Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Hagains, John R., Sgt Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Sgt R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 1Lt CP Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N None None B Caron, Philip H., 2Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Posillico, Frank A., Cpl Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Lile, Keith B., S/Sgt F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Sgt A/C No. 44-28722 Tail # 18 “Spirit of A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Portchester” Baby” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E Perich, Freddie (NMI), Cpl Hafferkamp, Edwin H., Cpl R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Matter, Dean R., T/Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Baker, Max E., Sgt F None None
Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing (previously “Modern Design”) lady) (scheduled to lead second element - returned due to engine trouble) P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt Badger, Joe G., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Brunda, John G., Cpl G Stack, James T., Cpl Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27917 Tail # 20 (Anti- Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) Flak/Incendiary Ship) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Jeffery, James C., Capt Miron, Leno L., 1Lt CP Brown, William G., F/O Young, Paul L., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Teague, Phillip B., Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N None B Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl F None
446th BS War Diary: Sacile railroad bridge is made the target for the mission. All our ships return safely.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 733/mission 733) Group Mission # 733: (446th BS did not participate)
Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 734/mission 734) Group Mission # 734: Squadron Mission 507 TARGET: Sacile Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy (Alt) DATE: 17 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12 Lt. Crisp led the formation. Unfavorable weather prevented bombing of primary target. On the alternate, bomb patterns fell across center, W end and W approach. Direct hits reported. Some bombs short and S of target. No flak, no fighters.
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 “Barbara” We Bob Along” P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Burklund, Donald K., 2Lt Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt N Ottem, Earl R., Capt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt Kelly, Thomas J., S/Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), S/Sgt Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt G Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Arabella” Bull” P Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt Law, John B., S/Sgt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Lamm, Earl D., S/Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Springer, Walter H., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” (previously “Tiny?”) P Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt McCloud, Ray L., 1Lt CP Alward, Charles W., 2Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt Andrews, James Robert, Sgt E Freeman, Harold W., Sgt Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None None
Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Lu” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Anderson, William H., 2Lt N Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt None B Codd, Russell G., 2Lt Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt E Chase, William H., Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl Wagner, William M., S/Sgt 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) P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 1Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Weihe, Frederick H., Jr., 2Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Chandley, Sherley S., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt Bass, Charles L., Sgt R Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt Johnson, Carl W., Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt Holdridge, John F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 Baby” P Heaberlin, Paul L., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt N None None B Hensler, Donald O., F/O Falk, Jack G., 1Lt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt Reda, John J., Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt Vanderpool, Ralph M., Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Hatcher, James T., Sgt F None None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 37) “No. 37) Milk-Run on Sacile R.R. Bridge. Lt. Carlson.” Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. William C. Lower assigned and joined squadron from 445th squadron 15 February 1945 par 2 SO 28 Hq. 321st Bomb Group. T/Sgt. Claude B. Paynter Jr. TD to US, Ltr. order 12th AF 17 February 1945. 1st Sgt. Joseph J. Vishy, Jr. transferred to the Replacement Depot for transshipment to US 17 February 1945 par 1, Ltr. Order Hq. 12th AF. Morning Report Officers: 89: Enlisted Men: 353. Lower, William C., 1Lt, personal equipment Paynter, Claude B., Jr., T/Sgt, engineering Vishy, Joseph J., Jr., Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 733/mission 733) Group Mission # 733: 12 planes participated in a raid on Pordenone Rail Diversion in northern Italy. All planes returned safely. Just fair results as shown by photos.
A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 Melting Pot” P Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), 1Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt Flanigan, Bernard A., S/Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Young, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35956 Tail # 55 A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 P Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Wood, George A., Jr., 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None None B Michael, James L., 2Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Newton, James R., Sgt Lamb, George K., Sgt G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Santora, Emanuel L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little David” P Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Peck, Paul R., 2Lt Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O N None None B Fowler, John I., F/O Cromley, Glenn J., F/O E Cline, Joel L., Cpl Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt G Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Haage, Frederick W., F/O Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Harvey, John A., Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None
Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 (Anti- Fosdick” Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Davies, John V., 1Lt E Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt R Marion, William T., Jr., Sgt Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt G Miller, Dale G., S/Sgt Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 (Anti- A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt CP Hoy, Robert L., F/O Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Fach, Albert W., 2Lt Gough, William V., 2Lt E Plough, Marlin J., Cpl Rinard, Robert P., Sgt R Ross, John P., Cpl Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt G Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl Steinhauser, Bernard (NMI), Cpl F None None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 734/mission 734) Group Mission # 734: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 733/mission 733) Group Mission # 733: The mission for this morning took-off on time. The weather was clear with a few fleecy clouds floating about. Lieutenant Meyers led the formation to attack the rail bridge at Dogna, Italy. However, overcast there cause them to turn to the alternate target, the Pordenone Rail bridge. The 448th had twelve (12) planes in this formation, leading the Group. A good concentration was scored on both ends of the bridge despite the haze that made observation difficult. No enemy anti-aircraft fire was encountered and all the planes returned safely at 1505. A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 2Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., Capt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Sgt F None None Saturday, 17 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N None None B Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Shields, Robert L., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? P Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N None None B Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt Sevier, Fred L., Sgt G Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt Glass, David H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Burks, Richard W., Maj CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt Oliver, Walter A., Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt Smith, Norman L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry Fizz” P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt CP Baird, James L., F/O Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Varga, Frank K., Sgt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Cpl G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, Sgt DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt F None None
Saturday, 17 February 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 Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Ederer, Roger J., Sgt F None None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 734/mission 734) Group Mission # 734: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 6:45AM. Cloudy AM. Briefing 8:45AM. Target is Dogna town RR bridge. Hung around ships until 10:46AM. Engine time. (43-27530 “Twin Engine Sadie”) Lt Ivory - pilot. Take off 10:55AM. Heavy overcast until we reached Elba. Met fighters at Rimini at 12:35PM. Primary weathered in. Bombed alternate at Pordenone at 1:26PM. Milk run. Beautiful fighter escort. Vapor trails all over sky. Landed 3:15PM. New men arrived today. Attended "Saratoga Trunk". Good picture. Retired 10:00PM.” Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Sunday, 18 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 17/18 Feb, A-20s bomb targets in the Po Valley, including the towns of Nogara, Castelfranco Veneto, Modena, Cremona, Bovolone, and Isola della Scala, bridges at Cittadella and Villafranca in Lunigiana, and airfields at Ghedi and Villafranca in Lunigiana; all B-25 missions abort due to weather except an attack on the Ala rail bridge; fighters and fighter-bombers fly less than 100 sorties, hitting ammunition dumps and railroad bridges and lines, mainly in the Po Valley.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Bressanone South Rail Bridge was not attacked and all bombs were returned due to inclement weather en route. However another formation went up the other side of the Brenner pass and successfully bombed the Lavis Rail Diversion – all bombs in target area.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 735/mission 735) Group Mission # 735: Bressanone South Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 736/mission 736) Group Mission # 736: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy (primary) - bombed the Calcinato railroad bridge (alternate). (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The squadron snapped back “on the ball” with 100 per cent bombing accuracy on the Lavis rail diversion bridges, Italy. A new engine and a maintenance crew was sent by C-47 to Catania to effect an engine change on aircraft 535 (43-3535 “Rum Runner”) grounded there. There seems to be a minor epidemic of colds running rampant in the squadron. Colds appear to run periodically in the squadron. The 445th Squadron’s basketball team played its first game this evening when it ran up against a tough Ordnance quintet and lost, 39-27. The 445th was ahead 22-21 at half-time and made it interesting for three quarters but the bomb loaders poured it on in the last quarter, sparked by their ace of aces, Steve Wojnolowicz who is just about the best all-around athlete in the group. W.B. Smith and Farmer played well for this squadron. Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt, gunner Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, Sgt, gunner Wojnolowicz, Stephen J., Sgt, ordnance
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 735/mission 735) Group Mission # 735: Group Mission #735; Squadron Mission #471: This squadron supplied 3 ships in a 27 ship formation sent out to attack the Bressanone south railroad bridge, Italy. The bombers failed to rendezvous with the escort. No flak was encountered. RESULTS: Mission abortive because of converging cloud layers.
A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Belle Fontaine” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Baby” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Ship) P Collins, David P., Capt Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 2Lt CP Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt Hancock, Victor J., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Sgt R Matter, Dean R., T/Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Fancy Pants” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Young, Paul L., 2Lt CP Amundson, Fred K., 2Lt N None B Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Sgt F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 736/mission 736) Group Mission # 736: Group Mission #736; Squadron Mission #472: Capt. Wagner led a mission of 24 planes – 12 from the 445th – to attack the Lavis rail diversion bridge, Italy. The alternate was the Calcinato railroad bridge. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 feet. Area cover was provided. Flak was heavy, moderate, inaccurate from bomb release and tracking for 20 seconds on the breakaway. 1 ship was holed. RESULTS: 2nd flight broke off halfway on bomb run due to the fact that the target was obscured by haze and smoke pots. Attempted to bomb alternate but it too was obscured by low cloud cover. 1st flight bombed primary on 2nd run. 1 pattern across south end of south bridge, other pattern just west of north bridge.
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” P Wagner, Gerald W., Capt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, S/Sgt Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt R Kavan, Lester D., T/Sgt Brunda, John G., Cpl G Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Beauty” P Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Barrett, Ray E., S/Sgt E Gum, Paul V., S/Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt R Lowrey, James S., S/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty (first # 06) Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Milton H., 1Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Larson, Richard A., S/Sgt Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Weingartner, William E., Cpl Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt G Stack, James T., Sgt Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) House Mouse” P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 1Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N None None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Watts, Joseph T., Jr., T/Sgt Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Otterness, William B., T/Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued) A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Lou” Louis” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt Takacs, Rudolph J., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Miller, Edward A., 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R DeLaune, William P., T/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Freidli, William M., Sgt Edwards, Jack M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) P McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt CP Badger, Joe G., 2Lt Hughes, Richard C., 2Lt N None None B Caron, Philip H., 2Lt Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt R Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt G Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Sgt F None None
446th BS War Diary: Lavis railroad bridge is named the objective as 12 planes of the squadron attack this target without mishap.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 735/mission 735) Group Mission # 735: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 736/mission 736) Group Mission # 736: Squadron Mission 508 TARGET: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 18 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12 Capt. Wagner led the formation. Second flight (446th) broke off half way on bomb run due to target being obscured by haze and smoke from pots. Attempt on alternate balked by low cloud cover. First flight bombed primary on second run. No flak, no fighters. Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot, 445th BS A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Burklund, Donald K., 2Lt French, Wendell L., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), S/Sgt Peterson, James R., Jr., Cpl G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt F None None Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 Arabella” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt CP Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B Cimino, William C., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Sgt Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Carl, Edgar W., Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Rubin, Herbert L., 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., 1Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt Falk, Jack G., 1Lt E Alexander, Preston S., S/Sgt Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Darnielle, George W., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov seated lady - no name/lettering) 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Anderson, William H., 2Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Utz, James W., S/Sgt Boylan, James P., Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Sgt Beck, Junior D., Sgt G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” “Barbara” (previously “Tiny?”) P Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt G Meade, Harold W., Cpl Griffin, John A., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” (later name dropped from nose art) P Maki, Allan A., 2Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None None B Beecher, Everett F., S/Sgt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Chapin, Correll C., Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs C” (Lead spare - returned early without filling in) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N None B Fein, William F., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt R Vanderpool, Ralph M., Sgt G Hatcher, James T., Sgt F None
447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Jack D. Barfield and 1st Lt. Robert C. Hixon assigned and joined squadron from Hq 57th Bomb Wing, 13 February 1945 par 2 SO 29 Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. (M). Barfield, Jack D., 1st Lt, bombardier Hixon, Robert C., 1st Lt, bombardier
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 735/mission 735) Group Mission # 735: 11 planes took off on a mission over northern Italy. However, due to heavy overcast no bombs were dropped. All planes returned safely.
A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Erb, Jack L., Capt N None Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt B Fowler, John I., F/O Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O E Rinard, Robert P., Sgt Jenkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt Appleman, Carroll G., Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., S/Sgt F None None
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 (returned A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie because the top turret was broken while Teddie” in flight) P Haage, Frederick W., 2Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None None B Vantrease, Erwin C., 2Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Anderson, Arthur F., Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? P Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Peck, Paul R., 2Lt CP Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt Cline, Joel L., Cpl R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Fosdick” Doll” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., S/Sgt Radel, Henry D., S/Sgt E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Briggs, Richard G. “Briggs”, 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Davies, John V., 1Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Cpl Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt G Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 (Anti- A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O N None None B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt E Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt Citarelli, James E., S/Sgt R Lendino, Thomas J., Cpl Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt Brockman, Richard E., Cpl F None None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 736/mission 736) Group Mission # 736: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Schweitzer returned from the hospital where he had been receiving treatment for his wounds incurred during a recent mission. Sergeant Fletcher returned from the Capri rest camp today. Fletcher, William H., Sgt, gunner Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 735/mission 735) Group Mission # 735: Despite cloudy weather here the mission took-off this morning to attack the rail bridge at Bressanone, Italy. It was the 448th’s lead once again, with Captain Leonard as lead pilot. However, the weather grew steadily worse over Italy and finally at 1325 they were forced to turn back before reaching the target area. The cloud layers had become impenetrable. All the planes returned safely.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Leonard, Lee V., Capt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Mann, James R., 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 2Lt None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt G Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt Atherton, Robert C., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-36124 Tail # ? P Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Bottom, James W., 2Lt Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Morian, Charles R., Cpl Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Pituck, James J., Cpl G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? Belle” P Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt Copes, Wilson R., 2Lt N None None B Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Soltys, John J., Cpl Sevier, Fred L., S/Sgt G Masbruch, Arthur G., Cpl Foote, Lancel H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt Baird, James L., F/O N Lang, Robert H., F/O None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Nelson, William M., Cpl Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Fields, James A., Cpl Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt CP Stokes, George M., 2Lt Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Murray, Francis J., Cpl R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Glass, David H., Cpl F None None
Sunday, 18 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry Fizz” P Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Campbell, John E., 2Lt N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Harageones, George J., Sgt Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt G Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) P Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 2Lt B Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, S/Sgt G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 736/mission 736) Group Mission # 736: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 8:00AM. Briefing 9:50AM. Target is Bressanone, Italy. Northern Brenner Pass. Over enemy territory about 456 minutes (actually 4 hrs, 56 mins?). Clouded in. Did not drop. Cloudy mission (# 47). Preparing for trip to Cairo tomorrow.”
Monday, 19 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Brigadier General Edward M Morris takes command of the XII Air Force Services Command (until 1 Jan 44 designated the III Air Service Area Command).
In Italy, bad weather grounds the medium bombers; fighter-bombers, some bombing by radar-control because of heavy clouds, attack-communications and dumps in the W Po Valley and NE Italy, and claim several rail line cuts in the Brenner area.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission –weather. Sulfur baths are all the rage now – particularly since the regular Group shower, three miles down the road, has broken down. “The Baths” are located in a small town in the mountains about a half hour drive from our area and were quite well known in peace time for their health – imparting qualities. Corporal Stephen Tetla, the lucky guy, drew his number out of a hat that decided he was going back to the United States. He left today. Tetla, Stephen S., Cpl, communications
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 737/mission 737) Group Mission # 737: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled this morning with 13 crews standing by. Another familiar figure in the 445th squadron left on rotation orders for the States. He is S/Sgt. Eddie Klunke, veteran bombardier of 25 missions who later became a crew chief on the line. Cpl. Tetla, a telephone operator at ground, also left for the States. Both were permanent rotations. There was quite a bit of training today. There was a sharp drop in temperature and the balmy days were forgotten as cold breezes swept the area. Chicken a la king was especially enjoyed for supper. T.J. Byrne, armorer who has gained quite a bit of squadron fame for his news interpretations, has finally been persuaded to “put it down on paper”. His news column, “T.J. Says---2” is being read with a great deal of interest and enthusiasm by all squadron personnel. Posted daily on the S-2 news board, the column interprets the news of the day and allows the writer to post his predictions about various phases of the war. Byrne, Thomas J., Sgt, armament Klunke, Edward F., S/Sgt, bombardier, crew chief Tetla, Stephen S., Sgt, communications, ground telephone operator
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 737/mission 737) Group Mission # 737: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Sgt. Sweppenheiser gets orders to return to the States. Sweppenheiser, Gordon W., Sgt, Chemical Warfare Service
Monday, 19 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 737/mission 737) Group Mission # 737: Squadron Mission 509 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 19 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Matzinger, Keith Robinson, Capt, HQ 321st BG N Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F Turay, Norman Ambrose, T/Sgt (weather observer)
447th BS War Diary: Nine plane mission scheduled for mission but due to unfavorable weather did not take off. Private Philip L. Barksdale on TD to 176th Sig. Surf. Warn plant, 16 February 1945 par 3 SO 38, 57th Bomb Wing. Hq. Usual camp duties. Barksdale, Phillip L., Pvt, gunner
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 737/mission 737) Group Mission # 737: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: Cloudy weather prevailed over most of Corsica today and stormy weather over the Po Valley area made the mission scheduled for this morning stand down, but not before the crews had been briefed and were out at the planes awaiting take- off. Captain Leonard and Lieutenants Brink, Autrey, and Rubin left for Cannes rest camp this morning, and Lieutenants Churchill, Cook, Smith, and Armstrong returned from Cannes. Captains Grady and Bard and Sergeants Law, Qualls, Veeck, Schaffer, Brusa, Magyar and Markiewicz left for TD to Cairo, Egypt, for RAF Flight Control School. Privates Brown, Denny, Dillon, Dunn, Griffin, Jungquist, Kovacs, Oddo, Oneth and Pankiewicz were promoted to Privates First Class today by the Commanding Officer. Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr. 2Lt, bombardier Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Brink, Richard E., 1Lt, bombardier Brown, Joseph C., PFC, armament Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, gunner Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt, pilot Cook, Don W., 1Lt, pilot Denny, Joseph C., PFC, radio-gunner Dillon, Harry L., PFC, engineering Dunn, Vernon L, PFC, engineering Grady, John R., Capt, pilot Griffin, Charles W., PFC, communications Jungquist, Walter L., PFC, engineering Monday, 19 February 1945 (continued)
Kovacs, George (NMI), PFC, transportation Law, Richard L., S/Sgt, engineering Leonard, Lee V., Capt, pilot Magyar, Steven J., Sgt, gunner Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner Oddo, Anthony A., PFC, engineering Oneth, Albert L., PFC, engineering Pankiewicz, Edward J., PFC, engineering Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt, gunner Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt, pilot Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, gunner Smith, Milford A., 1Lt, pilot Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt, gunner
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 737/mission 737) Group Mission # 737: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Stan Biernachi (CQ) woke me at 5:00AM. Still dark. Early chow - eggs and coffee. Take off in 529 at 7:55AM. Capt Grady and Bard - pilots. S/Sgt Law, S/Sgt Magyar, S/Sgt Markiewicz, T/Sgt Brusa, T/Sgt Qualls, T/Sgt Veeck. Carrying K20 taking pictures en route. Stopped at Bengasi to refuel and eat. Saw the harbors and cities of Tunis, Tobruk, Bengasi and Cairo. Weather en route fair. Landed 5:55PM. Changed lire to piastres at finance. 1 pound ($4.13) 1 piastre (.04). Staying at Hotel Adelphi tonight. Ate a fine meal including strawberries and cream. All the Egyptians are money crazy. Retired 12:00AM.” Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Biernachi, Stanley (NMI), Sgt, operations Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Grady, John R., Capt, pilot Law, Richard L., S/Sgt, gunner, engineering Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt, gunner Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner Qualls, Thomas B., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier Veeck, Richard W., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Tuesday, 20 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): The 27th and 86th Fighter Groups and an air service group are transferred from the Twelfth AF to the First Tactical Air Force (Provisional) in France; HQ 86th Fighter Group moves from Pisa, Italy to Tantonville, France.
In Italy, A-20s on night intruder missions during the night of 19/20 Feb, bomb targets of opportunity at over 30 points in the C Po Valley, several rail diversions, and marshalling yards at Villafranca in Lunigiana, Roncanova, Bovolone, Cerea, Legnago, Cittadella, Casa di David, Isola della Scala, Castelfranco Veneto, and Nogara; fighter- bombers devote their main effort to support the US Fifth Army offensive in the Monte Torraccia area; medium bombers bomb bridges at Montebello, Chiusaforte, Salzano, and Calcinato; the detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, operating from Etain, France with Mosquitos, returns to base at Pisa.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Back to the Brenner Pass to hit the Calliano #3 and Rovereto Railroad bridges. The Calliano target appeared well hit but only six planes dropped on the Rovereto and missed. The alternate at Montebello was well hit by twelve additional planes. Six aircraft returned bombs.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 738/mission 738) Group Mission # 738: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 739/mission 739) Group Mission # 739: Calliano Railroad Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 740/mission 740) Group Mission # 740: Rovereto Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: As the song goes, there’ll be some changes made and they were being made today. First of all, news came in that Major Bounds, and Captains Wagner and Hatcher would leave tomorrow on rotation orders. It was then learned that Capt. Frank M. Furey, formerly assistant operations officer at group, was appointed squadron commander. Then the changes came thick and fast. Capt. Lord was relieved of his duties as Executive Officer and named Group Special Services Officer. He was replaced by Capt. James O. Jackson, former S-2 Officer. Capt. Jackson’s successor was 1st Lt. Jack Locke who served as assistant S-2officer for the 446th squadron. Lt. Ashton was transferred to wing and Lt. Hancock, a pilot was placed on DS to the 521st Service Gp. The mission to bomb the Calliano railroad bridge, Italy, resulted in 75 per cent bombing Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued) accuracy. Two officers and two enlisted men combat crews were assigned today. There was a party held tonight to honor Major Bounds and Captains Hatcher and Wagner who depart tomorrow for the States. The squadron personnel were surprised and delighted to find a colorful, fascinating juke box resting comfortably in the enlisted men’s club today. It gave out with American rhythms and possessed all the charm and fascination of a pretty girl as all the men crowded around for a look. Ashton, Thomas W., 1Lt, intelligence Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot, Commander Hancock, Victor J., 1Lt, pilot Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot Jackson, James Oliver, Capt, Executive Officer Locke, Jacob (NMI) "Jack", 2Lt, S-2 Officer Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot Lord, Robert O. Jr., Capt, Group Special Services Officer
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 738/mission 738) Group Mission # 738: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 739/mission 739) Group Mission # 739: Group Mission #739; Squadron Mission #473: Capt. Collins led the flight of 14 ships from this squadron which formed the second flight of a formation of 26 planes sent out to attack the Calliano railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs and 100 pound phosphorus bombs were dropped from 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft. Anti-flak planes went along to hit gun positions while area cover was furnished. Flak was heavy, moderate and fairly accurate. Anti-flak planes got heavy, intense and accurate flak. A total of 7 anti-flak ships were holed while two were holed in the regular formation. RESULTS: Majority of bombs hit east and south of bridge. One element may have crossed tracks south of bridge. Good results on flak positions. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Collins, Daniel P., Capt CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None Tuesday, 20 February 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, 20 February 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
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 740/mission 740) Group Mission # 740: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: Sgt. Ralph M. Vanderpool, a radio gunner, is killed in action on the mission against Calliano railroad bridge, Italy. Vanderpool, Ralph M., Sgt, radio-gunner
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 738/mission 738) Group Mission # 738: Squadron Mission 512 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 20 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Anderson, William H., 2Lt N Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/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 739/mission 739) Group Mission # 739: Squadron Mission 510 TARGET: Calliano, Italy Railroad Bridge. DATE: 20 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12 Lt. Ingram led the formation. Majority of bombs hit E and S of bridge. One element’s may have crossed tracks S of bridge. Good results on flak positions. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate. Anti-flak ships received heavy, intense, accurate flak on run and break-away. (Crew list missing) Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Ingram, William T., 1Lt, pilot Smedley, CP N None None B E R Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None 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
Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
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
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 740/mission 740) Group Mission # 740: Squadron Mission 511 TARGET: Rovereto Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 20 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (446th anti-flak bombs) 446th Planes: 3 Capt. Swanson led the formation. Anti-flak a/c reported good coverage of positions. One A/F element became separated from Trento. One crewman killed. Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Heaberlin, Paul L., 2Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt Reda, John J., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Vanderpool, Ralph M., Sgt - KIA G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt Hatcher, James T., Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N None B Fox, David (NMI), Sgt E Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt R Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 38) “No. 38) Another one to Brenner pass. Hit Calliano R.R. Br. Didn’t get too much flak but it was very accurate. No holes. Capt. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Lee F. Huchingson transferred to 57th Bomb Wing par 4 SO 39, Hq. 57th Bomb Wing. The following 1st Lts. promoted to rank of captain: James F. McGill, Edward Gates, Wendell E. Marchant. Gates, Edward (NMI), Capt, pilot Huchingson, Lee F., 1Lt, Adjutant Marchant, Wendell E., Capt, pilot McGill, James F., Capt, Adjutant
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 738/mission 738) Group Mission # 738: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 739/mission 739) Group Mission # 739: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 740/mission 740) Group Mission # 740: 15 planes participated in a raid on Montebello Railroad Bridge in northern Italy. The squadron came through with 100 % bombing accuracy.
A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., Capt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Erb, Jack L., Capt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Michael, James L., 2Lt Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Sgt Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt G West, Edgar M., Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., S/Sgt F None None Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 Teddie” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Hoy, Robert L., 2Lt Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None None B Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Plough, Marlin J., Cpl Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt R Ross, John P., Cpl Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? Fosdick” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Peck, Paul R., 2Lt N None None B Perl, Richard H., Sgt Fowler, John I., F/O E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt Cline, Joel L., Cpl R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Citarelli, James E., S/Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Brockman, Richard E., Cpl Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 David” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None None B Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), F/O E Stokes, Robert C., Sgt Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt R Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt G Harvey, John A., Sgt Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35956 Tail # 55 A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 P Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt Haage, Frederick W., 2Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt Anderson, Arthur F., Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Sgt Lejman, George T., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 (Anti- A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Lendino, Thomas J., Cpl Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt N None B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt F None
448th BS War Diary: Second Lieutenants Bartlett, Steely, Stout, West and Wilson were promoted to First Lieutenants today. Bartlett, Thomas M., 1Lt, pilot Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt, bombardier Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 1Lt, bombardier West, Alden A. "Bud", 1Lt, pilot Wilson, James M., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 738/mission 738) Group Mission # 738: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 739/mission 739) Group Mission # 739: (448th BS did not participate) Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 740/mission 740) Group Mission # 740: The weather cleared up enough today for the mission to take-off. Captain Swanson led the 448th’s planes which once again led the Group mission in the attack on the Rovereto Rail bridge. Heavy clouds were found in abundance, however, over Italy and the target area. The 448th had fifteen (15) planes on this mission. The second box of six planes were the only ones that dropped on the primary target, but results were unobserved due to smoke pots and haze. The remainder of the bombers turned to the Montebello Rail bridge. An excellent concentration was scored in the center of the bridge with several direct hits reported. Heavy and intense anti-aircraft fire was encountered, causing some damage to several of the planes, but no one was injured and all the bombers returned at 1600.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Young, Earl B., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt E Payne, Robert B., Cpl Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, S/Sgt G Chase, Harry M., Jr., Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down But Not Out” (first # 87) P Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt N None None B Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Fletcher, William H., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-36124 Tail # ? Belle” P Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt E Codd, James P., S/Sgt Oliver, Walter A., Sgt R Soltys, John J., Cpl Sadofsky, John (NMI), Sgt G Masbruch, Arthur G., Cpl Fields, James A., Cpl F None None
Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Wilson, James M., 2Lt CP Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt Stow, Charles E., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt McRee, Malcolm B., Sgt E Weese, Charles F., S/Sgt Morian, Charles R., Sgt R Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None None B Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Murray, Francis J., Cpl R Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt Pituck, James J., Cpl G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt Glass, David H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” Engine Sadie” P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 2Lt CP Stokes, George M., 2Lt Baird, James L., F/O N None None B Higby, Paul K., F/O Bottom, James W., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Sgt Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Tangren, Donald E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 (Anti- Fizz” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Butler, Glenn D., 2Lt Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N None None B Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt Libby, Donald E., F/O E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt G Blackard, Hershel L., Cpl Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 20 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Farwell, Harold S., Maj, Commander CP Carr, Robert E., F/O N None B Cannon, John L., 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl G Ward, Paul D., Cpl F None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:30AM. Ate breakfast at New Star Restaurant. Ali Baba as our guide and protector calls himself, is dressed in regular night gown Mohammedan style. Purchased Cairo boots. Hired Taxi - went to bazaar (poor business section). Purchased Chanel #5 perfume at $4.00 per ounce. Visited pyramids, sphinx and saw King Farouk's new home in the making. Ate supper at Sphinx. Fried chicken and all the trimmings. Took pictures. Fairly warm - women dressed in all black and half veil covering the face. Very common. Spending most of our time with officers. Very few GI's. Mostly British. Ate supper again at the Star Restaurant. Had a fine manicure, shave and haircut. City is very modern and the food is excellent. Attended night club. Saw good floor show. Ate in night club. Took a hack back to hotel. Ate again. Evenings are fairly cool. Guide to pyramid's name is Moses. Preparing to leave for Tel-Aviv tomorrow. People still follow ancient customs and speak many languages, especially French. Five of us sleeping in one room. (45 piastres each per night). Feeling fine - retired 1:00AM.”
Wednesday, 21 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, night fighters and A-20s on intruder missions during the night of 20/21 Feb, continue to attack communications and supplies in the Po Valley; medium bombers, during the day, bomb bridges at Dogna, Crema, and Romano di Lombardia; fighter-bombers devote their main effort to close support of ground forces along the W and C US Fifth Army front, and also hit communications to the N of the battleline and in the Po Valley.
HQ 12th AF: HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH AIR FORCE Office of Assistant Chief of Staff, A-2
21 February 1945
MISSION - SARAH
1. Time of Take-Off: 10:00. Time over Target: 1100. Time at Base: 11:40. 2. Altitude over Target: 500 feet. 185 m.p.h. 3. Number of Aircraft: a. One B-25 b. Four Spitfires. Comment: Very good escort. 4. Enemy Opposition: None. 5. Losses or Damages sustained: None. 6. Weather: Enroute- From FLORENCE to PISA, a high overcast of 5/10 clouds with bases at 12-15,000 feet. Along coast to N of LA SPAZIA, 8- 10/10 stratus with bases at 9,500 feet. Over Target- Clouds, 10/10 with bases at 9,000 feet. Slight haze at ground level. 7. Results: Successfully dropped 2,000 lbs of supplies in T/A. 8. Observations: None. 9. Participants: Pilot - Lt T.D. Garrett, 0-662444 Co-Pilot - Lt R.F Panning, 0-828752 Nav/Bomb - Lt F.J. Wren, 0-744960 R/O - Sgt T.V. Sullivan, 6556253 Turret Gunner - Sgt W.E. Shettleworth, 16073273 Tail Gunner - Sgt. L.E. Andrews, 14163261 10. Route: As planned.
FELIX I. BARSANTI, Jr., 1st Lt., Air Corps, Assistant A-2 ------Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 1Lt, 448th BS CP Panning, Robert F., 1Lt, 446th BS N None B Wren, Frank J., 1Lt, 445th BS E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt, 446th BS R Sullivan, Timothy V., Sgt, 448th BS G Andrews, Lamar C., Sgt, 445th BS F None
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions were weathered out of the primaries at Lavis Marshalling Yard and Rail Diversion and solidly hit the alternates at Romano and Crema – old favorites.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 741/mission 741) Group Mission # 741: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 742/mission 742) Group Mission # 742: Lavis Marshalling Yards, Italy (primary) - bombed the Romano di Lombardia railroad bridge, Italy (alternate) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 743/mission 743) Group Mission # 743: Lavis marshalling yards, Italy (primary) - bombed the Crema Railroad Bridge (alternate) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: Two attacks were carried out today on the Crema railroad bridge, and the Romano di Lombardia bridge, Italy. Both resulted in 100 per cent bombing accuracy. Major Bounds and Capts. Hatcher and Wagner left today, buzzing the area in a fond farewell with “Spirit of Portchester”. Capt. Robert A Farrell, popular pilot in the squadron, took over as operations officer and had Lt. Kendall as his assistant. Capt. Furey called a meeting at the enlisted men’s club and Capt. Jackson introduced him to the men. His speech was short and sweet, just stopping long enough to say “Hello”. The brevity and strength of his greeting impressed the men. Some packages arrived today. Pork chops were served at the supper meal. Bounds, Thomas C., Maj, pilot, Commander Farrell, Robert A., Capt, pilot Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, pilot, Commander Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., Capt, pilot Jackson, James Oliver, Capt, Executive Officer Kendall, Wayne E., 1Lt, pilot Wagner, Gerald W., Capt, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 741/mission 741) Group Mission # 741: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 742/mission 742) Group Mission # 742: Group Mission #742; Squadron Mission #474: Lt. Bowling led 12 ships from this squadron which formed the third flight of a 39 plane formation sent out to attack the Romano di Lombardia railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound and 500 pound bombs were dropped from 10,500 ft to 11,000 ft. Area cover was furnished while no flak was encountered. RESULTS: The formation was forced back from the primary by a low overcast and bombed the alternate instead which was the Romano bridge. All attempted a run on a 205 degree axis but were unable to drop their bombs due to low scattered clouds. They made a second run at 13 degrees and this time were able to drop. Excellent patterns covered the bridge from the center to the east approach with several direct hits reported. One string was over at center. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt CP N None None B E R G F None None
Wednesday, 21 February 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
Wednesday, 21 February 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
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 743/mission 743) Group Mission # 743: Group Mission #743; Squadron Mission #475: This squadron furnished 3 ships in the second flight of an 18 ship formation sent out to attack the Lavis marshalling yards, Italy. This target was covered by weather, however, and the Crema railroad bridge was attacked instead. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft. Area cover was provided and the bombers failed to encounter any flak. RESULTS: 1st box of 6 aircraft of 1st flight made 2nd run due to haze. Hits reported on west end and west approach to bridge. Some bombs hit road bridges over the canal and some hit on northwest edge of city due to difficulty in target identification because of haze. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 plane and A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 plane and partial crew identified in Lead partial crew identified in Lead Bombardier’s Report Bombardier’s Report P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 1Lt CP N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E R G F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 plane and partial crew identified in Lead Bombardier’s Report P Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP N None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt E R G F None Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 02/21/45: “Much activity has been shown in the field of sports since the recent warm weather began and found expression in the form of some very lively volley ball games in front of our tent. Each evening and usually several times during the day, a large crowd gathers to participate or to spectate and everyone has a very good time. Several days ago I received an economic course for which I made application several months ago. I have not begun studying it in earnest yet but a glance at the text tells me it will be both profitable and interesting. Today I finished reading The Robe for the second time. I got more from it than the first time I read it and I advocate a second or even a third reading. I intend to keep the book in my permanent library. There are some excellent lessons in the practical application of the gospel of Christ that will stand reviewing. Everything pertaining to our future activity is a matter of conjecture, though we shall probably move to Italy before anything more momentous happens, perhaps within the next 30 days.”
446th BS War Diary: Romano di Lombardo gets our attention as the group continues to pound targets in the Brenner Pass region.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 741/mission 741) Group Mission # 741: Squadron Mission 513 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance DATE: 21 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt B None E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt F Mesnard, James S., 2Lt, HQ 321st BG (observer)
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 742/mission 742) Group Mission # 742: Squadron Mission 514 TARGET: Romano Di Lombardo Railroad Bridge, Italy (Alt) DATE: 21 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Capt. Muzinich led the formation. Low overcast short of primary target, forced bombing of alternate. Excellent patterns covering bridge from center to E approach scoring direct hits. No flak, no fighters. Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS
A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Baby” 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Yarbrough, George L., 1Lt Beecher, Everett F., S/Sgt E Lamm, Earl D., S/Sgt Kelly, Thomas J., S/Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Sgt Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt G Springer, Walter H., Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 “Barbara” P Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Peterson, James R., Jr., Cpl G Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” Bull” (previously “Tiny?”) P Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N None None B Golden, Benny (NMI), 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Chase, William H., Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 1Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Brownell, Robert L., 1Lt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R Benedict, William P., Sgt Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss ”Hauling Ass II” Arabella” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt CP Long, Emmett N., 2Lt Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt N None None B Falk, Jack G., 2Lt Fein, William F., 2Lt E Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Darnielle, George W., Cpl Anderson, Chester S., Sgt F None None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 743/mission 743) Group Mission # 743: Squadron Mission 514 TARGET: Crema Railroad bridge, Italy DATE: 21 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6 Major Farwell led the formation. First box of six made second run due to haze. Hits were reported on W end and W approach to bridge. Some bombs hit the road bridges and some hit in NW edge of city. Haze made target identification difficult. No flak, no fighters. Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander, 448th BS
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of We Bob Along” seated lady - no name/lettering) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued) A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 44-30069 Tail # 38 “Verla” Girl” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., 2Lt N None None B McGann, Edom K., 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Boylan, James P., Sgt R Carl, Edgar W., Sgt Beck, Junior D., Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) (later name dropped from nose art) P Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Cimino, William C., 2Lt DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt E Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt G Griffin, John A., Sgt Meade, Harold W., Cpl F None None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 39) “No. 39) Milk Run on Crema R.R. Br. Lt. Holt pilot.” Holt, Noel P., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: 12 planes flew a mission over northern Italy today. 3 planes bombed Crema Rail Bridge and 9 planes bombed Romano Di Lombardia Bridge. The squadron received 100 % accuracy on both missions. All planes returned safely to home base.
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 741/mission 741) Group Mission # 741: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 742/mission 742) Group Mission # 742: 9 planes bombed Romano Di Lombardia Bridge.
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-35956 Tail # 55 P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Erb, Jack L., Capt N None Franklin, Arthur E., Capt, HQ 321st BG B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, Capt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Staub, Edward C., Sgt F None None Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 Teddie” P Brice, David W., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt N None None B Fach, Albert W., 2Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Wilvert, Charles E. “Chap”, Cpl Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Lamb, George K., Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? David” P Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt Fairchild, George S., 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt E Stokes, Robert C., Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., S/Sgt Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., S/Sgt G Harvey, John A., Sgt Merlino, Camille J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Fosdick” Doll” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Wallis, Shelby D., 2Lt N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Fowler, John I., F/O Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt Steinhauser, Bernard (NMI), Cpl R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt CP Bradshaw, Rodney O., 2Lt N None B Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt E Neely, Robert E., Sgt R Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Cpl G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt F None
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 743/mission 743) Group Mission # 743: 3 planes bombed Crema Rail Bridge
A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Sgt Flanigan, Bernard A., S/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G West, Edgar M., Sgt Young, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt CP Hoy, Robert L., F/O N None B Michael, James L., 2Lt E Plough, Marlin J., Cpl R Ross, John P., Cpl G Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl F None
448th BS War Diary: Captain Lyons had been notified of his promotion from First Lieutenant just before taking off on today’s mission. Lieutenant Myers was promoted to Captain also. Corporal Morella retuned from the 310th today where he had been on TD. Lyons, John B., Capt, pilot Morella, James R., Cpl, cook Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, Capt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 741/mission 741) Group Mission # 741: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary: (Missions 742 and 743): The 448th had fifteen (15) planes in a maximum effort of the Group this morning to attack the marshalling yards at Lavis. It was another clear day on Corsica, but before reaching the Po Valley cloudy and overcast weather began closing in on the formation, led by Major Farwell, until they were unable to reach the primary target at Lavis. They split, and Major Farwell led six of the 448th’s planes to attack the Crema rail bridge. Captain Lyons led the second flight of the other group of planes that attacked the Romano Di Lombardo rail bridge of which the 448th had nine planes.
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 742/mission 742) Group Mission # 742: Captain Lyons led the second flight of the other group of planes that attacked the Romano Di Lombardo rail bridge of which the 448th had nine planes. Haze was encountered here also, making observation difficult, and the formation had to make two passes at the target also before dropping their bombs. An excellent concentration was scored on the east end and center of the bridge with several direct hits observed. Likewise, no enemy anti-aircraft fire was observed and all the bombers returned safely.
A/C No. 43-36112 Tail # 82 (second # A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” 82) P Lyons, John B., Capt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N Freund, John F., 1Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Nelson, William M., Cpl McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Sgt Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt CP Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt G Ward, Paul D., Sgt Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin A/C No. 43-4037 Tail # 78 “Cherry Engine Sadie” Fizz” P Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt E Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt Turner, James H., S/Sgt R Fletcher, William H., Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt G Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt Blackard, Hershel L., Cpl F None None
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-36124 Tail # ? P Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Cook, Don W., 1Lt CP Sturgis, Cloral S., 1Lt Carr, Robert E., F/O N None None B Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt Morian, Charles R., Cpl R Soltys, John J., Cpl Pituck, James J., Cpl G Masbruch, Arthur G., Cpl Tangren, Donald E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt CP Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 743/mission 743) Group Mission # 743: Major Farwell led six of the 448th’s planes to attack the Crema rail bridge. Due to haze, Major Farwell had to lead his planes on a second run over the target before identifying it. Most of the bombs fell on the west end and approach with several direct hits reported. No enemy anti-aircraft fire was encountered and all the planes returned safely.
A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Farwell, Harold S., Maj, Commander Wilson, James M., 1Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt Baird, James L., F/O N Bartlett, J. E., 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., Capt McRee, Malcolm B., 1Lt E Payne, Robert B., Cpl Weese, Charles F., S/Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Chase, Harry M., Jr., Sgt G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt Smith, Norman L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 P Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt CP Ashland, Arthur E. “Art”, 2Lt Butler, Glenn D., 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Libby, Donald E., 2Lt E Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Harageones, George J., Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., S/Sgt Shields, Robert L., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl F None None
Wednesday, 21 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-27616 Tail # 94 P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 1Lt Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt CP Campbell, Knox L., 2Lt Stokes, George M., 2Lt N None None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt R O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:00AM. Ate a very heavy breakfast. Eggs, cheese, tomatoes, bread, butter, french fries, etc. Very sunny and warm. Said so long to Ali Baba and Moses. Take off at 2:20PM. Took shots of pyramids with K-20. Saw Suez Canal. Landed Lydda Field, Tel- Aviv at 3:30PM. Warmly received. Picked up rations. Called Mrs. Fish. Accommodations at American House. Very clean and modern hotel. Also eating meals there. The people are very friendly, intelligent and speak English. Brusa and I went to night club at the beach facing the Mediterranean Sea, known as the San Remo Cabaret. Met Capt Grady and Bard. Had to shake a civilian. Fair floor show. No rye or scotch. Drank brandy. Cover charge for soldiers 40 mills. Anxious to date a decent girl. No begging, fighting. Women or the like on the streets at night. Mrs. Fish is formerly of Brooklyn, New York.” Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Grady, John R., Capt, pilot
Thursday, 22 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 21/22 Feb, A-20s attack an ammunition dump, railroad bridges and lines, and road lights in the Po Valley; B-25s bomb railroad bridges and marshalling yards at Lavis, Bressanone, and Ala, cutting the bridge at Lavis and the through tracks at the Ala marshalling yard; fighters and fighter-bombers continue to support US Fifth Army forces S and SW of Bologna and hit communications targets, dumps, vehicles, and guns in and N of the battle area in the Apennines Mountains and in the Po Valley, and bomb airfields at Ghedi and Bergamo.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Thirty-eight planes (including 3 chaff) bombed the Lavis Railroad Diversion bridges with excellent results. Photo recce showed both bridges down. Baseball is getting an early start this year mostly due to the mild, temperate weather we’ve been experiencing this month and already many Group teams have been formed. Volleyball also is in swing – basketball continues. With good food, movies, and athletic activities the morale remains at a high level despite the increased losses sustained at the Brenner Pass.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 744/mission 744) Group Mission # 744: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The squadron helped attack the Lavis rail diversion bridges, Italy and the group bombing accuracy was put at 89.5 per cent. Sgt. Berman’s ship 534 (43- 27534 Tail # 11) today completed its 100th combat mission. Fresh frankfurters was a rare treat for supper. A good supply of mail which arrived just before supper made them taste even better. A Corsican girl gave a lecture to the enlisted men at the club in the evening. She spoke about her native island, its customs and traditions and afterwards answered questions popped to her by interested squadron personnel. They were chiefly interested in learning her comparison of the German and American soldiers. Her answers were favorably received. Berman, Charles S., Sgt, engineering, crew chief
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 744/mission 744) Group Mission # 744: Group Mission #744; Squadron Mission #476: Lt. Poteete led 9 ships from this squadron which were in the second flight of a formation of 39 planes sent out to attack the Lavis rail diversion bridges, Italy. 1000 pound and 500 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 ft. to 23,000 ft. Area cover was provided. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate, directed mainly at chaff element. A total of 8 ships were holed but none lost. A Focke Wulf 190 and ME-109 were seen in the area but the P-47 escort chased them away. RESULTS: Main weight of bombs fell across the dike just west of target but flash photos show a small concentration of bombs squarely on the north bridge.
Thursday, 22 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt N Robson, Herbert E., Capt None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Brown, Milton H., 1Lt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Carney, Daniel (NMI), Sgt R Ott, James V., S/Sgt Johnson, John E., T/Sgt G Stansberry, Robert C., Sgt Lile, Keith B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Beauty” (first # 06) P O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), 1Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt Partlow, Charles Henry, 1Lt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Sgt G Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven lady) Can Wait” P McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt CP Riggenbach, Paul R., 2Lt Badger, Joe G., 2Lt N None None B Schnieringer, Frank M., 2Lt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Weingartner, William E., Cpl Salch, Raymond F., S/Sgt G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Lou” Baby” P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Buckham, John K., 2Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt N None None B Jackson, William H., 2Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., T/Sgt R Otterness, William B., T/Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Clayton, Ross W., S/Sgt F None None
Thursday, 22 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Louis” P Ottinger, Warren F., 1Lt CP Henderson, Robert D., 2Lt N None B Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Stack, James T., Sgt F None
446th BS War Diary: (22 and 23 Feb): A mission is flown each of these days. The mail situation begins to improve as quite a bundle arrives.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 744/mission 744) Group Mission # 744: Squadron Mission 516 TARGET: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 22 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Capt. Smedley led the formation. Main weight of bombs fell across dyke just W of target. Small concentration reported squarely on objective. Smoke pots in operation but ineffective. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate. Eight planes holed. Two enemy a/c seen but did not attack. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt CP N None None B E R Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt 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
Thursday, 22 February 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 P CP N None B E R G F None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 40) “No. 40) Lavis R.R. Div. Some flak - Picked up about 10 holes - 4x1000. Capt. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Robert W. Mulholland transferred to 12th Air Force. Par 1 SO 40 Hq. 57th Bomb Wing. The following officers and enlisted men assigned and joined this squadron from 57th Bomb Wing 20 February 1945 par 3 SO 31, Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. F/O Russell R. Graze, F/O George H. Sznarwokowski, F/O Maynard G. Weppner, Cpl. Stephen G. Smith, Cpl. Irwin A. Beske, Cpl. Robert C. MacAuslan. Beske, Irwin A., Cpl, gunner Graze, Russell R., F/O, pilot MacAuslan, Robert C., Cpl, gunner Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, bombardier Smith, Stephen G., Jr., Cpl, gunner Sznarwokowski, George H., F/O, pilot Weppner, Maynard G., F/O, bombardier Thursday, 22 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 744/mission 744) Group Mission # 744: 12 of our aircraft flew a mission against Lavis rail Diversion Bridge. The accuracy for the day is not known because it was impossible to separate the bombs of the different squadrons. (Crew list page 2 missing - 3 ships)
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-4009 Tail # 69 “Double-O- Fosdick” Nine” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), Capt CP Wood, George A., Jr., 2Lt Bradshaw, Rodney O., 2Lt N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Fowler, John I., F/O Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt Mullis, Paul C., Sgt R Krauss, Frederick J., Sgt Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Flanagan, Joseph E., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt Bethke, Armond H., Jr., F/O N None None B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt G West, Edgar M., Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-35959 Tail # 67 P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, 2Lt N None None B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Citarelli, James E., S/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Brockman, Richard E., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Brice, David W., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Michael, James L., 2Lt Pobereyko, Tony (NMI), 2Lt E Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt R Lamb, George K., Sgt Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt Loux, Robert E., Sgt F None None Thursday, 22 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew P Peck, Paul R., 2Lt CP Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt N None None B Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt E Cline, Joel L., Cpl R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt G Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Matthews returned today from TD with Headquarters MATS. Sergeant Posnansky, a ground radio operator with the Squadron, left for the United States on rotation. Lieutenants Herrin and Lyons, J.W., F/O Stanwood, and Corporals Safko, Weeks, and Judnich were assigned to the Squadron this morning. Sergeants Skimp and Handler and Corporals Lester and Spelich were detached from the Squadron to the 445th Squadron and placed on DS with the 448th. Lieutenants Schweitzer, Sutton and Wyman, Sergeant Langley, J.C., and Private Fegley left for the Capri rest camp this morning, and Captain Bongiovanni, Lieutenant Spaur, F/O Rutz and Sergeants Smith, N.L. and Goethals returned from the Capri rest camp this afternoon. Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt, navigator Fegley, Russell D., Pvt, engineering Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt, gunner Handler, William (NMI), Sgt, communications Herrin, John C., 2Lt, pilot Judnich, Raymond J., Cpl, gunner Langley, James C., Cpl, operations Lester, Julian N., Cpl, communications Lyons, John W., 1Lt, bombardier Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt, pilot Posnansky, Frederick H., Sgt, communications Rutz, Victor H., F/O, bombardier Safko, Edward A., Cpl, gunner Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt, pilot Skimp, James S., S/Sgt, communications Smith, Norman L., Sgt, gunner Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt, pilot Spelich, Daniel A., Cpl, communications Stanwood, Ralph E., F/O, pilot Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier Weeks, Donald E., Cpl, gunner Wyman, 1Lt, S-2, I & E Officer
Thursday, 22 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 744/mission 744) Group Mission # 744: Captain Swanson led the 448th’s Mitchells today that attacked the Lavis rail diversion bridges once again. Taking off in clear weather on Corsica, they encountered some overcast in the Po Valley, but had no difficulty in identifying the target. The Germans attempted to obscure the objective with smoke pots, but they were ineffective. Several planes were holed by the anti-aircraft fire, which was heavy and accurate and tracking on the breakaway. No casualties were suffered, however, and all the planes returned safely at 1330. A good concentration of bombs fell in the target area. Several direct hits were scored on the north bridge. (Crew list missing)
A/C No. 1 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 2 unidentified plane & crew P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 3 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 4 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 5 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 6 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None
Thursday, 22 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 7 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 8 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None A/C No. 9 unidentified plane & crew A/C No. 10 unidentified plane & crew P CP N None None B E R G F None None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “My nights aren't exactly restless, but I awoke often during the night. Very sunny, but windy. We are eating out. Brusa and I separated from the rest of the boys. Roaming the business section. Registered with British CMP (Corp of Military Police). Every person entering Tel-Aviv must do similar as every guest’s whereabouts must be known. The ocean is very rough. The streets, buildings, etc. are all exceptionally clean. Made the acquaintance of a very attractive British WAC of the ATS (Auxiliary Territorial Service). Took her to dinner. Her home is in France and is on leave from her base in Alexandria. Started out making the rounds. Many of the night clubs are occupied by private parties. Brusa, Lili and I got quite drunk and we didn't behave too well. Sometimes one brandy does things to one. However, we did no harm to Lili. We traveled by taxi most of the evening. Lost Brusa at the oceanfront for a spell. How I ever managed Brusa and myself is something I cannot understand. Retired 11:40PM.” Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Friday, 23 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, A-20s on intruder missions during the night of 22/23 Feb, hit marshalling yards and airfields throughout N Italy; medium bombers concentrate on the N end of the Brenner Pass, damaging bridges at Campo San Pietro and a railroad fill at San Felice del Benaco and hitting bridges at Dogna; fighter-bombers pound airfields, and enemy movement in the C and N Po Valley, and damage 5 bridges and cut rail lines at numerous points.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Campo Bridges North and South were the targets for the day and in spite of the heavy flak which holed six planes and killed one man excellent concentrations were scored.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 745/mission 745) Group Mission # 745: Campo South Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 746/mission 746) Group Mission # 746: Campo North Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The Campo north railroad bridge, Italy was attacked and hit with 100 per cent bombing accuracy. Rum-runner 535 (43-3535) was back from Catania following her engine change there and was slow-timed upon her return. Lts. Curry, Buckham and WH Jackson were promoted to 1st Lieutenant today. In today’s mission, 2nd Lt. Lonnie Harvel was killed by flak. He was a bombardier and was fatally wounded when a big piece of shrapnel ripped open the nose of his ship and struck him in the head. Capt. Robson flew his 70th mission today and called it quits. It was a rough one to finish on. Luxury rations were distributed for the first time in quite a while. Buckham, John K., 1Lt, pilot Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 1Lt, pilot Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Jackson, William H., 1Lt, bombardier Robson, Herbert E., Capt, bombardier
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 745/mission 745) Group Mission # 745: Group Mission #745; Squadron Mission #477: This squadron provided three phosphorus ships in a 24 plane formation sent out to attack the Campo south railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound and 100 pound bombs cascaded down on the harassed Brenner Pass Jerries from 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft. Area cover was provided and there were some anti-flak ships. Flak was heavy, scant but fairly accurate at the anti-flak ships, inaccurate at the formation. One of the anti-flak ships was holed. None were lost. RESULTS: Long pattern started short of bridge and several direct hits were reported. The anti-flak ships had difficulty in identifying their target area and bombs hit east of the gun area. Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Can Wait” (Anti-flak/Incendiary Ship) (Anti-flak/Incendiary Ship) P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Badger, Joe G., 2Lt Riggenbach, Paul R., 2Lt N None None B Partlow, Charles Henry, 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Perich, Freddie (NMI), Sgt Hafferkamp, Edwin H., Cpl R Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” (previously “Modern Design”) (Anti- flak/Incendiary Ship) P Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt N None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt E Gum, Paul V., S/Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 746/mission 746) Group Mission # 746: Group Mission #746; Squadron Mission #478: Lt. Poteete led 9 ships from this squadron in a formation of 18 ships sent out to attack the Campo north railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 12,000 to 13,000 ft. P-47s flew as escort. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense and accurate, concentrating on the second flight made up of ships from the 445th Squadron. Lt. Harvel, bombardier, was killed on this raid. Five ships were holed. RESULTS: 1 pattern short and west of bridge. Others concentrated on north end and approach. Good coverage reported.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt CP O’Neill, Phillip W., 2Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N Robson, Herbert E., Capt None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Henry, William W., S/Sgt Swinson, Carl R. M., Sgt F None None
Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” P O’Keefe, John H., 2Lt Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Rice, Rudolph G., 2Lt Divine, Donald D., F/O N None None B Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt Josephson, Sanford L., S/Sgt E Smith, Warren B. “Smitty”, T/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt R Matter, Dean R., T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., T/Sgt G Baker, Max E., Sgt Freidli, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (first # 06) P Young, Paul L., 2Lt Miron, Leno L., 1Lt CP Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Milton H., 2Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Bertling, Gerald M., S/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Posillico, Frank A., Cpl Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Sgt A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) Belle Fontaine” P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”,1Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt Henderson, Robert D., 2Lt N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Hagains, John R., Sgt Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt R Reagin, Charles T., T/Sgt Seigler, William B., S/Sgt G Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, S/Sgt Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St Louis” P Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N None B Caron, Philip H., 2Lt E Vadnais, Floyd F., Sgt R Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., S/Sgt F None
Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament: 02/23/45: “Yesterday I took a trip to Catania, Sicily where I have been wanting to go for a long time. We loaded bombs early and immediately after finishing, I caught the plane which was being sent down to pick up an engine-change crew that had finished repairing our regular cargo plane. The weather was mostly clear and chilly on the ground. It grew painfully cold at 7000 feet at which altitude we flew most of the way. I was glad to land two and a half hours later for that reason. The part of Sicily we passed over was bleak and snow covered. It certainly appeared desolate from the air. Not until we passed majestic Mt. Etna on our left and again approached the sea did we see anything that could be considered an inhabitable country. Mt. Etna is a high volcanic peak which overlooks the Catania plain from the crest of a long gradual slope that begins at the sea coast. At the base of the slope the city is located. We landed on the battle scarred airport and caught an RAF bus into town. No sooner had we left the vehicle when a swarm of Italian boys came up, profusely greeting everyone and insisting they carry our baggage. We continued on to the Hotel Moderna and arranged for rooms for the men who were staying overnight. I found Catania very typical of southern Italian cities; crowded, dirty and smelly. The people are short, swarthy and definitely in the class of all look alike. We had a fairly good dinner of soup and fish for which we paid 200 lira ($2.00). For several months the squadron has been purchasing liquor in Catania for the club and a pretty solid relationship has grown up among the men who make the trip regularly and the kids who make the necessary connections for them. One need only to mention a thing he wants and soon it will turn up before him almost mysteriously. Tony and Angelo can get one of their mob to obtain even the scarcest of merchandise in no time at all for a price, naturally, but their helpfulness is a necessity to the stranger. One might truthfully say everyone in Catania is a small-time gangster. Vice is the only means of existence for many people. Black markets operate without restriction. Cigarettes sell for 10 cents each and other items go about as abnormally. I was offered two for one in exchange of lira for American currency, which I refused. In spite of their wickedness the people are very apt at finding their way to one’s heart. When I was ready to leave they insisted on giving me the oranges they had gotten at the market for me. Furthermore, champagne was set up, but the first bottle that was taken from the shelf was deliberately smashed on the stone floor as a sign of good luck. By such means they capture the good will of all comers and so spread their contacts. We took off at about 14:30 and climbed to approximately 9000 feet. I rode in the bombardier’s compartment which was quite warm and comfortable even though the temperature dropped to -10° at 10,000 feet when we climbed above the clouds. Today our planes flew a very long mission into Austria where some flak was encountered. Number 680 (43-27680 Tail # 07 “Stuff”) received a direct hit in the nose and the bombardier was killed. He was blown all to pieces and the ship was a mess of blood and remains. Last evening a Corsican girl gave us a talk on the history and customs of the island. It was very interesting. She was an active member of the French underground movement.” Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS War Diary: (22 and 23 Feb): A mission is flown each of these days. The mail situation begins to improve as quite a bundle arrives.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 745/mission 745) Group Mission # 745: Squadron Mission 517 TARGET: Campo South Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 23 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb and anti-flak 446th Planes: 12 Major Farwell led the formation. Bombs fell in long pattern starting short of bridge and extending across river. Direct hits on bridge reported by several crews. Anti-flak a/c hit E of gun area. Flak was heavy, scant, fairly accurate. Farwell, Harold S., Maj, pilot, Commander, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Burklund, Donald K., 2Lt Moore, Howard T., 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 1Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee Arabella” Girl” P Fisher, Carl D., 1Lt Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt Golden, Benny (NMI), 1Lt E Jeczewski, Joseph M., Sgt Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt R Benedict, William P., S/Sgt Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Popovich, Chris (NMI), S/Sgt Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-36224 Tail # 34 probably “Barbara” ”Hauling Ass II” P Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Falk, Jack G., 1Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt Brady, Walter (NMI), Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt Darnielle, George W., Cpl F None None
Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 1Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Fein, William F., 2Lt DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt Meade, Harold W., 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” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Little Boy Val”) P Maki, Allan A., 2Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt CP Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt McCloud, Ray L., 1Lt N None None B Chandley, Sherley S., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Bass, Charles L., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Peterson, James R., Jr., Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-30069 Tail # 38 “Verla” A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) (previously “Tiny?”) (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Ingram, William T., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Brownell, Robert L., 1Lt E Englehaupt, Russell L., Sgt Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl R Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, S/Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Holdridge, John F., Sgt F None None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 746/mission 746) Group Mission # 746: (446th BS did not participate)
447th BS War Diary: The following men promoted to corporal par 1 SO 32 Hq. 321st Bomb Gp. Pvt. Max A. Wilson, Pfc. Robert P. Biscailuz, Pvt. Charles E. Hiltibidal, Pfc. Leonard B. Heiman, Pvt. Gerald G. O’Neil, Pfc. LeeRoy L. Huddleson, Pfc. Buford T. Williams, Pfc. Arnold W. Vollbrecht. The following officer transferred to US on combat rotation Ltr. Hq 12th AF 20 Feb. 1945. 1st Lt. James W. McDermott. T/Sgt. Smith B. Applegarth transferred to US on combat rotation. 1st Lt. Edward A. Miller assigned and joined from 445th squadron. The following corporals promoted to sergeant par 1 SO 32 Hq 321st Bomb Gp. John E. Broadrick Jr., William J. Meehan, Earl J. Vogt, James H. Hatcher, Lloyd L. Rader. Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
Applegarth, Smith B., T/Sgt, gunner Biscailus, Robert P., Cpl, armament Broadrick, John E., Jr., Sgt, operations Hatcher, James H., Sgt, armament Heiman, Leonard B., Cpl, transportation Hiltibidal, Charles E., Cpl, communications Huddleson, LeeRoy L., Cpl, turret gunner McDermott, James W., 1Lt, bombardier Meehan, William J., Sgt, armament Miller, Edward A., 1Lt, Aerial Gunnery Officer O'Neil, Gerald G., Cpl, armament Rader, Lloyd L., Sgt, engineering Vogt, Earl J., Sgt, communications Vollbrecht, Arnold W., Cpl, engineering Williams, Buford T., Cpl, armament Wilson, Max A., Cpl, communications
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 745/mission 745) Group Mission # 745: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 746/mission 746) Group Mission # 746: 8 planes flew a mission against Campo N. Rail Bridge in northern Italy. All planes returned safely to home base.
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., Capt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Flanigan, Bernard A., S/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O Bethke, Armond H., Jr., F/O N None None B Fowler, John I., F/O Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Henkler, Edward H., Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt G West, Edgar M., Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt F None None
Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 Maria” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt CP Hoy, Robert L., F/O Peck, Paul R., 2Lt N None None B Weppner, Maynard G., F/O Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt E Plough, Marlin J., Cpl Cline, Joel L., Cpl R Ross, John P., Cpl Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt G Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little David” P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O N None None B Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Citarelli, James E., S/Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt S/Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Sgt Brockman, Richard E., Cpl F None None
448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 745/mission 745) Group Mission # 745: The target for today’s mission was the Campo South rail bridge. Major Farwell led the formation to this vital target of which the 448th had nine of its B-25s. It was another clear weather day over Corsica. Despite some slight anti-aircraft fire, Major Farwell led the bombers to the target where an excellent concentration of bombs was scored on the north approach and end. All the bombers returned safely at 1230. Lieutenant J.D. Russell flew the lead spare plane that filled in for the 447th over the Campo North rail bridge where he scored a 100% bombing accuracy mission for the 448th. Lieutenant Styers dropped his bombs in a well-concentrated area on the bridge which was believed to be down after this devastating attack.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # ? P Farwell, Harold S., Maj, Commander Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt CP Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Payne, Robert B., Cpl Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Sgt Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, S/Sgt G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-36112 Tail # 82 (second # 82) P Cook, Don W., 1Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Mann, James R., F/O N None None B Baird, James (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Higby, Paul K., F/O E Morian, Charles R., Sgt Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Soltys, John J., Cpl G Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt “----“ None listed F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27481 Tail # ? P Cooper, Richard J., 1Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Ashland, Arthur E. “Art”, 2Lt Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt R Shields, Robert L., Sgt Sevier, Fred L., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Ward, Paul D., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36124 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None None B Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Varga, Frank K., Sgt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., S/Sgt Fletcher, William H., Sgt G Fields, James A., Cpl Justice, Conway J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 P Burks, Richard W., Maj CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 1Lt B Cannon, John L., 2Lt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt F None
Friday, 23 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 746/mission 746) Group Mission # 746:
A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 (Lead spare - filled in with 447th over the Campo North Rail Bridge) P Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Stokes, George M., 2Lt N Freund, John F.,1Lt B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Sgt F None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:15AM. Feeling OK. Still waking the way I always do - off and on. Mrs. Fish changed our room from #21 to #16. Now we have a private shower. Went out to Telewinsky airfield and picked up our rations. Uncle Sam runs regular GI bus service. Strong winds and rain. Eating at the American House. As a rule we have steak, chops, or chicken. Turkish or American coffee is available. American scotch or rye is to be had from 3 1/2 pounds and up. Been having shaves and facials and shampoos regularly. Anxious to meet some nice girls. Those that I have seen are most attractive and decent. Prices on most everything are very steep. Seems almost impossible that 30 years ago this place was nothing but desert. Refugees from all over Europe are located here as well as military personnel. Eating fine steak and chicken dinners prepared by Mrs. Fish. Magyar and I attended "Road to Frisco" at theater in square. All cinemas are in English. Movie was OK. Still raining. Took a cab home (200 mills). Retired midnight. (Talked with Mrs. Fish).” Magyar, Steven J., S/Sgt, gunner
Saturday, 24 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 23/24 Feb, A-20s bomb marshalling yards, including those at Castelfranco Veneto, Rovereto, Villafranca di Verona, and Legnago, and airfields at Villafranca di Verona, Ghedi, and Bergamo; medium bombers bomb rail lines, bridges, bridge approaches, and fills at Bozzolo, Santa Margherita d'Adige, San Michele all'Adige, Pizzighettone, and Lavis, and severely damage the Sesto Calende industrial complex; fighter-bombers hit communications, mainly airfields, railroad bridges, lines, and marshalling yards at several points including Villafranca, Calliano, N of Nervesa della Battaglia, N of Santa Margherita d'Adige, Bergamo, Pavullo nel Frigano, Isola della Scala, and Motta di Livenza; fighters and fighter-bombers support US Fifth Army forces, hitting gun positions in advance of the battlefront, at Montese and E of Modena, and blast targets in the battle area as the 10th Mountain Division reaches the summit of Monte Torraccia.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Our bombers ranged far and wide today and bombed at Ala, Mantua East, Mori Fill, San Margherita, Bozzolo and Sesto Calende. Of these targets the factory at Sesto was hit most solidly, with good results also reported at Ala and Bozzolo.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 747/mission 747) Group Mission # 747: Ala Railroad Bridge, Italy. - Mantua East Railroad Bridge (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 748/mission 748) Group Mission # 748: San Margherita North Railroad Bridge, Italy (primary) - Bozzolo Railroad Bridge (alternate) (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 749/mission 749) Group Mission # 749: Sesto Calende assembly plant, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: The attacks on the Bozzolo railroad bridge and Sesto Calende assembly plant, Italy today both resulted in 100 per cent bombing accuracy. There was a funeral held today for Lt. Harvel. He was buried at the Allied military cemetery near Bastia. B-25 716 “S---house Mouse” (43-27716 Tail # 17) with crew chief Sgt. “Lefty” Lestz all smiles today completed its 100th combat mission. Sgt. Lestz boasts a perfect record for the “Mouse” which hasn’t returned once due to a mechanical failure. Seven flying officers were sent to rest camp today, four to Cannes and three, including Capt. Robson, to Ile Rousse. Major Robert H. Neumann, group assistant operations officer and former member of this squadron, left the group on permanent rotation today. Harvel, Lonnie B., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Lestz, Sidney "Lefty", T/Sgt, engineering, crew chief Neumann, Robert H., Maj, pilot, Group Asst. Operations Officer Robson, Herbert E., Capt, bombardier
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 747/mission 747) Group Mission # 747: (445th BS did not participate)
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 748/mission 748) Group Mission # 748: Group Mission #748; Squadron Mission #479: Lt. Bowling led 13 ships in front of a 22 plane formation which bombed two targets. The alternate hit was the Bozzolo railroad bridge while the primary attacked was the San Margherita north railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound, 500 pound and 100 pound bombs fell from 11,000 to 12,000 ft on the targets. Anti-flak ships hit gun positions while escort was seen in the target area. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate with 4 ships holed but none lost. RESULTS: Last element of the first flight hit primary which was difficult to see. Bombs hit east of the bridge. The rest of the formation hit the alternate and hit the east approach. The anti-flak ships encountered interference with the main formation and did not bomb.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 1Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Henderson, Robert D., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Hume, Edgar A., Jr., 2Lt E Bertling, Gerald M., S/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., T/Sgt R Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Haynes, Irving L., S/Sgt Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (previously “Modern Design”) (first # 06) P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 1Lt Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt CP Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N None None B Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt R Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt Duryea, John A., Cpl G Stansberry, Robert C., Sgt Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None Naughton, John J., Jr., Sgt A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Cox, Harold L., 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Riggenbach, Paul R., 2Lt Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt E Perich, Freddie (NMI), Sgt Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt R Barnett, Frank E., Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Freidli, William M., Sgt Teague, Phillip B., Sgt F None None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-26227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 43-27714 Tail # 16 “Blonde Beauty” P Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt Young, Paul L., 2Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N Brown, Milton H., 1Lt None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt E Gum, Paul V., S/Sgt Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Vaseleski, Andrew C., Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt Stack, James T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy Can Wait” Lou” (Lead spare - did not fill in) P McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt Badger, Joe G., 2Lt N None None B Partlow, Charles Henry, 1Lt Brooks, William F., F/O E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt R Ott, James V., S/Sgt Reagin, Charles T., T/Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Sgt Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl F None None A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” Belle Fontaine” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Ship) P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt CP White, Edward A., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N None None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Vadnais, Floyd F., Sgt Hagains, John R., Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl Heintz, Edward R., Jr., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? (Anti- Bobby” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Wilson, Charles B. “Charlee”, 2Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 1Lt CP O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt Divine, Donald D., F/O N None None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt Caron, Philip H., 2Lt E Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Sgt G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 749/mission 749) Group Mission # 749: Group Mission #749; Squadron Mission #480: Three ships took off from this squadron in an 18-plane formation sent out to attack the Sesto Calende assembly plant, Italy. 500 pound bombs were dropped from 11,000 to 11,500 ft. There was no flak. RESULTS: Excellent coverage reported, particularly on west buildings.
A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) Baby” P Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt CP Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt N Franklin, Arthur E., Capt, HQ 321st BG None B Jackson, William H., 1Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt Carney, Daniel (NMI), Sgt R Otterness, William B., T/Sgt Ross, Reginald J., T/Sgt G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) P Kourafas, James (NMI) “Jim”, 2Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None B Salch, Raymond F., T/Sgt E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., S/Sgt F None
446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Locke is assigned to 445th Squadron. Lieut. Ingram is made a Capt. Ingram, William T., Capt, pilot Locke, Jacob (NMI) "Jack", 2Lt, intelligence
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 747/mission 747) Group Mission # 747: Squadron Mission 518 TARGET: Ala Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 24 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. and Anti-flak. 446th Planes: 10 Lt. Kimble led the formation. Possible hits on bridge at Ala with other bombs to SE of bridge. First box of six a/c of second flight attacked Mantua E RR Bridge, dropped short to the NE. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate.
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov Baby” 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt, pilot Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt
CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Gambino, Samuel F., 1Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt E Lamm, Earl D., S/Sgt Kelly, Thomas J., S/Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., Sgt G Springer, Luther B., Jr., Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Girl” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Sheetinger, Dan A., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Haynes, Allan C., 2Lt N None None B Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt McNeal, Raymond L., 2Lt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 43-27747 Tail # 42 “Spider’s Bull” Frolic Pad” (first # 42) P Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Hensler, Donald O., F/O Cimino, William C., 2Lt E Chase, William H., Sgt Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/Sgt R Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Griffin, John A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 A/C No. 44-30069 Tail # 38 “Verla” P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Capalety, Thomas A., 1Lt CP Burklund, Donald K., 2Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 1Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., 1Lt Utz, James W., S/Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt F None None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 “Barbara” (later name dropped from nose art) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) (Lead spare – did not fill in) P Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt N None Codd, Russell G., 2Lt B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Leith, William V., 1Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt Bass, Charles L., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt G Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s (previously “Tiny?”) (Anti- Little Boy Val”) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P DiNorma, Joseph S., 1Lt McCloud, Ray L., 1Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Law, John B., S/Sgt Andrews, James Robert, Sgt E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), S/Sgt Edwards, David R., Sgt R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt Wagner, William M., S/Sgt G Chapin, Correll C., Sgt Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 748/mission 748) Group Mission # 748: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 749/mission 749) Group Mission # 749: Squadron Mission 519 TARGET: Sesto Calende Assembly Plant, Italy. DATE: 24 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 3 Capt. Muzinich led the formation. Excellent coverage of target area reported, particularly W buildings. No flak, no fighters. Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B Fein, William F., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) P Alward, Charles W., 2Lt CP Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt N None B Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Freeman, Harold W., Sgt R Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt G Feola, Joseph A., Sgt F None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 41) “No. 41) Ala R.R. Br. Got loads of flak. Got one large hole in the radio comp. One went through the bomb site and bounced from bomb flak helmet. 4x1000. Lt. Ramsey.” Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: T/Sgt. Joseph J. Altobello relieved from DS and assigned to 1010 AAF Base Unit (A) par 23 SO 214, 1 August 1944 Hq. AAF Redistribution Station no. 1 Atlantic City, N.J. Morning report: Officers: 92: Enlisted Men 353. Altobello, Joseph J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
447th BS Mission Summary: 17 aircraft flew a mission against Sesto Calende Assembly Plant and Bozzolo Rail Bridge in northern Italy. Excellent results were achieved on both with 100 % accuracy. All planes returned safely.
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 747/mission 747) Group Mission # 747: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 748/mission 748) Group Mission # 748:
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Marchant, Wendell E., Capt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Graze, Russell R. “Russ”, F/O N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Judkins, Philip L., T/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., S/Sgt F None None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None None B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., S/Sgt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35956 Tail # 55 A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Fairchild, George S., 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None None B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt E Henkler, Edward H., Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., S/Sgt G West, Edgar M., Sgt Merlino, Camille J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 Melting Pot” P Brice, David W., 1Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Gough, William V., 2Lt Davies, John V., 1Lt E Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt R Lamb, George K., Sgt Smith, John T., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt CP Hoy, Robert L., F/O N None B Weppner, Maynard G., F/O E Plough, Marlin J., Cpl R Ross, John P., Cpl G Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl F None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 749/mission 749) Group Mission # 749:
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” Fosdick” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, Maj CP Erb, Jack L., Capt Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Vantrease, Edwin C., 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, Capt E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt Keenan, Harry A., Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt Flanagan, Joseph E., Sgt, F None None A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie David” Teddie” P Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Wood, Gregory A., Jr., 2Lt Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt N None None B Michael, James L., 2Lt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Beske, Irwin A., Cpl Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Newton, James R., Sgt Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 A/C No. 43-35957 (borrowed from 428th BS, 310th BG) P Carlin, Edmund R., 2Lt Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt CP Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, 2Lt Bradshaw, Rodney O., 2Lt N None None B Fowler, John I., F/O Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt E Citarelli, James E., S/Sgt Neely, Robert E., Sgt R Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Cpl G Brockman, Richard L., Cpl Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35959 Tail # 67 (Anti- A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt Peck, Paul R., 2Lt CP Bethke, Armond H., Jr., F/O Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt N None None B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O E Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt Cline, Joel L., Cpl R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt Marion, William T., Jr., Sgt G Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., Sgt Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl F None None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued) 448th BS War Diary: Captain Leonard and Lieutenants Brink, Autrey and Rubin returned from the Cannes, France rest camp today, and Major Knievel and Lieutenants Ivory and Kuoni left as the Squadron’s quota to that famous resort. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Brink, Richard E., 1Lt, bombardier Ivory, Daniel J., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Knievel, Arthur W., Maj, executive Kuoni, Charles F., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Leonard, Lee V., Capt, pilot Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 747/mission 747) Group Mission # 747: Captain Myers led the 448th’s nine planes on the first mission today. The primary target was the Ala rail bridge, but the Squadron’s planes which made the second flight were unable to bomb the bridge there because of an abortive bomb run, and had to turn to the alternate target, the rail bridge at Mantua. Bombing in clear weather, Captain Myers led his flight in scoring hits on the northeast approach to the bridge. Some fairly accurate and heavy flak was encountered with damage to several planes, but no one was injured and all the aircraft returned safely at 1340. A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 43-36112 Tail # 82 (second # 82) P Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, Capt Russell, John D., 2Lt CP Baird, James L., F/O Stow, Charles E., 2Lt N Lang, Robert H., F/O None B Cannon, John L., 2Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E White, Frank H., Sgt McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl G Blanchard, Hershel L., Cpl Hudson, Willie H., Jr., 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 Williams, Peter G., 1Lt Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Varga, Frank K., Sgt Boyd, Wilford D., 2Lt E Weese, Charles F., S/Sgt Nelson, William M., Cpl R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, S/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 Belle” P Russell, Harold H., 2Lt Meyers, Kenneth F., 2Lt CP Tryon, Ben L., 2Lt Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Baird, James (NMI), S/Sgt E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Payne, Robert B., Cpl R Soltys, John J., Cpl Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt G Smith, Norman L., Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-36124 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt West, Alden A. “Bud”, 1Lt CP Butler, Glenn D., 2Lt Ashland, Arthur E. “Art”, 2Lt N None None B Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Mitchem, Dewey A., Sgt R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Hunter, Dewey G., S/Sgt G Glass, David H., Cpl Biersdorff, Charles J., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt CP Stokes, George M., 2Lt N Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 748/mission 748) Group Mission # 748: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 749/mission 749) Group Mission # 749: Six of the 448th’s ships flew with the Group today in the attack on the Sesto Calende Assembly plant. Captain Swanson led the planes which encountered no opposition and good weather all the way. An excellent coverage of the buildings was reported with the heaviest concentration on the western buildings. All the planes returned safely at 1415.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt Wilson, James M., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 1Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt Bottom, James W., 2Lt E Wolfe, Bernard M., Sgt Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G DiSalvo, Alfred J., Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None
Saturday, 24 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Cook, Don W., 1Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N None None B LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Morian, Charles R., Sgt Turner, James H., S/Sgt R Pituck, James J., Cpl Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt G Fields, James A., Cpl Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt F Neprash, Sergius P., Capt, HQ 321st BG None A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt N None None B Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Higby, Paul K., F/O E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Sgt Fletcher, William H., Sgt G Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Markiewicz awoke me at 6:15AM. All of us left for tour this AM (350 mills). Went by GI truck. Strong wind and rain. Visited Jerusalem, Bethlehem and absorbed many of the sights with a guide. We ascended about 2700 feet and it was snowing. Countryside very beautiful. Visited the Church of the Nativity, Calvary Hill, Galilee, Tomb of Christ, Virgin Mary and many other sites. Ate dinner at the YMCA in Jerusalem. Very cold and rainy. Trip was about 100 miles round trip. Returned to Telewinsky Field at 4:30PM. Ate at the American House. "Z" invited me to party at Miss Eliza Shoham, 27 Hasmal St. Stayed several hours. Listened to American music, danced a little. Had a fair time. Retired 12:00AM.” Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner
Sunday, 25 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 24/25 Feb, A-20s attack marshalling yards at Villafranca di Verona, Cittadella, Castelfranco Veneto, Trento, and Turin, and airfields at Villafranca di Verona and Bergamo; medium bombers cut or damage bridges at Vipiteno, Dogna, Ala, and Campo San Pietro, and a railroad fill at San Felice del Benaco; XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers are restricted by ground haze in the Po Valley but attack rail lines, marshalling yards, rolling stock, motor transport, and dumps.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Back to the Campo Bridges to complete destruction started two days ago. They were waiting for us and holed fifteen of our planes but they all returned. Pictures showed good concentrations around both bridges. The San Felice fill in the Brenner Pass was also plastered with a 100 percent concentration – photos showed seven craters in that vital German link. Twelve of the eighteen planes were holed – five men injured.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 750/mission 750) Group Mission # 750: Campo South Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 751/mission 751) Group Mission # 751: Campo North Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 752/mission 752) Group Mission # 752: San Felice Rail Fill, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: Squadron attacks on the Campo north railroad bridge and the San Felice rail fill, Italy both resulted in 100 per cent bombing accuracy. Four ships were badly shot up on today’s combat operations. More combat personnel left for the Rome rest camp today. There were three cross-country flights made.
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 750/mission 750) Group Mission # 750: Group Mission #750; Squadron Mission #481: Three ships from this squadron joined a 24 plane formation from the group to attack the Campo south railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound, 500 pound and 100 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft. Close escort was flown. Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate at the anti-flak ships and heavy, moderate, accurate to inaccurate on run and breakaway to main formation. A total of 9 ships were holed with 4 men wounded but no planes were lost. RESULTS: Loose pattern short and over. Some direct hits were reported. The three anti-flak planes achieved good coverage on the gun positions.
A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss Bell A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” Fontaine” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Webb, Allen W. “Pete”, 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt N None None B Beck, Robert B. “Bob”, 1Lt Schnieringer, Frank M., F/O E Kimmel, Edwin B., S/Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas, (NMI), Sgt G Teague, Phillip B., Sgt Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt N None B Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt R Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., S/Sgt F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 751/mission 751) Group Mission # 751: Group Mission #751; Squadron Mission #482: Lt. Poteete led 9 ships from this squadron which formed the second flight of a formation sent out to attack the Campo north railroad bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft. Close escort was flown. Flak was heavy, scant but erratic. Six ships were holed, none lost. RESULTS: bombs short to west of bridge and carried through bridge with some direct hits reported.
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27534 Tail # 11 (standing lady) P Poteete, Max W., 1Lt Brown, Cecil A., 2Lt CP Divine, Donald D., 2Lt Henderson, Robert D., 2Lt N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Vaughan, Fred W., 1Lt Hume, Edgar A., Jr., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., 2Lt R Ott, James V., S/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Haynes, Irving L., Sgt Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36227 Tail # 04 A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Baby” P Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt CP Badger, Joe G., 2Lt Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Brown, Thomas M., 2Lt Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Carney, Daniel (NMI), Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Barnett, Frank E., Sgt G Lile, Keith B., Sgt Freidli, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” (first # 06) P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Riggenbach, Paul R., 2Lt Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt N None None B Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt E Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt Vadnais, Floyd F., Sgt R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Sgt Peters, Andrew D., Sgt G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Sgt Stack, James T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt Middleton, Donald M., 1Lt CP Reade, Rex E., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Otterness, William B., T/Sgt Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 1Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt N None B Partlow, Charles Henry, 1Lt E Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 752/mission 752) Group Mission # 752: Group Mission #752; Squadron Mission #483: The squadron supplied three ships in a formation sent out to attack the San Felice track (A-773345). 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft. P-47s flew escort and chased three ME-109s which attempted to intercept the formation. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate with 12 ships holed and 5 men injured. Although two ships landed at Pisa due to damage, none were lost. RESULTS: Excellent coverage in target area reported.
A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” Lou” (previously “Modern Design”) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N None None B Brooks, William F., F/O Puchalla, John M., F/O E Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt Hafferkamp, Edwin H., Cpl R Reagin, Charles T., T/Sgt Seigler, William B., Cpl G Stansberry, Robert C., Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Can Wait” P McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt CP White, Edward A., 2Lt N None B Rosenthal, Richard C., 2Lt E Hagains, John R., Sgt R Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Swinson, Carl R. M., Cpl F None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS War Diary: Newest 1st Lieuts: Barbee, Jackson, Maki, McGann, Ratliff, Treadwell. Lieut. Paulson is promoted to Captain. 22 EM are promoted as combat and ground personnel are given a boost for their efforts. Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Jackson, Roland B., 1Lt, pilot Maki, Allan A., 1Lt, pilot McGann, Edom K., 1Lt, bombardier Paulson, Ronald A., Capt, bombardier Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 1Lt, pilot Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 750/mission 750) Group Mission # 750: Squadron Mission 520 TARGET: Campo South Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 25 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9 Capt. Leonard led the formation. Flash photos show bombs hit in a loose pattern mostly short and over with some crossing bridge and S approach. Crews report direct hits on bridge itself. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate. No fighters. Leonard, Lee V., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” (later name dropped from nose art) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Matzinger, Keith Robinson, Capt, HQ Moore, Howard T., 2Lt 321st BG N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 1Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Nigrelli, Ernest J., S/Sgt Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Alberico, Camillo A., S/Sgt Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” “Barbara” P Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Jackson, Roland B., 2Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Long, Emmett N., 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Falk, Jack G., 1Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt Jeczewski, Joseph M., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt Darnielle, George W., Cpl F None None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-4077 Tail # 43 “Stormy Baby” Weather” (Previously 447th ship “Ann’s Little Boy Val”) P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 2Lt CP Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt Maki, Allan A., 2Lt N None None B Beecher, Everett F., S/Sgt Chandley, Sherley S., 2Lt E Kelly, Thomas J., Sgt Bass, Charles L., Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt Peterson, James R., Jr., Cpl G Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B Fein, William F., 2Lt McNeal, Raymond L., F/O E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt Lohrman, Leo F., Cpl R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Benedict, William P., Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” P Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None B Brownell, Robert L., 1Lt E Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 751/mission 751) Group Mission # 751: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 752/mission 752) Group Mission # 752: Squadron Mission 521 TARGET: San Felice Rail Fill, Italy. DATE: 25 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6 Capt. Smedley led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area. Flak was heavy, intense, accurate. Twelve planes holed, five men injured and two a/c, Lts. Perlman and Barbee landed at Pisa on single engine. No fighters.
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” We Bob Along” (previously “Tiny?”) P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Sykes, Ralph L., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Utz, James W., S/Sgt Freeman, Harold W., Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt G Dubreuil, Roger N., Cpl Feola, Joseph A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting A/C No. 44-30069 Tail # 38 “Verla” Bull” (landed at Pisa on one engine) P Perlman, Jacob L., 1Lt Holt, Noel P., Jr., 1Lt CP Hagen, John F., 2Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Golden, Benny (NMI), 2Lt DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt E Chase, William H., Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt Meade, Harold W., 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” (landed at Pisa on one engine) P Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt McCloud, Ray L., 1Lt N None None B Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt Andrews, James Robert, Sgt E Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Falls, Robert H., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt G Griffin, John A., Sgt Cleland, Donald S., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of seated lady - no name/lettering) (Spare - did not fill in) P Hurley, John R., Capt CP Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt E Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt F None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 42) “No. 42) Went after San Michelle R.R. Bridge. Was supposed to be a milk run. Ran into a large barrage of flak. Knocked out 6 form the formation. Picked up about 30 holes. Landed with flat tire and no flaps or brakes - 4x1000. Capt. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties prevailed throughout the day.
447th BS Mission Summary: 15 planes participated in missions over Campo N. Railroad Bridge and San Felice Rail Fill in northern Italy. All planes returned safely to base.
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 750/mission 750) Group Mission # 750: A/C No. 43-35959 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt N None None B Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Neely, Robert E., Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Cpl Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 P Brice, David W., 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None B Michael, James L., 2Lt E Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt R Lamb, George K., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 751/mission 751) Group Mission # 751:
A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 (Anti- Maria” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Gies, Donald W., 2Lt Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt CP Bethke, Armond H., Jr., F/O Erb, Jack L., Capt N None None B Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt Weppner, Maynard G., F/O E Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt Plough, Marlin J., Cpl R Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt G Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt Levy, Donald (NMI), Cpl F None None Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35956 Tail # 55 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Smith, Frederick H., 2Lt CP Peck, Paul R., 2Lt N None B Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O E Cline, Joel L., Cpl R Lendino, Thomas J., Cpl G Maples, Frank L., Jr., Cpl F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 752/mission 752) Group Mission # 752:
A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Morton, William C. “Mort”, Jr., 1Lt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Heist, Erwin William “Butch”, F/O B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., S/Sgt Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Mindlin, Karl N., Sgt Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt R Maslyar, Michael M., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 P Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None None B Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt Davies, John V., 1Lt E MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt R Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt Marion, William T., Jr., Sgt G Dolezal, Albert (NMI), S/Sgt Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Craddock, Jesse J., 1Lt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Antry, Jack B., 2Lt N None None B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Gough, William V., 2Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Stokes, Robert C., Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Smith, Stephen G., Jr., Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Harvey, John A., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Melting Pot” Doll” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Sznarwokowski, George H., F/O Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Fowler, John I., F/O Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Wilvert, Charles E. “Chap”, Cpl Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Krauss, Frederick J., Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless Fosdick” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt CP Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt G Williams, James H., S/Sgt F None
448th BS War Diary: Second Lieutenant Russell, J.D. was promoted to First Lieutenant today. Russell, John D., 1Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary: Although the weather here on Corsica was cloudy and threatening most of the day, the mission took-off as scheduled this morning. Captain Leonard led the formation with Lieutenant Colonel Young flying with him as flight commander. Over the target the weather was CAVU, with no difficulty being encountered in identifying the target, which was the South Campo rail bridge. Heavy and accurate flak was encountered in the bomb run causing damage to several of the planes. Captain Leonard, Captain Bongiovanni and Lieutenant Cooper received slight wounds, and Sergeant Morefield received a serious leg wound requiring hospitalization. One pattern of bombs walked across the bridge and south approach, and some direct hits were reported seen. No planes were lost as the formation returned at 1435. Young, Earl B., Lt Col, Deputy Commander, 321st BG
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 750/mission 750) Group Mission # 750:
A/C No. 44-28927 Tail # 91 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Leonard, Lee V., Capt Wilson, James M., 1Lt CP Young, Earl B., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt None B Martin, James M., Jr., 1Lt Rutz, Victor H., F/O E Oliver, Walter A., Sgt Carter, Hugh A., Cpl R Morefield, James Carl, T/Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 P Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt CP Butler, Glenn D., 2Lt Campbell, Knox L., F/O N None None B Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Turner, James H., S/Sgt Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Pituck, James J., Cpl G Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt Ward, Paul D., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36112 Tail # 82 (second # A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 82) P Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Russell, Harold H., 2Lt CP Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt Baird, James L., F/O N None None B Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt Goethals, Camiel A., S/Sgt E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Codd, James P., Sgt R Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl Soltys, John J., Cpl G Glass, David H., Cpl Blackard, Hershel L., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt CP Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None None B Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Varga, Frank K., Sgt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt Nugent, Earl W., Cpl R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Sgt Shields, Robert L., Sgt G Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt CP Carr, Robert E., F/O N Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt B Armstrong, Sherman T., Jr., 2Lt E Shaffer, Richard E., Cpl R O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl G Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 751/mission 751) Group Mission # 751:
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin Engine Sadie” P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., Capt Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 1Lt None B Gardner, Philip K., 1Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E White, Frank H., Sgt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Sgt Seward, Richard F., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl 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 Tryon, Ben L., 2Lt Campbell, John E., 2Lt N None None B Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt Higby, Paul K., F/O E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt Nelson, William M., Cpl R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Cook, Don W., 1Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt N None None B Labella, Dante(NMI), T/Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt E Morian, Charles R., Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, S/Sgt Fletcher, William H., Sgt G Fields, James A., Cpl Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt F None None
Sunday, 25 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 752/mission 752) Group Mission # 752: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:00AM. Cloudy AM. Feeling tired but enjoying myself. Did a bit of shopping. Bought a book for Shyrle by Leopold Stein. Bought several watches. Very modern and heavily stocked shopping district. Boys went out and made the bars. Had supper at the Yarden Hotel as the guests of Capt Grady and Bard. Chamber music while eating. Steak dinner. We all adjourned to the Bohemian club for a bit of night life. Drank white wine. Got a bit tight. Retired 1:30AM.” Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Grady, John R., Capt, pilot Shyrle, Irving Schaffer’s future wife
Monday, 26 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 25/26 Feb, A-20s considerably damage marshalling yards at Castelfranco Veneto and Bazzano; medium bombers bomb railroad bridges at Legnago, Ala, Pontetidone, and San Michele all'Adige; fighters and fighter- bombers hit bridges, marshalling yards, rail lines, and transport targets at numerous points including Nervesa della Battaglia, Ora, Bologna, Trento, Vicenza, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, and Avisio, and bomb airfields at Ghedi and Bergamo; XXII Tactical Air Command aircraft also support US Fifth Army forces in the battle area S of Bologna.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Total Group effort today directed toward the San Michele area hitting the Diversion repairs and main bridge – both were clubbed with 1000 pounders but miraculously the Diversion escaped with only a crater to the South approach. ------HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH AIR FORCE APO 650
GENERAL ORDERS ) 26 Feb 1945. : NUMBER 40 ) CITATION OF UNIT
Under the provisions of Circular 333, War Department, 1943, and Circular 89, North African Theater of Operations, 10 July 1944, the 321st Bombardment Group (M) is cited for outstanding performance of duty in action against the enemy in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations on 18 August 1944.
On the third day of the invasion of Southern France, when aerial reconnaissance disclosed that the battleship Strasbourg, the cruiser La Galissonniere, a destroyer and a submarine had been moved to a new location in Toulon Harbor and placed in such a position as to constitute a serious threat to combined Allied operations in the Toulon area, the 321st Bombardment Group (M) was ordered to attack and neutralize the fire power of these heavy naval units at all costs. Despite the fact that under normal circumstances only high-altitude heavy bombardment aircraft are assigned to attack such heavily defended targets, the urgency of the order to remove this formidable threat to ground forces made it imperative that Corsica-based medium altitude precision bombers be assigned to the task. On 18 August 1944, overcoming weather conditions which caused other medium groups to turn back without completing their missions scheduled for the same area, the 321st Bombardment Group’s thirty-six plane formation negotiated the long over-water route by dead-reckoning and accurately turned on the planned axis of attack from an imaginary initial point over the sea. Exhibiting utmost gallantry and determination in the face of extremely intense anti-aircraft fire from eighty-two known heavy guns, surrounding the harbor, which damaged twenty-seven bombers and wounded Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
twelve personnel, the B-25 crew men executed a precision bomb run at the vulnerable altitude of 13,000 feet. With the pilots courageously holding their aircraft on course through this terrific barrage, the bombardiers skillfully dropped a devastating pattern of bombs which sank the battleship, the cruiser, and the submarine; the destroyer having departed prior to the attack. With the threat of the warships’ heavy guns removed, through an accomplishment unprecedented in a single attack by medium bombardment aircraft, Allied forces were able to plan and successfully execute operations in this area without interruption. The extraordinary heroism and proficiency demonstrated throughout the entire hazardous attack and the outstanding flying skill displayed on the return flight when thunderstorms and a low overcast forced the damaged bombers to land at scattered friendly fields, reflected highest credit upon the 321st Bombardment Group and the Military Service of the United States.
BY COMMAND OF MAJOR GENERAL CANNON:
OFFICIAL:
CHARLES T MYERS Brigadier General, USA Chief of Staff
WILLIAM W DICK Colonel, AGD Adjutant General
DISTRIBUTION: “G” Plus: 10 – 321st Bomb Gp 5 – Awards & Dec Sec 3 – TAG, Decoration & Awards Branch, Munitions Bldg, Washington, DC 2 – ACAS, Intelligence, Washington, DC (ATTN: Hist Div) 1 – MTOUSA, Pers Div, AG Sec; AG Files ------
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 753/mission 753) Group Mission # 753: San Michele rail diversion bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 754/mission 754) Group Mission # 754: San Michele Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: The squadron carried out an attack on the San Michele rail diversion bridge, Italy and 97.2 per cent bombing accuracy resulted. Three flying officers and four combat enlisted men were assigned to the squadron today. Three ships went to the bombing range and there were two cross-country flights made.
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 753/mission 753) Group Mission # 753: Group Mission #753; Squadron Mission #484: Lt. Bowling led 9 ships from this squadron, 18 from the group to attack the San Michele rail diversion bridge, Italy. 1000 pound bombs were dropped from 11,500 ft to 12,000 ft. Area cover was provided and no flak was encountered. RESULTS: Good concentration with some direct hits reported.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt CP Badger, Joe G., 2Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt N Mitchell, Robert F., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Hume, Edgar A., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Cruise, James P., S/Sgt R Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt Posillico, Frank A., Cpl G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt Osborn, Jack R., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven (previously “Modern Design”) Can Wait” P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 1Lt Middleton, Donald M., 1Lt CP Doe, Norman H., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt E Bertling, Gerald M., S/Sgt Watts, Joseph T., Jr., T/Sgt R Nuttall, John H., S/Sgt Salch, Raymond F., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jack M., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit House Mouse” P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt CP Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt White, Edward A., 2Lt N None None B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 1Lt Ohm, Merton D., S/Sgt E Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt Hagains, John R., Sgt R Vaseleski, Andrew C., Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Grovenburg, Frank Andrew, Sgt Farmer, Alonzo (NMI), Sgt F None None
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss Lou” Fancy Pants” P Shutters, Paul E., 1Lt Young, William J. “Dusty”, 1Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Henderson, Robert D., 2Lt N None None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt E Gum, Paul V., S/Sgt Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Brunda, John G., Cpl G Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt Stansberry, Robert C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie (first # 06) Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) (Lead spare - did not fill in) P Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt Mogren, Edward G., 1Lt CP Riggenbach, Paul R., 2Lt Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt N None None B Caron, Philip H., 2Lt Jackson, William H., 1Lt E Vadnais, Floyd F., Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Otterness, William B., T/Sgt G Stack, James T., Sgt Slodden, Henry M. “Kip”, S/Sgt F None None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 754/mission 754) Group Mission # 754: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: (26, 27, 28 Feb): 1 15 plane mission is flown the first day, a 13 ship flight the second, regular duties are performed the third.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 753/mission 753) Group Mission # 753: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 754/mission 754) Group Mission # 754: Squadron Mission 522 TARGET: San Michele Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 26 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 15 Capt. Ingram led the formation. Concentration on both approaches of main bridge, possibly including portion of end span. The North bridge was missed, concentration over to NE. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate. No fighters.
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” seated lady - no name/lettering) (previously “Tiny?”) P Ingram, William T., Capt Cressman, Jack E., 1Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Sykes, Ralph L., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Wilking, Robert L., T/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 Girl” P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick H., Jr., 2Lt Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B McGann, Edom K., 1Lt Law, John B., S/Sgt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., T/Sgt Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Wagner, William M., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 (later name dropped from nose art) P Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt Everhart, Herman E., 2Lt CP Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Brownell, Robert L., 1Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O E Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt G Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt Griffin, John A., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Jackson, Roland B., 1Lt N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 1Lt Falk, Jack G., 1Lt E Lamm, Earl D., S/Sgt Utz, James W., S/Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Sgt Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Darnielle, George W., Sgt F None None
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27678 Tail # 40 “Lemmon A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon Lu” Baby” P Hurley, John R., Capt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Alward, Charles W., 2Lt N None None B Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt McNeal, Raymond L., F/O E Freeman, Harold W., Sgt Lohrman, Leo F., Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt Benedict, William P., Sgt G Holdridge, John F., Sgt Hatcher, James T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., 2Lt N None None B Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt Meade, Harold W., Sgt 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 Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Ratliff, James Ernest, Jr., 1Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Anderson, William H., F/O N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt Corra, Andrew J., 2Lt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt Bass, Charles L., Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Peterson, James R., Jr., Cpl G Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt Kleinsmith, Kenneth H., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Arabella” P Maki, Allan A., 1Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt N None B Hensler, Donald O., F/O E Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Sgt R Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Chapin, Correll C., Sgt F None
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 43) “No. 43) San Michelle R.R. Br. - No flak - 4x1000. Lt. Ramsey.” Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: The following corporals promoted to sergeant. Richard S. Brockman, Thomas J. Lendino, Frank L. Maples Jr., John P. Ross, Emanuel L. Santora, Joel L. Cline, Donald Levy, Marlin J. Plough, Charles D. Rowe Jr., Bernard Steinhauser, Charles E. Wilvert. Brockman, Richard E., Sgt, gunner Cline, Joel L., Sgt, gunner Lendino, Thomas J., Sgt, gunner Levy, Donald (NMI), Sgt, gunner Maples, Frank L., Jr., Sgt, gunner Plough, Marlin J., Sgt, gunner Ross, John P., Sgt, gunner Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Sgt, gunner Santora, Emanuel L., Sgt, gunner Steinhauser, Bernard (NMI), Sgt, gunner Wilvert, Charles E. “Chap”, Sgt, gunner
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 753/mission 753) Group Mission # 753: (447th BS did not participate)
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 754/mission 754) Group Mission # 754: 6 of our aircraft participated in a mission against San Michele Rail Bridge in northern Italy. All planes returned safely.
A/C No. 43-27779 Tail # 62 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Hennessey, Ralph E., 1Lt Gates, Edward (NMI), Capt CP Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Stephens, James J., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Balboni, Robert A., 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Mullis, Paul C., Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt N None None B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Lendino, Thomas J., Sgt Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt G MacAuslan, Robert C., Cpl Sims, James W., Sgt F None None
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The Fosdick” Melting Pot” P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt Haage, Frederick W., 2Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None None B Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt Weppner, Maynard G., F/O E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Anderson, Arthur F., Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Schnaars, George D., T/Sgt S/Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Sgt Householder, Joe F., Sgt F None None
448th BS War Diary: Staff Sergeants Baird, Goethals and Langley were promoted to Technical Sergeants today; Sergeants Atherton, DiSalvo, Gutierrez, Martin, Mitchem, Shields, Varga, Biersdorff, Fletcher, Harageones, Mientkiewicz, Powell, Tangren, Ward and Wolfe, B.M. were promoted to Staff Sergeants; Corporals O’Brien and Zimmerman were promoted to Sergeants; Private First Class Dissen, Garmong, Guido, Larsen, Mayer, Escobar, Griffin, C.W., Hansen, Lehti, and Weiss were promoted to Corporals; and Privates Alcala, Crowther, DelGuergio, Dickerson, Gentry, Griffin, P.C., Griffin, W.G., Grindstaff, Grissom, Irvine, Nash, Petty, Schwartz, Uler, Walter, Yarbrough, Roy, and Yarbrough, Edward were promoted to Private First Class. Alcala, Pedro A., PFC, duty soldier Atherton, Robert C., S/Sgt, gunner Baird, James (NMI), Jr., T/Sgt, gunner Biersdorff, Charles J., S/Sgt, gunner Crowther, Leland H., PFC, armament DelGuergio, Jerry S., PFC, duty soldier Dickerson, Oscar T., PFC, engineering DiSalvo, Alfred J., S/Sgt, gunner Dissen, Richard A., Cpl, armament Escobar, Catarino H., Cpl, cook Fletcher, William H., S/Sgt, gunner Garmong, Robert F., Cpl, engineering Gentry, Edgar W., PFC, transportation Goethals, Camiel A., T/Sgt, gunner Griffin William G., PFC, engineering Griffin, Charles W., Cpl, communications Griffin, Pink C., PFC, communications Grindstaff, Clate J., PFC, transportation Grissom, John E., Jr., PFC, engineering Guido, William M., Cpl, transportation Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Hansen, Robert E., Cpl, armament Harageones, George J., S/Sgt, gunner Irvine, Josef F., PFC, supply Langley, Edmund P., Jr., T/Sgt, gunner Larsen, Fred M., Cpl, gunner Lehti, George E., Cpl, armament Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, S/Sgt, gunner Mayer, Alfred M., Cpl, engineering Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Mitchem, Dewey A., S/Sgt, gunner Nash William A., PFC, duty soldier O'Brien, Brendan M., Sgt, gunner Petty, Wade H., PFC, engineering Powell, Neil J., S/Sgt, gunner Schwartz, Harry (NMI), PFC, armament Shields, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Tangren, Donald E., S/Sgt, gunner Uler, Eugene S., PFC, engineering Varga, Frank K., S/Sgt, gunner
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
Walter, Robert I., PFC, supply Ward, Paul D., S/Sgt, gunner Weiss, Arthur A., Cpl, Bomb System Maintenance Wolfe, Bernard M., S/Sgt, gunner Yarbrough, Edward B., PFC, engineering Yarbrough, Roy A., PFC, engineering Zimmerman, Carl F., Sgt, gunner
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 753/mission 753) Group Mission # 753: Nine of the 448th’s planes flew in the first mission today that attacked the rail diversion bridge at San Michele. Lieutenant Lee led the 448th’s planes which flew as the second flight. They took-off in clear weather and found it that way all the way to the target. A good concentration was scored on the target with reports of many direct hits. Bombs also fell on both approaches and tracks north and south of bridge. No enemy opposition was encountered and all the planes returned safely at 1330.
A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Lee, Howard M., 1Lt Wilson, James M., 1Lt CP Mann, James R., F/O Carr, Robert E., F/O N Freund, John F., 1Lt None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E Payne, Robert B., Cpl Nelson, William M., Cpl R Vandenberg, Edward V. “Van”, S/Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Cpl G Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., 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 Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Berman, Samuel (NMI), T/Sgt E Gutierrez, Ralph (NMI), Sgt Weese, Charles F., S/Sgt R Chase, Harry M., Jr., Sgt Sevier, Fred L., S/Sgt G Gage, Robert L., S/Sgt Foote, Lancel H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27668 Tail # 83 A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P Cook, Don W., 1Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Bass, Bernard G., T/Sgt Higby, Paul K., F/O E Morian, Charles R., Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, Sgt R LaBella, Dante (NMI) “GI Joe”, T/Sgt Fletcher, William H., Sgt G Ward, Paul D., Sgt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt F None None
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 A/C No. 43-27706 Tail # 89 “Silver Belle” P Zakopcsan, John S., 2Lt Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt CP Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt N None None B Varga, Frank K., Sgt Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt E Murray, Francis J., Cpl Turner, James H., S/Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., S/Sgt Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt G Glass, David H., Cpl Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) P Russell, John D., 1Lt CP Stow, Charles E., 2Lt N Bartlett, J. E., 1Lt B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt E McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl G Hudson, Willie H., Jr., Sgt F None
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 754/mission 754) Group Mission # 754: On the second mission this morning three of the 448th’s planes participated. They also attacked a rail bridge at San Michele. Some heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered here, however. A good concentration of bombs was scored on both approaches and ends. All the aircraft returned safely at 1350.
A/C No. 43-27791 Tail # 84 A/C No. 43-27648 Tail # 75 “Sweetie” P Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt CP Ashland, Arthur E. “Art”, 2Lt Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt N Stout, Charles S. “Chuck”, 1Lt None B Bottom, James W., 2Lt Hildreth, Elmer L., M/Sgt E Langley, Edmund P., Jr., S/Sgt Codd, James P., S/Sgt R O’Brien, Brendan M., Cpl Shields, Robert L., Sgt G Blackard, Hershel L., Cpl Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl F None None
Monday, 26 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 P Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt CP Williams, Peter G., 1Lt N None B Goethals, Camiel A., T/Sgt E White, Frank H., Sgt R Weeks, Donald E., Cpl G Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:15AM. Showered. Noticed red dry blotches on my shoulders and arms. First developed these in Cairo. Drinking a lot of orange juice and eating fruit. We all went horseback riding this afternoon at Gordon's riding academy. Had a swell time. Rode through the orange groves. Very fast and smart looking horses. Attended the Eden cinema. Saw "Swiss Family Robinson". Poor theater - poor facilities. Brusa and I walked out in the middle of the show. There are many coffee shops about Tel-Aviv. Capt Brady and Bard were over for supper. Everyone was pleased. The boys went out for a few drinks, but yours truly remained at the hotel to write a few letters. Retired early.” Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Grady, John R., Capt, pilot
Tuesday, 27 February 1945
321st Bomb Group Headlines:
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 26/27 Feb, A-20s bomb enemy movement at 14 different places in the Po Valley, marshalling yards at Villafranca di Verona and Isola della Scala, the town of Bazzano, and airfields at Villafranca di Verona and Ghedi; XXII Tactical Air Command fighter-bombers concentrate on railroad cutting in the Brenner area and NE Italy, claiming 36 cuts, and attack rolling stock in the Villach, Austria area; medium bombers destroy a railroad diversion bridge at San Michele all'Adige and cut approaches on the Ala and Lavis bridges and effectively blast the Spilimbergo. and Pagnocco dumps.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Eighteen planes returned to the San Michele Diversion and this time erased the bridge from bank to bank. A rough mission to Lavis Diversion also reported good results but two of our aircraft failed to return and eleven others were holed. A target of opportunity, the Romano bridge was also hit.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 755/mission 755) Group Mission # 755: San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 756/mission 756) Group Mission # 756: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: On today’s mission, this squadron supplied two flak ships which went for gun positions at Lavis, Italy and Lt. DeBoer and crew were listed as missing in action. Jackie, the Red Cross girl, gave out doughnuts and coffee in the area this morning. There was plenty of mail today. An extensive training program was carried out today. It included air and ground gunnery, transition and practice bombing. A new column was born in the S-2 department when Rosenberg, popularly known as “Rosie” to the squadron personnel, started writing a column called “My Day”. It runs along the same lines as the one written by T.J. Byrne except that it deals exclusively with the Russian and Italian fronts while T.J. sticks to the Western Front and the Pacific. Both columns bear a comical caricature of the writer. A call was put out for all softball candidates in the squadron. Spring is definitely in the air. A formation was held for awards ceremonies in the afternoon. Hamburgers were served for supper. DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot Byrne, Thomas J., Sgt, armament Nordlinger, Jacqueline, Miss, American Red Cross (321st BG "Red Cross girl") Rosenberg, Philip O. "Rosie”, Sgt, armament
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 755/mission 755) Group Mission # 755: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 756/mission 756) Group Mission # 756: Group Mission #756; Squadron Mission #485: Two ships from this squadron joined a formation of 239 ships to attack the Lavis rail diversion bridge, Italy. 1000 pound, 500 pound and 100 pound bombs were dropped from 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft. Area cover was provided. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense and accurate. One of the two anti-flak planes from this squadron was reported missing on this raid. Piloted by Lt. DeBoer, the ship’s right engine was seen to catch fire although there was no flak at the time. It was last seen heading down a mountain pass apparently under control. The main formation caught most of the flak and 11 planes were holed with 3 men wounded. One of the ships was badly damaged and was seen heading for Switzerland. RESULTS: The primary was well covered and the anti-flak ships covered the gun positions well. Six ships bombed the target of opportunity but missed.
A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” Bobby” (MACR-12756 - shot down) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Emler, Richard S. “Dick”, 1Lt CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt Reade, Rex E., 2Lt N Cravey, Robert P., 2Lt None B Brooks, William F., F/O Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt E Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Sgt Koski, Paul J., S/Sgt R Reagin, Charles T., Sgt Seigler, William B., Cpl G Swinson, Carl R.M., Sgt Freidli, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Can Wait” (Failed to take off) P Young, William J. “Dusty”, 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., F/O N None B Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt E Perich, Freddie (NMI), Sgt R Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Sgt G Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F None
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12756:
A/C No. 43-36228 Tail # ? “Miss Bobby” (MACR-12756 - shot down) P DeBoer, Jay (NMI), Jr., 2Lt - MIA, evaded enemy with Partisans, RMC CP Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., 2Lt - MIA, POW, killed by SS N Cravey, Robert P., 2Lt - MIA, evaded enemy with Partisans, RMC B Brooks, William F., F/O - MIA, POW, killed by SS E Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, Sgt - MIA, POW, returned to US R Reagin, Charles T., Sgt - MIA, POW, returned to US G Swinson, Carl R.M., Sgt - MIA, evaded enemy with Partisans, RMC F None
Eyewitness Account: Farrell, Robert A. "Baldy", Capt, pilot, 445th BS
445th Bombardment Squadron (M) 321st Bombardment Group (M) Office of the Operations Officer APO 650, US Army, 1 March 1945
1. First Lieutenant Richard S. Emler, 0-1692692, Sergeant William M. Freidli, 12120343, Sergeant Robert D. Knapp, Jr., 42052900, Second Lieutenant Rex E. Reade, 0-784773, all of the 445th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), eyewitnesses to the incident herein referred to, state in substance as follows:
That they were flying in the same element and the right wing position as B-25J aircraft #43-36228 on 27 February 1945; that at about 1157 hours they were on the bomb run of their target which was gun positions located at R(A-473287), south of Lavis, Italy; that they did not see any enemy gunfire; that suddenly they saw the right engine of the subject aircraft burst into flames and leave the formation; that subject aircraft salvoed their bombs almost at the same time the right engine caught fire; that subject aircraft seemed to be partially under control and headed in a westerly direction; that it was last seen at R(A-7929) leaving altitude slowly; that when last seen subject aircraft was at about 12,000 feet; that no parachutes were seen leaving subject aircraft.
2. Major Richard W. Burks, 0-404087, 448th Bombardment Squadron (M), pilot of lead plane of element following missing aircraft’ and Second Lieutenant Merwin W. Wallace, 0-2066413, 446th Bombardment Squadron (M), co-pilot of aircraft on left wing, second element of second flight of another formation, state that they heard call on VHF, 321st Bombardment Group Frequency, that crew members were bailing out.
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
ROBERT A. FARRELL, Captain, Air Corps, Operations Officer. (Attachment to MAC Report, DeBoer, Jay Jr. (O) and crew, B-25J, Aircraft 43-36228, 1 March 1945)
Incl 3. ------
S T A T E M E N T
Sergeant Carl R. M. Swinson, 33749035 Armorer-Gunner on B-25 27 February 1945
On 27 February 1945, myself and my crew were flying with a formation of B-25 Mitchell Bombers, (M), on a combat mission with the intended target being the gun positions at Lavis, Italy. The formation of medium bombers mentioned was the 445th Squadron, 321st Group, 12th Air Force, located at Solenzara, Corsica.
At exactly 12:00 noon, on the above date, my B-25 was hit in the right engine with a direct burst of 88mm flak. To my knowledge, it was the only burst of antiaircraft fire which was fired at our element. The bomb load was salvoed immediately; we were already on the bomb run, and the bomb bay doors were already open. We were at 12,000 feet when the ship was hit. The explosion threw the ship to the right, and the pilot continued on in that westerly direction. We lost altitude gradually, and when at 10,500 feet, the members of the crew bailed out in the following manner:
1. Radio Operator 2. Engineer 3. Navigator 4. Armorer-Gunner 5. Bombardier 6. Co-pilot 7. Pilot
The entire bail-out procedure took no more than 25-30 seconds. The entire crew landed within six (6) miles of each other. To my knowledge at that time, everyone had reached the ground in a safe condition.
The radio operator and engineer landed near a flak position and were taken prisoners. The navigator and myself landed near Sopremonte and were both hidden out by Partisans. The bombardier and co-pilot were taken prisoner by the Civilian Italian Police. They were then turned over to the SS.
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
The pilot bailed out by rolling the ship over, and upon landing in his chute, was taken over by Partisans. He stayed in Italy two weeks, and was then aided by the Partisans in reaching Switzerland.
The navigator and I were then told by the same man that took care of the pilot that some friends of his (the Partisans) had seen the SS troops shoot the bombardier and co- pilot. According to the Partisan, the 2 American Officers had evidently sustained injuries in landing by parachutes, and as they were being marched in front of the SS Troops, one of the American fliers was seen to stumble, and was shot and killed by the SS.
As the other American Officer went to his assistance, he also was shot and killed by the SS. They were then stripped of all their belongings and clothing, thrown into a ditch, and left there. The navigator and I then heard that an Italian Priest had buried them, but no details were given as to the burial site, except that they were buried together. This, according to the best of my knowledge, occurred near the town of Vezzano, Italy, on the road to Trent. The navigator and I remained in Partisan hands until we were liberated by the 10th Mountain Division.
/s/ Carl R. M. Swinson Sgt. A. C., 33749035
Subscribed to before me This Sixth day of August, 1945.
Kenneth H. Cassens 1st Lt. A. C.0-689132
NOTE: The substance of this statement was given to the War Crimes Commission, through the 12th AAF Headquarters. ------
Statements from INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE completed by Sgt Charles T. Reagin:
This is the complete crew list: 2nd Lt. Jay DeBoer, Jr. Returned to States Mrs. Joyce N. DeBoer, (wife) 320 Catawba Ave, Muskegon Michigan 2nd Lt. Lucian C. Crutchfield, Jr. - Missing 1st Lt. Robert D. Cravey - Returned to States Mrs. Ophelia P. Cravey (Mother) 1689 Johnson Road N.E. Atlanta, Georgia F/O William F. Brooks (Missing) Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
Sgt. Robert D. Mitchell - Returned to States Mrs. Edith R. Mitchell (Mother) Oneida, Ill. T/Sgt Charles T. Reagin - Returned to States Sgt Carl R. Swinson - Returned to States Mrs. Marie H. Swinson (Mother) 4315 River Rd. N.W. Washington, D.C.
When you have the details as to the fate of Brooks and Crutchfield, I would appreciate very much your letting me know what really took place. If it is possible, of course. Thank you. Charles T. Reagin ------
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS War Diary: (26, 27, 28 Feb): 1 15 plane mission is flown the first day, a 13 ship flight the second, regular duties are performed the third.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 755/mission 755) Group Mission # 755: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 756/mission 756) Group Mission # 756: Squadron Mission 523 TARGET: Lavis Railroad Diversion Bridge, Italy DATE: 27 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 13 Capt. Lyons led the formation. Eighteen ships on primary scored excellent pattern. After unsatisfactory run on primary, six ships bombed target of opportunity. Here bombs started at W but main impact was over to SW. Good coverage by anti-flak planes. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, accurate. Two planes were lost. Eleven planes were holed and three men wounded. Lyons, John B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
A/C No. 44-28926 Tail # 35 “Merrily A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon We Bob Along” Baby” P Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt CP Sherline, David M., 2Lt Neel, John Dodd, 2Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 2Lt None B Paulson, Ronald A., Capt Beecher, Everett F., S/Sgt E Alexander, Preston S., T/Sgt Kelly, Thomas J., S/Sgt R Luitjens, Harvey J., T/Sgt Demmitt, Henry H., S/Sgt G Dubreuil, Roger N., Sgt Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” Girl” (later name dropped from nose art) P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N None None B McGann, Edom K., 1Lt Brownell, Robert L., 1Lt E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., 1Lt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt CP Tighe, Leo J., 2Lt Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt Fodor, Joseph M., 2Lt E Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt R Jeczewski, Joseph M., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt G Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” Sue Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Kimble, Arnold P., 1Lt McCloud, Ray L., 1Lt CP Sykes, Ralph L., 2Lt Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 1Lt N Buchanan, Talmadge A., Jr., 2Lt None B McCullough, John E., Jr., 2Lt Andrews, James Robert, Sgt E Lamm, Earl D., S/Sgt Edwards, David R., T/Sgt R Wimert, Donald A., Sgt Benedict, William P., Sgt G Nehls, Clayton R., S/Sgt Cleland, Donald S., 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 Sloan, Thomas M., 1Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O Burklund, Donald K., 2Lt N None None B Gahm, Edward L., 2Lt DeSorbo, John S., S/Sgt E Krider, Emanuel (NMI), Sgt Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt R Kirwan, Harold J., Sgt Peterson, James R., Jr., Cpl G Cammack, Herbert R., Sgt Meade, Harold W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” Arabella” (previously “Tiny?”) P Jackson, Ronald B., 1Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt CP Long, Emmett N., 2Lt Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N None None B Falk, Jack G., 1Lt Chandley, Sherley S., 2Lt E Reda, John J., Sgt Boylan, James P., Sgt R Sanders, Jesse A., Jr., Cpl Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt G Darnielle, George W., Sgt Jakielek, Ernest F., Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27490 Tail # 45 “Mrs. C” (Spare - filled in as wingman with 448th) P Carlson, Lowell A., 1Lt CP Rozar, Richard L., 2Lt N None B Fein, William F., 2Lt E Lind, Kenneth H., Sgt R Swann, Homer W., Sgt G Anderson, Chester S., Sgt F None
446th BS: War Diary of: Luitjens, Harvey J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner: (mission 44) “No. 44) Hit Lavis R.R. Br. Hardly any flak. Some ships couldn’t make it back. 4x1000. Capt. Smedley.” Smedley, Robert Redmond, Capt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: Usual camp duties prevailed throughout the day. However tonight the enlisted men are having a party in their club. The group band will be on hand to furnish music. Staff Officers have been invited and a good time is expected by all.
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 755/mission 755) Group Mission # 755: 19 planes took part in a mission against San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge in northern Italy. This is the largest number of planes this squadron has put up for some time. All returned safely. Bombing accuracy for the day was 97.2 %. 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 Twieg, Donald P., 2Lt Greene, Homer L., Jr., F/O N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O Lankester, Hugh H. “Lank”, 1Lt E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt Flanigan, Bernard A., S/Sgt R Finnegan, Paul W., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., T/Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt Young, Robert E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Erb, Jack L., Capt Bethke, Armond H., Jr., F/O N None None B Weppner, Maynard G., F/O Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Plough, Marlin J., Sgt Tyler, Freeman P., T/Sgt R Ross, John P., Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt G Levy, Donald (NMI), Sgt Hunsaker, Frank W., Jr., Sgt F None None Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 Fosdick” P Loewus, Frederick E. “Fred”, 1Lt Cammack, Elmore (NMI), 1Lt CP Stephens, James J., 2Lt Buechner, Helmut K., 1Lt N None None B Jones, Dewey D., Jr., S/Sgt Tougaw, Lewis W., F/O E Hardage, Charles W., Sgt MacMullen, Clarence C., Sgt R Stroupe, Robert A., Sgt Thomas, Hazen A., Sgt G Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, Kenneth C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-27492 Tail # 57 “Reddie Teddie” P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt N None None B Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt S/Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35959 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Maria” P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Hutson, Ernest G. “Hod”, 1Lt CP Antry, Jack B., 2Lt Marchant, Wendell E., Capt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt Schmoke, Vernon L., 1Lt E Neely, Robert E., Sgt Lussier, Ernest R., S/Sgt R Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Sgt Krauss, Frederick J., Cpl G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt Staub, Edward C., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 A/C No. 43-4079 Tail # 51 “Little David” P Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt Peck, Paul R., 2Lt CP Sznarwokowski, George H., F/O Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., F/O Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt E Beske, Irwin A., Cpl Cline, Joel L., Sgt R Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt G West, Edgar M., Sgt Maples, Frank L., Jr., Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-36108 Tail # 70 A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 P Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt King, Robert C., Jr., 2Lt CP Jameson, Vernon E., 2Lt Highsmith, John R., 2Lt N None None B Michael, James L., 2Lt Davies, John V., 1Lt E Price, Charles J., Sgt Netzel, Carl F., S/Sgt R Newton, James R., Sgt Marion, William T., Jr., Sgt G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Ochs, Dan (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35956 Tail # 55 A/C No. 43-27473 Tail # 73 “Paper Doll” P Appenzeller, Richard D., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt Brown, Carl B. “Buster”, F/O N None Miller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Mullis, Paul C., Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Lendino, Thomas J., S/Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G MacAuslan, Robert C., Cpl Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 Melting Pot” P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Brice, David W., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Fowler, John I., F/O Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt E Rinard, Robert P., Sgt Longnecker, Ernest J., Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt Lamb, George K., Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Householder, Joe F., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-35958 Tail # ? (Lead spare) P Barrett, Herbert E., 2Lt CP Briggs, Richard G. “Dick”, 2Lt N None B Gough, William V., 2Lt E Santora, Emanuel L., Sgt R Jones, LeRoy (NMI), Sgt G Goldman, Marvin S., S/Sgt F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 756/mission 756) Group Mission # 756: (447th BS did not participate)
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Schweitzer, Sutton and Wyman, Sergeant Langley and Private Fegley returned form the Capri rest camp, and Lieutenants Fleming and Beckman, F/O Carr and Sergeants Kocsis and Huha left this morning for Capri. This afternoon on the parade grounds in an impressive ceremony, General Knapp presented the following awards to men of the Squadron: Bronze Star: Sergeants Lawless, Edmonson and Lane; Air Medal: Lieutenants Lee, Williams, Bottom, Bruhn, Spaur, Styers, Valenti, Flight Officer Rutz, Sergeants Harageones, Fletcher, Mientkiewicz, Shields, Hunter, Oliver and Parham; First Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal: Lieutenants Wilson, Russell, J.D., and Russell, H.H., and Sergeant Head; Purple Heart: Captain Bongiovanni, Lieutenants Autrey, Barile, Lesser, Sheppard, Styers and Sergeants Hildreth and Pealer. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Beckman, Harold Christoph, 2Lt, pilot Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), Capt, navigator Bottom, James W., 2Lt, bombardier Bruhn, Charles A., 2Lt, pilot Carr, Robert E., F/O, pilot Edmonson, Loyal C., Sgt, engineering Fegley, Russell D., Pvt, engineering Fleming, George B., 1Lt, pilot Fletcher, William H., S/Sgt, gunner Harageones, George J., S/Sgt, gunner Head, Guthrie H., Sgt, gunner Hildreth, Elmer L., Sgt, gunner Huha, George (NMI), Sgt, communications Hunter, Dewey G., Sgt, gunner Knapp, Robert Duane, Brigadier General, pilot, 57th BW Commander Kocsis, Michael (NMI) “Mike”, Jr., Sgt, cook Lane, Howard W., Sgt, transportation Langley, Edmund P., Jr., T/Sgt, gunner Lawless, Frank E., T/Sgt, transportation Lee, Howard M., 1Lt, pilot Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt, bombardier Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner Oliver, Walter A., Sgt, gunner Parham, Ralph E., Sgt, gunner Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt, gunner Russell, Harold H., 2Lt, pilot Russell, John D., 1Lt, pilot Rutz, Victor H., F/O, bombardier Schweitzer, Robert E., 2Lt, pilot Sheppard, John W., 2Lt, bombardier Shields, Robert L., S/Sgt, gunner Spaur, Melvin J., 2Lt, pilot Styers, Charles W., 2Lt, pilot Sutton, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt, pilot Williams, Peter G., 1Lt, pilot Wilson, James M., 1Lt, pilot Wyman, 1Lt, S-2, I & E Officer
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 755/mission 755) Group Mission # 755: (448th BS did not participate)
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 756/mission 756) Group Mission # 756: The 448th flew one mission today with the Group to attack the rail bridge at Lavis. Captain Lyons led the 448th’s thirteen (13) planes on this mission which comprised the lead flight. Taking off in clear weather, some light scattered clouds were encountered over the Po Valley, but visibility remained good. Despite the heavy, intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire encountered, an excellent concentration was scored with patterns starting at the north dyke and walking across the bridge. Several of the planes received damage and one man, Sergeant Justice, received slight wounds. He was not hospitalized. One plane was lost when it received a hit in one engine, knocking it out. It was last seen heading northwest apparently under control after being damaged over the target but losing altitude. The crew members were First Lieutenant Smith, Second Lieutenant Styers and Friedman, F/O Baird, and Sergeants Wright, Mardeuse and Edwards.
A/C No. 43-28081 Tail # 81 A/C No. 44-28721 Tail # 90 “Shug” P Lyons, John B., Capt Wilson, James M., 1Lt CP Valenti, Jack J., 2Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt N Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt None B Zinkand, Willard T., Capt Sheppard, John W., 2Lt E Nelson, William M., Cpl White, Frank H., Sgt R Sadofsky, John (NMI), Sgt Zimmerman, Carl F., Sgt G Holloway, Garland (NMI), S/Sgt Enderle, Melvin J., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27538 Tail # 87 “Down A/C No. 43-27530 Tail # 79 “Twin But Not Out” (first # 87) Engine Sadie” P Gladwill, James G., 1Lt Copes, Wilson R., 1Lt CP Bechtle, Robert M., 2Lt Sculley, Thomas S., 2Lt N None None B Arnold, Harold L., 2Lt Cameron, Alexander G., 2Lt E Head, Guthrie H., S/Sgt Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), Sgt R Varga, Frank K., S/Sgt Sevier, Fred L., S/Sgt G Ederer, Robert J., S/Sgt Sharp, Samuel I., Jr., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27911 Tail # 93 A/C No. 43-36124 Tail # ? P Stromberg, Carl K., 1Lt Rubin, Julius W., 1Lt CP Stanwood, Ralph E., F/O Schwartz, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt N None None B Lesser, Robert (NMI) “Bob”, 2Lt Ferrell, Bruce M., S/Sgt E Turner, James H., S/Sgt Parham, Ralph E., Sgt R Rockwell, Stewart R. “Rockwell”, T/Sgt Pituck, James J., Cpl G Pealer, Woodward D., S/Sgt Abiecunas, Joseph P. “Abby”, S/Sgt F None None
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) A/C No. 43-27726 Tail # 80 (MIA - flak damage) P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt CP Baird, James L., F/O Mann, James R., F/O N Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt None B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt Langley, Edmund P., Jr., T/Sgt E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt Harageones, George J., S/Sgt R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt Hulse, Donald W., T/Sgt G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt Moleski, Benny M. “Ben”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27720 Tail # 86 A/C No. 43-27528 Tail # 85 P West, Alden A. “Bud”, 1Lt Churchill, Duane W., 1Lt CP Nolkemper, Harold J., F/O Herrin, John C., 2Lt N None None B Bottom, James W., 2Lt Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt E Mitchem, Dewey A., S/Sgt Martin, Lewis E. “Lew”, S/Sgt R Hunter, Dewey G., S/Sgt Fletcher, William H., S/Sgt G Biersdorff, Charles J., S/Sgt Fields, James A., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27523 Tail # 95 (Anti- A/C No. 44-28940 Tail # 92 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship - 2nd element with Flak/Incendiary Ship - 2nd element with 445th BS) 445th BS) P Burks, Richard W., Maj Wuest, Robert F., 2Lt CP Butler, Glenn D., 2Lt Campbell, John E., 2LT N None None B Brink, Richard E., 1Lt Shaffer, Richard E., Cpl E Nugent, Earl W., Cpl McTaggart, Leonard A., Sgt R Weeks, Donald E., Cpl Rayfield, Bernard G., Cpl G Dittman, Paul F., Jr., Cpl Sidoti, Nick S., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-36112 Tail # 82 (second # 82) (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship - 2nd element with 445th BS) P Russell, Harold H., 2Lt CP Chakmakian, George E., F/O N None B Higby, Paul K., F/O E Codd, James P., Sgt R Soltys, John J., Cpl G Blackard, Hershel L., Cpl F None
Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 12126:
A/C No. 43-4076 Tail # 88 (first # 88) (MACR-12708 - MIA - flak damage) P Smith, Milford A., 1Lt - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned CP Baird, James L., F/O - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned N Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned B Styers, Charles W., 2Lt - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned E Wright, Melvin M., S/Sgt - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned R Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned G Edwards, Jesse R., S/Sgt - MIA, Interned in Switzerland, returned F None
Eyewitness Account: Brown, Royden (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
448th Bombardment Squadron (M) AAF 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF APO 650, US Army, 28 February 1945
On the mission of 27 February, 1945 to Lavis Rail Diversion, Italy, I flew on Lieutenant Smith’s left wing. Aircraft # 43-4076 was lost to heavy intense and accurate flak. Approximately fifteen (15) seconds before bomb release point, Lieutenant Smith’s aircraft was struck by flak, and his right engine started to throw smoke. Lt. Smith continued on the bomb run and dropped his bombs with the rest of the formation.
On the breakaway Lt. Smith broke to the right and down. I estimate that he lost about 1000 to 1500 feet. The plane leveled off and headed toward Switzerland.
I followed Lt. Smith for a short time, then he contacted me by radio and said “Feathering my right engine and am going to Switzerland. You had better return to the formation, Brown.”
From outward appearance of aircraft, it appeared that only the right engine was hit. I believe Lt. Smith had sufficient altitude to reach Switzerland safely.
ROYDEN BROWN, 1st Lt., A. C., Pilot. (Attachment to MAC Report, Smith, Milford A. (O) and crew, dated 2-28-45)
Incl 3. ------Tuesday, 27 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Awoke 9:00AM. Resting most of the day and relaxing. Being Purim, everyone is celebrating and the children are masquerading as we do during Halloween. Brusa and I attended RAF band concert at the Services Club at the waterfront. The waterfront is where all the night clubs are located and has a good reputation. Band was excellent and played all American popular dance tunes. Brusa and I sat up and talked until 2:00AM.” Brusa, Robert P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Wednesday, 28 February 1945
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 27/28 Feb, A-20s attack a few marshalling yards, bridges, rail lines, and general movement but because of bad weather are recalled by midnight; XII Tactical Air Command fighter-bombers continue to pound communications and other targets, including Ghedi and Vicenza Airfields, ammunition dumps near Codroipo and W of Villafranca di Verona, and shell loading plant SW of Piacenza; medium bombers bomb bridges at Ala, Santa Margherita d'Adige, San Michele all'Adige, Ponte di Piave, and Pordenone, and a railway embankment at Salorno.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The last raids of the month produced fair results – a seventy percent concentration covering the Ala Rail bridge but the San Margherita bridges were missed.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 757/mission 757) Group Mission # 757: Ala Railroad Bridge, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 758/mission 758) Group Mission # 758: San Margherita North and South Railroad Bridges, Italy. (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 759/mission 759) Group Mission # 759: Weather Reconnaissance (Group mission report not available at this time) ------
445th BS War Diary: The squadron helped attack the San Margherita north and south bridges, Italy with 50 per cent bombing accuracy resulting. Lt. Locke, new S-2 officer, gave an escape lecture to some of the newly-arrived combat men. Today was payday for all squadron personnel. In the afternoon, members of the motor pool gave the squadron area a good oiling to help settle the thick dust which permeates the air. In the evening, the movie “And Now Tomorrow” with Loretta Young and Alan Ladd was enjoyed by all who saw it. It was a tender love story and what G.I., lonely from many months of grueling overseas duty, doesn’t enjoy a good love story. Locke, Jacob (NMI) "Jack", 2Lt, S-2 Officer
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 757/mission 757) Group Mission # 757: (445th BS did not participate)
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 758/mission 758) Group Mission # 758: Group Mission #758; Squadron Mission #486: Lt. Rigler led a formation of 24 planes – 14 from the 445th – in an attack on the San Margherita north and south railroad bridges, Italy. 1000 pound bombs and 36 leaflet bundles were dropped from 11,500 ft to 12,500 ft. There were some anti-flak ships and an escort. Two anti-flak ships were holed. Flak – first burst was accurate but then it ceased and when it started on the breakaway, it was scant to moderate and inaccurate RESULTS: Smoke pots ineffective. At north bridge – pattern walked through north approach and possibly the bridge. At south bridge – south approach cut with direct hits reported. Anti-flak ships and dive-bombers were very effective.
A/C No. 43-27899 Tail # 08 “Flo” A/C No. 43-27748 Tail # 02 “Mama!” P Rigler, Edward J., 1Lt McFatter, Joe H., 1Lt CP Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, Capt, Badger, Joe G., 2Lt Commander N Napple, Francis L., Capt None B Palmer, Richard W., 1Lt Epstein, Philip (NMI), 2Lt E Chambers, Jimmie (NMI), T/Sgt McCormack, Samuel C., S/Sgt R Johnson, John E., T/Sgt Russo, Paul A., Sgt G Stanley, Harold Gene “Gene”, S/Sgt Hickman, Jefferson M. “Jeff”, S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4008 Tail # ? “Spirit of St A/C No. 43-27545 Tail # 06 “Maggie” Louis” (first # 06) P Curry, Arthur L. “Art”, 1Lt Dentoni, Louis M., 1Lt CP Takacs, Rudolph J., 2Lt Doris, Robert E., 2Lt N None None B Partlow, Charles Henry,1Lt Ohm, Morton D., S/Sgt E Hunsberger, William R., S/Sgt Nelson, Jacob M., Sgt R Engleman, Bud (NMI), T/Sgt Vaseleski, Andrew C., Cpl G Edwards, Jack M., S/Sgt Teague, Philip B., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27572 Tail # 12 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27502 Tail # 10 “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes” (previously “What’s Cookin’?”) P Lewis, Max E., 1Lt Cox, Harold L., 1Lt CP Divine, Donald D., 2Lt Jones, Guilford (NMI), Jr., 1Lt N None None B Dickens, Noel F., 2Lt Chauncey, Martin E. “Marty”, T/Sgt E Vadnais, Floyd F., Sgt Perich, Freddie (NMI), Sgt R Peters, Andrew D., Sgt Krober, Raymond D., Jr., S/Sgt G Stack, James T., Sgt Freidli, William M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27742 Tail # 01 “Winnie A/C No. 44-28928 Tail # 03 “Heaven Mae” (previously “Vicious Vera”) Can Wait” (Returned early - did not complete mission) P Shutters, Paul E., 2Lt Rung, Raymond F. “Red”, Jr., 1Lt CP Gill, Thomas E., 2Lt Lawrence, Edward C., 2Lt N Brown, Hilton H., 1Lt None B Murphy, John P., 2Lt Hume, Edgar A., 2Lt E Carruthers, John (NMI), II, T/Sgt Hagains, John R., Sgt R Otterness, William B., T/Sgt Heckman, Kenneth W., Sgt G Bierly, Glenn E., S/Sgt Hieronimus, Philip J., Cpl F None None A/C No. 43-27741Tail # 14 “Val” A/C No. 43-27769 Tail # 19 “Miss (previously “Modern Design”) Fancy Pants” P Bowling, Dan Parker, 1Lt Miron, Leno L., 1Lt CP Galny, Gerhard Henry “Hank”, Jr., 2Lt Crampton, Donald E., F/O N Joyce, John F., Jr., 1Lt None B Silnutzer, Joseph A., 1Lt Puchalla, John M., F/O E Taylor, Marion R., S/Sgt Krauk, Edward J., S/Sgt R Eberhardt, Charles D., Sgt Alexaki, Nicholas (NMI), Sgt G Clayton, Ross W., S/Sgt Haynes, Irving L., Sgt F None None A/C No. 44-28948 Tail # 09 “Miss A/C No. 43-27733 Tail # 00 “Porky’s Belle Fontaine” Baby” P Young, William J. “Dusty”, 1Lt McMahon, Bernard J. “Mac”, Jr., 2Lt CP Henderson, Robert D., 2Lt Carlson, Floyd A., F/O N None None B Cubley, Harold B., T/Sgt Knapp, Robert Duane, Jr., Sgt E Vargas, Cleofas M., Sgt Sycylo, Theodore W., S/Sgt R Brunda, John G., Cpl Salch, Raymond F., T/Sgt G Stansberry, Robert C., Sgt Kabrich, Harry Lee, S/Sgt F Naughton, John J., Jr., Sgt None
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27698 Tail # 13 “Peggy A/C No. 43-27716 Tail # 17 “Shit Lou” House Mouse” P Knauss, Roger Reid “Reid”, 2Lt O’Neill, William H., Jr., 2Lt CP Zieman, Earl E., 2Lt Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt N None None B Weiner, Irving B., 1Lt Marks, Donald H., F/O E Kuykendall, Ben (NMI), Sgt Miller, Morris M., S/Sgt R Lowrey, James S., S/Sgt Weingartner, William E., Cpl G Lile, Keith B., Sgt Smith, Francis L. “Smitty” , S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27917 Tail # 20 P Stolberg, Frederick R., 2Lt CP Mutchler, Charles W., 2Lt N None B Davis, Morton A., S/Sgt E Hafferkamp, Edwin H., Cpl R Ott, James V., S/Sgt G Moorehead, Lewis E., S/Sgt F None
445th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 759/mission 759) Group Mission # 759: (445th BS did not participate)
446th BS War Diary: (26, 27, 28 Feb): 1 15 plane mission is flown the first day, a 13 ship flight the second, regular duties are performed the third.
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 757/mission 757) Group Mission # 757: Squadron Mission 524 TARGET: Ala Railroad Bridge, Italy. DATE: 28 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 15 Lt. Crisp led the formation. One concentration of bombs crossed tracks 200 yds N of bridge and the other was on the center and S approach of bridge. Flak was scant, heavy, moderate, fairly accurate. Five planes holed. No fighters.
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35967 Tail # 48 A/C No. 43-4021 Tail # 31 “The Little Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (first # 31) P Crisp, Glenn S., Jr., 1Lt Crinnion, Edward V., 1Lt CP Burklund, Donald K., 2Lt Tighe, Leo J., 1Lt N Clark, Samuel E., Jr., 1Lt None B Starczewski, Phillip R., 1Lt Fox, David (NMI), 2Lt E Alexander, Preston S., T/Sgt Pelusi, Richard D., Sgt R Cubbage, Robert (NMI), T/Sgt Moncure, James D., Jr., Sgt G Dubreuil, Roger N., Sgt Broderick, Emmett P., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-4020 Tail # 26 “Bourbon A/C No. 43-27745 Tail # 47 Baby” P Chandler, Warren W., 1Lt Manolis, Ronald J., 1Lt CP Brock, Thomas E., F/O Wallace, Merwin W., 2Lt N None None B Hensler, Donald O., F/O Freck, Byron P., Sgt E Kelly, Thomas J., S/Sgt Karuzas, Alexander W., S/Sgt R Dobrow, Edgar J., Sgt Nichols, Henry J., III, Sgt G Beavers, Marqus F., S/Sgt Fitzgerald, George L., Sgt F Threaulson, R., Maj (observer) None A/C No. 43-27497 Tail # 29 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27477 Tail # 32 “Boots” P Holt, Noel P., Jr., 1Lt Heaberlin, Paul L., 1Lt CP Moore, Howard T., 2Lt Treadwell, Joseph (NMI), 1Lt N None None B DeSorbo, John S., T/Sgt Pouse, Alford H., Jr., 2Lt E Dalpos, Joseph N., S/Sgt Reda, John J., Sgt R Autore, Nicholas A., Cpl Sanders, Jesse A., Jr., Cpl G Meade, Harold W., Sgt Hatcher, James T., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27480 Tail # 44 “Yankee A/C No. 43-4097 Tail # 28 “Darlene” Girl” (previously “Tiny?”) P Ramsay, Lamar E., 1Lt Bogan, Floyd W., 2Lt CP Weihe, Frederick A., Jr., 2Lt Bachman, William C., Jr., 2Lt N O’Connor, Richard W., 2Lt None B Fein, William F., 2Lt McNeal, Raymond L., F/O E Reinartsen, Charles R., Jr., Sgt Lohrman, Leo F., Sgt R Martin, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt, Flasher, Henry F., Sgt G Rubin, Herbert L., S/Sgt Wagner, William M., Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4074 Tail # 27 (picture of A/C No. 43-27699 Tail # 33 “Jessie” seated lady - no name/lettering) (later name dropped from nose art) P Ingram, William T., Capt Hahn, Melvin G., 1Lt CP Welsh, Cecil E. “Red”, Jr., 2Lt Dunn, Albert W., 2Lt N Codd, Russell G., 2Lt None B Leith, William V., 1Lt Brownell, Robert L., 1Lt E Utz, James W., S/Sgt Hemmert, Harold E., S/Sgt R McEuen, Richard W., Sgt Feola, Joseph A., Sgt G Falls, Robert H., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27501 Tail # 39 “Sweet Sue A/C No. 43-27503 Tail # 46 “Miss Kathy Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In Arabella” 45 “Kathy Jeanne” dropped) P Jackson, Roland B., 1Lt Long, Emmett N., 2Lt CP Wilcox, Ralph E., 2Lt Sherline, David M., 2Lt N None None B Falk, Jack G., 1Lt Law, John B., S/Sgt E Henry, Clark H., S/Sgt Scheetz, Elvin N., Sgt R Johnson, Carl W., S/Sgt Holdridge, John F., Sgt G Darnielle, George W., Sgt Griffin, John A., 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 Barbee, Harvey C., Jr., 1Lt Atkins, Richard A., Jr., 2Lt CP French, Wendell L., 2Lt Smith, Clarence J. H., 2Lt N None None B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Murch, George M., Jr., S/Sgt E Edwards, David R., T/Sgt Taylor, Tullis (NMI), Sgt R Wilkins, Keith Albert, Sgt Ransom, Gerald H., S/Sgt G Cleland, Donald S., Cpl Chapin, Correll C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27660 Tail # 30 “Shooting Bull” P McCloud, Richard E., 2Lt CP Hagen, John F., 2Lt N None B Andrews, James Robert, Sgt E Chase, William H., Sgt R Ross, Harry K., S/Sgt G Dickey, Jack F., Jr., S/Sgt F None
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 758/mission 758) Group Mission # 758: (446th BS did not participate)
446th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 759/mission 759) Group Mission # 759: Squadron Mission 525 TARGET: Weather Reconnaissance. DATE: 28 Feb.1945 Type of Bombs: - - - 446th Planes: 1 Capt. 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., Capt CP Callaway, Charles R., F/O N Epstein, Joseph H., 1Lt B None E Cornelius, Wilbur G., T/Sgt R Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt G Haxby, William H., Jr., S/Sgt F Mesnard, James S., 2Lt, HQ 321st BG (observer)
447th BS War Diary: Staff Sergeant William Hamel assigned and joined from Hq. 19th Replacement Bn. 26 February 1945, Par 3, SO 56 Hq. 19th Repl. Bn. Hamel, William (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
447th BS Mission Summary: 12 planes participated in a raid on Ala Rail Bridge and San Margherita North and South Bridge in northern Italy. All planes returned safely.
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 757/mission 757) Group Mission # 757:
A/C No. 43-4040 Tail # 56 “Fearless A/C No. 43-27643 Tail # 60 Fosdick” P Autry, Aaron E., 1Lt Morrison, George R., Jr., 1Lt CP Britt, Robert O., 2Lt Tarquinio, Albert C., 2Lt N None Hiller, Frederick J., 1Lt B Weppner, Maynard G., F/O Davies, John V., 1Lt E Plough, Marlin J., Sgt Dulaney, Earl W., S/Sgt R Ross, John P., Sgt Smith, John T., Sgt G Levy, Donald (NMI), Sgt Klimkowicz, Zigmond (NMI), S/Sgt F None None
Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-36110 Tail # 59 “Big Jamoke” P Haage, Frederick W., 2Lt CP Steffan, Melvin G., 2Lt N None B Cromley, Glenn J., F/O E Daniels, Carl (NMI), S/Sgt R Judy, Harry H., Jr., Sgt G Gorden, Robert L., S/Sgt F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 758/mission 758) Group Mission # 758:
A/C No. 43-36059 Tail # 67 A/C No. 43-27751 Tail # 50 “MMR” (Meet Mrs. Runyon) P Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 1Lt Yerger, John W., 1Lt CP Brown, Carl B. “Buster, F/O Graze, Russell R. “Russ”, F/O N None Caflisch, Leonard P. “Lenny”, Jr., 2Lt B Michael, James L., 2Lt Radel, Henry D., 2Lt E Price, Charles J., Sgt Huntley, Bruce H., S/Sgt R Newton, James R., Sgt Stocker, Harvey (NMI), Sgt G Jones, Robert A., Sgt Cunningham, Paul W., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27636 Tail # 74 A/C No. 43-36106 Tail # 63 (Lead spare) P Brice, David W., 1Lt Amundson, Donald A., 1Lt CP Calabrese, Frank (NMI), 2Lt Sznarwokowski, George H., F/O N None None B Hixon, Robert C., 1Lt Perl, Richard H., S/Sgt E Cline, Joel L., Sgt Stokes, Robert C., S/Sgt R Lamb, George K., Sgt Meiborg, Walter F., Sgt G Hawthorne, Charles E., Sgt West, Edgar M., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27793 Tail # 64 “The A/C No. 43-27498 Tail # 71 “Ave Melting Pot” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Maria” (Anti-Flak/Incendiary Ship) Ship) P Breckenridge, Louis C., 1Lt Satterwhite, Henry C., 1Lt CP Bryson, Roy V., Jr., 2Lt Duty, Wallace I., 1Lt N None Prilliman, Floyd W., 2Lt B Fowler, John I., F/O Fach, Albert W., 2Lt E Rinard, Robert P., Sgt Pennington, Luther A., S/Sgt R Teutsch, Stanley E., Sgt Cassidy, Raymond S., Jr., Sgt G Loux, Robert E., Sgt Sims, James W., Sgt F None None Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
A/C No. 43-35959 Tail # 67 (Anti- A/C No. 43-27785 Tail # 58 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Buckley, Paul I., 1Lt Gies, Donald W., 2Lt CP Janssen, Vernon E., 2Lt Elliott, Thomas P., 2Lt N None None B Barfield, Jack D., 1Lt Stroupe, Burton Elwood “Woody”, 2Lt E Neely, Robert E., Sgt Keenan, Harry A., S/Sgt R Rowe, Charles D., Jr., Sgt Ruiz, Emigdio (NMI), Sgt G Goethe, Emil C., Jr., S/Sgt MacAuslan, Robert C., Sgt F None None A/C No. 43-27782 Tail # 72 (Anti- Flak/Incendiary Ship) P Fairchild, George S., 1Lt CP Rose, Norman I., 2Lt N None B Blankemeyer, Frank J., 2Lt E Dubbs, Andrew C., S/Sgt R Phares, Harold (NMI) “Harry”, Jr., S/Sgt G Merlino, Camille J., Sgt F None
447th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 759/mission 759) Group Mission # 759: (447th BS did not participate)
448th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for the Squadron. Captain Sargent was assigned to the Squadron today. He will replace Captain Lichtward as S-2 officer who is going back to the United States in the near future. Lieutenant Moose, assistant S-2 officer was transferred to the 446th Squadron this morning. Corporals Nugent and Schaeffer were transferred to the 340th Bomb Group. Lieutenants Carroll, Host and William Ward, and Corporals Mann and Rainey were assigned to the Squadron this afternoon. Lieutenant Stevens was assigned also as Gunnery Officer. Thus ended the month of February in a quiet way and a beautiful day. Carroll, R. L. (i.o) 1Lt, pilot Host, H. G., 2Lt, pilot Lichtward, Frederick W., Capt, intelligence Mann, S. D., Cpl, gunner, bombardier Moose, Roy C., 2Lt, intelligence Nugent, Earl W., Cpl, gunner Rainey, L. L., Cpl, engineer-gunner Sargent, Alwin H., Capt, intelligence Schaeffer, John H., Cpl, armament Stevens, S. R. 1Lt, Gunnery Officer Ward, William C., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 757/mission 757) Group Mission # 757: (448th BS did not participate) Wednesday, 28 February 1945 (continued)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 758/mission 758) Group Mission # 758: (448th BS did not participate)
448th BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 759/mission 759) Group Mission # 759: (448th BS did not participate)
FEBRUARY 28, 1945 448th BS: War Diary of: Schaffer, Irving J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner: “Markiewicz awoke me at 7:30AM. We are leaving for Alexandria today. Heavy rain. Paid my bill which came to 9 1/2 pounds ($36.00). Had great difficulty in starting the ship. Finally took off at 12:45PM. Landed Cairo, gassed the ship and purchased a few gifts at the PX. Landed Alexandria 5:50PM. Staying at American Red Cross club #4. Formerly home of a very wealthy Syrian. Very clean quarters and meals are OK. 7 of us in one large room. This house entertained five kings. Attended dance at Red Cross club #3. Very smart club. Met Jeanette, Red Cross girl from Savannah, Georgia. Retired 11:30PM.” Markiewicz, Edward B., S/Sgt, gunner
February 1945
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for February 1945
HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Group (M) APO 650
THE RAID OF THE MONTH July, 1944
This month the Group Commanding Officer, Lt. Colonel Charles F. Cassidy, Jr., selects the one raid that from photo coverage and interpretation and relative importance has been outstanding during the month..
THIS MONTH’S SELECTION:
SESTO CALENDE ASSEMBLY PLANT (ITALY) Attacked: 24 February 1945
FLIGHT LEADERS: Captain (Anthony L.) Muzinich (447th Squadron), Captain (Erle G. "Swanny", Jr.) Swanson (448th Squadron).
SITUATION: One of the few very active factories, according to reliable ground reports, was the assembly plant at Sesto Calende. The ground report said: “What was produced was German human torpedoes with a little seat. These torpedoes can be catapulted with the pilot. The hulk is loaded with explosives. The hulks are about eight meters long and two meters wide.” To the 321st went the assignment for the Plant’s destruction.
RESULTS: Ground information received through Tactical Air Force Headquarters states: “The bombing of the Sesto Calende Plane has completely destroyed the yards together with forty boats.” Our photos showed a hundred percent concentration of bombs in the target area.
February 1945 (continued)
February 1945 (continued)
445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for February 1945
HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Group (M) APO 650 1 March 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing Attentions: Historian
1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period February 1, 1945 to February 28, 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) G.O. #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) Major Thomas C. Bounds (pilot) was relieved of his command and Capt. Frank M. Furey (pilot) assumed command of the squadron per Par 1, SO #31, Headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group (M), 20 February 1945 (3) Capt. Robert O. Lord, Jr., (engineering) was relieved of his duties as Executive Officer and was replaced by Capt. James O. Jackson (intelligence), per Par 1, Squadron Order #7, 22 February 1945. Capt. Leon F. Hatcher, Jr. (pilot) was relieved of his duties as Operations Officer and was replaced by Capt. Robert A. Farrell (pilot), per Par 2, Squadron Order #7, 22 February 1945. With Capt. James O. Jackson (intelligence) appointed Executive Officer, 1st Lt. {(Jacob (NMI)} Jack Locke (intelligence) was appointed Intelligence Officer per Par 3, Squadron Order #7, 22 February 1945.There were no changes of staff officers (4) On 17 February 1945, the 445th Bombardment Squadron was augmented by the addition of 8 enlisted men per WD ltr AG 322, 3 November 1944.
c Strength, commissioned and enlisted (1) Month of February 1945 (a) At beginning – 459 (b) Net increase -- 22 (c) Net decrease ------(d) At end -- 481 February 1945 (continued) 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 f Campaigns (1) Italy (2) From February 1, 1945 to February 28, 1945 (still in progress) (3) 26 missions and 250 sorties during the month (4) Results of an important mission (a) Mission: February 2nd attack on Calliano rail bridge, Italy 1. This target is located along the vital Brenner Pass line, main supply route from Italy to Germany. The target was just above Rovereto, a key point along that line. 2. Despite known flak positions, there was a good probability of a successful mission. 3. If successfully carried out, this mission would deal a crippling blow to enemy supplies along this line. 4. Aerial photographs disclose the damage done to the target. 5. Despite fairly accurate flak which persisted before and after bombs away, this squadron achieved 100 percent bombing accuracy with a good concentration of bombs on the target. g Operations (“g” was left out of this report)
h Command Officers in important missions 1. On February 2, Capt. (Gerald W.) Wagner (pilot) – Assistant Operations Officer – led a flight of 20 bombers in a mission sent out to destroy the Calliano rail bridge, Italy. The results of the mission were very satisfactory with photographs disclosing 100 percent bombing accuracy. 2. On February 6, Capt (Leon F., Jr.) Hatcher (pilot) – Operations Officer – flew in the role of command pilot in the lead plane of a formation of 20 bombers which attacked the heavily defended Rovereto rail bridge, Italy with results showing 100 percent bombing accuracy i Losses in action (1) On February 23, 2nd Lt. Lonnie B. Harvel, Jr. (bombardier) was killed in action on a raid against the Campo di Trans railroad bridge, Italy. He was a bombardier. (2) On February 6, the above mentioned bombardier received minor wounds on the Rovereto railroad bridge mission. February 1945 (continued)
(3) On February 27, gun positions at Lavis, Italy were attacked and the following crew members are reported missing in action: 2nd Lt. DeBoer, Jay (NMI) Jr., pilot 2nd Lt. Crutchfield, Lucian C., Jr., co-pilot 1st Lt. Cravey, Robert P., navigator F/O Brooks, William F., bombardier Sgt. Mitchell, Robert D. “Bob”, engineer-gunner T/Sgt. Reagin, Charles T., radio-gunner Sgt. Swinson, Carl R. M., armorer-gunner (4) None taken prisoner
j Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action:
G.O. #24, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 5 February 1945 listed the following awards:
Air Medal (Meritorious achievement in aerial flight) 2nd Lt. Gerhard H. Galny, Jr. (pilot) 2nd Lt. Roger R. Knauss (pilot) S/Sgt. James V. Ott (gunner) 1st Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal 2nd Lt. Cecil A. Brown (Pilot) 1st Lt. Frank J. Wren (pilot) 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal S/Sgt. Lamar C. Andrews (gunner) T/Sgt. Jimmie (NMI) Chambers (engineer-gunner) T/Sgt. John E. Johnson (engineer-gunner) 1st Lt. Edward A. Miller (bombardier-navigator) 1st Lt. Frank J. Wren (pilot) 1st Lt. Edward J. Rigler (pilot) 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal S/Sgt. Lamar C. Andrews (gunner) T/Sgt. Jimmie (NMI) Chambers (engineer-gunner) T/Sgt. John E. Johnson (engineer-gunner) 1st Lt. Edward A. Miller (bombardier-navigator) 1st Lt. Frank J. Wren (pilot) 1st Lt. Edward J. Rigler (pilot) 4th Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal S/Sgt. Lamar C. Andrews (gunner) T/Sgt. Jimmie (NMI) Chambers (engineer-gunner) T/Sgt. John E. Johnson (engineer-gunner) 1st Lt. Frank J. Wren (pilot) 1st Lt. Edward J. Rigler (pilot)
February 1945 (continued)
G.O. #25, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 7 February 1945 listed the following award: Distinguished Flying Cross (Extraordinary achievement in aerial flight) 1st Lt. Warren F. Ottinger (pilot)
G.O. #31, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 16 February 1945 listed the following awards: Air Medal (meritorious achievement, etc.) 2nd Lt. Fred K. Amundson (pilot) S/Sgt. Frank E. Barnett (gunner) 2nd Lt. Thomas M. Brown (bombardier) F/O William G. Brown (pilot) 2nd Lt. Robert E. Doris (pilot) 2nd Lt. Phillip (NMI) Epstein (bombardier) 2nd Lt. Richard C. Hughes (pilot) 1st Lt. William H. Jackson (bombardier) S/Sgt. Paul J. Koski (gunner) 2nd Lt. John H. O’Keefe (pilot) 2nd Lt. Frederick R. Stolberg (pilot) 2nd Lt. Charles B. Wilson (pilot)
1st Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal 2nd Lt. Edward A. White (pilot) 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal T/Sgt. Martin E. Chauncey (gunner) S/Sgt. Raymond A. Krober, Jr. (gunner) 5th Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal T/Sgt. Jimmie (NMI) Chambers (engineer-gunner) 1st Lt. Edward J. Rigler (pilot) 6th Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal T/Sgt. Jimmie (NMI) Chambers (engineer-gunner)
G.O. #32, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 17 February 1945 listed the following award: Soldiers Medal (Heroism) S/Sgt. Merton D. Ohm (gunner)
G.O. #35, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 20 February 1945 listed the following awards: Air Medal (meritorious achievement, etc.) Sgt. John R. Hagains (gunner) Sgt. Ben Kuykendall (gunner) Sgt. Phillip B. Teague (gunner) 1st Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal S/Sgt. Glenn E. Bierly (gunner) 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal S/Sgt. John H. Nuttal (gunner)
February 1945 (continued)
G.O. #36, Headquarters 12th Air Force, 21 February 1945 listed the following awards: Soldiers Medal (Heroism) M/Sgt. Wendell J. Bell (engineering) Distinguished Flying Cross (Extraordinary achievement, etc.) T/Sgt. Jimmie (NMI) Chambers (engineer-gunner)
k No photographs submitted
2. Enclosed is War Diary, 445th Bombardment Squadron for the period February 1, 1945 to February 28, 1945. Also enclosed is record of combat achievements for this squadron through the same period.
For the Commanding Officer:
Incl: JACK LOCKE, War Diary. 1st Lt., Air Corps, Combat Record Squadron Historian.
February 1945 (continued)
446th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for February 1945
HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Group (M) APO 650 1 March 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 February 1945 to 28 February 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 February 1945 87 Officers, 352 Enlisted Men (2) Net Increase 8 Officers, None (3) Net Decrease None 3 Enlisted Men (4) 28 February 1945 95 Officers, 349 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- 38, Sorties- 259
February 1945 (continued)
(4) Results of the important missions. (a) Lavis Rail Diversion Bridges, Italy, 13 and 14 February. (b) Campo South Rail Bridge, Italy, 25 February. (c) San Felice Rail Fill Italy, 25 February. 1 These targets all were situated on vital enemy communication lines and to cut or block them would be a heavy blow to the enemy. All were attacked with 100% bombing accuracy in spite of heavy anti- aircraft fire. 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: 2nd Lt. Andrew R. Gallagher (pilot), G.O. #25 XII Air Force.
(2) Air Medal awarded to: 2nd Lt. Charles W. Alward (pilot), G.O. #18 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. William H. Anderson (pilot), G.O. #24, XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Richard A. Atkins Jr. (pilot), G.O. #18 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Andrew J. Corra (bombardier), G.O. #24 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. William F. Fein (bombardier), G.O. #24 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Joseph M. Fodor (bombardier), G.O. #18 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. David (F.) Fox Jr. (bombardier), G.O. #24 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Wendell L. French (pilot), G.O. #31 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Edward L. Gahm (bombardier), G.O. #24 XII Air Force 1st Lt. Noel P. Holt Jr. (pilot), G.O. #18 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Emmett N. Long (pilot), G.O. #31 XII Air Force 1st Lt. Ray L. McCloud (pilot), G.O. #18 XII Air Force 1st Lt. John E. McCullough Jr. (bombardier), G.O. #18 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. John D. Neel (pilot), G.O. #31 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Clarence J.H. Smith (pilot), G.O. #31 XII Air Force 1st Lt. Leo J. Tighe (pilot), G.O. #31 XII Air Force 2nd Lt. Thomas A. Williams (navigator), G.O. #18 XII Air Force Sgt. Chester S. Anderson (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Junior D. Beck (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. William P. Benedict (gunner), G.O. #35 XII Air Force Sgt. James P. Boylan (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Walter (NMI) Brady (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Emmett P. Broderick (gunner), G.O. #18 XII Air Force Sgt. Edgar W. Carl (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force February 1945 (continued)
Sgt. Correll C. Chapin (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force S/Sgt. Joseph N. Dalpos (gunner), G.O. #35 XII Air Force Sgt. Russell L. Englehaupt (gunner), G.O. #18 XII Air Force Sgt. Byron P. Freck (gunner), G.O. #18 XII Air Force Sgt. Harold W. Freeman (gunner), G.O. #18 XII Air Force Sgt. John F. Holdridge (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Ernest F. Jakielek (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Kenneth H. Lind (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Thomas J. Martin Jr. (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Richard W. McEuen (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. James D. Moncure Jr. (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force S/Sgt. Clayton R. Nehls (gunner), G.O. #35 XII Air Force Sgt. Henry J. Nichols (gunner), G.O. #18 XII Air Force S/Sgt. Gerald H. Ransom (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Charles R. Reinartsen Jr. (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force Sgt. Elvin N. Scheetz (gunner), G.O. #24 XII Air Force
PAUL T. COOPER, Lt. Colonel, Air Corps, Commanding.
February 1945 (continued)
447th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for February 1945
447TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) 321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) APO 65 1 March 1945 SUBJECT: Historical Records. TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing. Attention: Historian.
1. Outline History of the 447th Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 February 1945 to 28 February 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. 2 Officer and 2 enlisted men trfd. To 7th Replacement Center for transshipment to US. 1 Officer trfd to the 340th Bomb. Group. 1 Officer trfd to 321st Bomb Group Hq. 1 Officer trfd to Det of Patients 40th Station Hospital. 1 Enlisted man trfd to 57 Bomb. Wing Hq. 1 officer trfd to 12th Air Force Hq. (b) On DS or TD. 1 Enlisted Man TD to the United States. 1 Enlisted Man TD to 176th Sig. Surf Warn Plat. 1 Enlisted Man TD to the United States. 1 Enlisted Man DS US (Redistribution Center) (c) No Change. (3) No change in commanding officers during the month (4) No change in staff officers during the month. (5) No Change.
February 1945 (continued)
c. Strength, Commission and enlisted. (1) Month of February 1945. (a) At Beginning. 87 Officers; 356 Enlisted Men (b) Net increase. 4 Officers; 5 Enlisted Men (c) Net decrease. (d) At end: 91 Officers; 360 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. f. Campaigns. (1) Italian Campaign. (2) Duration: 1 February to the present date. Still in pro.
g. Operations. (1) Italian campaign. (2) Objective Bombing (3) 24 missions, 225 sorties (4) Results of the most important missions. (a) Mission: San Michele Rail Diversion Bridge. 1. Because it was a link in the Brenner Pass line. The Brenner Pass is the “life Line” of Kesselring’s troops. 2. The mission was a success because the bridge was rendered impassable. Bombing A. 97.2%. 3. The loss of the bridge prevented the Wermacht from moving their divisions out and on to the most pressed western and eastern fronts. 4. Aerial photographs showed direct hits on the target. 5. The Brenner Pass being the life line of the Germans in Italy and the bridge a link in this line made the chances of removing troops out of Italy less probable. (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.
February 1945 (continued) i. Casualties during the month. (1) (a) Killed Lt. Colgan (Donald J., bombardier), KIA in a mission to Calliano Rail Bridge. 8 February 1945 (b) Wounded: Lt. Vantrease (Edwin C., bombardier), Lt. Wallis (Shelby D., pilot), Sgt. McMenamin (Daniel P., Jr., engineer-gunner) and Cpl Neely (Robert E., gunner) all LWA, not hospitalized in a mission to the Lavis Diversion Bridge on 7 February 1945 (c) Missing: On a mission to the Rovereto Station, 6 February 1945 the following named are carried as MIA: Lt. Cahoon (Carl W., pilot), Lt. Young (Robert H., pilot), S/Sgt. McKnight (John A., bombardier-gunner), S/Sgt. Jones, Robert G. (engineer-gunner), Cpl. Maloney (Thomas J., gunner), Sgt. Hagan (Richard E., radio-gunner), Lt. Remmel (Earl H., pilot), Lt. Speer (Leslie T., pilot), Lt. Darrell (Franklin L., Jr., bombardier), Lt. Tulley (Harlan N., navigator), S/Sgt. Ifshin (Isidore (NMI), engineer-gunner), T/Sgt. Guild (Bernard R., radio-gunner), Sgt. Barrett (Silas Alfred, gunner), Lt. Dodson (Jackson R., pilot), Lt. Dickson (John L., Jr., pilot), Sgt. Lubinsky (Norman B., bombardier-gunner), Cpl Cruce (Joseph H., radio-gunner), Cpl Theiss (Vincent E., engineer-gunner), Cpl McCready (John E., Jr., gunner). (d) We have not been informed of any of the men missing in action being taken prisoners. j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action and have been presented with awards during the month. On General Order No. 24, dated 5 Feb. 1945 from 12th Air Force the following personnel received the named award: 1st Lt. John V. Davies (bombardier) received the Air Medal. 2nd Lt. Edmund R., Carlin (pilot) received the Air Medal 2nd Lt. Robert C. King (Jr., pilot) received the Air Medal 2nd Lt. Albert C. Tarquinio (pilot) received the Air Medal F/O William T. Atkins (bombardier) received the Air Medal F/O Frank J. Blankemeyer (bombardier) received the Air Medal Sgt. John A. Harvey (gunner) received the Air Medal Sgt. Robert F. Loux (gunner) received the Air Medal Capt. Svend P. Olsen (navigator) rec. the 4th OLC to the Air Medal
On General Order No 27 dated 9 Feb. 1945 from 12th AF Hq. 1st Lt. Ralph E. Hennessey (pilot) received the DFC. 1st Lt. William E. Kibler (pilot) received the DFC
On General Order No. 35, dated 20 February 1945 from 12th Air Force headquarters the following awards were presented: 2nd Lt. Jack B. Antry (pilot) received the Air Medal 2nd Lt. Thomas P. Elliott (pilot) received the Air Medal February 1945 (continued)
Sgt. Edward H. Henkler (gunner) received the Air Medal Sgt. Walter F. Meiborg (gunner) rec. the Air Medal Sgt. Camille J. Merlino (gunner) rec. the Air Medal Sgt. James R. Newton (gunner) rec. the Air Medal Sgt. Charles J. Price (gunner) rec. the Air Medal Sgt. Robert P. Rinard (gunner) rec. the Air Medal Sgt. Stanley E. Teutsch (gunner) rec. the Air Medal Sgt. Edgar M. West (gunner) rec. the Air Medal F/O Frank J. Blankemeyer (bombardier), 1st OLC to the Air Medal F/O Frederick (W.) Haage (pilot), 1st OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Carroll G. Appleman (gunner) rec. 1st OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Marvin S. Goldman (gunner), 1st OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Bruce H. Huntley (gunner), 1st OLC to the Air Medal S/Sgt. Dewey D. Jones Jr. (gunner), 1st OLC to the Air Medal 1st Lt. Robert A. Balboni (bombardier), 2nd OLC to the Air Medal k. No Photographs were submitted for this month.
2. The enclosed is War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 February 1945 to 28 February 1945. No special accounts for the month. Squadron Statistics for the month of February 1945.
For the Commanding Officer: 2 Incls: GEORGE G. VENJOHN. Incl 1 – War Diary 1st Lt., Air Corps, Incl 2 – Squadron Statistics. Historian
Missions Flown: 24 Sorties Flown: 225 Bombs dropped (weight): 751,300 lbs. Nickels: 1 mission Planes lost: 3 Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: 0 Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): 0
February 1945 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for February 1945
HEADQUARTERS 448th Bombardment Squadron (M) APO 650, US ARMY 7 March 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 February to 28 February 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) Lieutenant Moose (Roy C., 2Lt, intelligence), assistant S-2 Officer, transferred to 446th Squadron. Captain Sargent (Alwin H., intelligence) assigned to Squadron to relieve Captain Lichtward (Frederick W., intelligence) as S-2 Officer who will return to US. Lieutenant Stevens (S. R., 2Lt,) assigned to Squadron as Gunnery Officer. (5) No Change.
c Strength, commissioned and enlisted (1) Month of February 1945 (a) 98 Officers assigned, 356 Enlisted Men assigned, 3 Enlisted men attached at beginning of period. (b) 5 officers, no enlisted men increase. (c) No officers, 1 enlisted men decrease (d) 103 Officers, 351 Enlisted Men assigned, 7 Enlisted Men attached at end of period.
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.
February 1945 (continued) f Campaigns (1) Rome – Arno Campaign. (2) Duration: from January 22, 1944 - still in progress. g Operations (See enclosure #2) h Command Officers in important missions (1) Lieutenant (John A.) Bard as pilot, Lieutenant (Ralph K.) Steely as navigator and Lieutenant (Willard T.) Zinkand as bombardier led Group mission agains rail bridge at Mori, Italy
(2) Captain John B.) Lyons, Lieutenant (Ralph K.) Steely, and Captain (Willard T.) Zinkand led Group in mission against rail bridge at Lavis, Italy. i Losses in action (1) Mission: Rail bridge at Mori, Italy, 6 Feb ‘45. (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. First Lieutenant W. F. (i.o.) Autrey (pilot). 2. Second Lieutenant Sam (NMI) Barile (pilot). (c) Missing. 1. None. (d) Taken Prisoner. 1. None. (2) Mission: Viaduct at Lavis, Italy, 7 Feb ’45. (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. Staff Sergeant Woodward W. Pealer (gunner). (c) Missing. 1. Second Lieutenant Woodrow W. Sheffield (pilot). 2. Second Lieutenant William A. Sanders (pilot). 3. Staff Sergeant Louis E. Reves (bombardier-gunner). 4. Corporal Evo J. Petruzzi (engineer-gunner). 5. Sergeant Maxwell J. Lasskow (radio-gunner). 6. Corporal Joseph C. Brentar (gunner). (d) Taken prisoner. 1. None. (3) Mission: Rail bridge at Calliano, Italy, 8 Feb ’45. (a) Killed. 1. None.
February 1945 (continued)
(b) Wounded. 1. Captain Michael (NMI) Bongiovanni (navigator). 2. Second Lieutenant John W. Sheppard (bombardier). 3. Second Lieutenant Charles M. Styers (pilot). 4. Second Lieutenant Robert E. Schweitzer (pilot). 5. Master Sergeant Elmer L. Hildreth (gunner). 6. Sergeant Neil J. Powell (gunner). (c) Missing. 1. Second Lieutenant Charles F. Birkhead, Jr. (pilot) 2. Second Lieutenant Henry L. Pruitt (pilot). 3. Technical Sergeant Charles R. Randall (radio-gunner). 4. Staff Sergeant James E. Ratcliffe, Jr. (bombardier-gunner) 5. Staff Sergeant Ralph C. Hawthorne (gunner). 6. Corporal Leo F. Hovorka, Jr. (engineer-gunner) (d) Taken prisoner. 1. None.
(4) Mission: Rail bridge at Campo, Italy, 25 Feb ’45. (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. Captain Lee Van Leonard (pilot). 2. Captain Michael (NMI) Bongiovanni (navigator). 3. First Lieutenant Richard J. Cooper (pilot). 4. Technical Sergeant James C. Morefield (gunner). (c) Missing. 1. None (d) Taken prisoner. 1. None.
(5) Mission: Rail bridge at Lavis, Italy, 27 Feb ’45. (a) Killed. 1. None. (b) Wounded. 1. Staff Sergeant Conway I. Justice, Jr. (gunner) (c) Missing. 1. First Lieutenant Milford A. Smith (pilot). 2. Second Lieutenant Charles W. Styers (pilot). 3. Second Lieutenant Lester Z. Friedman (celestial navigator). 4. Flight Officer James L. Baird (pilot-bombardier). 5. Technical Sergeant Alfred K. Mardeuse (radio-gunner). 6. Staff Sergeant Jesse R. Edwards (photographer). (d) Taken prisoner. 1. None. February 1945 (continued)
(5) Returned. (a) Entire crew of plane lost Feb. 7, with exception of Sergeant Reves (Louis E., S/Sgt, bombardier-gunner), who received wounds and is hospitalized. Crew bailed out safely over Switzerland. (b) Also officially announced that Lieutenant Anderson (Douglas R., 2Lt, pilot) and Sergeant Holt (John A., Sgt, gunner) and Hammerschmiedt (Harry E., S/Sgt, gunner) who went down with Captain Dossey (Vernon C., pilot) in November, 1944, are known to be Prisoners of War in Germany.
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 February to 28 February 1945; Account of important missions for month of February 1945; Account of personnel who have distinguished themselves for month of February 1945.
For the Commanding Officer:
ALWIN H. SARGENT, Captain, Air Corps, Squadron Historian. Incl. 1. Unit Journal of Events 2. Account of Important Missions 3. Account of Personnel Distinguishing Themselves
448th BS War Diary: Account of Important Missions for February 1945: The month of February saw the 448th returned to the top among the Squadrons of the Group in bombing average percentage after a decline during December and January. The steady rise was greatly enhanced by the almost perfect flying weather during February when a total of twenty-five (25) missions in twenty-eight (28) days was flown by the Squadron. Of these twenty-five (25) missions ten (10) were 100% bombing accuracy missions, two more than was scored during January. No individual mission during the month stood out as particularly important and superior to others flown, but the February 6th attack on the Mori rail bridge is worthy of mention, perhaps more than the remaining operational flights from the stand point of results accomplished. It was one of the Squadron’s 100% bombing accuracy missions for this month.
February 1945 (continued)
Lieutenant Bard led the Group formation off that morning. It was a beautiful day on Corsica, with only a few fleecy clouds floating overhead, as the Billy Mitchells sailed off into the blue to attack this vital target on the Brenner Pass Line. The 448th, leading this air armada, had fifteen (15) planes to do the damage. But it wasn’t long before it became obvious that everything was not going according to plan. Bard, John A., Capt, pilot The first obstacle encountered was a wall of clouds over Italy that was almost impenetrable. This mass of pilot’s woe extended all the way to the target area and the foot of the Alps. But Lieutenant Bard hurdled this barrier with his customary ease and skill, and flying over this gray blanket he came to the target area as though he could see it a hundred miles away. But giving credit where credit is due, Lieutenant Steely, the navigator, guided him to the all important holes in the clouds that were necessary to get through in order to reach the target. Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt, bombardier It was expected that the Krauts would put up a desperate ring of hot steel around the formation in an effort to turn it back, and that is what happened despite the severe pasting the gun positions took from incendiary planes that preceded the Mitchell over the target area. But the Krauts did not expect the formation to bomb through the overcast since they could not see an opening. Suddenly, Lieutenant Bard plunged through the hole in the clouds found by Lieutenant Steely, Lieutenant Zinkand quickly swung his bombsight in position with his customary skill, and before the ground defenses could swing their guns in position to open up, the rain of bombs had begun to fall. But the Krauts, known to be quick on the trigger with their 88MM’s, were not going to let the bombers get away without putting up a fight. Hot steel flew thick and fast for a few seconds up there, as Sergeant Schultz and his Kraut gunners quickly found the range before the Billy Mitchells could duck back into the safety of the overcast. Bard, John A., Capt, pilot Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt, bombardier Zinkand, Willard T., Capt, bombardier Credit must be given to the incendiary planes who came over just preceding the formation and temporarily stunned the gun positions with a devastating load of phosphorous bombs. These few seconds before the anti-aircraft batteries could recover were extremely valuable to the attacking formation, but even this did not permit the bombers to get away without suffering some damage. Although no planes were lost, several were heavily riddled by flying shell fragments. A piece shattered the plexi-glass in the pilot’s compartment of Lieutenant Autrey’s plane, causing him to receive lacerations about the face and hands. His co-pilot, Lieutenant Barile, also received lacerations about the face as a result of the same near-hit. Autrey, W. F. (i.o.), 1Lt, pilot Barile, Sam (NMI), 2Lt, pilot But meanwhile, the Krauts were picking up the fragments of their ruined Engineering feat of bridgework at Mori. A cloud of smoke and flying debris remained over the area long after the Mitchells had returned to home base. It was beautiful to behold, this masterpiece of convincive Mitchell destruction. Needless to say, the bridge was knocked out, and will be out of service for sometime to the Wermacht. February 1945 (continued)
Although not one of the 100% bombing accuracy missions of February, the 27 February attack on a rail bridge at Lavis was perhaps, in one respect, most distinguished because it was a good example of excellent flying over a heavily defended area that had not previously been attacked by incendiary planes. Captain Lyons led the Group formation and his Squadron’s thirteen (13) planes on this mission. The Billy Mitchells had clear weather all the way from Corsica to the target. Only a few light clouds were found over the Po Valley, and these did not obscure the observation. Lyons, John B., Capt, pilot Captain Lyons teamed up withy Captain Zinkand and Lieutenant Steely this time to do the damage. The Krauts quickly picked up the formation as it approached the target and began tracking it with voluminous bursts of anti-aircraft fire. Fortunately, Captain Lyons maneuvered his bombers through this vain attempt to stop them, without damage, But this good fortune was not to last. Lyons, John B., Capt, pilot Steely, Ralph K., 1Lt, bombardier Zinkand, Willard T., Capt, bombardier On the bomb run, the flak became extremely intense and accurate, and because of the necessity of flying level in order that the bombardiers might obtain an accurate sighting on the pin-point target instead of the usual evasive action taken before and after the bomb run, the ground opposition was able to draw an accurate bead on them and let the steel fly. Considerable damage was done, and Sergeant Justice one of the tail gunners of the formation received cuts as a piece of flak shattered the plexi-glass in his gunner’s compartment. Justice, Conway J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Despite this intense barrage, Captain Lyons maintained his formation on course over the target, and Captain Zinkand showed his skill as a bombardier once again. Two strings of bombs walked across the bridge, and although not every bomb was in the designated target area, heavy damage was believed done to the bridge, possibly knocking it out. Captain Lyons once again showed his flying ability to the Krauts when he quickly broke away from the target leading his bombers clear of the anti-aircraft fire. Lyons, John B., Capt, pilot Zinkand, Willard T., Capt, bombardier But the Krauts were not content until they drew blood. One of the Mitchells went down when it received a hit knocking one of its engines out. The bomber was last seen heading northwest and losing altitude, but apparently under control. The crew members were Lieutenants Smith, Styers and Friedman, Flight Officer Baird, and Sergeants Wright, Mardeuse and Edwards. Baird, James L., F/O, bombardier Edwards, Jesse R., Sgt, photographer Friedman, Lester Z., 2Lt, celestial navigator Mardeuse, Alfred K., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Smith, Milford A., 1Lt, pilot Styers, Charles W., 2Lt, pilot Wright, Melvin M., Sgt, engineer-gunner Thus ended another month of sustained operations in the “Battle of Brenner Pass.” During the month, in twenty-five (25) missions flown against the Germans in Northern Italy, 216 sorties were completed. A grand total of 718,600 pounds of bombs were dropped during February in the sustained air offensive directed against the Brenner pass. All in all, it was a record month for winter operations. February 1945 (continued)
448th BS War Diary: Personnel Who Have Distinguished Themselves in Action:
G.O. # 18, 27 Jan. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Achievement Lt. Lee, Howard M., pilot Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 Air Medal Lt. Valenti, Jack J., pilot Ora, Italy 17 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Ederer, Robert J., gunner Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 Air Medal Sgt. Shields, Robert L., gunner Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 Air Medal
G.O. # 19, 28 Jan. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Service Sgt. Lawless, Frank E., transportation 5 May ’43 to 15 Aug ’43 Bronze Star Sgt. Hyatt, Hymie (NMI), ordnance 2 Oct ’43 to 30 Oct ’43 Bronze Star
G.O. # 20, 30 Jan. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Achievement Sgt. Hunter, Dewey G., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Martin, Lewis E., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Biersdorff , Charles J., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Tangren, Daniel E., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Varga, Frank K., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Wolfe, Bernard M., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Seward, Richard F., gunner Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal
G.O. # 24, 5 Feb. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Achievement Lt Brown, Royden (NMI), pilot Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Williams, Peter G., pilot Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt Akers, Harold B., Jr., pilot Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Barile, Sam (NMI), pilot Rovereto, Italy 18 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Pruitt, Harry L., pilot Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Sanders, William A., pilot Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Styers, Charles W., pilot Ora, Italy 17 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Wuest, Robert F., pilot Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Atherton, Robert C., gunner Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 Air Medal Sgt. DiSalvo, Alfred J., gunner Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Wilson, James M., pilot Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 1st OLC to AM
G.O. # 25, 7 Feb. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Service Sgt. Lane, Howard W., transportation 20 Mar ’43 to 30 April ’43 Bronze Star
G.O. # 28, 10 Feb. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Achievement F/O Rutz, Victor H., bombardier Asti, Italy 15 Dec 44 Air Medal Sgt. Harageones, George J., gunner Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 Air Medal Sgt. Mientkiewicz, Casmier (NMI), gunner Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal
February 1945 (continued)
G.O. # 31, 16 Feb. ’45 12th Air Force. For Meritorious Achievement Lt. Bruhn, Charles A., pilot Voghera, Italy 31 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Meyers, Kenneth F., pilot Voghera, Italy 31 Jan 45 Air Medal Lt. Spaur, Melvin J., pilot Voghera, Italy 31 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt Fletcher, William H., gunner Ora, Italy 17 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Parham, Ralph E., gunner Pavia, Italy 1 Jan 45 Air Medal Sgt. Oliver, Walter A., gunner Asti, Italy 15 Dec 44 Air Medal Lt. Russell, H.H., Harold H., pilot Lavis, Italy 31 Jan 45 1st OLC to AM Lt. Russell, J.D., John D., pilot Lavis, Italy 31 Jan 45 1st OLC to AM Sgt. Head, Charles H., gunner Rovereto, Italy 30 Dec 44 1st OLC to AM
G.O. # 32, 17 Feb. ’45 12th Air Force. For Heroism Lt. Mitchell, Robert E., pilot Mestre, Italy 9 Nov 44 Soldiers Medal
For Meritorious Service Sgt. Edmonson, Loyal C., engineering 10 June ’43 to 18 June ’44 Bronze Star