321st bombardment group history: july 194457thbombwing.com/321sthistory/321_bg_1944-07.pdf · 12th...
TRANSCRIPT
12th
Air Force, 57th
Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group
History: July 1944
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For my dad, Colonel John “Jack” Fitzgerald, U.S. Army (deceased)
“Lil Butch”
John T. Fitzgerald, SMSgt, U.S. Air Force (retired) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12th
Air Force, 57th
Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group
History: July 1944
The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s Headquarters and individual
Squadron War Diaries. They have been transcribed word for word, from the Squadron
Histories provided by the Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA), Maxwell Air
Force Base Alabama. At the end of each Squadron’s daily entry, the individuals cited in
the entry are identified by full name, rank and duty, in alphabetical order. The day’s
entry begins with the Tactical Operations Statement, from the United States Army Air
Forces (USAAF) Chronology, for the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO). The
history also includes mission reports, mission crew rosters, Missing Air Crew Reports
(MACR), personal mission logs, journals, and diaries made available by various sources.
Invitation
Anyone who has documentation pertaining to the 321st Bomb Group or its members, and
would like to have it included in this history, is welcome to participate. Copies of:
photos (official or personal); orders (promotion, decoration, travel, etc.); Mission
Reports; Missing Air Crew Reports; personal diaries, logs, journals, etc; other
documentation; or information that will help identify hi-lited individuals will be greatly
appreciated, as one of my goals is to correctly identify every man and plane assigned to
the 321st Bomb Group.
My only interest in this project is to honor those who served by perpetuating their story,
and making it available for future generations, particularly the families and friends of
our Great Heroes. If you are interested in helping, or if I may be of assistance in finding
information about your 321st BG Hero, please contact me at: [email protected]
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks
Agostino Alberti: Professor - historian (Soncino, Italy)
Michele Becchi: aviation history - archaeologist (Reggio Emilia, Italy)
Jack Brellenthin, great nephew of: Harold Ray Brellenthin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th
BS
Cecile Burandt, daughter of: Charles Lawson “Chuck” Burandt, Capt, pilot, 446th
BS
Sally Brown, daughter of: Barnard H. Seegmiller, Sgt, armament, 445th
BS
Dave Charville, grandson of: Leighton Daniel “Danny” Charville, 1Lt, pilot, 445th
BS
Barbara Connolly, daughter of: Edward Charles “Salvo” Ennis, T/Sgt, radar-radio-
gunner, 447th
BS
1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS
Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner
Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG
Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th
BS
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)
Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS
John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th
BS
Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia,
T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th
BS
Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th
BS
John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th
BS
Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th
BS
1st Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448
th 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, 447
th BS
Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner,
448th
BS
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
Occupied Territories
NATC - Northwest African Training
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
Telegraph Service
NOK: Next Of Kin
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:
tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass
fiber, or plastic. See Window
QBB: Base of cloud
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
found
RR/B: Railroad Bridge
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
Action
S-1: Administration
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.)
Saturday, 1 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, light and medium bombers hit fuel dumps, rail bridges,
viaducts, and docks in NC Italy; fighter-bombers concentrate on road and rail bridges
behind the battle area, destroy several fighters in combat over Reggio Emilia Airfield,
and hit guns S of Carsoli; and a detachment of the 12th
Photographic Reconnaissance
Squadron, 3rd
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), begins operating from Follonica
with F-5s. During Jul, the detachments of the 414th
Night Fighter Squadron, 63rd
Fighter
Wing, operating from Ghisonaccia and Borgo, Corsica with Beaufighters, return to base
at Alghero, Sardinia.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions against the Ronta Viaducts—one a piperoo;
one a stinkeroo. The 448th
knocked out the west one while the 447th
had difficulty in
identifying the east viaduct and scattered their bombs quite a bit as a result.
HQ 321st BG Communications Log:
0820 Maj. Cann. Received by Neumann (Robert H., Maj, pilot).
Primary target O.K.
1300 GOR Received by Storkel (Frank A., Pvt, operations).
Asked for permission to fire 10 Rds. 40 M/M at 1900 tonite.
ACTION: O.K. They are to call us 15 min. before they start. We are to Call
GOR if we have flights out.
Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt, pilot
1705 447th
Ops. Received by LJP (ODO)
Night flying from 2200 to 2400.
009 (43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”) Banks (Herbert J., 1Lt, pilot) & Kibler (William
E., 2Lt, pilot).
718 (43-27718) Manz (Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot) & Gillis (John R., 2Lt, pilot).
751 (43-27751 “MMR”) Cloward (Glannin A., Capt, pilot) & Christian (Calvin
B., 2Lt, pilot).
040 (43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”) Manley (Ward E., 2Lt, pilot) & Neiman
(William E., 2Lt, pilot).
029 (43-4029 “Mike Hunt”) Bastin (Melville R., 2Lt, pilot) & Nall (John G., 2Lt,
pilot).
473 (43-27473 “Paper Doll”) Nettles (Forrest T., 2Lt, pilot) & Grimse (Ralph T.,
2Lt, pilot).
1730 Maj. Stout (57th
Ftr. Received by LJP. (ODO)
Rendezvous with Fighters this morning. (Temple, Arcade).
ACTION: Maj. Larson (Harold W., Maj, navigator) notified.
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
1845 Maj. Cann. Received by LJP. (ODO)
Asked about time and number of planes scheduled for night flying.
ACTION: Maj. Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot) notified.
1945 Tower
077 (43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy Val” - later 446th
ship “Stormy Weather”) is in
from X-C.
2000 448th
Ops. Received by LJP. (ODO)
Night flying from 2400 to 0200.
715 (43-27715), 051 (43-4051), 508 (43-27508), 706 (43-27706 “Silver Belle”),
726 (43-27726), 027 (43-4027).
2035 447th
Ops. Received by LJP.
Lt. J. J. Thomas (John J., 1Lt, pilot) to Rome (Rest Camp).
2123 Toohey Received by MLO.
Informed MLO that plane 968 (41-29968, 445th
BS) (P-X’d from
Capodichino for 1830 landing) did not arrive.
2200 Tower Received by LJP.
A/C 715 (43-27715) returned from Borgo.
2215 Cann. Received by Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot).
Call signs: Hitch-hike, Kilo, Jackpot
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 415 Date: 1 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447-18 448- 0
Target: Ronta E. Viaduct.
Time OFF: 1012 T.O.T.: 1144 Time Down: 1300
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 416/mission 416) Group Mission # 416:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 416 Date: 1 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 18
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-0 448- 17
Target: Ronta W. Viaduct.
Time OFF: 1012 T.O.T.: 1144 Time Down: 1320
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one spare for the mission which bombed
the east viaduct at Ronda, Italy. Six ships did some night flying early this morning.
During the day, 9 more ships went up on a mock mission and there were 4 transition
flights. A number of the combat crews and several ground personnel went to the rest
camp at Capri today. Several of the bombardiers spent some time on the bomb trainer in
the morning and afternoon. There is a rigorous training schedule in effect these days.
“Buck” Sergeant’s new mail shack was completed today and is a decided improvement
over the old, hot tent. It is screened in, is cool and has a slit for the mailing of enlisted
men and officer’s mail. More night flying late tonight.
Sergeant, William A. "Buck", Sgt, mail clerk
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415:
Squadron Mission 296
TARGET: Ronta E. Viaduct.
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” (lead
spare)
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt
E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt
F None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 416/mission 416) Group Mission # 416:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 416/mission 416) Group Mission # 416:
Squadron Mission 313
TARGET: Ronta W. Viaduct, Italy DATE: 1 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Armstrong led the formation. Target difficult to identify. Crews report viaduct well
hit with concentration on N approach and tunnel entrance. Some bombs S cut tracks.
Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate.
Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot, 448th
BS
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
(lead spare)
P Ritger, Frederic Charles, 1Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N Chapman, John E., 2Lt
B Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt
G Heery, Philip M., Sgt
F None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot)
Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Mission: Test Hop
Flying Time: 1:30 (94th
mission in MTO)
Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Nothing to do all day today. Read. Tried to sleep but it was too hot. Rec’d a letter
from Jim Bradley – answered it. Hung around club most of the evening. Scheduled to fly
with Hawkes tomorrow on a mission.”
Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: Six of our ships practiced night landing. Usual squadron duties.
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415: 18
of our ships participated in a raid on Ronta E Viaduct, Q-935934, with Lt. Wiginton,
leading the mission. One concentration on northeast end approach to target with bridge
to the north hit in three places. Bombs across tracks near or on bridge to west of target.
Bombing accuracy 73 %; Mission efficiency 50 %.
A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
P Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt
CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Olsen, Svend P., 1Lt
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., S/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt
N None None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 2Lt
E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt
R Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs.
Runyon) A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”)
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 2Lt
B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Webb, James A., 2Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt
R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 2Lt
CP Wigmore, William H., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt
E Dawson, Roy C., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27701
P Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Wood, Richard J., 2Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., F/O Watson, James M., 2Lt
E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt
F Burns, Harry B., Pvt Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC
A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27718
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Gillis, John R., 2Lt
CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Walker, Marion E., 2Lt
N None None
B Huffman, William C., 1Lt Altman, Irving L., 2lt
E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Free, Paul L., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Rose, Clifford A., Sgt
F None Shand, Arthur T., PFC
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27785
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Manley, Ward E., 2Lt
CP Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt
N None None
B Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Pierce, William H., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde”
P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Mims, Nathan (NMI), 1Lt
CP Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt
E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt
G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt
F None None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 416/mission 416) Group Mission # 416:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “40th
mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Ronta east viaduct, nice bombing, flak on crossing
bomb line.”
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 416/mission 416) Group Mission # 416:
Mission 282 (416): At 10:12 18 planes off to bomb Ronta W Viaduct and dropped 59 x
1000 bombs at 11:55 from 10,500 feet. Nine bombs were salvoed and four bombs
returned, all planes down at 13:20. Two runs were made on the target because of
difficulty of identification and crews report hits on viaduct, N approach and tunnel
entrance. Heavy, moderate and fairly accurate flak. 2 planes were holed, one plane was
hit by flak just before target but was reported safe at Rome. Weather: Cavu over target.
A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27528
P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt
CP Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27791
P Bard, John A., 2Lt Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt
N None None
B Greene, Louis P., 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Veeck, Richard W., Sgt Clark, Raymond S., Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Groome, Daingerfield M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
P McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt
CP Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt
E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Neuman, Robert A., S/Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., Sgt None
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27726
P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt
CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
N None None
B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Robert, Maurice L., S/Sgt
E Ernst, David L., S/Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt
R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt
F None Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27668
P Warren, William F., 2Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt
CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt
N None None
B McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27631
P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt
CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Hajny, Zdenek (NMI), S/Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-4076 (returned early) A/C No. 43-27523
P Grady, John R., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
N None None
B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27720 (single engine
landing at Rome) A/C No. 43-27715
P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt
CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt
N None Hickey, William O., 1Lt
B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Trigler, Louis E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
A/C No. 43-27481
P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
N Quartuccio, Anthony P., 2Lt None
B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt
E Jackson, Jewel D., PFC Carter, Eugene F., Sgt
R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt
G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt White, E. T., Sgt
F None Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt
Sunday, 2 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, medium and light bombers continue to pound enemy
communication lines N of the battle area (mainly along and N of the Pisa-Florence line)
and hit several fuel dumps with good results; fighter-bombers are active against motor
transport and bridges immediately N of the battleline; and 111th
Tactical Reconnaissance
Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Voltone to Follonica with F-6s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two devastating raids today against fuel dumps in the
Ravenna area. Using 100 pounders for the first time we laid such a pattern that later
reconnaissance showed all installations and buildings either severely damaged or
destroyed.
HQ 321st BG Communications Log:
0830 Sec. Controller Received by Neumann (Robert H., Maj, pilot).
968 (42-39968, 445th
BS) was not scheduled to depart Capodichino yesterday--
signals must have been crossed up.
0835 Tipton. Received by Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot).
Set Mission back one hour.
ACTION: Sqs notified
0930 Tipton. Received by Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot).
Call sign of Spits covering A/D is “Pluto”.
P/R Flight to Rome, Foggia, Bari--0830 T.O. 3 July 1944: (not 321st BG)
P. 1st Lt. H. E. SAMPSON.
CP. 2nd
Lt. J. W. MATTHEWS.
E. Sgt. H. J. LONDORFF.
X. Capt. M. T. HOLLOWAY.
X. Capt. P. W. Manley.
X. 1st Lt. J. W. DILLON (WING)
X. 2nd
Lt. J. W. WAKELEY.
3 men from 845th
request ride to Italy on above craft.
2125 Borgo MLO Received by AJD.
Requested hours scheduled for nite flying.
ACTION: 2200 to 0200
2230 447th
Ops. Received by AJD.
Wanted to know briefing times.
ACTION: Informed
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 417/mission 417) Group Mission # 417:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 417 Date: 2 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 19 446- 0 447-0 448- 0
Target: Fuel Dump near Ravenna.
Time OFF: 1045 T.O.T.: 1140 Time Down: 1415
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 418/mission 418) Group Mission # 418:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 418 Date: 2 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 18 447-0 448- 1
Target: Fuel Dump near Ravenna.
Time OFF: 1045 T.O.T.: 1140 Time Down: 1440
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft to bomb the fuel dump near
Ravenna, Italy. Carrying an extra load of bombs, the bombardiers had difficulty in
getting rid of their bombs and a number of “tumblers” fell short of the target.
Nevertheless, there was a good coverage achieved and 5 to 7 fires were reported. Capt.
Wilson and his crew of “Cairo Commandos” returned from their trip to Egypt with a
good supply of liquor. There was a flight to swing the compass today.
Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 417/mission 417) Group Mission # 417:
Squadron Mission 297
TARGET: Fuel Dump near Ravenna.
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
P Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt
N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None
B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Conover, Donald C., 2Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None
B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt
G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt
CP Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt
E Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl
- no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P McLain, Damon I., Capt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt
CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt
E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt
R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
CP Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
N None None
B Monk, William (NMI), 2Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt
CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt
E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt
R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt
G Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G McClary, Louis E., T/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt
E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”
(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”
P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
N None None
B Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt
E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G Decker, Robert J., Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 418/mission 418) Group Mission # 418:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: An 18 plane mission is flown. Lt. Burandt returns from rest camp
at Rome while Lt. Franklin goes to Rome for a vacation.
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot
Franklin, Arthur E., 2Lt, bombardier/Navigator
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 417/mission 417) Group Mission # 417:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 418/mission 418) Group Mission # 418:
Squadron Mission 314
TARGET: Fuel Dump near Ravenna, Italy DATE: 2 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 100 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 18
Captain Cooper led the formation. Many reports of the target being well covered, with
several fires being started and two explosions after the formation had left the area. Due
to B-10 shackles and extra bombs, difficulty was experienced in getting rid of bombs in
some cases.
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None None
B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt
E Kreider, John L., Sgt Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt
R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27480
P LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt
CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt
N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt None
B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt
E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P Cooper, Paul T., Capt , Commander Hodges, Richard E., 2Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt
N Dunn, Thomas B., 2Lt None
B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Kiernan, Noble J., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt
G Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt
CP Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
N None None
B Sitts, Lonnie C., 2Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt
R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt
G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later
Darlene)
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 42-64549
P Hipson, Robert Graham, 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 2Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None None
B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt
G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Hogman, Frans H., F/O
E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart”
P Mickel, Alan T., 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 54, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Target: Fuel Dump near Ravenna, Italy.
Flying Time: 3:55 (95th
mission in MTO)
Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt, pilot
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 50)
“Pre-briefed @ 0820, then on 1 hr. standby.
Pre-briefed 0820 T.O. 1045 Pilot: Hawkes CoPilot: Nagel
Ship # 696 (Baby Blue Eyes) (43-27697) Alt, 11,500’ Bombs: 20 –100 # Demos
Position: 2-3-1 Target: Oil Dump 3 mi. NE of Ravenna (44° 26’ N - 12° 15’ E).
Over target @ 1240, no flak or fighters. Only 15 bombs released ok, had to kick 5 out
over the water.
Burandt got back from Rest Camp in Rome, really enjoyed himself. Rec’d 2
letters from DF; 1 from Dot Clark. Went into Solenzara to pick up laundry. Covered Slit
trench. Flying time: 03:45 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., Capt, pilot
Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men are on DS at Cairo,
Egypt: 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; T/Sgt. Clint R. Collins. Morning report: Officers-93;
Enlisted Men -328. 2nd
Lt. John G. Nall was promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per SO 167-
12th
AAF. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing and local transition.
Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt, bombardier
Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 417/mission 417) Group Mission # 417: One
of our ships flew as a spare with the 445th
in a raid on Fuel Dumps near Ravenna at M-
599399. The target was well covered, with most bombs starting south and east of road,
walked through to the canal. One plane not getting rid of bombs at target dropped on
small boats in Cattolica Harbor leaving one burning. Bombing accuracy 90 %; Mission
efficiency 70 %.
A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” (lead
spare)
P Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt
E Engels, Robert W., Sgt
R Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None
Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 418/mission 418) Group Mission # 418:
(447th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 417/mission 417) Group Mission # 417:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 418/mission 418) Group Mission # 418:
A/C No. 43-27648 (lead spare)
P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt
CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt
B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt
R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt
G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None
Monday, 3 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, B-26s and A-20s pound enemy fuel dumps while B-25s hit
bridges, tunnels, and viaducts at Pietrasanta, Canneto sull'Oglio and Saviano, and fuel
storage tanks in the Pontelagoscuro area; fighter-bombers blast motor transport and
bridges in the battle area as the US Fifth Army begins a drive on Leghorn; vehicle park,
ammunition dump, and a barge are also hit.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Although higher headquarters wanted us to knock out some
viaducts north of Florence, weather wouldn’t permit it. However, the two 19 plane
formations knocked out the Pietrasanta bridges as an alternate.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 419/mission 419) Group Mission # 419:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 419 Date: 3 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-0 448- 18
Target: Saviano RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Rd Bridge at Pietrasanta.
Time OFF: 0838 T.O.T.: 0950 Time Down: 1046
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 420/mission 420) Group Mission # 420:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 420 Date: 3 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447-18 448- 0
Target: Fabricaccio RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Pietrasanta Bridge.
Time OFF: 0827 T.O.T.: 0950 Time Down: 1110
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron sent 1 spare with the formation which bombed the
railroad bridge at Pietrasanta, Italy. Good results were achieved. There was another rigid
training schedule in effect today. Some of the bombardiers spent time on the bomb
trainer in the morning and afternoon; there was formation flying; some test hops; some
transition flights; and some ships went to the bombing range. Lt. Richardson and Sgt.
Butler, pilot and gunner respectively, appeared before the Medical Board at 17th
General
Hospital. There was plenty of liquor flowing at both clubs tonight.
Butler, Russell J., Sgt, gunner Richardson, John S., 2Lt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 419/mission 419) Group Mission # 419:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 420/mission 420) Group Mission # 420:
Squadron Mission 298
TARGET: Fabricaccio RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Pietrasanta Bridge.
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) (lead spare)
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt
N None
B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt
E Smith, William F., Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: The Cairo boys return from Egypt: Captain Warren, Lts. Church,
Jordan and Mottley, EM’s Bufkin, Kane, Perkins, Burrow.
Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Burrow, Isom F., Sgt, gunner
Church, Edwin A., 1Lt, pilot Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot
Kane, Ronald J., Sgt, engineer-gunner Mottley, John F., 1Lt, bombardier
Perkins, Lawrence W., Sgt, engineering Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 419/mission 419) Group Mission # 419:
Squadron Mission 315
TARGET: Road Bridge at Pietrasanta, Italy DATE: 3 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Dossey, 448th
Sqdn. led the formation, Road bridge reported hit also road junction N
of bridge. Concentration of bombs over to W of target. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly
accurate, no fighters.
Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot, 448th
BS
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
(lead spare)
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N Chapman, John E., 2Lt
B Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 420/mission 420) Group Mission # 420:
(446th
BS did not participate)
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 1:55 (96th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 2:00 (97th
mission in MTO)
Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Club bartender tonite. Nothing scheduled today. On bomb-trainer, 1445-1700.
Attended the club bar from 1700-2230, fairly busy. On a mission tomorrow.”
447th
BS War Diary: Capt. John M. Hamilton is at rest camp, Rome, Italy. The
following enlisted men have been promoted: Sgt. Michael P. Freisen, to the grad of staff
sergeant. Cpl. John J. Konicki, to the grade of sergeant. 1st Lieutenant Sherman E.
Anderson, returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy. Today’s training consisted of practice
bombing and local transition.
Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt, bombardier Freisen, Michael P., S/Sgt, supply
Hamilton, John M. “Doc”, Capt, Medical Officer
Konicki, John J., Sgt, ordnance
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 419/mission 419) Group Mission # 419:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 420/mission 420) Group Mission # 420: 18
of our ships participated in a raid on Pietrasanta Railroad Bridge, with Lt. Murray,
leading the mission. Good concentration of bombs in target area – hitting northeast end
of bridge. A few bombs short to southeast. Bombing accuracy – 51 %; Mission
efficiency – 40 %.
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet
Mrs. Runyon) A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt
R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 2Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Webb, James, A., 2Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
A/C No. 43-27701
P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt
N None None
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Watson, James N., 2Lt
E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt
CP Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj,
HQ 321st BG
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 2Lt
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 2Lt
E Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt
G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F Burns, Harry B., Pvt None
A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”
P Gillis, John R., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Wigmore, William H., 2Lt
N None None
B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt
E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt
R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt
G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC Simms, Cleo W., Cpl
A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27779
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None None
B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Gould, Joe W., F/O
E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Mabbutt, William T., Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil”
P Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt Nall, John G., 2Lt
CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC None
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 419/mission 419) Group Mission # 419: Mission 283 (419): At 08:38 19 planes off to bomb Saviano viaduct but due to clouds at
primary the alternate target of Pietrasanta B was bombed. 15 planes dropped 59x1000
bombs at 10:08 from 10,000 feet. Four planes did not pick up target and failed to bomb.
All returned at 10:46. Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate flak holed one plane. Spits
escorted. The R/B was well hit, also hits on tracks 200 yds NW of target. Weather:
3/10th
Cumulus at primary, CAVU at alternate.
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-4027
P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt
CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt
N Hickey, William O., 1Lt Bond, Edward N., 1Lt
B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt
E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Congdon, Harry W., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”
P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Ernst, David L., S/Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., PFC Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
N None None
B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., Sgt None
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27481
P Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt
CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
N None Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt
B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Greene, Louis P., 1Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-4051
P Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt Bard, John A., 2Lt
CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt
N None None
B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt
E Clark, Raymond S., Sgt Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt
R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield M., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27523
P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
N None None
B Bearden, James, E., 2Lt McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt
E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt
R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt
G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27631
P Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt
N None None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt
F Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt None
Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27791
P Warren, William F., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt
E Veeck, Richard W., Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt
R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27726
P Rogers, Henry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
N None Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
G Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Crow, Roscoe J., PFC
F White, E. T., Sgt None
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 420/mission 420) Group Mission # 420:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Tuesday, 4 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, weather cancels light and medium bomber operations;
fighter-bomber operations are greatly reduced but attacks are made on bridges, rail lines,
roads, and guns in and N of the battle area as US Fifth Army elements clear parts of
Rosignano, overrun Mount Vitalba and area to its E, and push into Casole d'Elsa; and the
522nd
, 523rd
and 524th
Fighter Squadrons, 27th
Fighter Group, move from Ciampino to
Voltone with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: After briefing—stood down---weather.
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron had 18 crews alerted for a mission but it was
cancelled. It was a very quiet 4th
of July. The clubs opened up in the afternoon and there
was a goodly supply of liquor for all. A number of the engineer gunners were given
instructions on proper pre-flight and inspections of a B-25 aircraft. There were two PDI
flights while Lt. Hatcher flew a cross-country to Ajaccio.
Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
445th
BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
07/04/44: “This Independence Day has been most inappropriately observed of any I
can remember. After a strenuous night of bomb loading, I slept considerably this
forenoon. The weather was warm and uncomfortable, putting me in a rather petulant,
sour mood. After dinner several of us went to our usual hole for a swim. I enjoyed it
very much and returned feeling much better. The club was opened at two o’clock and by
the time we returned much boisterousness in the squadron had resulted. It’s quite
different from our “4ths” on horseback when I was a kid.”
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Lieutenants Dickerson and Ritger go on DS.
Regular duties. A small mail.
Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt, bombardier Ritger, Frederic Charles, 1Lt, pilot
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Went to pre-briefing @ 0650, mission cancelled due to weather. Spent the a.m. writing
to D.F. and Mary Mooney. Went swimming this afternoon – good. Rec’d letter from
Alice. Meeting all combat crews @ 1915, “Escape Procedure”. Doc Warren repaid
$100.00 he borrowed. Wrote Alice. Rec’d a letter from Eddy – answered. Strong wind
blowing all day.
Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer
Tuesday, 4 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. Usual squadron duties.
Today’s training consisted of one ship flying PDI runs for one hour and nine ships flying
a practice formation.
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Wednesday, 5 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, B-25s bomb Villafranca di Verona marshalling yard, Aulla
railroad bridge, and Ostiglia fuel dumps while A-20s blast a supply dump and rail lines;
fighter-bombers hit tracks, bridges, roads, and other targets in the battle area as the US
Fifth Army continues fierce fighting around Rosignano.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: One mission today took off late—about 1300 hours.
However, they picked up the target and photos showed 90% of the bombs in the target
area with the bridge blanketed with bombs.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 421/mission 421) Group Mission # 421:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 421 Date: 5 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 18 447-0 448- 1
Target: Aulla N. RR Bridge
Time OFF: 1751 T.O.T.: 1907 Time Down: 2000
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: Once again 18 crews were scheduled for the mission which was
cancelled. There were two PDI flights made while two of the bombardiers spent one-half
hour each on the bombsight rate machine. Sgt. Henrich, one of the older gunners, left for
the States on rotation today. In the evening, Captain Smith gave an excellent sex lecture
at the enlisted men’s club. The amiable “Doc”, very familiar with all Army phrasing,
gave the lecture in a very straight-forward and frank manner. The men were very
satisfied with the lecture.
Henrich, James G., Sgt, gunner Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 421/mission 421) Group Mission # 421:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: Another 18 plane mission is flown.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 421/mission 421) Group Mission # 421:
Squadron Mission 316
TARGET: Aulla N. RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 5 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th
Planes: 18
Captain Cooper led the formation. Fine concentration reported in target area, with
heaviest concentration on S end of bridge and approaches. Other bombs fell across N end
and tracks to N and some through center. Fires started in buildings just to SE of bridge.
Few bursts of flak.
Wednesday, 5 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt
CP Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt
N None None
B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt
E Kreider, John L., Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt
R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt
G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane)
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None None
B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Heery, Philip M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Cooper, Paul T., Capt, Commander Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt
CP Smith, Richard H., Col, 321st BG
Commander
White, Frank B., 2Lt
N Dunn, Thomas B., 2Lt None
B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt
G Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64549 A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
P Taylor, Jason G., 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt
CP Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt
R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt
G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 5 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27480
P Matzinger, Keith Robinson, 1Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., Sgt
E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art) A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
P Hipson, Robert Graham, 2Lt Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N None Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt Kiernan, Noble J., 2Lt
E Zelnick, John J., Sgt Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt
R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”
P Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 2Lt
CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., S/Sgt
N None None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Noel, Paul R., 2Lt
E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Green, Salem M., T/Sgt
G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS)
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt
CP Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt
N None None
B Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt Sitts, Lonnie C., 2Lt
E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Brown, Ronald M., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 5 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart”
P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt
N None None
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 55, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Sacker A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Target: Aulla N. RR Bridge, Italy.
Flying Time: 2:25 (98th
mission in MTO)
Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 51)
“Mission standby. Around club reading.
Pre-briefed 1630 T.O. 1751 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Gibbons
Ship # 503 (43-27503 “Miss Arabella”) Alt. 10,800 Bombs: 8-500 # Demos
Position: 2-2-1
Target: Road & RR bridge 2 mi. North of Aulla (44° 13’ N - 09° 57½’ E). Over target
@ 1910, no fighters or flak. Excellent concentration of bombs.
Rec’d 2 letters from Alice, 1 – Grandma. Flying time: 02:40 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Today’s training consisted of
three planes with full crews taking off at 04:00 for a practice mission of nine planes in the
afternoon. Usual squadron duties. With the 42nd
Engineers giving out with that
inimitable American jive, a delicious buffet lunch and the bar doing a rushing business.
We again chalked up another successful social gathering for the 447th
enlisted men club.
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 421/mission 421) Group Mission # 421:
(447th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Wednesday, 5 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 421/mission 421) Group Mission # 421:
A/C No. 43-4027 (lead spare)
P Greene, William A., 1Lt
CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N Hickey, William O., 1Lt
B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt
E Blasingame, Emery J., S/Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt
F None
Thursday, 6 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, A-20s hit an ammunition ship at La Spezia during the night
of 5/6 Jul and continue attacks on fuel supplies during the day; medium bombers again
hit communication, concentrating on bridges N of the battleline, and attack enemy
warehouses and HQ; fighter-bombers hit rail lines (with especially good results between
Viareggio and Massa Lombarda) and damage several bridges just N of the battle area as
the US Fifth Army continues clearing Rosignano and takes Castellina Marittima and
Mount Vaso.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Four missions today including one of the nickeling variety to
Pistoia and Lucca. Two flights of 19 aircraft each hit two sections of the Todi
Headquarters and Dump. Good coverage in the north section but practically no bombs in
the south section.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 422/mission 422) Group Mission # 422:
Heavy, intense flak was expected from the Vado Viaduct which 19 aircraft attacked today
and nothing happened to change those expectations. All 19 planes were holed—one pilot
killed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 422 Date: 6 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-18 448- 0
Target: Vado Viaduct
Time OFF: 0818 T.O.T.: 0942 Time Down: 1040
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 423/mission 423) Group Mission # 423:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 423 Date: 6 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-0 448- 18
Target: Todi Hdqs & Dump.
Time OFF: 0908 T.O.T.: 1043 Time Down: 1150
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 424/mission 424) Group Mission # 424:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 424 Date: 6 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 18
Squadrons: 445- 17 446- 1 447-0 448- 0
Target: Todi Hdqs & Dump.
Time OFF: 0920 T.O.T.: 1043 Time Down: 1155
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 425/mission 425) Group Mission # 425:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 425 Date: 6 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 18
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 4 447-0 448- 0
Target: Pistoia and Lucca (Nickels)
Time OFF: 1605 T.O.T.: 1709 - 1717 Time Down: 1820
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft for the mission today but 1 did
not take off due to a malfunction. They bombed the Todi Headquarters and fuel dump in
Italy with a bombing accuracy of 53 per cent. It was the squadron’s 300 combat mission.
Lt Fischer took a crew over to Naples and from there to Catania, Sicily.
Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 422/mission 422) Group Mission # 422:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 423/mission 423) Group Mission # 423:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 424/mission 424) Group Mission # 424:
Squadron Mission 299
TARGET: Todi Organization H.Q. at Poretta Terni.
Type of Bombs: 128 x 500 lb bombs drpd (8 returned in 631)
900 rds of ammunition expended.
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt
CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
N Sharp, Kenneth R., Capt None
B Maughan, George W., 1Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt
E Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”
P Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt
CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond F., F/O
N None Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt
B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt
E Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt
R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt
G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt
CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N None None
B Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt
G McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”
(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”)
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt
CP Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt
N None None
B Monk, William (NMI), 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., S/Sgt
E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Hickey, William R., S/Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”)
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph R., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None
B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., Sgt
G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II”
P Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt Jeffery, James C., 2Lt
CP Martin, John W., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt
N None None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt
E Walther, Henry W., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
N None None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt
E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl
- no name/lettering)
A/C No. 43-27509 (did not take off –
engine trouble) (only pilot listed – likely
crew is)
P McLain, Damon I., Capt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N Napple, Francis L., 2Lt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Shiloh, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl
F None None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 425/mission 425) Group Mission # 425:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS War Diary: Two missions are flown with a small mail call in the afternoon.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 422/mission 422) Group Mission # 422:
Squadron Mission 317
TARGET: Vado Viaduct, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Muzinich, 447th
Sqdn. led the formation. Splendid concentration in target area, with
most bombs observed towards S end of bridge. Bridge reported out in two places before
bombing. Another span knocked out by this formation. Pilot Nall killed, seven
wounded. “Window” used. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. Nineteen planes
holed.
Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt, pilot, 447th
BS Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot, 447th
BS
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N Chapman, John E., 2Lt
B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt
R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt
G Burrow, Isom F., Cpl
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 423/mission 423) Group Mission # 423:
Squadron Mission 318
TARGET: Todi HQ and Dump, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Furey, 448th
Sqdn. led the formation. Few scattered hits in target area. Possible hits
on buildings in SE corner of area. Flak was heavy, intense, fairly accurate. Seven planes
holed.
Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th
BS
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS)
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O
E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC
R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt
G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt
F None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 424/mission 424) Group Mission # 424:
Squadron Mission 319
TARGET: Todi HQ and Dump, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Russell, 445th
Sqdn. led the formation. Majority of bombs in target area with
concentration in S section. One concentration reported W of tracks in town covering a
road junction there. Flak was heavy, moderate and fairly accurate to inaccurate. No
fighters.
Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 2Lt, pilot, 445th
BS
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt
N Dunn, Thomas B., 2Lt
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt
E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 425/mission 425) Group Mission # 425:
Squadron Mission 320
TARGET: Pistoia and Lucia, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944
Type of Bombs: Front Post Pamphlets. 446th
Planes: 4
Lt. Sampson led the formation. Pamphlets successfully dropped. Six bursts of flak, no
fighters.
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt
CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt
N None None
B Casper, Henry G., Sgt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Henry, Scott G., Sgt
R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27745
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt
N Robertson, Charles W., 1Lt None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 56, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: White A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Target: Pistoia and Lucia, Italy
Flying Time: 2:20 (99th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 57, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 2:00 (100th
mission in MTO)
Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Practice bombing mission with Burandt. 5 bombs, CE-109. Reading all afternoon.
Meeting in Officer’s Club @ 1900, few boys got promoted, air medals given out. Rec’d
my first Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal. Rec’d 2 letters from Ma. To show, Danny Kaye
“Up in Arms” – Excellent. Flying time: 01:30 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: The following combat officers and combat enlisted men received
wounds while participating in today’s raid on Vado Viaduct: 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones; 2
nd
Lt. William H. Wigmore; 2nd
Lt. Paul H. Noe Jr.; 2nd
Lt. Robert M. James; 2nd
Lt. Edward
J. Stanley, 2nd
Lt. Harold N. Lindell; 2nd
Lt. James N. Watson; Staff Sergeant Robert W.
Koecher; Staff Sergeant Robert R. Vineski. 2nd
Lt. John G. Nall, pilot; was killed in
action while participating in the Vado Viaduct raid. The following enlisted men were
assigned to this squadron per SO 105-321st Bombardment Group Headquarters: Sergeant
Homer Leffler; Private David Budowsky; Private Warren E. Evans; Private Naseem J.
Haik; Private Haskell R. Oden; Private Jack Kantrowitz; Private Edward J. Drabinski;
Private First Class Giuseppe Congelosi; Private Jack B. Luck. Today’s training consisted
of local transitions.
Budowsky, David (NMI), Pvt, communications
Congelosi, Giuseppe (NMI), PFC, transportation
Drabinski, Edward J., Pvt, transportation Evans, Warren E., Pvt, transportation
Haik, Naseem J., Pvt, duty soldier James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
Jones, Claude F., 1Lt, bombardier Kantrowitz, Jack (NMI), Pvt, transportation
Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Leffler, Homer (NMI), Sgt, mess
Lindell, Harold N., 2Lt, navigator Luck, Jack B., Pvt, communications
Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt, pilot Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot
Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Oden, Haskell R., Pvt, transportation
Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt, bombardier
Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Watson, James N., 2Lt, bombardier Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 422/mission 422) Group Mission # 422: 18
of our ships participated in a raid on Vado Viaduct, L-814290, with Lt. Muzinich, leading
the mission. A splendid concentration of bombs in target area in spite of heavy flak, with
most bombs towards south end of bridge. The bridge was cut in two places before our
bombing. Another span was knocked out by our formation. All eighteen of our ships
were holed by flak. Bombing accuracy – 41 %; Mission efficiency – 34 %.
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Col, HQ 321st
BG
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1lt
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Stanley (NMI), T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl”
P Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Wigmore, William H., 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., F/O Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt
E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt
R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
P Nall, John G., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 2Lt
CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt Watson, James N., 2Lt
E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt
R Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None Shand, Arthur T., PFC
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Cpl Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt
E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt
R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt
G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-27718
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Gillis, John R., 2Lt
CP Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt Walker, Marion E., 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Smith, William L., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt
R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Free, Paul L., S/Sgt
G Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt Rose, Clifford A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-27701
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None None
B Rosenbledt, James M., 2Lt Webb, James, A., 2Lt
E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., Sgt Not listed – likely Balling, Robert J.,
S/Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC Burns, Harry B., Pvt
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt
R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt
F None None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 423/mission 423) Group Mission # 423:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 424/mission 424) Group Mission # 424:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 425/mission 425) Group Mission # 425:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 26)
“Target: Vado Viaduct Bologna Flak: HIA 12 min Combat: 2:20 Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: Spits Plane # 79 (43-4079 “Little David) Crew: P-Lt Monger
CP-Lt Jensen B-Lt Mesna E-Sgt Smith R-Sgt Fiocca G-Sgt Mango
Lt Nall KIA. Lt Watson & Lt Stanly both seriously wounded and hospitalized. Lt James,
Lt Lindell, Lt Wigmore, Lt Noe, SSG Vineski & SSG Koecher were wounded lightly but
not hospitalized. All aircraft holed. Four making single engine landings. Splendid
concentrations in target area despite heavy flak w/most bombs on S end of Bridge.
Bridge reported out in 2 places.”
Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt, radio-gunner James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier
Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
Lindell, Harold N., 1lt, navigator Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt, bombardier
Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt, pilot Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot
Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Smith, William L., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt, bombardier
Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Watson, James N., 2Lt, bombardier Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 422/mission 422) Group Mission # 422:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 423/mission 423) Group Mission # 423:
Mission 284 (423): At 09:20 18 planes off to bomb Todi Organization RR/sheds at
Poretta Terme and dropped 136 x 500 bombs at 10:41 from 11,000 feet. 8 bombs were
not dropped because panel lights failed to work. All planes returned at 11:55. Area
cover by Spits. Crews report majority of bombs in target area, concentration in S section,
other bombs fell W of tracks in town covering the R/J. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate flak
from IP and from batteries S of target. Some reports of brown colored puffs but no
planes holed. Weather: CAVU at target.
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt
CP Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None
B Greene, Louis P., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt
G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
P Bard, John A., 2Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt
CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
N None None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”
P Warren, William F., 2Lt Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt
F Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-27508
P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
N None None
B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Irvine, Josef F., Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-4076
P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt
CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt McCue, William M., Jr., 1lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27631
P Grady, John R., 2Lt Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt
CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
N None None
B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E White, Joseph John, Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt
R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4051 A/C No. 43-27481
P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt
N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt None
B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt
E Sullivan, James G., PFC Carter, Eugene F., Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt
F None White, E. T., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Ernst, David L., S/Sgt Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt
R Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
G Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
A/C No. 43-27668
P Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt
CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt
N None None
B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt
E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 424/mission 424) Group Mission # 424:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 425/mission 425) Group Mission # 425:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Friday, 7 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 6/7 Jul A-20s bomb La Spezia harbor and
motor transport in the area, and resume an attack on fuel supplies during the day; B-26s
and B-25s score direct hits on railway bridges at Reggio Emilia, and over the Fratta River
and possible hits on the Santa Maria di Mugnano bridge and 2 other bridges in the area;
they also hit Collecchio fuel dump, causing many fires and explosions; fighter-bombers
attack Ferrara Airfield, the town of Empoli, and rail lines, bridges, fuel and ammunition
dumps, motor transport, and numerous other targets in the battle area as US Fifth Army
forces complete the clearing of Rosignano; and a detachment of the 346th
Fighter
Squadron, 350th
Fighter Group, based at Pomigliano begins operating from Piombino
with P-39s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions today against the Sasso and Fratta bridges.
The Fratta bridge was knocked out with a devastating pattern; while on the Sasso one the
terrain made it tough to pick up and as a result it was missed entirely. Nine planes were
holed in the later raid.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 426/mission 426) Group Mission # 426:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 426 Date: 7 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445-18 446- 0 447-0 448-1
Target: Sasso RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0930 T.O.T.: 1044 Time Down: 1147
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 427/mission 427) Group Mission # 427:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 427 Date: 7 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445-0 446- 18 447-1 448-0
Target: Fratta RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0950 T.O.T.: 1103 Time Down: 1201
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron furnished 18 aircraft to bomb the Sasso railroad
bridge, Italy. Due to an intense flak barrage, the bridge was not hit according to plan.
Sgt. Lincoln W. Mark, and engineer-gunner, was killed by flak on the mission. Sgt.
Mark, a quiet Chinese lad, was liked and respected by the men. A number of the combat
crews went to the rest camps at Rome and Capri. Lt. Fischer and crew returned from
Catania today. Captains Strenger, Wilson and a crew went on a sea search for a missing
aircraft this afternoon. An oil slick and debris was sighted but there was no trace of the
plane.
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt, pilot Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot, Operations Officer
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 426/mission 426) Group Mission # 426:
Squadron Mission 300
TARGET: RR Bridge 10 mile south of Bologna, Italy
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt
R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design”
P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Jeffery, James C., 2Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt
N None None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt
E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt
R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt
G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt
F None Plott, John M., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27509
P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27553
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
N None None
B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt
E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
F None None
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl
- no name/lettering)
P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt McLain, Damon I., Capt
CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt
N None Sides, Harry F., 2Lt
B Reddy, John E., S/Sgt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt
R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt
G Weaver, Dale W., Cpl Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”
(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt
N None None
B Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt
E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt
R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt
G Decker, Robert J., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
N Conover, Donald C., 2Lt None
B Monk, William (NMI), 1Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II”
P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None None
B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt
R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N None None
B Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt
E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt
R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt
G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt
F None None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 427/mission 427) Group Mission # 427:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: Regular duties.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 426/mission 426) Group Mission # 426:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 427/mission 427) Group Mission # 427:
Squadron Mission 301
TARGET: Fratta RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 7 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 18
Lt. Jordan led the formation. Excellent coverage of target area with concentration on N
end and N approach of bridge. No flak, no fighters.
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later
Darlene)
P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Ligon, Walter M., 2Lt
N None None
B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt
E Kreider, John L., Sgt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt
R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
F None None
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane)
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt
N None None
B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt
G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart”
P Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt
N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Burrow, Isom F., Cpl Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., S/Sgt
G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 42-64549
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-27480
P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt
CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt
N Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt None
B Chapman, John E., 1Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt
E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Brown, Ronald M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Cohen, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt
N None None
B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt
R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt
G Heery, Philip M., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B Leith, William V., 2Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 58, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Target: Fratta RR Bridge, Italy.
Flying Time: 2:40 (101st mission in MTO)
Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 52)
“Pre-briefed 0820 T.O. 0950 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Ligon
Ship # 097 (43-4097 “Tiny?” - later “Darlene”) Alt. 10,800 Bombs: 4-1000 #
Demos Position: 1-2-1 Target: RR Bridge 5 mi. N.E. of Ostia (44° 35’ N - 09° 56’ E).
Over target 1103, no fighters or flak. Excellent concentration on bridge.
Signed payroll. Shaved & showered. Rec’d letter from Billy. Wrote Ma,
Grandma, D.F. Flying time: 02:35 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: Captain John M. Hamilton has returned from rest camp, Rome,
Italy. 1st Lt. Svend P. Olsen is on DS at Laredo, Texas, (Flexible Gunnery School) per
orders of July 3rd
. The following officers and enlisted men have been assigned to this
squadron per SO 106—57th
Wing: 2nd
Lt. Robert J. Burns, pilot; 2nd
Lt. Richard L.
Willis, co-pilot; Staff Sergeant Gaston G. Poulin, radio-gunner; Corporal Andrew C.
Dubbs, engineer-gunner; Corporal George T. Lejman, armorer-gunner. The following
combat officers have been promoted to the rank of 1st Lieutenant per orders dated July
2nd
: 2nd
Lt. Melville R. Bastin; 2nd
Lt. Ralph T. Grimse; 2nd
Lt. William F. Heitman; 2nd
Lt. Edward Krafka; 2nd
Lt. Henry J. Magne; 2nd
Lt. Wayne A. Manz; 2nd
Lt. Anthony L.
Muzinich; 2nd
Lt. James M. Rosenbledt; 2nd
Lt Wayne T. Rye, Jr.; 2nd
Lt. Marvin L.
Spruill; 2nd
Lt. James A. Webb. All combat officers were briefed on, “Escape” at the
officers club at 1845 hours by Captain Robert W. Manly. The combat enlisted men were
also briefed by Captain Robert W. Manly, at their club at 1915 hours. Today’s training
consisted of a six plane formation.
Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot Burns, Robert J., 2nd Lt, pilot
Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl, engineer-gunner Grimse, Ralph T., 1Lt, pilot
Hamilton, John M. “Doc”, Capt, Medical Officer
Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
Lejman, George T., Cpl, armorer-gunner Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot
Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot Olsen, Svend P., 1Lt, navigator
Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt, bombardier
Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
Webb, James A., 1Lt, bombardier Willis, Richard L., 2Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 426/mission 426) Group Mission # 426:
(447th
BS did not participate)
Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 427/mission 427) Group Mission # 427: One
of our ships flew as spare with the 446th
in a raid on Fratta Railroad bridge, - P-775608.
Excellent coverage of target area with concentration on north and west approach of
bridge. The bombs of one element were short of target area. Bombing accuracy -66 %;
Mission efficiency – 84 %.
A/C No. 43-27636 (lead spare)
P Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt
N Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None
448
th BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 426/mission 426) Group Mission # 426:
A/C No. 43-27791
P Riener, William F., 1Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt
N None
B Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt
R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 427/mission 427) Group Mission # 427:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Saturday, 8 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th
AF):
In Italy, during the night of 7/8 Jul A-20s bomb areas in or near
Empoli, Agliana, and Lucca, and hit fuel dumps the following day; medium bombers
pound marshalling yards at Novi Ligure, Piacenza, Mantua, and Ferrara and tracks near
Parma; fighter-bombers again blast railroads, roads, and bridges N of battleline, which is
advancing N from above Cecina toward Leghorn; the 17th
and 35th
Troop Carrier
Squadrons, 64th
Troop Carrier Group, move from Comiso, Sicily to Ciampino with C-
47s; and the detachment of the 416th
Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd
Fighter Wing [attached
to 6505th
Fighter Control Area (Provisional)] moves from Tre Cancello Landing Strip to
Tarquinia with Beaufighters (squadron is based at Pomigliano).
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 428/mission 428) Group Mission # 428:
One 24 aircraft effort this date--against the southwest choke point of Mantua M/Y.
Pictures showed the choke point well hit as well as numerous units of rolling stock and
road overpass.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 428 Date: 7 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 24
Squadrons: 445-0 446- 0 447-12 448-12
Target: Mantua SW Choke Point.
Time OFF: 0927 T.O.T.: 1056 Time Down: 1210
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: There was no operational mission scheduled today but an
extensive training schedule was in effect. Early this morning, 6 ships flew practice
assembly. 12 ships flew on a mock mission but did not drop any bombs due to an
overcast. There were 3 cross-country flights made. There were two mail calls today and
the men were delighted. Supper was not held until 6:15 P.M. The menu was fresh
lobsters, meat loaf, fresh plums, fresh tomatoes, potato salad, etc. Some USO girls ate at
the enlisted men’s club and gave a show later at the theater.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 428/mission 428) Group Mission # 428:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Saturday, 8 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Corporal Dudley is promoted to Sergeant. Lts.
Vivas, Sitts and Sacker, plus EM’s Bove and Jacob go to Capri, while Lts. McRae and
Jaksic and EM’s Maddox, Magnuson, Jupin and Holland go to Rome for a rest.
Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dudley, Jasper E., Sgt, ordnance
Holland, Ernest F., Sgt, ordnance Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC, engineer-gunner
Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt, bombardier
Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Magnuson, Paul E., Sgt, engineering
McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt, pilot
Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt, bombardier Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt, pilot
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 428/mission 428) Group Mission # 428:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Notified at breakfast that I was to be on my way to Rest Camp at Rome. Left from 57th
Wing (310th
Field). Arr. Rome @ 10:30, staying at Regina Hotel. Sightseeing all
afternoon, Rome is really pretty. Wakeley & I met 2 I-T gals, supper, etc. Dry Run.
Hotel a mad-house. (S.O. # 107, 321st BG, 7-7-44, Par. # 6).
Flying time: 01:00 hrs.”
Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt, pilot, 447th
BS
447th
BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Mantua SW Choke Point,
with Lt. Murray, leading our squadron. Bombs started just south of highway overpass
and walked through choke point. Other bombs just short and east and thru M/Y – others
over to NW. Large explosions resulting in flames and smoke in SW part of M/Y.
Bombing accuracy – 54 %; Mission efficiency – 49 %. The following officers and
enlisted men are at rest camp, Capri: 2nd
Lt. William H. Wigmore; Staff Sergeant
William H. Burke; Staff Sergeant Robert R. Vineski; Sergeant Robert W. Engels. The
following officers and enlisted men are at rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Eugene R.
Hermann; T/Sgt. Harry Nalesnik; T/Sgt. Albert V. Hanley; Sergeant Frank H. Bradbury;
Corporal Peter P. Michelau.
Bradbury, Frank H., Sgt, engineering Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
Engels, Robert W., Sgt, gunner Hanley, Albert V., T/Sgt, transportation
Hermann, Eugene R., Capt, engineering Michelau, Peter P., Cpl, communications
Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Nalesnik, Harry (NMI), T/Sgt, engineering
Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot
Saturday, 8 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 428/mission 428) Group Mission # 428:
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None None
B James, Robert M., 2Lt Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., F/O Webb, James, A., 1Lt
E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
R Alpino, Joseph D., Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 8 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”
P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt
E Not listed –likely Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt
R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27701
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Burns, Harry P., Pvt Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
(lead spare – did not fill in due to
mechanical trouble)
P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2lt
N None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
F None
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 428/mission 428) Group Mission # 428:
Mission 285 (428): At 09:27 24 planes off to bomb Mantua M/Y S choke point and 20
planes dropped 80 x 1000 bombs at 10:56 from 10,000 feet and all returned at 12:10. 12
bombs were dropped due to tumbling of element leader’s gyro. 4 bombs not dropped due
to Bombardier’s error. No flak, 12 Spits escort. Crews report that bombs started just S of
highway overpass and walked through choke point. Other bombs fell in M/Y, there was
a large explosion with flames and smoke to 1000 feet from SW part of M/Y. One ME-
109 chased by escort, 2 other ME-109’s seen. Weather: CAVU.
Saturday, 8 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27528
P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt
CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt None
B McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4027
P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
CP Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess”
(returned early – flying time 1:00 hr.) A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
P Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
N None None
B Bearden, James E., 2lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Sullivan, James G., PFC Clark, Raymond S., Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27726
P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt
CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt
N Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt None
B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt
F None White, E. T., S/Sgt
Saturday, 8 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-27631
P Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt
N None None
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Young, Robert B., 2Lt
E Tracy, William G., Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27668
P Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None None
B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27523 (wing spare)
P Warren, William F., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt
N None
B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt
F None
Sunday, 9 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, weather greatly curtails operations; fighter-bombers attack
rail lines between Empoli and Montelupo Fiorentino with good results; other targets
include roads, bridges and gun positions; and the 415th
Night Fighter Squadron, 64th
Fighter Wing (attached to 87th
Fighter Wing), moves from Valtone to Solonzara, Corsica
with Beaufighters.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Mission---weather.
445th
BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled today and unsatisfactory weather
prevented any training flights. Some of the bombardiers spent some time on the
bombsight rate machine. Due to the shortage of bombardiers, several of the gunners are
being “checked out” on their duties as wing bombardiers. There was a good attendance
at church services this morning. Some packages arrived today but little mail. A wooden
shack complete with screens replaced the small O.D. and C.Q. tent. Roast beef was
served for supper. An active sports program took place in the evening with the men
participating in baseball, basketball, volleyball and horseshoes.
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Lt. Hodges is made a 1st Lieut.
Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Up and ate breakfast, walked around town sightseeing, met I-T have a supper date.
Slept awhile after dinner, then to Red Cross. Took a carriage ride. Date for supper
never showed up. Had a lot of fun with LaBella. Jeemey no good – presto. To bed
early.”
LaBella, Dante (NMI) "GI Joe", T/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier, 448th
BS
447th
BS War Diary: Today’s training consisted of local transition. Usual squadron
duties. Morning report: Officers – 92; Enlisted Men – 341.
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Monday, 10 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers successfully hit marshalling yards, railroad
bridges, and viaducts in NC Italy; weather restricts fighter-bombers and fighters but
several targets are hit, including airfield at Modena and scattered gun positions, rail lines,
and roads; HQ 27th
Fighter Group and 522nd
and 523rd
Fighter Squadrons move from
Voltone to Serragia, Corsica with P-47s; and HQ 64th
Troop Carrier Group and 16th
and
18th
Troop Carrier Squadrons move from Comiso, Sicily to Ciampino with C-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Weather prevented the primary bridge at Acquasanta and
Boccaccio from being bombed so the formation attacked the alternates at Recco and
Bogliasco. Crews reported both objectives well knocked out but pictures showed that the
446th
had whacked the Sori RR bridge instead of the Bogliasco one. A striking similarity
in surround features accounted for the error.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 429/mission 429) Group Mission # 429:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 429 Date: 10 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445-18 446- 0 447-1 448-0
Target: Boccaccio RR Bridge – Bombed alt. Recco Rail Viaduct.
Time OFF: 0935 T.O.T.: 1121 Time Down: 1205
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 430/mission 430) Group Mission # 430:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 430 Date: 10 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 18
Squadrons: 445-0 446- 17 447-0 448-1
Target: Acquasanta RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Bogliasco Viaduct.
Time OFF: 0935 T.O.T.: 1121 Time Down: 1205
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft for the group which bombed the
rail viaduct at Recco, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 100 per cent. There were 3 cross-
country flights made and some of the bombardiers were checked out on the bombsight
rate machine. Lt. Jackson, Assistant Intelligence Officer, gave a lecture on escape
procedure to the combat crews. A large detailed map of the entire Pacific area was put up
in the intelligence office. Some mail and packages arrived today. Beer was served in the
evening. The movie for tonight was “Tampico” with Lynn Bari and Edward G.
Robinson. Severe wind which whipped clouds of dust into the crowd detracted from the
enjoyment of a good movie.
Jackson, James O., 2Lt, intelligence
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 429/mission 429) Group Mission # 429:
Squadron Mission 302
TARGET: Recco Rail Viaduct
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
P Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt
N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None
B Yepez, Oscar W., 1Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering)
P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O
N None Sides, Harry F., 2Lt
B Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt
E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt
R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt
G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt
N None None
B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt
E Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s
Cookin’?” (later “Pretty Kitty Blue
Eyes”)
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt
N None None
B Monk, William (NMI), 1Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt
E Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt
R Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT”
P Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt
CP Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ
321st BG
N None Napple, Francis L., 2Lt
B Klein, Robert J., 2Lt Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt
E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Bellendir, John C., Sgt
R Gray, John H., S/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., S/Sgt
G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”
P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
N None None
B Reddy, John E., S/Sgt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G Weaver, Dale W., Cpl Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27509
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”
P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt
E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt
F None None
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”)
P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt
R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F None None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 430/mission 430) Group Mission # 430:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: Regular duties.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 429/mission 429) Group Mission # 429:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 430/mission 430) Group Mission # 430:
Squadron Mission 322
TARGET: Bogliasco Viaduct, Italy (Alt) DATE: 10 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 17
Lt. Jordan led the formation. Bad weather led to bombing of alternate. Good
concentration reported, heaviest at E end of viaduct with some bombs over, on center and
short. Flak was heavy, scant and inaccurate.
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later
Darlene)
P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt
N None Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt
E Kreider, John L., Sgt Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt
R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt
G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
A/C No. 43-27480
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Heery, Philip M., Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 42-64549
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
N None None
B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt
R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C”
P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt
CP Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt
N None Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt
B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt
E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Kane, Ronald J., Sgt
R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Burrow, Isom F., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 43-27745 (returned early –
engine cut out)
P Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt
CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Leith, William V., 2Lt Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt
E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt
F None None
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 60, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
Target: Acquasanta RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Bogliasco Viaduct.
Flying Time: 3:00 (102nd
mission in MTO)
Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Up early, ate chow, walked thru town, then to Vatican City. St. Peter’s Church
magnificent, never saw anything to compare with it. Beautiful, gorgeous immense, etc.
At 1230 was to present at an audience before the Pope, gave a short speech. Shook
hands, and kissed his ring. Very imposing, feel very small and humble before him. Spoke
in French & English. To Red Cross, cake & coffee. At 1730, went to Opera, saw La
Traviata, very good. Believe Toscanini there (check).”
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest
camp, Capri: Capt. W.H. Whitton; 1st Lt. M.L. Spruill; 1
st Lt. J.F. McGill; 1
st Lt. I.E.
Dean; T/Sgt. A.W. Chatters; Staff Sergeant C.M. Richards. Today’s training consisted of
a 10 ship formation practice and local transition.
Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Chatters Aubrey W., T/Sgt, gunner
McGill, James F., 1Lt, Adjutant Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt, turret-gunner
Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier Whitton, Walter H., Jr., Capt, armament
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 429/mission 429) Group Mission # 429: One
of our ships participated as a spare with the 445th
squadron. Due to cloud layers while
approaching the primary target, Boccaccio Rail Bridge, the alternate, Recco Rail Viaduct
P-135422, was bombed. Fine concentration in target area with majority of bombs
starting at center of viaduct and going west. Other hits in east and on approach with a
few short in water. Bombing accuracy – 96 %; Mission efficiency – 22 %.
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
F None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 430/mission 430) Group Mission # 430:
(447th
BS did not participate)
Monday, 10 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 429/mission 429) Group Mission # 429:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 430/mission 430) Group Mission # 430:
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” (lead
spare)
P Greene, William A., 1Lt
CP Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
N None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt
E Sullivan, James G., PFC
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt
F None
Tuesday, 11 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72
nd
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), arrives at Santa Maria, Italy
from Oran, Algeria with L-5s (first mission is in Aug 44).
In Italy, weather again hampers operations; medium bombers attack a
marshalling yard at Alessandria, hit an approach to a railroad bridge at Chiavari, and
score near misses on other bridges; fighter-bombers hit an airfield at Rimini and attack
fuel dumps, rail lines, gun positions, bridges, and targets of opportunity N of the
battleline as the US Fifth Army engages in hard fighting in the Pastina and Laiatico area;
the 5th
Combat Mapping Squadron, 3rd
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves
from Viterbo to Borgo, Corsica with F-5s; and the 526th
Fighter Squadron, 86th
Fighter
Group, moves from Orbetello to Poretta, Corsica with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 431/mission 431) Group Mission # 431:
52 aircraft took off today to bomb the Alessandria M/Y an immense concentration of
tracks and rolling stock 40 miles east of Turin. Surprisingly no flak or fighters were
encountered and the target was well hit—especially the east choke point which was
smothered by the last flight of nine planes. A large number of box-cars were derailed and
destroyed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 431 Date: 11 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 53
Squadrons: 445-3 446- 17 447-17 448-16
Target: Alessandria M/Yds.
Time OFF: 0823 T.O.T.: 1008 Time Down: 1115
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 3 spares for the mission which attacked the
Alessandria marshalling yards, Italy. Another day of extensive training. Six ships flew
practice assembly, four more went out on the bombing range, there were 3 transitions
flights and one to swing the compass. The personnel tent has been replaced with a
screened-in wooden shack. Sgt. Stanford, the carpenter, is the one responsible for the
excellent buildings around the area. Some mail arrived today. Roast beef was served for
supper. A number of the men are finally getting wooden floors.
Stanford, Hirman P., Sgt, Carpenter
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 431/mission 431) Group Mission # 431:
Squadron Mission 303
TARGET: Alessandria M/Y, Italy.
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner”
(flew with 447th
Squadron) A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design”
(flew with 446th
Squadron)
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Jeffery, James C., 2Lt
CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt
E Smith, William F., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt
R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt
G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering) (flew with 448th
Squadron)
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt
CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt
E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt
R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt
G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: Sergeants Holtzclaw and Langan are reported to be POW.
Holtzclaw, James R., S/Sgt, gunner Langan, Charles H., Sgt, gunner
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 431/mission 431) Group Mission # 431:
Squadron Mission 323
TARGET: Alessandria M/Y, Italy. DATE: 11 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 500 lb. and 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 17
Captain Cooper led the Formation. Three concentrations of bombs reported. One at N
choke point and at E end of RR bridge, another starting at engine sheds center of M/Y
and across tracks into N central part of town, the third short and across choke point
around highway overpass. Other bombs were scattered about. Several fires and one
explosion observed in M/Y. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Wojcik returned early.
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” (returned
early – accidental salvo of bombs) A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
P Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt
CP Goodrich, John W., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt
N None None
B Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt
E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt
R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27499
P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt
E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Borrow, Isom F., Cpl Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical
(observer)
None
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Cooper, Paul T., Capt, Commander Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N Franklin, Arthur E., 2Lt None
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt
R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt
F None None
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt
N None None
B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., Sgt
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt
CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt
N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt None
B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27480 A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane)
P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt
CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt
N None None
B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt
E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 42-64549
P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt
R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27747 A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
N None None
B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt
R Heery, Philip M., Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt
G Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt
F None None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 61, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25D
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 3:10 (103rd
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Up early – ate chow, then packed prior to leaving. Took bus out to Littorio A.P., Left
for Corsica. Landed 1130, back to camp. Got PX rations. Rec’d letters from Louise, M.
Mooney, H.Y. Maguire, and Billy. Wrote Ma, H.Y.M., Louise, Alice.
Flying time: 01:00 hrs.”
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest
camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. E.R. Hermann; T/Sgt. Harry Nalesnik; T/Sgt. A.V. Hanley;
Sgt. F.H. Bradbury; Cpl. Peter P. Michelau. Captain Robert W. Manly has been
appointed squadron voting officer. The following officers and enlisted men have
departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Robert W. Manly; 1st Lt. John J. Thomas;
S/Sgt. Edward H. Jampsa; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler; Sgt. David Jaffe; Pfc. John C.
Jablonsky.
Bradbury, Frank H., Sgt, engineering Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner
Hanley, Albert V., T/Sgt, transportation Hermann, Eugene R., Capt, engineering
Jablonsky, John C., PFC, engineering Jaffe, David (NMI), Sgt, communications
Jampsa, Edward H., S/Sgt, armament
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence
Michelau, Peter P., Cpl, communications Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot
Nalesnik, Harry (NMI), T/Sgt, engineering Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 431/mission 431) Group Mission # 431: 17
of our ships participated in a raid on Alessandria, M/Ys, with Lt. Murray, leading the
mission. Three concentration of bombs, one at North Choke Point, and at East end of
Railroad Bridge. Another starting at engine sheds in center of M/Ys and across tracks
into north central part of town. The third was short and across east choke point around
highway overpass.
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
P Gillis, John R., 2Lt Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, Commander
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj,
HQ 321st BG
N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt Windler, John H., 1Lt
E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt
R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt
G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
(returned early)
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2lt
N None None
B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Webb, James, A., 1Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F., K., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt
G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None None
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling
Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Smith, William L., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F Burns, Harry B., Pvt None
A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt
N None None
B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F None Simms, Cleo W., Cpl
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt
CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Wood, Richard J., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Gould, Joe W., F/O
E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt
R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl”
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt
E Partee, Watson L., Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt
R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt
F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet
Mrs. Runyon) A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None None
B James, Robert M., 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt
F None None
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 431/mission 431) Group Mission # 431:
Mission 286 (431): At 08:23 52 planes off to bomb Alessandria M/Y and 46 dropped
318 x 500 and 24 x 1000 bombs at 10:08 from 10,000 feet. 3 planes did not drop because
of Bombardier’s error, 3 other planes returned bombs because of malfunction of bomb
sight. No flak was fired at formation and all planes down at 11:15. Crews report one
concentration of bombs on N choke point and E end of RR/B. Another string started at
Center of M/Y and across tracks into N central part of town, another pattern fell short and
across E choke point and highway overpass. Hits were observed along W side of M/Y in
maintenance yard and in engine sheds. Some bombs fell in town and explosions and fires
were seen. Weather: CAVU over target.
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27528
P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt
CP Greene, William A., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
N Duncan, George F., 1Lt None
B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt McCue, William M., Jr., S/Sgt
E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27631 A/C No. 43-27668
P Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt
CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Tracy, William G., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F None None
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27726
P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Grady, John R., 2Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., PFC Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F None Knudtson, Orville Fred, S/Sgt, 9th
Combat Camera
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”
(returned early – flying time: 1:55 hrs.) A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
N None None
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Bowman, William E., Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27523
P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None None
B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt
E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt
R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”
P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
CP Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Ernst, David L., S/Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt
F Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt None
Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27791
P Bard, John A., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt
N None None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-4051 A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable”
P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt
CP Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt
N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt
E Sullivan, James G., PFC Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G Brisco, Albert S., M/Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt
F None White, E. T., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (returned
early – flying time 1:10)
P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
CP Smith, Richard H., Col, 321st BG
Commander
Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None
B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt
R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt
G Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 12 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th
AF):
In Italy, A-20s bomb scattered motor transport in the Florence-
Leghorn area during the night of 11/12 Jul; medium bombers begin Operation
MALLORY MAJOR against road and rail bridges over the Po River during the day; A-
20s continue attacking ammunition supplies; fighter-bombers hit barges and small boats
on the Arno River and attack roads, ammunition dumps, gun positions, tracks, vehicles,
and a number of other targets in that general area N of the battleline; HQ 86th
Fighter
Group and the 525th
and 527th
Fighter Squadrons move from Orbetello to Poretta, Corsica
with P-47s; and the 86th
Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th
Bombardment Group
(Light), moves from Ombrone Airfield to Poretta, Corsica with A-20s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The long awaited offensive against the Po Valley bridges
begins today.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 432/mission 432) Group Mission # 432:
The target for our 38 planes---Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge. The crews and pictures
indicate an excellent concentration on the bridge but no spans down.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 432 Date: 12 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 38
Squadrons: 445-18 446- 1 447-1 448-18
Target: Ostiglia R. & RR Bridges.
Time OFF: 0840 T.O.T.: 1020 Time Down: 1127
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: Lt. Joseph W. Manske was appointed Squadron Engineering
Officer. There were four cross country flights today. Several officers from the squadron
attended a party for Major Larson, formerly a navigator for this squadron. In the course
of the night’s proceedings, Capt. Nickerson upset the dope by throwing Capt. Strenger in
a wrestling match.
Larson, Harold W., Maj, navigator Manske, Joseph W., 2Lt, Engineering
Nickerson, James E., Capt, intelligence Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 432/mission 432) Group Mission # 432:
Squadron Mission: 304
TARGET: Ostiglia R. & RR Bridges.
The squadron sent out 18 aircraft to join the formation which bombed the Ostiglia road
and railroad bridge, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 100 per cent.
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II”
A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt
N Sharp, Kenneth R., Capt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt
R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., S/Sgt
E Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Arcuri, John M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt
N None None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt
E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt
CP Glasford, Loren G., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None
B Monk, William (NMI), 1Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), S/Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt
CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Smith, William F., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt
R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s
Cookin’?” (later “Pretty Kitty Blue
Eyes”)
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt
CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
P McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Gunder, William H., 1Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G Swingholm, Raymond J., T/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt
CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N None None
B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt
E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Smith, William A., Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt
G McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt
N None None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt
E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R McDonald, Thomas E., Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
446th
BS War Diary: Regular routine. A small mail call.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 432/mission 432) Group Mission # 432:
Squadron Mission 324
TARGET: Ostiglia Rd. and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 12 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Furey, 448th
Sqdn. led the formation. Heaviest concentration of bombs reported on
SW end and approach to target, with several reports of strings across center and a few to
NE end and approach. Several direct hits on target. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate.
One plane holed no fighters.
Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt, pilot, 448 BS
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad” (lead spare)
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N Chapman, John E., 1Lt
B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt
R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt
G Heery, Philip M., Sgt
F None
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Not scheduled. Took laundry into Solenzara. Reading “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” –
very good. Tired, sacked most of the afternoon. Rec’d letters from Alice, J. McInerney,
Pa, Ma. Wrote Pa, Mac.”
447th
BS War Diary: Cpl. James T. McGinty has been relieved of assignment and
transferred to Personnel Center No.6, for transshipment to the United States. Today’s
training consisted of a test hop.
McGinty, James T., Jr., Cpl, Chemical Warfare Service
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 432/mission 432) Group Mission # 432: One
of our ships participated in a raid on Ostiglia Road and Railroad Bridge, F-745114 as
spare with the 448th
squadron. Heavy concentration of bombs on SW end and approach
to target with several strings across center and a few on NE end and approach. Several
direct hits and a few bombs in town area both to NW and SW. Bombing accuracy – 76
%; Mission efficiency – 76 %.
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) (spare
- completed mission)
P Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt
N Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F None
447th
BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 27)
“Target: Ostiglia RR Br. Flak: HIS Combat: 2:45 Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: None Plane # 476 (43-27476 “Lovely Lady” - previously “Shoo-Shoo
Baby!”)
Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, N- Lt Lindell, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG Alpino,
G-Sgt Mango
Heaviest concentration of bombs reported on SW end and approach to target w/several
strings across center and on NE end.”
Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot
Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator
Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 432/mission 432) Group Mission # 432: Mission 287 (432): At 08:40 38 planes off to bomb Ostiglia R and RR/B and 34 dropped
136 x 1000 SAP bombs at 10:27 from 10,000 feet. Four planes did not drop due to
Bombardier’s error. All planes returned at 11:27. Heavy, scant and inaccurate flak, no
planes holed. Crews report strings of bombs across SW portion of bridge and approach,
fotos show direct hit on N end of bridge and good concentration on S with probable hits.
Smoke pots were used to obscure the target. Weather: CAVU at target.
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Connor, John C., 2Lt
N None None
B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt
E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt
R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt
G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt DeGeorge, Harman (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4051
P Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
N None None
B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield, M., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt
N None None
B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt
E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27631 A/C No. 43-27523
P Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
N None None
B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt
R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt
G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27726
P Warren, William F., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None None
B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC
R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
F None White, E. T., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”
P Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt
CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt
N None None
B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Ernst, David L., S/Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27528
P Bard, John A., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
CP Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt
N McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Parham, James E., T/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27481
P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt Grady, John R., 2Lt
N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt Duncan, George F., 1Lt
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Carter, Eugene F., Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
P Moss, Raymond W., 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt
CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
N Hickey, William O., 1Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt
B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers again bomb bridges in the Po River Valley;
A-20s hit an ammunition plant; and fighter-bombers attack targets, mainly railroads, in
areas N of the Arno River in advance of the battlefront. On Corsica, HQ 87th
Fighter
Wing moves from Vescovato to Furiani; and the 524th
Fighter Squadron, 27th
Fighter
Group, moves from Voltone, Italy to Serragia with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: 100 pounders against bridges wasn’t too extraordinary
considering that our targets were the pontoon bridges at Sermide and Ficarola and the
“lightweights” were expected to finish them off. The Sermide bridge was well hit
severing the bridge in two places but the Ficarola one still stands after today’s onslaught.
25 aircraft again scored direct hits on the Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge on the
afternoon mission this date. However, the bridge is still standing.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 433/mission 433) Group Mission # 433:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 433 Date: 13 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447- 15 448- 3
Target: Sermide Pontoon Rd Bridge.
Time OFF: 0838 T.O.T.: 1020 Time Down: 1122
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 434/mission 434) Group Mission # 434:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 434 Date: 13 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 18
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 17 447- 0 448- 1
Target: Ficarolo Pontoon Rd Bridge.
Time OFF: 0847 T.O.T.: 1020 Time Down: 1139
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 435/mission 435) Group Mission # 435:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 435 Date: 13 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 25
Squadrons: 445- 12 446- 0 447- 0 448- 13
Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 1700 T.O.T.: 1840 Time Down: 1837
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one plane for the first mission which
attacked the Sermide Pontoon Bridge, Italy. In the second mission, 13 planes from the
squadron joined the formation which hit the Ostiglia road and railroad bridge, Italy with a
bombing accuracy of 72 per cent. Four ships went to the bombing range, there were 2
transition flights and one cross-country. Some of the bombardiers spent some more time
on the bombsight rate machine. Mail continues to come in very slowly and many of the
men are complaining.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 433/mission 433) Group Mission # 433:
Squadron Mission: 305
TARGET: Sermide Pontoon Rd Bridge.
A/C No. 43-27740 (lead spare)
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt
N None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt
R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt
F None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 434/mission 434) Group Mission # 434:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 435/mission 435) Group Mission # 435:
Squadron Mission: 306
TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None
B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt
R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT”
P Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt
CP Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt
N None None
B Klein, Robert J., 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt
E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt
R Gray, John H., S/Sgt Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt
G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
(returned early) A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt
N None None
B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt
R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt
CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”
(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N None None
B Reddy, John E., S/Sgt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt
E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt
R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt
G Decker, Robert J., Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None Plott, John M., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt
CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt
E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt
R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt
G Bellendir, John C., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: A large number of our ships go on a mission at 0830 hours but
poor visibility obscures the target.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 433/mission 433) Group Mission # 433:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 434/mission 434) Group Mission # 434:
Squadron Mission 325
TARGET: Ficarolo Pontoon Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 13 July 1944
Type of Bombs: Double load of 100 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 17
Lt. Jordan led the formation. Strings across both approaches with possible direct hits on
SW and SE ends of bridge. Some bombs in town SW of bridge. One direct hit in center
of bridge, and several E of center. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Hively returned early.
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My
Heart”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt None
B McRae, James A., 1lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt
R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27480
P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Larson, Ralph L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt
R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt
G Napoliello, Felix (NMI), S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt
N None None
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt
E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 42-64549
P Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Leith, William V., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C”
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt
N None Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt
B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., Sgt
R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., T/Sgt
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt
N None None
B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt
E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt
G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
(returned early – windshield broken by
cartridge falling from gun of ship ahead
of him)
P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt
CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Ricke, Richard O., Sgt Hogman, Frans H., F/O
E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt
R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt
G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 435/mission 435) Group Mission # 435:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 62, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 3:05 (104th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 53)
“Pre-briefed 0715 T.O. 0845 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Wozniak
Ship # 678 (43-27678 “Lemmon Lu”) Alt. 12,250 Bombs: 20-100 # Demos
Position: 2-1-1
Target: Pontoon Rd. bridge (1050’ x 20’) @ Ficarolo (44° 57’ N - 11° 26’ E). Over
target @ 1019, no fighters or flak. Lot of tumbler bombs.
Rec’d UCFC letter. Combat hrs. to date – 160:05 hrs. Wrote Ma.
Flying time: 03:35 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted have departed for rest camp,
Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. William H. Martin; Staff Sergeant Jordon L. Bushnell; Staff Sergeant
Robert W. Koecher; Staff Sergeant Arthur Schwartz; Technical Sergeant Roy J. Dodds.
Today’s training consisted of a test hop logging one hour.
Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner Dodds, Roy J., T/Sgt, mess
Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot
Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 433/mission 433) Group Mission # 433: 15
of our ships participated in a raid on the Sermide Pontoon Bridge, F-869065, with Lt.
Murray leading the mission. One concentration north of center of bridge which severed it
in several places. Another concentration south and west of target on land and in water –
some over to east. Bombing accuracy – 70 %; Mission efficiency – 70 %.
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt
R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt
G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Mabbutt, William T., Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Smith, William L., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC None
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt
N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., F/O Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27779
P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt
CP Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt
R Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G Simms, Cleo W., Cpl Flowers, Frank J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27636
P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt
CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt
E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl
R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27718
P Gillis, John R., 2Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt
N None
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt
E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt
R Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt
F None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 434/mission 434) Group Mission # 434:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 435/mission 435) Group Mission # 435:
(447th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 433/mission 433) Group Mission # 433:
Mission 288 (433): At 08:38 19 planes off to bomb Sermide pontoon R/B. They
dropped 380 x 100 bombs at 10:18 from 10,000 feet, all returned at 11:22. No flak, no
E/A. Crews report concentration of bombs N of center of bridge severed it several
places. Gap of 150 to 200 feet seen. Smoke pots were in operation over large areas.
Weather: CAVU.
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4051 A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Bell, Flavius J., S/Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F White, E. T., T/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27481
P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt
CP Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt
B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt
E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
R Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC
F None
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 434/mission 434) Group Mission # 434:
A/C No. 43-28081 (lead spare)
P Bard, John A., 2Lt
CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N Duncan, George F., 1Lt
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt
F None
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 435/mission 435) Group Mission # 435:
Mission 289 (435): At 17:00 25 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B and dropped 140 x
1000 SAP bombs at 18:37 from 10,000 feet and all returned at 19:48. Heavy, scant and
inaccurate flak, no planes holed. Formation bombed thru ineffective smoke screens but
crews report good concentration on center of bridge with two or three direct hits
observed. Bombs cut SW approach. Empty life raft seen 15 miles N of Bastia. Weather:
CAVU at target.
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27791
P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt
N None None
B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt
R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt
F Benton, Thomas H., Sgt None
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt
N None None
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt
E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27631 A/C No. 43-43-27668
P McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Warren, William F., 2Lt
N None None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt
R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt
F None Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt
E Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Carrington, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., Sgt
Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-28081
P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt
CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Remington, Peter H., Lt Col, HQ 57th
BW
N Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt None
B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4027
P Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt Olson, Orin E., 1Lt
CP Smith, Richard H., Col, 321st BG
Commander
Grady, John R., 2Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt None
B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Bell, Flavius J., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC
R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Montoro, John A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable”
P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt
CP Bell, Albert R., Maj, Commander
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt
B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt
G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None
Friday, 14 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th
AF):
In Italy, medium bombers concentrate on Po River Valley bridges;
600 feet (183 m) (2 center spans) of the Taglio di Po road bridge and 1 span of the
Piacenza rail bridge are destroyed, and damaging hits are scored on the Corbola road and
railroad bridges; fighter-bombers again hit gun positions and lines of communication in
and N of the battle areas while light bombers attack supplies; HQ XII Fighter Command
moves from Algiers, Algeria to Caserta; HQ 3rd
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)
and 23rd
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron move from Viterbo and Alghero,
Sardinia respectively to Borgo, Corsica with F-5s; and the detachment of the 12th
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)
moves from Follonica to Cecina with F-5s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Mallory Plan—to knock out the Po Valley bridges—is in
full swing. We took care of another one by knocking two spans out of the Taglio Road
Bridge—the bridge closest to the delta of the Po. Our other mission to Borgoforte was
abortive due to weather.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 436/mission 436) Group Mission # 436:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 436 Date: 14 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 26
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 13 447- 13 448- 0
Target: Borgoforte RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0946 T.O.T.: 1120 Time Down: 1207
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 437/mission 437) Group Mission # 437:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 437 Date: 14 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 26
Squadrons: 445- 13 446- 0 447- 0 448- 13
Target: Taglio Rd Bridges.
Time OFF: 0926 T.O.T.: 1120 Time Down: 1220
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron furnished 13 planes to bomb the Taglio road bridge,
Italy with a bombing accuracy of 75 per cent. A second mission was scheduled but the
“stand down” order came in early afternoon. Sgt. Fitzgerald, veteran bombardier, left the
squadron for furlough in the States. There were two test flights and one cross-country
flight made. A plane went to Rome taking men for the rest camp there. It was a very hot
day today. An RAF band put on an excellent show for the men at night. It was
thoroughly enjoyed by one and all who rather anticipated an ordinary show.
Fitzgerald, Daniel J., Sgt, bombardier-gunner
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 436/mission 436) Group Mission # 436:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 437/mission 437) Group Mission # 437:
Squadron Mission: 307
TARGET: Taglio Road Bridge (55 miles NE of Bologna), Italy.
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 4 3-27680 “Stuff”
P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt
CP Smith, Richard H., Col, 321st BG
Commander
Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt
N Napple, Francis L., 2Lt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt
R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt
CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N None None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt
E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt
CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt
N None None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None None
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”
(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”
(lead spare)
P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt
CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt
N None None
B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt
R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
P Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt
CP Martin, John W., 2Lt
N None
B Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt
E Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: The squadron has two big promotions on this date. The
commanding officer, Captain Paul T. Cooper, is made Major. Also, to be a major is
Captain Javornisky, one of the original ground officers of the 446th
.
Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander
Javornisky, John (NMI), Jr., Maj, Executive
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 436/mission 436) Group Mission # 436:
Squadron Mission 326
TARGET: Borgoforte RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 14 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 13
Captain Kerr led the formation. Turned back due to 10/10 overcast. Flak was heavy,
scant inaccurate.
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt
N None None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt
G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My
Heart”
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 42-64549
P Kerr, John C., Capt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt
R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt
G Napoliello, Felix (NMI), S/Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None Chapman, John E., 1Lt
B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Finney, Preston N., Sgt (error – likely
Heery, Philip M., Sgt)
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Born, Walter B., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt
R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 437/mission 437) Group Mission # 437:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 54)
“Pre-briefed 0810 T.O. 0945 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: R.E. Taylor
Ship # 501 (43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” - unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy
Jeanne” dropped) Alt. 10,500’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos Position: 1-3-1
Target: RR bridge @ Borgoforte (45° 04’ N - 10° 45’ E). Target completely covered by
clouds, no bombs dropped. Light, inacc. flak.
Sacked all afternoon. RAF Gang Show put on a show, excellent and very funny.
Very early mission tomorrow a.m. Flying time: 02:40 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte RR Bridge, (F-
445113) with Lt. Banks leading the mission, but due to an overcast of 10/10 at L-2080,
the mission was not completed. The following officers and enlisted men have returned
from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Robert W. Manly; 1st Lt. John J. Thomas; S/Sgt.
Edward H. Jampsa; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler; Sgt. David Jaffe; PFC. John C. Jablonsky.
The following officers and enlisted men have returned from DS. Cairo, Egypt: 1st Lt.
Robert E. Thomas; 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; S/Sgt. Clint R., Collins; T/Sgt. Robert W.
Harman.
Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt, pilot Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner
Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Jablonsky, John C., PFC, engineering Jaffe, David (NMI), Sgt, communications
Jampsa, Edward H., S/Sgt, armament
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt, bombardier
Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt, navigator
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 436/mission 436) Group Mission # 436: 13
of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte RR Bridge, (F-445113) with Lt. Banks
leading the mission, but due to an overcast of 10/10 at L-2080, the mission was not
completed.
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt
R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt
G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC Anderson, Lt (observer)
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Richards, Claude M., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox” 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., F/O Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” A/C No. 43-27785
P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt Manley, Ward E., 2Lt
CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt
N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt
G Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt
F None Burns, Harry B., Pvt
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27718
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt
N None None
B Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27636
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None
B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt
E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
F None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 437/mission 437) Group Mission # 437:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 28)
“Target: Borgoforte RR BR Flak: HIS Combat: 2:40 Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: None Plane # 77 (43-4077 “Ann’s Little Boy Val” - later “Stormy
Weather”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, N- Lt Rye, E-Sgt Partee,
R-SSG Alpino, G-Sgt Mango
Target covered by 9/10ths cumulus clouds”
Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot
Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt, navigator Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 436/mission 436) Group Mission # 436:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 437/mission 437) Group Mission # 437:
Mission 290 (437): At 09:26 26 planes off to bomb Taglio R/B and dropped 100 x 1000
bombs at 11:20 from 10,500 feet. One plane returned bombs because of switch
malfunction. All returned at 13:20. Heavy, moderate, accurate flak from Rimini holed 5
planes. Fotos show two center spans knocked out by excellent concentration. Weather:
2/10th
Cumulus at target.
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-4027
P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Olson, Orin E., 1Lt
CP Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None
B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None None
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27631
P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None None
B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
P Grady, John R., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt
N None None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F Benton, Thomas H., Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”
P Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Warren, William F., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious, J., S/Sgt
R Wilkinson, Robert M., S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27791
P Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F White, E. T., S/Sgt None
Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27726
P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt
CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
N None None
B Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt
E Carter, Eugene F., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27508
P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC
F None
Saturday, 15 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, the medium bomber campaign against Po River Valley
bridges (Operation MALLORY MAJOR) reaches a successful conclusion (though the
interdiction program against the bridges is subsequently continued on an expanded scale)
as most of the rail and road bridges in the target area are destroyed or severely damaged
by previous attacks and raids which struck bridges at Bozzolo, Desenzano de Garda,
Cremona, Borgoforte, Ostiglia, Polesella, Sermide, Ferrara, Aulla, Filattiera, Ficarolo,
and Chiavari and the marshalling yard at Villafranca di Verona; fighter-bombers attack
road bridges N of the battleline and hit gun positions, roads, motor transport, and other
targets, while supporting ground forces slowly advancing N along a line extending E
from the coast below Leghorn; the 12th
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Voltone to Follonica with F-5s (a
detachment is operating from Cecina); the 84th
, 85th
and 97th
Bombardment Squadrons
(Light), 47th
Bombardment Group (Light), move from Ombrone Airfield to Poretta
Airfield, Corsica with A-20s; and the 314th
Fighter Squadron, 324th
Fighter Group, moves
from Castro to Corsica with P-47s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Four more missions in the Mallory Plan totaled 87 sorties this
date. The Ostiglia Bridge was again hit—twice; flak reported for the first time in that
area holed 35 planes including those attacking and hitting the Borgoforte and Sermide
bridges. One flight could not clear the clouds going into Ostiglia for the afternoon
mission so they turned around and smothered the Chiavari Rail Bridge—alternate target.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEADQUARTERS
57th
BOMBARDMENT WING
APO 650
15 July 1944.
SUBJECT: Congratulatory Message.
TO: Commanding Officer, 310th
Bombardment Group.
321st Bombardment Group.
340th
Bombardment Group.
313th
Signal Company Wing.
Hq & Hq Squadron, 57th
Bomb Wing.
9th
Combat Camera Unit.
The following is a paraphrase of a message from the Secretary of War:
“BOTH AIR FORCES OF THIS THEATER OF OPERATIONS HAVE
DISPLAYED THE HIGHEST TYPE OF A FIGHTING SPIRIT AND
DETERMINATION. IT IS BELIEVED THAT THE ALLIED COUNTIES ARE WELL
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
ON THE ROAD OF VICTORY. THE DANGER YOU FACE AND YOUR
CONTRIBUTION WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN BY THOSE ON THE HOME
FRONT. THE SUPPORT THAT THE GROUND ARMIES HAVE RECEIVED FROM
THE SUPERB WORK OF THE TACTICAL AIR FORCE IS ALREADY A MATTER
OF HISTORY. YOUR EFFORTS GIVE A SUPREME CONFIDENCE TO US AT
HOME FOR A VICTORIOUS COMPLETION. CURTAILING AXIS POWER IN
HUNGARY, ROMANIA AND AUSTRIA BY THE STRATEGIC FORCES HAS
CAUSED A UNION BETWEEN THE RUSSION ARMY AND ALLIED FORCES.
MY PERSONAL THANKS AND CONGRATULATIONS. I WISH YOU GOD-SPEED
AND GOOD-LUCK IN COMPLETING YOUR TASK AND WE WILL GIVE YOU
EVERY SUPPORT. IT WAS MY DESIRE TO PERSONALLY VISIT ALL
OFFICERS AND MEN. CONVEYING THE GRATUTUDE AND APPRECIATION
WE IN AMERICA HAVE FOR YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS. WITH DEEP
REGRET I FIND IT NECESSARY TO LEAVE BEFORE COMPLETION OF MY
TOUR OF YOUR AIR FORCE.”
By command of Brigadier General KNAPP:
J. A. McCOUBREY,
Major, Air Corps,
Actg Asst Adj Gen.
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt, A.C.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 438/mission 438) Group Mission # 438:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 438 Date: 15 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 24
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 11 447- 13 448- 0
Target: Borgoforte RR Bridge
Time OFF: 0718 T.O.T.: 0851 Time Down: 1010
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 439/mission 439) Group Mission # 439:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 439 Date: 15 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 18 446- 1 447- 0 448- 0
Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0732 T.O.T.: 0906 Time Down: 1040
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 440/mission 440) Group Mission # 440:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 440 Date: 15 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 15
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 0 447- 1 448- 14
Target: Sermide Pontoon Rd Bridge.
Time OFF: 0751 T.O.T.: 0916 Time Down: 1045
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 441/mission 441) Group Mission # 441:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 441 Date: 15 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 25
Squadrons: 445- 7 446- 6 447- 6 448- 6
Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – bombed alt. Chiavari Rd Bridge
Time OFF: 1711 T.O.T.: 1900 Time Down: 2010
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: Luxury rations were distributed today. They included 3 bottles of
Piel’s beer which, needless to say, were enjoyed by one and all. The men enjoyed a very
good movie tonight, “True to Life” with Dick Powell and Mary Martin.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 438/mission 438) Group Mission # 438:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 439/mission 439) Group Mission # 439:
Squadron Mission: 308
TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.
In the first mission, the squadron sent 18 aircraft into the formation which attacked the
Ostiglia road and rail bridge, Italy, bombing it with an accuracy of 75 per cent.
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II”
A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj
CP Wilson, Victor H., Capt Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ
321st BG
N Sharp, Kenneth R., Capt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt
E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Gonzalez, Alfred R., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27509
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt
N None None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt
G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P McLain, Damon I., Capt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt
N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None
B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt
E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt
CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt
E Smith, William F., Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt
R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt
G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”
P Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N None None
B Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Walther, Henry W., Sgt Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt
R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”
(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt
N None None
B York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt
E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt
R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt
G Decker, Robert J., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
N None None
B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt
G McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 440/mission 440) Group Mission # 440:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 441/mission 441) Group Mission # 441:
Squadron Mission: 309
TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – bombed alt. Chiavari Rd Bridge
In the second mission, 7 planes were sent from the squadron on the mission sent to attack
the same target this time with a bombing accuracy of 58-%.
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt
N Napple, Francis L., 2Lt None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., S/Sgt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt
E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”
P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
N None None
B York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt
R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt
F None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS War Diary: More travelers go to Rome. Two missions are flown. Lt. Kinney
goes to the states.
Kinney, John H., 2Lt, navigator
446h BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 438/mission 438) Group Mission # 438:
Squadron Mission 327
TARGET: Borgoforte RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 15 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 11
Lt. Jordan led the formation. Concentration of bombs in target area. Strings seen
through N and S ends of bridge as well as center. Other bombs to S of center. Flak was
heavy, moderate and inaccurate. Twelve planes holed, one crewman injured. No
fighters. Lt. Burandt and Lt. Hipson returned early.
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (returned
early)
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI) “Ben”, Jr.,
S/Sgt
Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 42-64549
P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt
CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt
N None Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt
E McArdle, John R., Pvt Kane, Ronald J., Sgt
R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Burrow, Isom F., Cpl
F None None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art) (returned early)
P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt
N None None
B Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt
G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My
Heart”
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt
R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O
N Chapman, John E., 1Lt None
B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Heery, Philip M., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27480
P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt
R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt
F None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 439/mission 439) Group Mission # 439:
Squadron Mission 328
TARGET: Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 15 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Hatcher led the formation. Good concentration of bombs across center of bridge.
Direct hits reported on middle span. Some bombs to E approach and in town S of bridge.
Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate.
Hatcher, James T., 2Lt, pilot, 445th
BS
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (lead spare
with 445th
)
P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt
N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt
E Britton, William J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 440/mission 440) Group Mission # 440:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 441/mission 441) Group Mission # 441:
Squadron Mission 329
TARGET: Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 15 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 6
Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Some bombs short S of SW approach, some in center of
bridge, some over N of NE approach. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate to
accurate. Lt. Mickel did not take-off.
A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art) A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None
B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt
R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Heery, Philip M., Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt
N None None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O
E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt
R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt
G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt
CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt
N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None
B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Leith, William V., 2Lt
E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” (failed
to take off due to engine trouble) (only
pilot listed – likely crew: )
P Mickel, Allan T., 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt
N None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt
G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt
F None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: Test Hop
Flying Time: 1:00 (105th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: Test Hop
Flying Time: 1:00 (106th
mission in MTO)
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Up at 0400, pre-briefed @ 0450, T.O. @ 0715, target RR bridge @ Borgoforte. Last
flight on assembly, had to return to field. Sacked all afternoon. Rec’d 3 letters from
Alice. Wrote Alice. To show – very good. Flying time: 01:40 hrs.”
447th
BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties.
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 438/mission 438) Group Mission # 438: 13
of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte Rail Bridge, with Lt. Banks, leading the
squadron. Good concentration of bombs in target area. String thru north and south ends
of bridge. Other bombs to south of bridge. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission
efficiency – 67 %.
A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
P Gillis, John R., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt
E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt
R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Fowler, Harold E., Sgt
G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt
N None None
B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”
P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Burns, Harry B., Pvt None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC None
A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck”
P Cloward, Glannin A., Capt Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Burns, Robert J., 2Lt
N Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt None
B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt
E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt
R See, Russell K., S/Sgt Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt
G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt
F None Shand, Arthur T., PFC
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Gould, Joe W., F/O
E Smith, William L., Sgt O’Neill, Joseph W., Sgt
R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Simms, Cleo W., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27636
P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt
N None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt
E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt
R Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt
F None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 439/mission 439) Group Mission # 439: 447th
BS did not participate)
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 440/mission 440) Group Mission # 440: One
of our ships flew as a spare with the 448th
squadron in a raid on the Sermide Pontoon
Bridge. A concentration of bombs hit the north approach and south end and approach.
Some bombs to east in water. Bombing accuracy – 88 %; Mission efficiency – 84 %.
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet
Mrs. Runyon) (lead spare)
P Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
R LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 441/mission 441) Group Mission # 441: Six
of our ships participated in a raid on the Chiavari RR Bridge, (P-283356). With Lt.
Muzinich, leading the Squadron. Good concentration of bombs on west end and west
approach. One Cluster over and cutting road north of target and west of road bridge.
Bombing accuracy 100%; Mission efficiency – 100 %.
A/C No. 43-27701 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt
E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt
R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-27636
P Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt
CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt
N None None
B James, Robert M., 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt
E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt McFarland, John F., S/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
F None None
447th
BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 29)
“Target: Borgoforte RR BR Flak: HMA Combat: 2:50 Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: P-47s Plane # 77 (43-4077 “Ann’s Little Boy Val” - later “Stormy
Weather”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG
Alpino, G-Sgt Mango
Concentration of bombs in target area. Strings seen through N & S ends of bridge as well
as center. Other bombs to S of bridge. Received flak from 3 areas other than target.
Received 1st OLC to AM”
Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot
Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 438/mission 438) Group Mission # 438:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 439/mission 439) Group Mission # 439:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 440/mission 440) Group Mission # 440:
Mission 291 (440): At 07:51 15 planes off to bomb Sermide R/B and dropped 84 x 1000
SAP bombs at 09:20 from 10,000 feet. One plane did not drop due to mechanical failure.
Heavy, moderate, accurate flak all along route from IP. 12 planes holed and one crew
member injured. Good concentration of bombs in target area with possible hits on S end
of bridge and on N and S approaches, smoke pots again seen. Crews reported seeing two
gaps of 100 feet each in target before bombing. Weather: CAVU at target.
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4076
P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt
N None None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Tracy, William G., Sgt Johnson, Roy C., Sgt
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27791 (returned early – no
credit) A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt
CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (returned
early – no credit)
P McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
CP Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Zinkand, William T., 2Lt
E Sullivan, James G., PFC Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
A/C No. 43-4051
P McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
N None None
B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt
R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt
G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Irvine, Josef F., Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27508
P Warren, William F., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt
N None None
B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt
E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27668 (returned early – no
credit) A/C No. 43-27631
P Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
N None None
B Bearden, James E., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27523
P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Grady, John R., 2Lt
N None None
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27481 (returned early – no
credit) A/C No. 43-27726
P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt
CP Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None
B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt
E Carter, Eugene F., Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt
R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27715
P Bard, John A., 2Lt Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt
CP Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Farwell, Harold S., Capt
N None Duncan, George F., 1Lt
B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Parham, James E., T/Sgt
G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., Sgt
F White, E. T., S/Sgt None
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 441/mission 441) Group Mission # 441:
Mission 292 (441): At 17:11 25 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B. Formation became
separated due to clouds enroute and 13 planes dropped 49 x 1000 bombs at primary at
18:55 from 11,000 feet and returned at 19:45. 12 planes dropped 48 x 1000 bombs on
alternate target of Chiavari RR/B at 19:00 hours from 11,000 feet. Heavy, moderate,
fairly accurate flak at primary, no flak at alternate, chaff used. Good results on center of
primary with several direct hits scored. Concentration on W end and approach of
alternate with direct hits observed. Road N of target hit. Weather: Scattered Cumulus.
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27791
P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt
N None None
B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., Sgt
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27668
P Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F White, E. T., S/Sgt None
Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27523
P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt
CP Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
N None Duncan, George F., 1Lt
B Bearden, James E., 2Lt Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt
E Sullivan, James G., PFC Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 16 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers hit bridges in the Po River Valley at
Peschiera del Garda, Mantua, Torre Beretti, Piacenza, Casale Monferrato, and Bressana
Bottarone; fighter-bombers hit railroads and a bridge just N of the battleline as US Fifth
Army forces take territory SE of Leghorn and push to within sight of the Arno River
Valley; British Eighth Army elements take Arezzo and thrust through to the Arno River.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Away from the Po Valley—two formations of 19 aircraft
attacked the Rail bridges at Mantua and Peschiera. Good concentration in both target
areas got the east approach at Peschiera and western end at Mantua.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEADQUARTERS
57th
BOMBARDMENT WING
APO 650, US Army,
16 July 1944.
SUBJECT: Congratulations.
TO: Commanding Officer, 310th
Bomb Group.
321st Bomb Group.
340th
Bomb Group.
Hq & Hq Sq, 57th
Bomb Wing
313th
Signal Company Wing.
12th
Weather Squadron.
Ninth Combat Camera Unit.
The following paraphrased message is forwarded for your information:
“GENERAL EISENHOWER SENDS MESSAGE TO GENERAL EAKER WHO
DIRECTS IT TO BE PASSED TO ALL RANKS. YOUR RECENT OPERATIONS
HAVE BEEN OF INESTIMABLE VALUE HERE. TO YOU AND ALL SERVING
UNDER YOU I EXTEND MY GRATFUL APPRECIATION AND
CONGRATULATIONS. BEST WISHES AND GOOD LUCK.”
By command of Brigadier General KNAPP:
J. A. McCoubrey
Major, Air Corps,
Actg Asst Adj Gen.
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt, A.C.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEADQUARTERS
57th
BOMBARDMENT WING
APO 650, US Army,
16 July 1944.
SUBJECT: Congratulatory Message.
TO: Commanding Officer, 310th
Bomb Group, APO 650, US Army.
Commanding Officer, 321st Bomb Group, APO 650, US Army.
Commanding Officer, 340th
Bomb Group, APO 650, US Army.
1. The following message from the Commander of the Twelfth Air Force
paraphrased for your information.
(Note: PD = period; CMA= comma; RPT = repeat)
“THE MALLORY MAJOR OPERATION YOU WERE ORDERED TO
COMMENCE ON ONE TWO JULY CMA HAVE DAMAGED OR DESTROYED NO
LESS THAN TWENTY TWO BRIDGES OVER THE PO RIVER CMA IN JUST
OVER SEVEN TWO HOURS CMA BY YOUR WING PD IN THE HISTORY OF AIR
WARFARE I REGARD THIS FEAT AS BEING OUTSTANDING PD TO YOUR
STAFF CMA AIRCREWS AND GROUND PERSONNEL WILL YOU KINDLY
ACCEPT AND CONVEY MY SINCERE APPRECIATION AND ADMIRATION OF
THEIR SKILL CMA ENTHUSIASM AND EFFICIENY PD ON THE PROGRESS OF
THE CAMPAIGN IN THIS THEATRE CMA YOUR EFFORTS WILL HAVE FAR
REACHING EFFECTS PD”
2. In addition to the thirteen PO River Bridges destroyed or made
unserviceable during this period by the B-25’s of the 57th
Bomb Wing, nine other targets
vital to the enemy armed forces were successfully attacked as alternates due to effectual
smoke screens on primary targets during this time. I wish to add my congratulations to
all members of this Wing for the splendid cooperation and excellent performance in
successfully completing the operation MALLORY MAJOR in record time.
ROBERT D. KNAPP,
Brigadier General, U. S. A.,
Commanding.
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt, A.C.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 442/mission 442) Group Mission # 442:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 442 Date: 16 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 18
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 8 447- 10 448- 0
Target: Peschiera R.R. Bridge at F-420548
Time OFF: 0836 T.O.T.: 1027 Time Down: 1140
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 443/mission 443) Group Mission # 443:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 443 Date: 16 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 10
Target: Mantua SE R.R. Bridge at F-493222.
Time OFF: 0825 T.O.T.: 1040 Time Down: 1210
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron sent 9 aircraft on the mission which attacked the
Mantua southeast railroad bridge with a bombing accuracy of 80 per cent. Some of the
combat crews were sent to the rest camp at the Isle of Capri. There were 3 local flights
and two cross-country trips made. Some of the bombardiers sharpened their eyes on the
bomb trainer while another one spent some time on the bombsight rate machine. Lt.
Fischer, a pilot, was named as Assistant Mess Officer.
Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 442/mission 442) Group Mission # 442:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 443/mission 443) Group Mission # 443:
Squadron Mission: 310
TARGET: Mantua Rail Bridge.
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-
girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N None None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt
R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt
CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s
Cookin’?” (later “Pretty Kitty Blue
Eyes”)
P Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
N None None
B Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt
E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt
G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Weaver, Dale W., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt
N None
B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS War Diary: A mission is flown. A small amount of mail is called.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 442/mission 442) Group Mission # 442:
Squadron Mission 330
TARGET: Peschiera RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 16 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th
Planes: 8
Lt. Wiginton, 447th
Sqdn. led the formation. Embankment at E approach and the E half
of bridge hit with good concentration. Both reported cut. No flak, no fighters. Lt.
Burandt did not take-off.
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 2Lt, pilot, 447th
BS
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) (did not
take off – hydraulic trouble. Ship
grounded after pre-flight)
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino H., S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane)
P Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt
CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt
N Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt None
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Noel, Paul R., 2Lt
E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt Bober, John M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt
G Burrow, Isom F., Cpl Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27480 A/C No. 43-5052 “Lil Butch”
P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None
B Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 443/mission 443) Group Mission # 443:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Up @ 0600, pre-briefed @ 0625, ship was out of commission so did not go on a
mission. Sacked all a.m., reading in the afternoon. Got a jeep after supper, took laundry
into Solenzara, then took a ride. Enjoying. To bed early, on a mission tomorrow. Wrote
Alice.”
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have departed for rest
Camp, Capri: 1st Lt. H.J. Magne; 1
st Lt. J. R. Gillies; Sgt. Clifford A. Rose; Sgt. L.E.
Sheppard. Morning report: Officers – 92; Enlisted Men- 339. With a final score of 4 to
3 our baseball team lost the game with the 409 Bty Co. A. Today’s training consisted of
local transition.
Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot
Rose, Clifford A., Sgt, gunner Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt, gunner
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 2Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 442/mission 442) Group Mission # 442: Ten
of our ships participated in a raid on the Peschiera RR Bridge, with Lt. Wiginton leading
the squadron. The embankment at east approach and the east half of the bridge hit with
good concentration – bridge and embankment cut. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission
efficiency – 100 %.
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt
R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt
E Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt
R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt
N None None
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Partee, Watson, L., Sgt
R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck”
P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt
E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt
R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Grant, James H., S/Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet
Mrs. Runyon)
A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” (lead
spare)
P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F None None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 443/mission 443) Group Mission # 443:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 30)
“Target: Peschiera RR Br Flak: None Combat: 3:05 Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: None Plane # 40 (43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean,
CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG Alpino, G-Sgt Mango, F-PFC Holmes
The embankments E approach & E half of bridge hit w/good concentration. Bridge
reported out.”
Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot
Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC, photographer Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot
Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
447th
BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “41st
mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Peschiera R.R. bridge, nice bombing & nice navigation
by Lt. Thomas, no opposition.”
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot Thomas, Robert E., 2Lt, navigator
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 442/mission 442) Group Mission # 442:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 443/mission 443) Group Mission # 443:
Mission 293 (443): At 08:25 19 planes off to bomb Mantua RR/B and dropped 74 x
1000 bombs at 10:40 from 11,000 feet. Two bombs were returned due to malfunction.
Heavy, scant inaccurate flak from Ostiglia. All planes returned at 12:10. Fotos show all
bombs in target area, bridge well hit in center and W portion, smoke pots again used.
Weather: CAVU at target.
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
P Moss, Raymond W., 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt
CP Farwell, Harold S., Capt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None
B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27508
P Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt
CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt
N None None
B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt
E Tracy, William G., Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Irvine, Josef F., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-4051
P Grady, John R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Roberts, Clarence J., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”
P Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N None None
B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F Benton, Thomas H., Sgt None
Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27791
P Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt
CP Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt
N None Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt
R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., Sgt None
Monday, 17 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, medium bombers concentrate on Po River Valley bridges,
hitting road and rail bridges and viaducts at or near Alessandria, Ostiglia, Bogliasco,
Borgoforte, Moline, Imperia, Asti, Mollere, and Casale Monferrato; fighter-bombers
continue to hit targets N of the battle area, concentrating on bridges and rail lines, while
US Fifth Army elements take Luciana, and reach the Arno River Valley, but make little
progress toward Leghorn; British Eighth Army forces pursue the enemy toward Florence.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 444/mission 444) Group Mission # 444:
25 aircraft bombed the Bogliasco Viaduct as an alternate to the Ostiglia bridge which was
clouded in. Bomb strike photos showed a 45’ section taken out of the center and the west
end caved in.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 444 Date: 17 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 25
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 13 447- 12 448- 0
Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – bombed alt. Bogliasco RR Viaduct.
Time OFF: 0921 T.O.T.: 1110 Time Down: 1245
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today and it was this
squadron’s day for training. Six ships practiced assembly, six more ships made practice
formation flights and three ships went to the bombing range. There were 4 cross-country
flights made. Some of the bombardiers practiced on the bombsight rate machine. Six of
the enlisted gunners received promotions. Two flying officers returned from the Capri
rest camp.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 444/mission 444) Group Mission # 444:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: A mission bombs vital railroad bridge in northern Italy. Lt.
Dulaney is assigned to the squadron as assistant Engineering Officer.
Dulaney, Fred H., 2Lt, engineering
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 444/mission 444) Group Mission # 444:
Squadron Mission 331
TARGET: Bogliasco RR Viaduct, Italy (Alt) DATE: 17 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 13
Major Cooper led the formation. First six planes of second flight concentrated bombs in
center of bridge. Second six brought bombs back. First flight bombs hit to E and N of
target. Three aircraft first flight brought bombs back. Flak was heavy, scant and out of
range.
Monday, 17 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt
CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt
N None None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., Pvt
R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt
CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt
N Franklin, Arthur E., 2Lt None
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Kreider, John L., Sgt
R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt
G Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt
CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
N None None
B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O
E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC
R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Brown, Ronald M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 43-27480
P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt
R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Larson, Ralph L., Sgt
F None None
Monday, 17 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My
Heart”
P Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt
CP Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None None
B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt
G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745
P Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt
N None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt
E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt
F None
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 55)
“Pre-briefed 0800 T.O. 0920 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Wozniak
Ship # 696 (43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”) Alt. 10,800’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos
Position: 1-2-1
Target: 1) RR Bridge @ Ostiglia (45° 04’ N - 11° 08’ E).
2) Viaduct @ Bogliasco Pieve (8 mi. E of Genoa) (44° 23’ N - 09° 04’ E).
Over primary @ 1109, target covered by haze & low clouds. No bombs dropped, used
windows, no flak seen. Made 2 passes @ alternate, bombs away @ 1207.
Rec’d letter from Mr. Nye. To show “Old Acquaintance” – very good.
Flying time: 03:55 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt, pilot
Monday, 17 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: 1st Lt. John Windler, promoted to the rank of Captain, per SO. 196
Hq. Natusa. F/O Joe W. Gould, promoted to the rank of 2nd
Lt., per letter from 12th
AAF.
The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. G.A.
Cloward; 2nd
Lt. R.M. James; S/Sgt. F.X. Burke; Sgt. F.J. Corbo; Cpl. W.J. Meehan; Pvt.
J.B. Shields. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Rome,
Italy: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; T/Sgt R.J. Dodds; S/Sgt. J.L. Bushnell; S/Sgt. R.W. Koecher;
S/Sgt. A. Schwartz. Today’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing.
Burke, Francis X., S/Sgt, supply Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner
Cloward, Glannin A., Capt, pilot Corbo, Fred J., Sgt, transportation
Dodds, Roy J., T/Sgt, mess Gould, Joe W., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator
James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Meehan, William J., Cpl, armament
Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Shields, James B., Pvt, radio-gunner Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 444/mission 444) Group Mission # 444: 12
of our ships participated in a raid on the alternate target for the day, Bogliasco RR
Viaduct, P-075443, with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Good concentration of bombs
in target area scoring several direct hits. Weather conditions prevent attack on primary.
Ostiglia RR and Road Bridge F-745114. Bombing accuracy-100 %; Mission efficiency-
50 %.
A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”)
P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt
N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt
E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Ford, Leonard W., Sgt
R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Grant, James H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 17 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27701 (early return) A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC
F None None
A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
(lead spare)
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”
P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Manley, Ward E., 2Lt
CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt
E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt
R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Pierce, William H., S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt
F None Burns, Harry B., Pvt
Monday, 17 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
P Mims, Nathan (NMI), 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None
B Gould, Joe W., F/O
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt
G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt
F None
447th
BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 31)
“Target: Bogliasco RR Viaduct (Genoa) Flak: HIS Combat: 3:20 Bombs: 1,000 lbs
Escorts: None Plane # 009 (43-4009) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen,
N-Lindell, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG Alpino, G-Sgt Mango
Bridge hit and 60' knocked out. Also hits to E & N of target. Primary target, Ostiglia RR
bridge covered by 9/10th
s cumulus clouds.”
Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot
Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator
Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 444/mission 444) Group Mission # 444:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Tuesday, 18 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, A-20s bomb a road junction S of Campi and Sarzana and
attack the La Spezia area during the night of 17/18 Jul; during the day bad weather
cancels medium bomber missions; fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit
several bridges, roads, rail lines, and other communication targets and guns N of and in
the battle area as US Fifth Army forces reach Leghorn.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission—weather.
445th
BS War Diary: There was a stand by at 1430 today but the mission was cancelled
right after noon chow. As soon as the mission is scheduled, the combat crews invariably
take off for the beach and the mountains for swimming. A truck is provided for them
every day. Five of the enlisted combat crews were sent to the Sates on permanent
rotation. Two test flights were made, 3 planes did some formation flying and there were
two cross-country flights made. More of the bombardiers spent some time on the bomb
trainer and the rate machine. This is a daily occurrence these days and the bombardiers
are getting plenty of practice.
445th
BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
07/18/44: 22:00 hours
“Things are slow. We have been bombing bridges in the Po Valley for the past
month preparatory to the mounting offensive against Hitler’s Gothic line. The weather is
getting very warm. Day before yesterday, Rucker and I went up toward Bastia and saw
some of my Lowry Field buddies; Coupe, Doyle, Creelman and Cunningham. They are
just the same and quite disgusted with Armament. Corsica has become the Britain of the
Mediterranean with all the personnel and equipment that is being deployed here. There
must be another invasion in the plan. I expect August to be the big month of the war.”
Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Lts. Hawkes, Chudars, Mayo and EM’s Moore,
Sweedler, Heery and McArdle go to Cairo.
Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot
Heery, Philip M., Sgt, gunner Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt, bombardier
McArdle, Harry E., T/Sgt, gunner
Moore, Howard M., Sgt, engineering or Moore, Roy E., Sgt, engineering
Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Tuesday, 18 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: Test Hop.
Flying Time: 1:05 (107th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: Test Hop
Flying Time: 1:00 (108th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Hawkes & Chudars to Cairo for 10 days rest. Bomb trainer, 1445-1800. Nothing
doing all. On a nickeling mission tomorrow a.m. Wrote Billy, started a letter to Mary
Mooney, will finish tomorrow.”
Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. T/Sgt. Arthur R.
Kammerlohr, was transferred to headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group per SO. # 113
dated July 17th
. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing mission to Sardinia and
local transition.
Kammerlohr, Arthur R., T/Sgt, personnel
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Wednesday, 19 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th
AF):
In Italy, weather again restricts medium bomber operations, but in the
late afternoon B-26s hit bridges at Piacenza and Ostiglia; B-25s bomb a bridge at
Sassuolo; fighter-bombers are limited to a few railroad targets as the US Fifth Army takes
Leghorn and moves N; HQ 64th
Fighter Wing moves from Orbetello to Santa Maria di
Capua; and HQ 324th
Fighter Group and the 315th
and 316th
Fighter Squadrons move
from Montalto di Castro to Corsica with P-47s. The 347th
Fighter Squadron, 350th
Fighter
Group, moves from Corsica to Sardinia with P-39s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: One accredited mission today—4 aircraft nickelled in the
Genoa area. Another mission was abortive due to weather before they left friendly
territory—Ostiglia Bridge.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: MEMORANDUM:
19 July 1944---26 A/C took off to bomb Ostiglia Rd., & RR Bridge at 1556 hours.
Formation turned back at 1708 hours at Piombino due to 10/10s cloud cover up to
16,000 feet. Visibility—very poor.
Landed at 1745 hours—all bombs returned.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 445/mission 445) Group Mission # 445:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 445 Date: 19 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 4
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 2 447- 2 448- 0
Target: Genoa Area (Nickeling).
Time OFF: 1403 T.O.T.: 1500 Time Down: 1620
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 19 aircraft for the mission which was
incomplete due to weather conditions. There was another stand by at 1400 but the
weather remained unsatisfactory and the mission was cancelled. Six bombardiers spent
one-half hour each on the rate machine. There was practice formation flying, transition
flights and several cross-country flights. The men are taking good advantage of the
basketball and volley ball courts. After playing vigorously at each sport, most of the men
usually proceed to the shower in the area to clean up. The situation is ideal except when
the water supply is exhausted.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 445/mission 445) Group Mission # 445:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Wednesday, 19 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
07/21/44: “There is much talk about camp today on the subject of the abortive
attempt to assassinate Hitler. Weather windy, cloudy, warm. For several days we have
been trying to knock out a bridge across the Po River without success. I may start flying
soon.”
446th
BS War Diary: Regular duties.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 445/mission 445) Group Mission # 445:
Squadron Mission 332
TARGET: Genoa Area, Italy DATE: 19 July 1944
Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th
Planes: 2
Lt. Burandt led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed. Flak was moderate to
intense, fairly accurate.
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS)
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering)
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N Chapman, John E., 1Lt None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
F None None
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: Test Hop
Flying Time: 1:45 (109th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 56)
“Had breakfast @ 0600, T.O. for Rome @ 0720, land @ 0850. Loaded leaflets in ship
for nickeling mission. Lve. Rome @ 1000, land at base @ 1115.
Pre-briefed 1300 T.O. 1400 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Reilly
Ship # 496 (PRINCESS PAOLA II) (43-27496) Nickeling mission Position: 1-1-1
Target: Genoa. Over target @ 1505, rec’d hvy., intense & acc. Flak on coast.
To show “What A Woman” – good. Rec’d a package, candy & tobacco from Ma.
Flying time: 02:45 hrs. & 02:30 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Reilly, John A., 2Lt, pilot
Wednesday, 19 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have been relieved of
assignment and transferred on rotation to Personnel Center No.6, for transshipment to the
United States, per letter from the 12th
AAF: T/Sgt. Robert W. Harman; S/Sgt. J.H. Grant;
S/Sgt. C.R. Collins; Today’s training consisted of practice bombing.
Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner Grant, James H., S/Sgt, gunner
Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 445/mission 445) Group Mission # 445: Two
of our planes participated in a successful nickeling mission over the Genoa Area.
A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
(wing spare) A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck”
(wing spare)
P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Burns, Robert J., 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt
E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt
R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt
F None None
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 445/mission 445) Group Mission # 445:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Thursday, 20 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF): The XII Air Force
Training and Replacement Command is disbanded in Algeria.
In Italy, medium bombers continue to pound Po River Valley bridges
in or near Ostiglia, Parma, Mantua, Ferrara, and Alessandria; fighter-bombers again hit
targets N of the battle area, concentrating on rail lines and destroying or damaging a large
number of railroad cars as US Fifth Army forces push to a point SE of Pisa.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 446/mission 446) Group Mission # 446:
The flights in this 36 plane mission to the Ostiglia Bridge split up in their results; the first
flight bombed and missed the primary; the second flight brought their bombs back; the 3rd
flight bombed and demolished the rail bridge at Parma which was their alternate target.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 446 Date: 20 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 36
Squadrons: 445- 13 446- 0 447- 10 448- 13
Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – alt. Parma E. RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 1652 T.O.T.: 1845 Time Down: 2010
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 13 aircraft to bomb the Ostiglia road and
railroad bridge, Italy. This target was not hit well, but the alternate target – the Parma
railroad bridge was well hit. Capt. McLain from this squadron led the mission.
“Mississippi Gambler II”, one of the squadron’s oldest ships, crash-landed at Foggia but
no one was seriously injured. Old 434 (43-32434) was crewed by Sgt. LeMaster and one
of its engines had already broken a group record for number of combat hours and was
headed for a wing record when its career ended. More combat crews went to the Rome
rest camp. There was more of the extensive training program today.
LeMaster, James W., Sgt, engineering McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 446/mission 446) Group Mission # 446:
Squadron Mission: 311
TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – alt. Parma E. RR Bridge.
A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl
- no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”
P McLain, Damon I., Capt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt
CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt
N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None
B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt
R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Kintly, James E., T/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27509
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt
G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt
CP Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt
E Smith, William F., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt
R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt
CP Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
N Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”
P Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Martin, John W., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt
N None None
B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”
P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt
CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt
N None None
B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt
E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt
R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” (lead
spare)
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt
N None
B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Lts. Dickson and Phillips return from the states
while Sgt. Dieden and Corporal Bass leave for home.
Bass, John D., Cpl, operations Dickson, Gale Monroe, 1Lt, pilot
Dieden, Clarence R., Sgt, engineering Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt, navigator
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 446/mission 446) Group Mission # 446:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C
Mission: Test Hop
Flying Time: 0:25 (110th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Not scheduled for anything today. Reading “Last Time I Saw Paris” – pretty good. To
Solenzara and got laundry. Showered and shaved. Rec’d letters from Ma, Billy & Alice.
Wrote Ma, Billy, Alice.”
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: The following enlisted men have been relieved of assignment and
transferred to Personnel Center No. 6 for transshipment to the United States per letter
from the 12th
AAF: T/Sgt. S. J. Samuels; Cpl. J. P. Biel: The following officers and
enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. J. H. Windler; S/Sgt. Andrew
Pelak; S/Sgt. N. F. LaFountain; S/Sgt J. F. Toole; Sgt. T. J. Condon. Sgt. G. W. Currey,
Pvt. W. A. Caston are on DS at headquarters-321st Bombardment Group. The following
officers are on DS Foggia Italy: 1st Lt. W. H. Martin; 1
st Lt J. J. Thomas; 2
nd Lt. E. R.
Haynes; 2nd
Lt. N. J. Lundmark. A congratulatory message, for the excellent bombing
results on the last four mission, was extended to this squadron by Captain T. C. Bounds,
Command Officer.
Biel, John P., Cpl, armament
Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander
Caston, William A., Sr., Pvt, communications Condon, Thomas J., Sgt, transportation
Currey, George W., Sgt, communications Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt, pilot
LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt, gunner Lundmark, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier
Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot
Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt, radio-gunner Samuels, Sam J., T/Sgt, ordnance
Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot Toole, John F., S/Sgt, gunner
Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 446/mission 446) Group Mission # 446: 10
of our ships participated in a raid on, Parma East RR Bridge, L-176821 with Lt. Murray
leading the squadron. Good concentration of bombs in target area- bridge well hit.
Bombing accuracy – 90 %; Mission efficiency- 75 %.
A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy
Val”(later 446th
ship “Stormy
Weather”)
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
(early return)
P Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt
N None None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs.
Runyon) A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Dawson, Roy C., Sgt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None Simms, Cleo W., Cpl
A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
(early return) A/C No. 43-27701
P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt
E Dobbs, William R., Cpl Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt
R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt
G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt
F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt
R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
G Shand, Arthur T., PFC Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt
E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None None
447th
BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “42nd
mission, flew with Lt. Bastin, flew as bombardier & bombed Parma R.R. bridge, nice
bombing, flak 3 times.”
Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 446/mission 446) Group Mission # 446:
Mission 294 (446): at 16:52 36 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B and 12 planes dropped
48 x 1000 bombs on primary target at 18:48 from 10,500 feet. Bridge was not hit,
possible hits on N approach. 12 planes did not drop due to failure to identify target thru
clouds. 12 planes dropped 40 x 1000 bombs on alternate target of Parma E RR/bridge
direct hits were scored and all planes returned at 20:10. Heavy, intense, accurate flak
from primary, 8 planes holed. Weather: Haze with 3/10th
cover.
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”
P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
CP Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
N None None
B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Donaud, Earl J., Sgt
R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt (error: likely
Knauss, Charles F., Sgt)
Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Farwell, Harold S., Capt
N None None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., 2Lt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess”
P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt
CP Riener, William F., 1Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F Benton, Thomas H., Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie”
P Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt
N None None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt
R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt
F None White, E. T., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27791
P Warren, William F., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt
N None None
B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt
R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt
F Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt
CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
N None McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt
B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Greene, Louis P., 1Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt None
Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4051
P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt
CP Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
N None
B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt
E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt
F None
Friday, 21 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, weather cancels medium bomber operations; A-20s hit a
supply dump while fighter-bombers attack rail and road bridges in the Po Valley and hit
rail lines N of the battleline which is pushing into the Arno River Valley SE of Pisa; and
the 111th
Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from
Follonica to Borgo, Corsica with F-6s (a detachment moves to Santa Maria).
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission—weather.
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron had 13 crews standing by for the mission which was
finally cancelled just before noon chow. There were three transition flights made, two
test hops and three cross-country flights. Sgts. Woogerd and Irving returned to the
squadron today. They were the first combat crew members to return to the squadron
from the 30 day furlough to the States. Both boys were well quizzed on the conditions
back home. They enjoyed their stay of course but both stated that they were glad to be
back in the “old” outfit after sampling some of the rules set down by the “PX soldiers”
back in the training camps.
Irving, Ralph D., S/Sgt, gunner Woogerd, Warren G., T/Sgt, radio gunner
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Lt. Hodges goes on DS to XII Air Force.
Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-pilot)
Pilot: unknown Douglas C-47Skytrain
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 1:00 (111th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-pilot)
Pilot: unknown A/C Cessna UC-78 Bobcat
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 2:20 (112th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Overcast today, nothing scheduled as yet. To PX for rations. Rate machine 1500-1600.
Rec’d letter from Alice. Air raid alert. Around club all evening listening to the radio.”
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following officers and
enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Capri: 2nd
Lt. W.H. Wigmore; S/Sgt. W.H.
Burke; S/Sgt. R.R. Vineski; Sgt. R.W. Engels; The following officers and enlisted men
have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. G.A. Cloward; 2nd
Lt. R.M. James;
S/Sgt. F.X. Burke; Sgt. F.J. Corbo; Cpl. W.J. Meehan; Pvt. J.B. Shields. A social
gathering took place this evening at the E/M club. Sandwiches were served and the bar
Friday, 21 July 1944 (continued)
did a rushing business. Music for the occasion was furnished by, “Doc” Smith, and his
boys. Today’s training consisted of a local test hop.
Burke, Francis X., S/Sgt, supply Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
Cloward, Glannin A., Capt, pilot Corbo, Fred J., Sgt, transportation
Engels, Robert W., Sgt, gunner James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier
Meehan, William J., Cpl, armament Shields, James B., Pvt, radio-gunner
Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon, 445th
BS
Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Saturday, 22 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, weather again curtails operations; during night and day
operations A-20s carry out armed reconnaissance of the Lucca, Florence, Genoa, and
Milan areas, bombing scattered motor transport, and attack munitions factory; B-25s
bomb bridges at Ronco Scrivia and Cogoli; fighter-bombers hit roads, railroads, bridges,
gun positions, trains, and vehicles in and N of the battle area, and strafe aircraft at
Bergamo Airfield.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 447/mission 447) Group Mission # 447:
Weather prevented accurate bombing of the primary target at Acquasanta and one flight
bombed the alternate at Cogoleto RR Viaduct. Crews and photos indicated good
concentration with bridge knocked out.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 447 Date: 22 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 10
Target: Acquasanta RR Viaduct – Alt. RR & Rd Bridge E. of Cogoleto.
Time OFF: 1700 T.O.T.: 1830 Time Down: 1940
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, 22 July 1944 (continued)
Saturday, 22 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS War Diary: There was no combat mission today. Lt. Groh returned to the
squadron today on crutches. He was the pilot who brought a badly crippled B-25 back to
friendly territory to allow his crew to bail out safely. He also bailed out last and received
a fractured leg, his plane crashing in Ghisonaccia. He is expected to return to the zone of
the interior soon. Luxury rations were distributed today including 3 bottles of beer. Six
of the flying officers were promoted to 1st Lieutenant. Some mail arrived today. The
movie “Destination Tokyo” was enjoyed by all at night but strong winds which swept up
huge clouds of dust detracted somewhat from the show.
Groh, Sheldon R., 2Lt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 447/mission 447) Group Mission # 447:
Squadron Mission 312
TARGET: Cogoleto Road and Railroad Bridges, Italy.
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt
CP Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt
F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27509
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None
B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt
E Walther, Henry W., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt
R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt
G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 22 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” (lead spare
- returned early)
P Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt
CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt
E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt
R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
N None None
B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt
R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None None
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Sergeant Napoliello gets his orders to return to the
states. Second Lieutenants Fontaine, Forsberg, Gibbons, Hively, Hughes, Sacker and
Wojcik are made 1st Lieutenants.
Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt, bombardier
Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt, pilot
Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt, bombardier
Napoliello, Felix (NMI), Sgt, gunner Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot
Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 447/mission 447) Group Mission # 447:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Nothing scheduled today. Played cribbage with Lewis. Rate machine 1430-1500.
Officers meeting @ 1755 – Promotions. Went on ODO @ 1700, took Jaksic’s place who
was sick. Ate at group. Got very little sleep, too much noise. Wrote Ma and Alice.”
Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt, bombardier Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
Saturday, 22 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. 2nd
Lt. E.R. Haynes and 2nd
Lt. J.N. Watson, appointed to 1st Lt. per SO # 184, 12
th AAF. A baseball game with the
final score 5 to 3 in favor of the 57th
Wing, was played this evening at our field. The
following officers have been promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per SO # 179, 12
th AAF.: 2
nd
C.B. Christian; 2nd
Lt. W.E. Kibler; 2nd
Lt. H.N. Lindell; 2nd
Lt. W.E. Manley; 2nd
Lt. N.J.
Lundmark; 2nd
Lt. E. J. Stanley. Six of our planes flew a practice mission formation and
local transition.
Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt, pilot Haynes, Eldon R., 1Lt, pilot
Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt, pilot Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator
Lundmark, Norman J., 1Lt, bombardier Manley, Ward E., 1Lt, pilot
Stanley, Edward J., 1Lt, bombardier Watson, James N., 1Lt, bombardier
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 447/mission 447) Group Mission # 447:
(447th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 447/mission 447) Group Mission # 447:
Mission 295 (447): At 17:00 19 planes off to bomb Acquasanta RR/B but clouds
interfered with bomb run at primary and therefore target was not bombed. 7 planes
dropped 28 x 1000 bombs on alternate of Cogoli RR/B. 12 planes did not bomb due to
Bombardier’s error. All returned at 19:40. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate flak from Genoa
holed 3 ships. Crews report good concentration on alternate target with strings across
center and W approach. Some bursts on E section of bridge. Weather: CAVU at
alternate, turbulent winds at 8,000 feet.
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”
P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt
CP Riener, William F., 1Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt
N Duncan, George F., 1Lt None
B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt
E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt
R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4076
P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Warren, William F., 2Lt
CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Donaud, Earl J., Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt
F None None
Saturday, 22 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-28081
P McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
N None None
B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt
CP Farwell, Harold S., Capt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt
E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt
G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
A/C No. 43-27528
P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt
CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt
B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 23 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, A-20s bomb and strafe motor transport in the Po River
Valley during the night of 22/23 Jul; B-25s and B-26s hit bridges and bridge approaches
in the Valley, at or near Antoniassi, Acqui, Molare, Ferrara, Ostiglia, Borgoforte, and
Cervo; fighter-bombers, operating in small numbers, hit communication lines between
the battle area (along the Pisa-Florence line) and the Po River Valley; and the 415th
Night
Fighter Squadron, 64th
Fighter Wing (attached to the 87th
Fighter Wing), based at
Solonzara, Corsica with Beaufighters, sends a detachment to operate from Piombino.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 448/mission 448) Group Mission # 448:
Despite heavy intense accurate flak at the target area which holed all 19 aircraft the
Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge was well hit with concentration at both ends. Nine crew
members were wounded.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 448 Date: 23 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 10 447- 9 448- 0
Target: Ostiglia Road & R. R. Bridge.
Time OFF: 0825 T.O.T.: 1010 Time Down: 1130
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 449/mission 449) Group Mission # 449:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 449 Date: 23 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 1
Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447- 0 448- 0
Target: Weather Recce Mission.
Time OFF: 0825 T.O.T.: 1010 Time Down: 1130
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The strong wings abated today for which all personnel were
thankful. The squadron did not fly a mission today although one ship went on a weather
reconnaissance mission in the Spezia area. There was to be an inspection by a Major
General today but he did not appear. He was reported to be from Washington and the
area was policed up in very good fashion. More mail arrived today and there was a big
night in the club tonight.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 448/mission 448) Group Mission # 448:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Sunday, 23 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 449/mission 449) Group Mission # 449:
Squadron Mission 313
TARGET: Weather Recon.
A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt
B None
E Woody, Louie M., Sgt
R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: July 23 and 24: Lt. Brickner rejoins the squadron from Italy.
Regular duties.
Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 448/mission 448) Group Mission # 448:
Squadron Mission 333
TARGET: Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 23 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th
Planes: 10
Major Cooper led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area, particularly on
both ends of the bridge. One string went through center. Some bombs were W of bridge.
Flak was heavy, intense and accurate, tracking type. 18 planes holed, 9 crewmen
wounded. F/O Vannah was hit in arm by flak. No fighters. Lt. Mickel landed at Borgo
with bad engine and flat tire.
A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later
Darlene)
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt
CP Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hogman, Frans H., F/O
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Slezak, Alex E., Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 23 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 42-64549
P Gibbons, George H., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt
N None None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt
E Kreider, John L., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None None
B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Riche, Richard O., S/Sgt
E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS)
A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
N None None
B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt
E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Bender, Vernon I., Sgt
R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated
lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt
CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Higgins, Howard A., 1Lt
N None Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt
E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Henry, Scott G., Sgt
R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt
G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 23 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 449/mission 449) Group Mission # 449:
(446th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 63, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25D
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 2:35 (113th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 57)
“On a mission today. Col. Smith had a meeting of all officers @ 0630. Funny. No
breakfast.
Pre-briefed 0700 T.O. 0820 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Maj. Cooper
Ship # 097 (43-4097 “Tiny?” - later “Darlene”) Alt 11,500’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos
Position: 1-1-1 Target: Ostiglia RR Bridge (45° 03’ N - 11° 08’ E).
Over target @ 1006, Rec’d hvy., int., and acc. Flak, 20-30 holes. Good concentration on
bridge. 84% accuracy on today’s mission.
Went swimming with Burandt and Lewis. Tent inspection tomorrow @ 0830 by
Maj. Cooper, cleaned then all evening. Bmbdr. Position on missions as follows: Wing
16, Element 34, Flight 7 = 57. Flying time: 03:45 hrs.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot
Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander
Lewis, Vernon, 1Lt, pilot
Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander
447th
BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp,
Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. E. Krafka; 1
st Lt. W. A. Manz; S/Sgt. P. L. Free; S/Sgt. R. Mitchell.
The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest Camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. J.
H. Windler; S/Sgt. A. Pelak; S/Sgt. N. F. LaFountain; S/Sgt. J. F. Toole; Sgt. T. J.
Condon. The following officers and enlisted men are on DS 12th
Air Force to attend a
special school for advanced combat training: 1st Lt. W. C. Huffman; 1
st Lt W. F.
Heitman; 1st Lt. R. E. Murray; T/Sgt. W. J. Bilski; T/Sgt. R. J. Valeri; S/Sgt. H. E.
Fowler; Sgt. R. C. Dawson. The following officers and enlisted men received wounds
while participating on the Ostiglia Bridge Raid: 1st Lt. S. E. Anderson; 2
nd Lt. P. H. Noe
(SWA); 2nd
Lt. S. J. Wiechert, (SWA); 1st Lt. W. E. Neiman,(LWA); 1
st Lt. M. K.
Matthewson, (LWA); 1st Lt. H. J. Banks, (LWA); 2
nd Lt. R. J. Woods, (LWA); 2
nd Lt. R.
T. Cunningham, (LWA); T/Sgt. L. G. Hubert, (LWA). Morning report: Officers- 92,
Enlisted Men – 333.
Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt, bombardier Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt, pilot
Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Condon, Thomas J., Sgt, transportation
Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt, pilot Dawson, Rob C., Sgt, engineer-gunner
Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Free, Paul L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Hubert Leo G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt, gunner Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot
Sunday, 23 July 1944 (continued)
Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt, navigator Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Neiman, William E., 2Lt, pilot
Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Toole, John F., S/Sgt, gunner Valeri, Ramo J., T/Sgt, engineering
Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt, pilot Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier
Woods, Richard J., 2Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 448/mission 448) Group Mission # 448: 9 of
our ships participated in a raid on Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, F-745114, with Lt.
Banks leading the squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs in target area particularly
on both ends of bridge with one string thru center of bridge. Some bombs west of bridge
in water. Due to heavy, intense and accurate flak all of our ships were holed, and eight
officers and one enlisted man received wounds. Bombing accuracy-83 %; Mission
efficiency – 60 %.
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
P Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt
N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling
Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Burns, Robert J., 2Lt
N None None
B Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
(early return)
P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None None
B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC Shand, Arthur T., PFC
Sunday, 23 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet
Mrs. Runyon)
P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt
CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt
E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt
R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt
G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27701 (lead spare) A/C No. 43-27779
P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt
CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt None
B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Mabbutt, William T., Sgt
R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt
G Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt
F None None
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 449/mission 449) Group Mission # 449:
(447th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 448/mission 448) Group Mission # 448:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 449/mission 449) Group Mission # 449:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Monday, 24 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF): AAF, MTO: The 121
st
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, arrives at Pomigliano, Italy from Telergma, Algeria with
L-4s and L-5s.
In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Chivasso, Peschiera del
Garda, Imperia, and Ronco Scrivia, and viaduct at Ovada; A-20s hit ammunition supplies
while fighter-bombers attack rail lines in the Po River Valley, destroying and damaging
numerous railway cars, as the US Fifth Army begins regrouping along the Arno River.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Major General Junius P. Jones, the Air Inspector, and
entourage thoroughly canvassed the Group this date.
Jones, Junius Wallace, Major General, Air Inspector
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 450/mission 450) Group Mission # 450:
17 of our planes smothered the Peschiera RR bridge. Both approaches appeared out.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 450 Date: 24 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 17
Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 8
Target: Peschiera RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0750 T.O.T.: 0930 Time Down: 1045
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 9 planes on the mission sent to attack the
railroad bridge at Peschiera, Italy. The bombing accuracy was 78 per cent. Jane, the Red
Cross girl, served doughnuts and coffee in the squadron area this morning. There was
another day of extensive training for the combat crews. A high-ranking officer from the
Inspector General’s office made an inspection of the squadron today. The men were
served spaghetti for supper, the movie “Adventures of Mark Twain” struck a responsive
chord in all the men.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 450/mission 450) Group Mission # 450:
Squadron Mission 314
TARGET: Peschiera rail bridge, Italy.
A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt
CP Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N Sharp, Kenneth R., Capt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt
E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 24 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 1Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt
N None None
B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt
R Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design”
(returned early) A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt
CP Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt
N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt
G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
N None None
B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R Rossi, Sam J., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) (lead
spare – filled in third element) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt
R Rockett, James J., Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt
G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Bates, Leonard H., Sgt
F None Plott, John M., Sgt
Monday, 24 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
07/24/44 “On the morning of the 22nd I arose early and after a light breakfast,
strolled up to the Operations tent where I learned Capt. Wilson was taking a plane to
Foggia to investigate the crash of #434 (42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II”. I obtained
his permission to go. We miscalculated a little, and the first land we saw after leaving
Corsica was the volcanic island of Stromboli, off the coast of Sicily. From that bearing
we flew up the west coast to Paestum and then over the mountains to Foggia. It took us
nearly three hours to make the trip. Foggia was extremely dusty and miserable. Planes
were even grounded on account of the dust. We gathered up some chutes and flak suits
from the wrecked ship (I can hardly believe everyone came out of the wreck alive) and
attended some other business before going to town. My plans were to get in touch with
Chaplain Rick’s and obtain from him the names of some boys on Corsica with the idea of
arranging services over here. I could not locate him however, nor did I see any of the
boys I knew. I desired very much to stay for the conference they are having there on the
24th, but could not, as our plane was returning on the 23rd.
Wilson, Victor H., Jr., Capt, pilot, operations officer
We stayed that night at the Red Cross. In the evening we saw a show and an
Italian stage unit featuring a thirteen year-old girl whom they acclaim as the Deanna
Durbin of Italy. She sang Italian song marvelously, particularly Ava Maria, but did not
do so well with popular American songs.
We took off at 12 noon on the 23rd for Corsica. We flew high over the mountains,
as there were many clouds, and made our approach to the coast at the mouth of the
Garigliano River. We then dropped down and flew up the coast inspecting the battle-
scarred towns and villages. Just before reaching Anzio we passed over the large section
of farmland inundated by the Germans. For several minutes we cruised over the main
sector of the 5th Army beachhead. There is hardly a place large enough to stand that is
not shell-pocked. It must have been hell. From Anzio we went to the Holy City and
looked it over. I was impressed by its cleanly appearance and size. I saw the Coliseum
but could not make out the Vatican. I am eager to go there. Then we headed again
toward the sea and in an hour were touching down our wheels on Corsica. My future
rests in the decision of Sgt. Lash who does not want to let me out of Armament so I can
go on combat.”
Lash, Wayne H., Sgt, armament
446th
BS War Diary: July 23 and 24: No Missions. Lt. Brickner rejoins the squadron
from Italy. Regular duties.
Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 450/mission 450) Group Mission # 450:
(446th
BS did not participate)
Monday, 24 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 64, Pilot)
Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25D
Mission: unspecified.
Flying Time: 2:45 (114th
mission in MTO)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Total Combat time to date: 180:05 hrs. Rate machine 0900-1100. Inspection by Maj.
Gen. Jones. Lewis on X-C to Catania, Burandt to Naples. Read “Suds in Your Eye” –
good. Sacked all afternoon. To show, “Adventures of Mark Twain” – excellent.”
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Lewis, Vernon, 1Lt, pilot
Jones, Junius Wallace, Major General, Air Inspector
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. At a league game with the
213 Searchlight Co., our squadron team won with a final score of 4 to 2. The following
officers have been relieved of assignment to this squadron and transferred to Personnel
Center No.6. for transshipment to the United States: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; 1
st Lt E.R.
Haynes; 1st Lt. J.J. Thomas; 1
st Lt. N.J. Lundmark. 1
st Lt. O.L. Schnoebelen is on DS at
the 57th
Wing. At a meeting held at 1845 at the officers club, all combat officers were
briefed by Capt. Robert W. Manly, on Escape in France.
Haynes, Eldon R., 1Lt, pilot Lundmark, Norman J., 1Lt, bombardier
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 450/mission 450) Group Mission # 450:
(447th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 450/mission 450) Group Mission # 450:
Mission 296 (449): At 07:50 20 planes off to bomb Peschiera RR/B and 17 dropped 64 x
1000 bombs at 09:35 from 9,500 feet, all returned at 10:45. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate
flak along route, no ships holed. Fotos show excellent concentration with direct hits on
both ends of bridge. RR/bridge E of Parma was out. Weather: Thin overcast.
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”
(returned early – no credit) A/C No. 43-27791
P Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt
CP Warren, William F., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
N None None
B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt
R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt
G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt
F None None
Monday, 24 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27528
P Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Montoro, John A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”
P Grady, John R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt
N None None
B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt
E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Donaud, Earl J., Sgt
R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt
G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (returned
early – no credit)
P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt
CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
N None McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt
B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt
E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt
R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt
G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt
F Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
A/C No. 43-28081
P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Bard, John A., 2Lt
CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None
B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt Young, Robert B., 2Lt
E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt
R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt
G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., Sgt
Tuesday, 25 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, A-20s hit a storage dump and rail lines while medium
bombers pound bridges in NW Italy at Borgo San Dalmazzo, Fossano, Albenga, Casale
Monferrato, Cervo, Legnago, Rovigo, and Chivasso; fighter-bombers continue to attack
communications in the Po River Valley, hitting numerous targets and completely
destroying a railroad bridge at Crema.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No-non mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 451/mission 451) Group Mission # 451:
20 aircraft were dispatched to destroy the twin railroad bridges at Legnago. Recce photos
taken immediately after the raid showed one span out of the northerly bridge and the
southerly bridge completely impassible. 4 attacking ME-109’s were driven off by the
escort of P-47’s
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 451 Date: 25 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 20
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 10 447- 10 448- 0
Target: Legnago RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0847 T.O.T.: 1030 Time Down: 1155
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today but the combat crews
didn’t get any rest. An extensive training program included 4 ships to the bombing
range, 4 transition flights, 4 ships swinging the compass, and 2 check flights. Eight pilots
from the squadron spent 1 hour each at the new link trainer down at group headquarters.
Some of the bombardiers spent some more time on the rate machine. Word was received
that Lt. Russell, piloting 195 (43-4195) on the Cairo cross-country flight, was forced to
call for an engine change at Alexandria.
Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 2Lt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 451/mission 451) Group Mission # 451:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: Ten plane mission is flown.
Tuesday, 25 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 451/mission 451) Group Mission # 451:
Squadron Mission 334
TARGET: Legnago RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 25 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th
Planes: 10
Lt. Wiginton, 447th
led the formation. Good concentration on both bridges and
approaches. N and S bridges received direct hits. Reports that one span of N bridge
knocked down. Four ME-109s attempted to attack near Capri but were driven off by
escort. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate.
Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 2Lt, pilot, 447th
BS
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”
P Kerr, John C., Capt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt
N Chapman, John E., 1Lt None
B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 2Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt
E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt
G Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt
R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt
G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
Tuesday, 25 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt
N None None
B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt
G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,
S/Sgt
Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt
CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O
E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Smith, Salem M., S/Sgt
R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl
F None None
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Not scheduled on a mission today. Reading all a.m. Got a short haircut, what a weird
sight I’m today. The Head. Sacked awhile after dinner. Hung around club all nite,
listening to radio, playing cards with Gus Mexal. Rec’d a letter from MJ Carney.”
Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt, bombardier
447th
BS War Diary: The 447th
Barber Shop officially opened today in a small tent next
to the mail tent. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp,
Capri: 1st Lt. H.J. Magne; 1
st Lt. J.R. Gillis; Sgt. C.A. Rose; Sgt. L.E. Sheppard. T/Sgt.
A.R. Hasler has returned to the squadron from the United States, where he attended his
fathers 100th
birthday. At a meeting held at 1845 at the enlisted mens club all combat
enlisted men were briefed by Capt. Manly, on Escape in France. With a final score of 9
to 1, we chalked up another victory for the 447th
Baseball Club against the 409th
AA Co.
Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot Hasler, Arthur R., T/Sgt, engineering
Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence
Rose, Clifford A., Sgt, gunner Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt, gunner
Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 2Lt, pilot
Tuesday, 25 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 451/mission 451) Group Mission # 451: 10
of our ships participated in a raid on, Legnago RR Bridge, F-893257, with Lt. Wiginton
leading the squadron. Good concentration on bridge with direct hits on east bound and
west bound tracks. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission efficiency – 100 %.
A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Windler, John H., Capt,
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,
S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), Sgt
G Lejman, George T., Cpl Simms, Cleo W., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-27701 A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”
(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”)
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Wigmore, William H., 2Lt
N None None
B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt
E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
(lead spare)
P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt
N None None
B Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F Burns, Harry B., Pvt None
Tuesday, 25 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt
CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt
E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt
R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt
G Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None None
447th
BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “43rd
mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Legnago R.R. bridge, good bombing, flak from Tarra, 4
fighters jumped us, no damage.”
Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 451/mission 451) Group Mission # 451:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Wednesday, 26 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 25/26 Jul A-20s bomb roads and motor
transport in the Vado Ligure area and hit fuel supplies during following day; B-25s and
B-26s hit bridges in N Italy at Ronco Scrivia, Vado, Asti, Ostiglia, Carasco, Verona, and
Poggio Renatico; fighter-bombers attack road and rail bridges in N Italy at several points,
strafe and bomb many gun positions, destroy or damage 20+ aircraft at Valence Airfield,
and hit numerous targets of opportunity.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: A disastrous mission today with very little damage done.
The target was the Verona RR Bridge which was known to be heavily defended. 2 A/C
were shot down at the target. One crash landed at base and 14 others holed out of a total
of 19 A/C that took off. Lt. Albert A. Kukorowski, bombardier of the 448th
was killed.
The N approach of the bridge was well hit but the other bombs were scattered.
Two other missions this date – one to the Carasco wiped the road bridge off the
terrain, the other was a nickeller to the Florence area dropping pamphlets giving
instructions to the citizens there in regard to their conduct with the Germans; and soon
the Americans.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 452/mission 452) Group Mission # 452:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 452 Date: 26 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 10
Target: Verona RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0855 T.O.T.: 1045 Time Down: 1210
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 453/mission 453) Group Mission # 453:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 453 Date: 26 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 10 447- 9 448- 0
Target: Carasco Rd Bridge.
Time OFF: 0942 T.O.T.: 1100 Time Down: 1200
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 454/mission 454) Group Mission # 454:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 454 Date: 26 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 4
Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 1 447- 1 448- 1
Target: Nickeling over Florence area.
Time OFF: 1358 T.O.T.: 1455 Time Down: 1540
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS War Diary: The squadron joined the group in hitting a rail target in Italy
which turned out to be an extremely “hot” mission. There were a number of casualties
and another squadron lost two planes. This squadron came through unscathed. The
ordnance held a small arms inspection for all squadron personnel. With the advent of the
new Hellcat, Wildcat, Seafire and other naval aircraft, the squadron personnel is being
“checked out” on their identification. The mail situation continues to be “below par”.
Roast beef was enjoyed for supper. The squadron orchestra left for Rome today to put on
some shows for some outfits in that vicinity.
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 452/mission 452) Group Mission # 452:
Squadron Mission 315
TARGET: Verona Rail Bridge, Italy
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy
Pants”
P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt
CP Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Martin, John W., 2Lt
N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None
B Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., 2Lt
N None None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt
G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House
Mouse”
P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt
CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt
E Smith, William F., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt
R Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt
G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt Kramer, Henry P., Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”
P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt
CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt
N None None
B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt
E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt
G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt
G Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 453/mission 453) Group Mission # 453:
(445th
BS did not participate)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 454/mission 454) Group Mission # 454:
Squadron Mission 316
TARGET: Nickeling over Florence area.
A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”
P Frank, Robert R., 2Lt
CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt
N None
B Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt (Bomb/Nav)
E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt
R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt
G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: Regular duties.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 452/mission 452) Group Mission # 452:
(446th
BS did not participate)
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 453/mission 453) Group Mission # 453:
Squadron Mission 335
TARGET: Carasco Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 26 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th
Planes: 10
Lt. LeClair led the formation. Target area was well covered with greatest concentration
around S end and approach. Several reports of direct hits on target, with a few bombs in
town to the S and to the N and E of target. No flak, no fighters.
A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later
Darlene)
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt
CP LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt
N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None
B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hogman, Frans H., F/O
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt
R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt
G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
P Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt
CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt
N None None
B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Leith, William V., 2Lt
E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt Kreider, John L., Sgt
R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”
(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,
previously “Miss Dallas”)
A/C No. 43-27480
P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Gibbons, George H., 1Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt
E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt
R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Larson, Ralph L., Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art)
P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt
R Maddox, Everett R., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt
G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane)
P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt
CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt
N None Chapman, John E., 1Lt
B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt
E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt
G Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl Beets, Frank T., Sgt
F None None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 454/mission 454) Group Mission # 454:
Squadron Mission 336
TARGET: Florence Area, Italy DATE: 26 July 1944
Type of Bombs: “Front Post” Pamphlets. 446th
Planes: 1
Lt. Ovard led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed.
Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt, pilot, 448th
BS
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None
B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt
E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 58)
“Group Alert Officer – cancelled, took Jaksic’s place on the 22nd
.
Pre-briefed 0820 T.O. 0940 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: LeClair
Ship # 097 (43-4097 “Tiny?” - later “Darlene”) Alt 10,500’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos
Position: 1-1-1 Target: RR Bridge @ T. Sturla (44° 21’ N - 09° 21’ E).
Over target @ 1101, no fighters or flak, excellent concentration of bombs.
Had watermelon today, good. Capt. Birmingham dropped in, as funny as ever.
To show “4 Jills in A Jeep” – lousy. Flying time: 02:30 hrs.”
Birmingham, George G., Jr., Capt, pilot, 487th
BS
Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot
Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt, bombardier LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt, pilot
447th
BS War Diary: The following enlisted men are at rest camp, Rome, Italy: S/Sgt.
N.E. Lilly; S/Sgt. C.T. Pitts; S/Sgt. A.L. Simberg; Sgt. R.C. Stokes.
Lilley, Newton E., Sgt, armament Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot
Pitts, Carl T., S/Sgt, communication Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 452/mission 452) Group Mission # 452:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 453/mission 453) Group Mission # 453: 9 of
our ships participated in a raid on the Carasco Road Bridge, P-292400, with Lt.
Muzinich, leading the squadron. Target area well covered with direct hits on bridge.
South end and approach to bridge also hit. Bombing accuracy-100 %; Mission
Efficiency- 100 %.
A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27636
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt
N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt
B James, Robert M., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None None
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
(returned early) A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling
Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”)
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt
R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl Shand, Arthur T., PFC
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-27718
P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Gillis, John R., 1Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt
E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt
R Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt
G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Rose, Clifford A., Sgt
F None Burns, Harry B., Pvt
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” (lead
spare)
P Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC None
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 454/mission 454) Group Mission # 454: One
of our ships participated in a successful nickeling mission in the Florence area.
A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
N None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt
E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt
R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt
F None
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 452/mission 452) Group Mission # 452:
Mission 297 (452): At 08:55 19 planes off to bomb Verona W RR/B, 15 planes dropped
56 x 1000 bombs at 10:45 from 10,500 feet. 2 planes returned bombs as lead Bombardier
Lt. Kukorowski was killed by a direct burst of flak before reaching target. Fotos show
that target was missed. Planes returned at 12:10. Heavy, intense, very accurate flak from
IP to after break-away shot down two planes and holed 14. One plane Lt. Brown, Pilot;
Lt. Frasier, Co-Pilot; Lt. Maginn, Bombardier; Sergeants: Tracy, Engineer; Corrigan,
Radio; and Mitchell, Gunner; was seen to be hit in one engine and appeared to be going
down under control, shortly afterwards the bombs were salvoed and the ship fell into a
spin and crashed to the ground. No chutes were observed. The other plane was hit in the
left engine and the propeller knocked off. It too was seen to be leaving the target under
control, no further information has been obtained but it is believed that the plane could
have made a safe landing. The crew was Lts: Olson, Goff, Quartuccio; Sgts: Sullivan,
Holtzendorf, Montoro and Benton. Lt. Armstrong and Sgt. Crow were seriously
wounded by flak. 14 planes were holed. Weather: CAVU.
Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot Crow, Roscoe J., Sgt, gunner
Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier
A/C No. 43-27631 (MACR-7065 - shot
down over target)
A/C No. 43-4051 (MACR-7064 - shot
down over target)
P Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Olson, Orin E., 1Lt
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt
N None None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt
E Tracy, William G., Sgt Sullivan, James G., S/Sgt
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), T/Sgt
G Mitchell, William C., S/Sgt Montoro, John A., S/Sgt
F None Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie”
P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt
CP Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2lt
N Hickey, William O., 1Lt None
B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt
E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt
R Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt
G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27668
P Warren, William F., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt
CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt
N None None
B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt
E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt
R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt
G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Irvine, Josef F., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”
P Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt
CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Farwell, Harold S., Capt
N None None
B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt
E Veeck, Richard W., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt
G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt
F None Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27528
P Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt
N Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt None
B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt
R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt
G Congdon, Harry W., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., Sgt
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 7064:
A/C No. 43-4051 (MACR-7064 - shot down over target)
P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt - KIA
CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt - MIA, POW,
N None
B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt - MIA, POW,
E Sullivan, James G., S/Sgt - KIA
R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), T/Sgt - KIA
G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt - MIA, POW,
F Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt - KIA
Individual Casualty Questionnaire: Montoro, John A., S/Sgt, gunner, 448th
BS
German intelligence officer told me that he was in the cockpit dead. However, I
do not think that this is true because the airplane hit the ground and started to burn, and in
approx. 3 min. the bombs exploded 4 1000lb G.P. bombs. I saw the plane hit the ground
and start to burn. I do not believe that anyone got that close to the burning and exploding
plane.
It is my belief that he was in the plane, when it hit the ground.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual Casualty Questionnaire: Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt, pilot, 448th
BS
At the command of the pilot the bombardier and gunner bailed out through the
navigators hatch and I followed. I saw no parachutes at all or anyone else leave the plane
after I bailed out. It is my belief that I was last to leave.
The aircraft hit the ground approx. 200 yds north of where I hit. This was along
the eastern Bank of Lake Garda, West of Verona.
Pilot, Radio gunner, Photographer, & Tail Gunner: These men were never seen or
heard of by the remainder of the Crew.
The last member I saw was the pilot Lt. Olson. He seemed to be O.K. and after
the bombardier and gunner left he told me to go.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 7065:
A/C No. 43-27631 (MACR-7065 - shot down over target)
P Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
N None
B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
E Tracy, William G., Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt - MIA, evaded enemy, RTD 14 Oct 44
G Mitchell, William C., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
F None
Eyewitness Account: Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt, navigator, 448th
BS
448th
BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF
321st
BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
26 July1944
As we were going down the bomb run, I saw Lieutenant Brown’s ship hit
underneath the left engine. Immediately it started smoking and the ship peeled off to the
right. We dropped, then broke hard left -- made a long 180°, then as we were passing
over the lake I picked up Lieutenant Brown’s ship again at the south-east corner of the
lake at about 7000 feet. He dropped his bombs, which hit about three miles from the
south-east corner of the lake.
He now looked under control and flew on a course to intercept us. About two
minutes later and about thirty miles south of Lake Garda, his plane peeled up and off to
the right and spiraled to the ground.
The gunners and myself saw no chutes as the plane crashed, however, it is very
possible that we couldn’t see them at that distance.
WALTER C. FEELEY, JR.,
1st Lieut., Air Corps,
Navigator.
(Attachment -- MAC Report,
Brown, Wyndham E. III (O) and
crew, dated 26 July 1944.)
Incl. 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
Eyewitness Account: Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 448th
BS
14 October 1944
Aircraft was hit in left wing at 10,000 feet: Source saw petrol pouring from left
tank. Source bailed at 8,000 feet and observed four other chutes while descending.
Corrigan was told by local eyewitnesses that a total of five chutes were observed and the
aircraft crashed: they further stated that one person was dead and one of the personnel
had been captured. Before the mishap, Source spoke to Pilot and Co-pilot; Mitchell,
turret gunner, was seated in the section of the aircraft hit by the flak, and may have been
injured.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 453/mission 453) Group Mission # 453:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 454/mission 454) Group Mission # 454:
Mission 298 (454): At 13:58 4 planes off to drop “Front Posts” over the Florence area,
all returned without incident at 15:40.
A/C No. 43-28081
P Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2lt
B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt
E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt
R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt
G Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt
F None
Thursday, 27 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th
AF):
In Italy, A-20s fly patrols on the night of 26/27 Jul over the Po River
Valley, bombing lights and vehicles at Piacenza, Modena, and Verona; both medium and
fighter-bombers concentrate on bridges in the Po River Valley and NW Italy throughout
the day; numerous hits are scored on bridges and other targets, including parked aircraft,
guns, and railroads.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 455/mission 455) Group Mission # 455:
36 A/C to the Borgoforte Rail Bridge finally knocked a span down putting the bride out
of commission.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 455 Date: 27 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 37
Squadrons: 445- 12 446- 13 447- 12 448- 0
Target: Borgoforte RR Bridge – Alt. Acquasanta RR Bridge.
Time OFF: 0817 T.O.T.: 1000 Time Down: 1117
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: Lt. Thompson came back a bit disgusted after today’s mission
after he had burned out one of his engines, necessitating an engine change. Lt. Bruce
Lowery has been relieved of his assignment as Armament Officer and is on his way to the
States. He has been relieved by Lt. Standard. Capt. Wilson gave a one-hour lecture to all
combat crews on the operation and use of the emergency radio set. Once again the
bombardiers were active on the bombsight rate machine and the bomb trainer. Two ships
went to the bombing range while two cross-country flights were made. At noon today, an
order was posted on the bulletin board that all squadron personnel would wear firearms
with them at all times until “further notice”. No reasons were given for the order and
there was much speculation.
Lowery, Bruce (NMI), 2Lt, armament Standard, Lt, armament
Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 455/mission 455) Group Mission # 455:
Squadron Mission 317
TARGET: Borgoforte RR Bridge.
Thursday, 27 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”
P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt
CP Register, Percy D., Maj Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt
N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None
B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt
E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt
R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”
P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt
CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt
N None None
B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt
E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt
R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt
F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”
(later “Winnie Mae”)
A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)
P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt
CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt
N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None
B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt
E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt
R Pate, Harris B., Jr., S/Sgt Rockett, James J., T/Sgt
G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT”
P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt
CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O
N None None
B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt
E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt
R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt
G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt
F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None
Thursday, 27 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”
P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt
CP Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt
N None None
B Doherty, Charles S., Sgt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt
E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt
R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt
G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27509
P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt
CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt
N None None
B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt
E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt
R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt
G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” (returned early – engine trouble)
P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt
CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt
N None
B Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt
E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt
R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt
G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt
F None
446th
BS War Diary: Regular duties.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 455/mission 455) Group Mission # 455:
Squadron Mission 337
TARGET: RR Bridge, Borgoforte, Italy DATE: 27 July 1944
Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th
Planes: 12
Lt. Alger led the formation. Target area well covered. Concentrations of bombs across N
end and approach and across S approach. Several strings through center. Flak was
heavy, scant, inaccurate, no fighters.
Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 447th
BS
Thursday, 27 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy
Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45
“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)
A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”
P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt
N Chapman, John E., 1Lt None
B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt
E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt
R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Lowitz, Orville W., Sgt Bender, Thomas J., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic
Pad”
A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”
P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt
CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt
N None Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt
B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O
E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt
R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt
G Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”
P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt
CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt
N None None
B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O
E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt
R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt
G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64549 A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name
dropped from nose art) (did not take-off
– engine trouble)
P Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt
CP Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O
N None None
B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt
E Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt
R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt
G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt
F None None
Thursday, 27 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”
P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt
CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt
N None None
B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt
E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Bender, Vernon I., Sgt
R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt
G Brown, Ronald M., T/Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My
Heart”
P Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt
CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt
N None None
B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Noel, Paul R., 2Lt
E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt
G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27745
P Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt
CP Gibbons, George H., 1Lt
N None
B Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt
E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt
R Wilking, Robert L., Cpl
G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt
F None
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Not on a mission today, so far anyway. Had 100% accuracy & efficiency on yesterdays
target. Boys went to Borgoforte, no flak. Small arms inspection today. Group order that
will all carry guns in the area, also placing a guard on each plane (?). Took laundry into
Solenzara. Sacked. Package from MJC. Put 60 bombs on my jacket. Wrote Alice &
MJC.”
447th
BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties. Orders were received from 321st
Bombardment Group Headquarters that all men be armed and that a guard be posted on
each plane until further notice – lasting only one day. Today’s training consisted of local
test hops.
Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
Thursday, 27 July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 455/mission 455) Group Mission # 455: 12
of our ships participated in a raid on the Borgoforte RR Bridge, with Lt. Alger leading the
squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs across north end and both approaches.
Several strings thru center. Bombing accuracy – 100 %; Mission efficiency – 100 %.
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”
(returned early) A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt
N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt
B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt
E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt
R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Lejman, George T., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”
P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None None
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”
P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt
R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt
A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27701
P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt
N None None
B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt
F None Shand, Arthur T., PFC
Thursday, 27 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary
Blonde”
P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt
CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt
E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt
R Toole, John F., S/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt
G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt
F Burns, Harry B., Pvt None
A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”
P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt
CP Runyon, Leroy C., 2lt Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt
N None None
B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt
E Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt
R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt
G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling
Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”)
P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 1Lt
N Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt
E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt
R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt
G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt
F None
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 455/mission 455) Group Mission # 455:
(448th
BS did not participate)
Friday, 28 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF): AAF, MTO: In Italy, the
72nd
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, based at Santa Maria, sends a flight to operate from
Caserta with L-5s.
In Italy, A-20s bomb scattered lights and vehicles in the Po River
Valley during the night of 27/28 Jul; and during the day light, medium, and fighter-
bombers hit targets in the Po River Valley, concentrating on bridges. Some fighter-
bombers attack motor transport in the Rhone River Valley in France.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.
445th
BS War Diary: There was a “stand down” order and no mission was flown today.
The combat crews attended two movies today, one on aircraft identification and the other
on escape procedure. There was another day of rigid training in effect with Bombardiers
on the rate machine and bomb trainer, transition, practice formation flying, PDI training,
practice bombing, swinging of the compass and several cross-country flights. This date
will be remembered as the infamous date when a low-flying B-25 dispersed a horse race
in progress at a race track at Cairo. Reports are not quite clear as yet what with “Scrap
Iron” Lt. Russell and Lt. Lubomir (Cross-country) Shyshka – both notorious buzzers – in
the vicinity of the crime. Sgt. Logan, S-2 section chief, points an accusing finger at Lt.
Shyshka who vehemently denies the charge. Lt. Russell only laughed. He was in a bar at
the time of the flight. The order to wear firearms was rescinded today.
Russell, Lawrence Lee "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot
Shyshka, Lubomir P. "Cross Country", 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. A small mail call in the afternoon.
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“No mission today. Lecture on Aircraft Ident. @ 1000. All Bmbdr’s to line @ 1430,
lecture on releases (A Glorified RTV). Freddy Northrup made Captain today. Lecture &
movie to all combat crews at Group @ 1900, on “Ditching”. Chudars & Hawkes
returned from Cairo. Had a case of Cokes with them. Bull session.”
Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., Capt, pilot
Northrup, Frederick W., Capt, armament
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following officers and
enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. Forrest T. Nettles; 1
st Lt. William
E. Kibler; 2nd
Lt. Eric A. Johnson; 2nd
Lt. William E. Neiman; Sgt. Vincent A. Mango;
Sgt. Dale C. Miller. The following officers and enlisted men returned to the squadron
after being on DS – 12th
AAF. 1st Lt. William E. Huffman; 1
st Lt. William F. Heitman;
T/Sgt. Ramo J. Valeri; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler. The following officers and enlisted men
have returned from rest camp, Rome Italy: 1st Lt. Edward Krafka; 1
st Lt. Wayne A.
Manz; Sgt. Harold W. Scarberry; S/Sgt. Paul L. Free; S/Sgt. Rennie Mitchell. A class on
aircraft recognition was held at 321st Bombardment Group Headquarters. Captain R.W.
Friday, 28 July 1944 (continued)
Manly gave a short lecture on Escape in France. Today’s training consisted of local
transition.
Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Free, Paul L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier
Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt, pilot Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt, pilot
Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot
Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt, aerial gunner
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot
Miller, Dale C., Sgt, gunner Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
Nettles, Forrest Truett, 1Lt, pilot Neiman, William E., 2Lt, pilot
Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt, gunner Valeri, Ramo J., T/Sgt, engineering
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Saturday, 29 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, weather cancels medium bomber operations; fighter-
bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit buildings at Diano Marina and bridges, rail
lines, airfields, and vehicles in N Italy.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.
445th
BS War Diary: There was a stand down for this squadron on today’s mission.
The usual extensive training program was in effect again today with the accent on
practice bombing and practice assembly. There were also quite a few cross-country
flights made today. Lts. Russell, Shyshka and crew returned from their extended tour of
Cairo and all points east and west. Lt. Ireland replaced Lt. Standard as Squadron
Armament officer. Luxury rations were distributed today. Civilian pictures were taken
of all combat crews. They will be carried by the crews at all times. A large number of
packages arrived today. Pork chops was on the menu for supper.
Ireland, Kenneth E., 2Lt, armament
Russell, Lawrence Lee "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot
Shyshka, Lubomir P. "Cross Country", 2Lt, pilot
Standard, Lt, armament
445th
BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
07/29/44: “My morale has been rather high the last several days for no reason in
particular. Before that it was very low. I guess I just reached the nadir of hypochondria
and there had to be a change. Yesterday Coupe came down from the 27th
Fighter Group
and spent the night with me. We saw a baseball game, in which Rucker was the star and
a natural, and a midnight show. Also yesterday we finished building a very excellent
floor and siding for our tent. It is the best we have ever had. This morning Herman, the
remarkable dog that has been with us ever since Africa, was struck by a car and had to
be shot. Poor old Herman! We had begun to believe he was indestructible and
unloosable. There is very little activity other than training. It is very clear they are
cooking up a big push, which I expect to break in a week or so. I believe the month of
August will be the most decisive month of the war.”
“Herman Berman the German”, belonged to Barnes, Warren H. “Bobo”, engineering
Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Sgts. Bober and Schreiner are assigned to 57th
Wing.
Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Saturday, 29 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“Nothing scheduled for today, weather poor. Went to PX with Chudars for rations.
Sacked. Showered & shaved. Rec’d letter from Grandma & Alice, pkg. from MJC. Got
a surprise at supper, CLB met Jim Horvath in Rome, took him back with him. Had a
great time, same old Jim, stayed overnite.”
Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot
Horvath, James (NMI) “Jim”, 37th
BS, 17th
BG (M - B-26)
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. Private Norman C.
Bulfinch, and Private Frank H. Dorrel, have been promoted to the rank of private first
class, per Squadron Order # 30. Sgt. Henry A. Lasek received head injuries by falling off
a moving truck. Usual squadron duties.
Bulfinch, Norman C., PFC, intelligence Dorrel, Frank H., PFC, intelligence
Lasek, Henry A., Sgt, decontamination
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
Sunday, 30 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, during the night of 29/30 Jul A-20s bomb Savona and
surrounding areas; overcast in the W Po River Valley causes some medium bomber
aborts but several bridges at Ovada, Bistagno, Cherasco, and Ferrara are successfully
attacked; fighter-bombers attack road and rail bridges in N Italy, hit shipping between
Savona and Ventimiglia, silence 8 flak guns at the Ferrara bridge, and hit several
transportation targets of opportunity.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Mission to Canneto Rail Bridge abortive due to weather.
Nickellers again dropped on Florence.
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 456/mission 456) Group Mission # 456:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 456 Date: 30 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 5
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 5 447- 0 448- 0
Target: Nickeling—Florence Area.
Time OFF: 0903 T.O.T.: 0958 Time Down: 1050
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 457/mission 457) Group Mission # 457:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
321st BG Mission No 457 Date: 30 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 5
Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 0 447- 10 448- 10
Target: Canneto R.R. Bridge at F-147237, Alternate—Sori Rd Bridge at P-104434
Time OFF: 1637 T.O.T.: 1810 Time Down: 1925
(Final Report not available)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th
BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for the squadron today. 12 ships
from the squadron participated in practice formation flying. 3 other ships went to the
practice bombing range while another plane was sent up to swing the compass. There
were also 3 cross-country flights made. Some replacement personnel arrived today. Lt.
Jackson, Asst. S-2 Officer, gave an escape procedure lecture to all the combat crews
today. Some of the bombardiers spent some more time on both the bomb trainer and rate
machine while some pilots were on the link trainer. The men noticed with some interest
the scheduled appearance of S/Sgt. Joe Louis in “about 4 days”.
Jackson, James O., 2Lt, intelligence
Barrow, Joseph Louis “Joe Louis”, SSgt, Boxer, Special Service
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 456/mission 456) Group Mission # 456:
(445th
BS did not participate)
Sunday, 30 July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 457/mission 457) Group Mission # 457:
(445th
BS did not participate)
446th
BS War Diary: A mission is flown to the Florence area.
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 456/mission 456) Group Mission # 456:
Squadron Mission 338
TARGET: Florence Area, Italy DATE: 30 July 1944
Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th
Planes: 5
Lt. Vivas led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed. No flak, no fighters.
A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS
PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 43-27745
P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt
CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O
N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt None
B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt
E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt
R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Crozer, Robert L., T/Sgt
G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little
Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”
P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt
CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt
N None None
B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt
E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt
R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt
G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27480
P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt
CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt
E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt
R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt
G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt
F None
446th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 457/mission 457) Group Mission # 457:
(446th
BS did not participate)
Sunday, 30 July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“No mission today. Rate machine 1430-1500. With Horvath all, lot of fun, left @ 1530,
got a ride back to Sardinia. Had an argument at dinnertime with the Doc about rotation.
Still don’t know from nothing. Rec’d 2 letters from Alice. Wrote Grandma, Alice.”
Horvath, James (NMI) “Jim”, 37th
BS, 17th
BG (M - B-26)
Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer
447th
BS War Diary: Cpl. Donald E. Bailey has been reduced to the grade of private per
Group Headquarters SO 122. The following officers and enlisted men have departed for
rest camp, Rome, Italy: 2nd
Lt. Irving L. Altman; S/Sgt. Peter D. Pusvaskis; Sgt. Charles
A. Munstein; Cpl. Ernest E. Fischinger; Pvt. Horace E. Drew. The following enlisted
men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Sgt. Newton E. Lilley; S/Sgt. Alvin L.
Simberg; S/Sgt. Carl T. Pitts; Sgt. Robert C. Stokes. 1st Lt. George G. VenJohn has been
assigned to this squadron per the 445th
Squadron Order No. 122. 1st Lt. VenJohn has
been appointed assistant S-2 officer. 1st Lt. James N. Watson has been relieved of
assignment and transferred to Det. of Pat. 35th
Station Hospital, SO 74.
Altman, Irving L., 2Lt, bombardier Bailey, Donald E., Pvt, transportation
Drew, Horace E., Pvt, turret gunner Fischinger, Ernest E., Cpl, engineering
Lilley, Newton E., Sgt, armament Munstein, Charles Allen, Sgt, engineering
Pitts, Carl T., S/Sgt, communication Pusvaskis, Peter D., S/Sgt, communications
Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner
VenJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence Watson, James N., 1Lt, bombardier
447h BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 456/mission 456) Group Mission # 456:
(447th
BS did not participate)
447th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 457/mission 457) Group Mission # 457: 10
of our ships took off to raid the Canneto RR Bridge, but due to complete overcast the
formation returned all bombs to the base.
A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”
P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt
CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt
N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt
B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt
E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt
R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt
G May, Frederick J., Sgt Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 30 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”
P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt
CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt
E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt
R Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,
S/Sgt
Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt
G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt
F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC None
A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious
Aloysius”
A/C No. 43-27636
P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt
CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt
N None None
B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt
E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt
R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., S/Sgt
G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”
P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt
CP Heitman, William F., 1Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt
E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt
R Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt
G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt
F None Shand, Arthur T., PFC
A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”
P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt
CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt
N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt
B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt
E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Freeman, Millard C., Sgt
R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt
G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt
F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None
Sunday, 30 July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
448h BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 456/mission 456) Group Mission # 456:
(448th
BS did not participate)
448th
BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 457/mission 457) Group Mission # 457:
Mission 299 (457): At 16:37 19 planes off to bomb Canneto RR/B. Due to complete
over-cast at primary and alternate the formation returned all bombs to base at 19:25
hours. No flak. Weather: Complete over-cast.
A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27726
P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt
CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt
N Duncan, George F., 1Lt None
B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt Shaw, Charles W., Sgt
E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt
R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt
G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-27791
P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt
CP Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt
N None None
B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt
E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt
R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt
G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 43-27528 (ship did not take-off
due to engine trouble) (crew not listed) A/C No. 43-27720
P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt
CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt
N None None
B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt
E Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt
R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt
G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Sunday, 30 July 1944 (continued)
A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine
Sadie”
P Grady, John R., 2Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt
CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt
N None None
B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt
E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt
R Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt
G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Irvine, Josef F., S/Sgt
F None White, E. T., S/Sgt
A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not
Out”
P Rogers, Henry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Bard, John A., 2Lt
CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt
N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt None
B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Young, Robert B., 2Lt
E Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt
R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., T/Sgt
G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt
F None Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt
Monday, 31 July 1944
USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12
th AF):
In Italy, weather grounds medium bombers; fighter-bombers hit
several bridges in the W Po River Valley while fighters strafe airfields with good results;
the fighter-bombers also destroy around 50 railroad cars and damage numerous others.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.
445th
BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today. Six ships practiced
assembly in the air, 3 ships did some formation flying, several transition flights were
made, a test hop was flown and several cross-country flights were made. Lt. Wagner
returned from Cairo today. The squadron personnel were paid today after noon chow.
Preparations are now under way to put on a stage show celebrating the second
anniversary of the activation of the group.
Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot
446th
BS War Diary: No Missions. Lt. Jack Locke joins us as assistant S-2 officer.
Locke, Jacob (NMI) "Jack", 2Lt, intelligence
446th
BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:
“No mission today, poor weather. Cleaned up tent. Read ‘Chad Hama’ – good. Got
paid. Sacked, shaved & showered. Sqdn. had 2nd
Anniversary Party, - not bad.”
447th
BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following enlisted men
have been reduced to the rank of private: S/Sgt. Harry M. Glass; Cpl. Richard N.
Helwig; Cpl. Arnold W. Vollbrecht; Sgt. Leonard B. Heiman. Private Henry M. Glass
has been promoted to the rank of corporal. The following enlisted men have been
promoted to the rank of Technical Sergeant, per SO. 165 Headquarters, 12th
AAF, dated
June 30, 1944: S/Sgt. Joseph D. Alpino; S/Sgt. Edward S. Korzeniowski; S/Sgt. Paul L.
Free; S/Sgt. Joseph J. Parisi; S/Sgt. William H. Pierce. The following enlisted men have
been promoted to the grade of Staff Sergeant, per SO 165 Headquarters, 12th
AAF, dated
June 30, 1944: Sgt. Michael A. Andryscak; Sgt. Robert W. Engels; Sgt. Everett H.
Clyne; Sgt. Clifford A. Rose; Sgt. Frederick J. Tarra. The following enlisted men have
been promoted to the grade of Sergeant per SO 165 Headquarters, 12th
AAF dated June
30, 1944: Cpl. Dominick Giaratana; Cpl. Thomas J. McKinney; Cpl. Cornelius J.
Sexton; Cpl. Jarrold S. Oransky; Cpl. Clyde Murphy, Jr.; Cpl. Cleo W. Simms; PFC
Arthur T. Shand; PFC. Harry B. Burns. A large percentage of the personnel of this
squadron have shown an interest in voting by State Absentee Ballot. Usual squadron
duties.
Alpino, Joseph P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Andryscak, Michael A., S/Sgt, gunner
Burns, Harry B., Sgt, photographer Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, armament-gunner
Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt, gunner Free, Paul L., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Giaratana, Dominick (NMI), Sgt, mess Glass, Henry M., Cpl, personnel
Monday, 31 July 1944 (continued)
Glass, Harry Martin, Pvt, turret gunner Heiman, Leonard B., Pvt, transportation
Helwig, Richard N., Pvt, engineering Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt, gunner
McKinney, Thomas J., Sgt, armament Murphy, Clyde C., Jr., Sgt, engineering
Oransky, Jarrold S., Sgt, communications Parisi, Joseph J., T/Sgt, photographer
Pierce, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt, gunner
Sexton, Cornelius J., Sgt, operations Shand, Arthur T., Sgt, photographer
Simms, Cleo W., Sgt, gunner Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt, gunner
Vollbrecht, Arnold W., Pvt, engineering
448th
BS War Diary: No Entry
July 1944
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944
STRENGTH (as of July 31, 1944) OFFICERS: 26 ENLISTED MEN: 57
July was a “middlin” month both as to number and importance of targets. Forty-
three missions were flown as compared to fifty-three of last month. The highlight of the
month was the execution of the Mallory-Plan---the plan devised by the Mediterranean
Allied Tactical Air Force whereby the two medium bombardment wings in this theater
were to destroy the 23 bridges along the Po Valley from Piacenza to the mouth of the
river. Four days was the limit imposed because of the defenses which were inevitable
and prohibitive after that time. Twenty-one of the 23 bridges were completely destroyed
in those four days and the 321st Bomb Group played an important role in this “bridge
busting” plan. The last two bridges were destroyed later in the month in spite of the
heavy, intense anti-aircraft fire thrown up by Jerry. Two of our planes were lost over the
target during the month and both were shot down at Verona on July 26th
. Every other
plane was holed in the formation on that date.
July was also the first month this year in which no direct army ground support
missions were flown. However, indications pointed to more such activity during the
month of August judging from rumors, reports and observations pouring into the Group
regarding probable invasion plans.
Something new has been added to the station complement here at our Corsican
airdrome when we found ourselves host to two night-fighter squadrons. That in itself is
nothing unusual but what was out of the ordinary was the fact that one of those squadrons
consisted of land-based Navy Hell-cats—the first that have ever operated in this area.
With the addition of a link-trainer our Group training program became accelerated
to a further degree. Also, with the many new Navy planes in the area, an aircraft
recognition course was instituted and attended by all combat crew members. This
training in addition to the numerous transition and bomb-run flights being made, as well
as the bombardier trainer going every day. As evidence of our improved bombing we can
point with a certain amount of pride to our average for the month which led the other
Groups in Win---78.19% against pin-point objectives.
July 1944 (continued)
THE RAID OF THE MONTH
July, 1944
This month the Group Intelligence Officer, Major Malcolm D. Haven, selects the
one raid that from photo coverage and interpretation, and relative importance, has bee
outstanding during the month. Once again the selector yields to perfect, 100% precision
bombing.
This month’s selection:
Borgoforte Rail Bridge
Attacked: 15 Jul 44
NUMBER OF PLANES OVER TARGET: 24
RESULTS: (First phase interpretation)
A heavy concentration of bombs fell across the North end of the bridge. However
later photos did not show any direct hits. Near hits were probably scored, damaging and
weakening the under-structure. Two elements from the second flight fell across the
bridge dissecting the bridge into three sections. Hits were probably scored from these
patterns.
FLAK: Formation received heavy, moderate, accurate flak from the Italian coast at
landfall and heavy, moderate, accurate flak from the target area. A total of 12 planes
were hit – one crew member injured.
SITUATION: The destruction of the Borgoforte Bridge was not an isolated target as far
as disruption of the Axis communication is concerned. During this period the 57th
Wing
(of which this Group is a member) and the 42nd
Wing (B-26’s) were actively engaged in
the Mallory Plan which was to knock out the 23 bridges along the Po River Valley. This
Group’s participation in the Plans’ fulfillment added materially in the strangulation of the
Hun communication system. We flew 12 separate missions against five of those bridges
and had an average bombing accuracy of 76% against generally stiff opposition.
July 1944 (continued)
July 1944 (continued)
HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH AIR FORCE
A. P. O. 650
GENERAL ORDERS) 18 July 1944.
:
NUMBER 95) CITATION OF UNIT
Under the provisions of Circular 333, War Department, 1943, and Circular 26,
North African Theater of Operations, 6 March 1944, the 321st Bombardment Group (M)
is cited for outstanding performance of duty in armed conflict with the enemy.
The 321st Bombardment Group (M) is cited for outstanding performance of duty
in action against the enemy in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations on 8 October
1943. When the Allied invasion of the Italian mainland and simultaneous operations in
the Aegean Sean dangerously exposed our extended supply lines to enemy air action
from Luftwaffe units stationed in the Balkans, the 321st Bombardment Group, then in
Africa, was ordered to occupy bases in southern Italy and immediately attack and
neutralize the hostile Balkan airfields. On 8 October 1943, a formation of forty-eight B-
25’s, refueled by hand from five-gallon cans and serviced only with such equipment as
could be transported by air from Africa, flew from Grottaglia, Italy, in a raid on the
heavily defended Eleusis Airdrome near Athens, Greece. As the formation approached
the target, a swarm of hostile fighters attacked, drawing off the escort and permitting
more than thirty enemy interceptors to engage the bombers unmolested. Distinguishing
themselves in the ensuing battle by extraordinary heroism and answering determination
in the face of desperate assaults by enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire so intense that
twenty-six B-25’s were damaged and two were shot down into the sea, the bomber
combat teams worked in perfect coordination to complete their mission. As the gunners
kept up a withering fire that destroyed eight enemy fighters and disabled four others, the
pilots resolutely maintained a compact and level formation, enabling their bombardiers to
cover the assigned areas with a devastating pattern of fragmentation bombs which
destroyed many dispersed aircraft and started a number of fires. During the critical days
which followed, despite almost insurmountable difficulties which kept comparable units
inoperative during a part of this period, the 321st Group continued uninterrupted and
extremely effective bombing operations against vital enemy objectives, reducing the
original Balkan strength of the German XIth
Air Force from 300 aircraft to 114, and
lending invaluable support to the morale of the Yugoslav Partisan resistance. The
gallantry, esprit de corps, and outstanding proficiency in combat displayed by the
personnel of the 321st Bombardment Group have reflected the highest credit upon
themselves and the Military Service of the United States.
By command of Brigadier General WEBSTER:
JOHN W. MONAHAN,
Colonel, A. C.,
Chief of Staff.
July 1944 (continued)
OFFICIAL:
WILLIAM W. DICK,
Colonel, A. G. D.,
Adjutant General.
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt, Air Corps,
Ass’t S-2
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEADQUARTERS, TWELFTH AIR FORCE (Adv)
APO 650 US ARMY
31 July 1944.
335
SUBJECT: Commendation.
TO: Commanding General, 57th
Bomb Wing, APO 650, US Army.
1. The following message has been received from General Arnold: “The
maintaining of operations in support of ground operations against enemy installations by
all units of the Twelfth Air Force from 17 July to 26 July, inclusive, is most encouraging
and gratifying. The teamwork between the combat crews, maintenance crews and service
units is notable by the results attained. For the display of such splendid efforts please
convey my heartiest congratulations to all members of your Command.
2. The Commanding General desires to add his congratulations and appreciation
to all members of your command for their splendid efforts which are so worthy of this
fine commendation by your Chief.
By command of Major General CANNON:
EDWARD J. CULLETON,
Major, A. G. D.,
Ass’t. Adjutant General.
335 1st Ind. G/GRC/jw
HEADQUARTERS, 57th
BOMBARDMENT WING, APO 650, US ARMY, 3 August
1944.
TO: Commanding Officer, 310th
Bomb Group, APO 560, US Army.
Commanding Officer, 321st Bomb Group, APO 560, US Army.
Commanding Officer, 340th
Bomb Group, APO 560, US Army.
July 1944 (continued)
For your information:
By command of Brigadier General KNAPP:
/s/ G. R. Crofton
/t/ G. R. CROFTON,
Lt Colonel, AGD,
Adjutant General.
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:
S. P. NEPRASH,
Capt, Air Corps,
Ass’t S-2 Officer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE 321st EFFORT IN CONNECTION WITH THE BALKAN CAMPAIGN
A HISTORICAL SUMMARY
After the Italian capitulation and the Allied invasion of Italy in September, 1943,
The Balkan countries, particularly Greece, were watched closely for their development as
a center for German air bases. Because of their close proximity to our Adriatic shipping
lanes and to the Dodecanese Islands in possession of British troops, strong German Air
Force units in the Balkans would constitute an ominous threat to the Allied effort in the
Mediterranean area.
Air Intelligence Weekly Summary No. 45, Headquarters, Northwest African Air
Forces A-2 Section, reported in late September as follows: “Photo reconnaissance this
week showed activity on several airfields in the Balkans. Most of the aircraft present
were Italian although there were some German.” One week later an entirely different
picture appeared in summary number 46 of the same headquarters which showed that the
major portion of the German Air Force in the Mediterranean Theater had been shifted
from Northern Italy and Southern France to the Balkans. The Germans had transferred a
force of 300 planes.
As an immediate step toward meeting the threat of this formidable force of enemy
aircraft it was essential that Allied bombers be brought over to newly acquired bases in
Southern Italy to exert their full striking power against the German bases in the Balkans.
The 321st Bomb Group, along with other medium bomb groups, was given the orders to
proceed immediately from its base in Africa to a base in Southern Italy. And to be
prepared upon arrival at the new base to carry out attacks without delay on enemy
airdromes in the Balkans. The 321st bomb Group was the first to complete successfully
the transfer of its full striking power to the Italian mainland and on 4 October 1943, the
day after the planes reached their new base of Grottaglie Airdrome, began a series of
attacks on the enemy’s Balkan bases which dealt a severe blow to his airforce. From 4
October 1943 through 18 November 1943, German aircraft were destroyed on the ground
by the Group’s attacks and many of his airfields were kept in unserviceable condition.
July 1944 (continued)
These first attacks launched by the 321st served to reduce in great measure the offensive
activities of the German Air Force and the Group’s efforts, supplemented by heavy
bomber and other medium bomber attacks, put the enemy’s Balkan air force entirely on
the defensive by mid-November.
The primary objective of the 321st Bomb Group at the beginning of operations
from an Italian base on 4 October 1943 was to counter the offensive power of the German
Air Force in the Balkans but when this had been effectively accomplished, the group was
assigned to aid the Partisans fighting in Yugoslavia, Albania and Greece.
Up until this time all resistance by Partisans in these countries had been more on
the nature of sabotage and there had been few organized forces of resistance. Attempts
were being made constantly by Partisan leaders to secure more recruits and form strong
organizations which could effectively engage the German troops occupying their
countries in actual combat. The 321st was the first organized unit to take part in the
Partisan’s campaign for liberation and aside from the material aid given in destroying the
objectives it had been requested to attack by the Partisans, the missions carried out by the
group were of inestimable value in bringing added strength to the Partisan’s will to resist.
Reports from underground sources told of enormous increases in enlistments and of the
extraordinary stimulus to morale when our bombers were seen flying towards their
objectives.
Shortly afterwards the Partisans had formed strong armies and were openly
resisting the German Forces in armed conflict. In a large measure the air support
provided by the 321st Bomb Group was responsible for this successful organized uprising
which has tied up numerous German divisions in the Balkans. The total value of this
contribution to Allied Victory over the German Armies would be impossible to estimate.
The high point of this phase and one of the last blows which the 321st delivered on behalf
of the Allied cause in this direction before turning its destructive force on Italian targets
was its raid on Sofia Marshalling Yards. This mission more than any other focused the
attention of the United Nations on the fact that the Allied Military leaders were not losing
sight of the importance of the Balkans in their attack on the “Fortress of Europe” and
must have been viewed with more than passing interest by our Russian ally.
MALCOLM D. HAVEN,
Major, Air Corps,
INTELLIGENCE OFFICER.
July 1944 (continued)
7 July 1944
AIR INTELLIGENCE CONTACT UNIT
AAF REDISTRIBUTION STATION #1
SUPPLIMENT TO SPECIAL REPORT ON MORALE OF OUTGOING
COMBAT CREWS
1. The more interviews we obtained with outgoing combat crews on their attitude
toward the 30-day “vacation” plan at home and thence back to battle, the more it becomes
convincingly evident that either the program or the combat morale of American fliers
must go by the board.
2. Since the completion of the main report on this critically important morale
factor amongst American airmen, an additional 25 enlisted personnel were interviewed.
Their feelings were found to be, in anything, even more vigorously, and in some cases
bitterly opposed to the 30-day plan than those of any who had previously been
interrogated.
3. Interviewees were all crew members of heavy and medium bombers of the
Eighth and Ninth Air Forces. They were unanimous in the view 25 missions for heavies
and 40 missions for mediums should qualify combat crews to come home for at least six
months. These men asserted, with strong conviction, that they would be more than
willing to complete as many missions as they could possibly fly if the “pinch were on.”
But, they point out, there are now in England many more crews than there are planes.
Replacements are so plentiful, they allege, that they are becoming boresome and to
everybody else because there is nothing for them to do but “dry rot”.
4. The average number of missions flown by each heavy and medium bomber
crew per month is six, according to the most lately interviewed group. They said,
however that the “joker” in this deal was the fact those six missions might be flown in a
week or eight days. The pay-off was extreme physical and mental fatigue and the jack-
pot amounted to three weeks of “sweating it out.” There was total agreement that combat
crews should be allowed to finish a given and specific number of missions as rapidly as
their own individual physiques can stand the pace; then to return to the United States on a
regular rotation policy.
5. One of the chief complaints against the 30-day plan by this group was that it
was placed on a “take it or leave it basis”, sort of a back-side-to version of the “if they
haven’t got bread, let them eat cake” view. In the case of the medium bomber crews,
they were totally ignored in the matter and merely handed orders sending them home for
30 days. In the case of everybody, it was alleged, to refuse the 30-day plan, or ask to be
grounded because of it, meant latrine duty or worse.
July 1944 (continued)
6. Men wounded in action and subsequently grounded and assigned to the most
menial ground tasks should, in the opinion of all, be sent home and utilized as instructors,
or at least given a more dignified recognition for their services than digging outdoor
lavatories. Many of these men, it was said, are given no hope of returning now, in the
near or distant future or ever. They feel they are given a one-way ticket when they re-
embark for foreign duty.
7. Despite all the foregoing, there was a genuine desire and determination to
pursue the war to the bitter end if necessary, but there were characteristic reservations
concerning the rapidly becoming—wealthier home front’s desire to see an early
conclusion of the war. This view among all combat crews passing through this station
seems to have taken root while the men were visiting their homes and to have crystallized
upon arriving at Atlantic City in the midst of teeming thousands of well-heeled
vacationers. They remember that in some of their outfits, 75 per cent of the original
personnel have enjoyed the luxuries of a seaside resort for the last time.
July 1944 (continued)
445th
BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944
HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M)
APO 650
5 August 1944
SUBJECT: Historical Records
TO : Command General, 57th
Wing, APO 650.
1. Outline History of the 445th
Squadron for the period July1st to July 31st.
a. Present Designation: 445th
Sq., 321st Group, 57
th Wing, 12
th Command.
b. Changes in organization.
1. 1st Lt. Joseph W. Manske appointed Squadron Engineering Officer
2. 1st Lt. Bruce (NMI) Lowery appointed Armament Officer to replace Capt.
Stanton W. Johnson who was sent to the United States on DS.
3. 2nd
Lt. Kenneth E. Ireland appointed Acting Armament Officer to replace Lt.
Lowery who was transferred to the United States on DS.
c. Strength commissioned and enlisted.
1. Month of July1944.
(a) 443 at beginning.
(b) 5 net decrease.
(c) 438 at end
d. Stations.
1. Solenzara Air Field.
e. Movements.
1. None
f. Operations:
1. During the Month of July the Squadron participated in 208 Sorties and 22
Missions.
g. Command Officers in important missions.
1. On July 2, the squadron commander participated in the missions which attacked
the fuel dump near Ravenna, Italy. Using an extra load of 100 lb. bombs for the
first time, excellent results were achieved in the target area. The squadron
commander also participated in an effective attack on a bridge near Sasso, Italy.
On July 13, he participated in an attack on the road and railroad bridge at
Ostiglia, Italy. Good coverage was reported on the target area and the mission
was officially credited with 72 per cent bombing accuracy.
July 1944 (continued)
h. Losses in action.
1. On July 7, Sergeant Lincoln W. Mark, engineer-gunner in the squadron, was
killed by flak on the attack on the Sasso railroad bridge, Italy
i. During the month of July, the following men received the Distinguished Flying
Cross: 1st Lt. Leon F. Hatcher (pilot), 1
st Lt. Frank P. Walsh (bombardier), 1
st Lt Daniel
(NMI) Galindo (bombardier), 2nd
Lt. Sheldon R. Groh (pilot), 2nd
Lt. Charles F. Spencer
(pilot), 2nd
Lt. Henry C. Thompson (pilot), Technical Sergeant James E. Kintly (radio-
gunner). The following officer received the Silver Star: 2nd
Lt. Gerald W. Wagner
(pilot). In addition, there were 61 awards of the Air Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster
awarded.
For the Commanding Officer:
JAMES O. JACKSON,
1st Lt., Air Corps,
Squadron Historian.
July 1944 (continued)
446th
BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944
446th
BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
1 August 1944
446th
BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR JULY 1944
A. Original Unit
1. 446th
Bomb Sqdn (M), 321st Bomb Gp (M) AAF
2. Organized August 1, 1942
3. Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, S.C.
4. Activated at Barksdale Field, La. June 23, 1942
5. Personnel obtained by transfer from other units, training schools and replacement
centers.
B. Strength, Commissioned and Enlisted:
1. 1 July 1944 90 Officers, 321 Enlisted Men
2. Net Increase 5 Officers 17 Enlisted Men
3. Net Decrease None None
4. 30 July1944 95 Officers, 338 Enlisted Men
D. Commanding Officer in important engagements
1. Engagements:
Ravenna, Italy Bogliasco, Italy
Aulla, Italy Ostiglia, Italy
Alessandria, Italy
2. Capt. Paul T. Cooper (pilot)
E. Losses in action: None
F. Former or present members of the Squadron who have distinguished themselves in
action:
1. The D.F.C. was awarded to:
1st Lt Allan T. Sampson (pilot)
1st Lt. Frank P. Vivas (pilot) S/Sgt. Robert F. Mygrant (gunner)
2nd
Lt. Frank B. White (pilot) S/Sgt Felix (NMI) Napoliello (gunner)
2. Awards of Air Medals on following page:
G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries.
July 1944 (continued)
2. Air Medals were awarded the following:
1st Lt John L. Farber (bombardier) S/Sgt Charles W. McFarland (gunner)
1st Lt Arthur E. Franklin (bombardier) S/Sgt Richard O. Ricke (gunner)
2nd
Lt Frederick I. Peterson (pilot) Sgt Scott G. Henry (gunner)
2nd
Lt Donald D. Rackley (pilot) Sgt Roland M. Brown (gunner)
2nd
Lt Chester J. Trosky (pilot) Pfc Elmer A. Jacob (engineer-gunner)
1st Lt Alfred E. Vancil (pilot) T/Sgt Anthony P. Bove (radio-gunner)
2nd
Lt John R. Sacker (pilot) T/Sgt Francis P. Bufkin (radio-gunner)
2nd
Lt Connally O. Briles (pilot) S/Sgt Henry G. Casper (gunner)
1st Lt Thomas B. Dunn (navigator) T/Sgt Hoyt V. Harrison (radio-gunner)
1st Lt John (NMI) “Jack” Fitzgerald (pilot) S/Sgt John (NMI) Jupin (engineer-gunner)
1st Lt LeRoy R. Goff (pilot) S/Sgt Cephus M. Smith (engineer-gunner)
1st Lt Leon R. Hawkes (pilot) T/Sgt Max (NMI) Sweedler (radio-gunner)
1st Lt Robert G. Hipson (pilot) S/Sgt John (NMI) Bober (engineer-gunner)
2nd
Lt Harold H. Hively (pilot) Sgt Ronald J. Kane (engineer-gunner)
1st Lt George K. Hollingsworth (pilot) Sgt Ralph L. Larson (gunner)
2nd
Lt Paul J. Ivankovig (pilot) S/Sgt Malcolm B. Leonard (gunner)
1st Lt Henry W. Johnson (bombardier) S/Sgt Michael (NMI) Nemet (gunner)
1st Lt Henry L. Jordan (pilot) S/Sgt Lester B. Schreiner (engineer-gunner)
2nd
Lt Estel A. Mayfield (pilot) Sgt Frank C. Smetana (gunner)
1st Lt Gus J. Mexal (bombardier) Sgt John J. Zelnick (engineer-gunner)
1st Lt Alan T. Mickel (pilot) S/Sgt Harold W. Zeman (gunner)
1st Lt Lonnie C. Sitts (bombardier) Cpl Isom F. Burrow (gunner)
1st Lt Randall L. Smith (pilot) Cpl Milton M. Mittman (gunner)
S/Sgt Robert L. Crozer (radio-gunner)
S/Sgt Sanders S. Kaufman (gunner)
July 1944 (continued)
447th
BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944
447TH
BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)
321ST
BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)
APO 65
SUBJECT: Historical Records.
TO : Commanding General, 57th
Bombardment Wing.
Attention: Historian.
1. Outline History of the 447th
Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 July to 31 July
1944.
a. 447th
Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st bombardment Group (M).
(1) 447th
Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57
th
Bombardment Wing, 12
th 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) Changes in destination. No Change
(2) Echelons or units.
(a) Transferred
2 E/M transferred to 35th
Station Hospital
2 Officers transferred, Brooks Field, Texas.
4 Officers; 7 E/M transferred Personnel Center # 6; rotation to United
States.
1 E/M transferred to Brooks Field, Texas
1 E/M transferred Hq, 321st Bombardment Group
1 Officer transferred Det. of Patients, 35th
Station Hospital.
(b) on TD or DS.
2 Officers; 2 E/M; DS, Cairo, Egypt.
1 Officer; DS, Laredo, Texas.
1 E/M; DS; 341st Service Squadron.
4 Officers, DS; Foggia, Italy.
3 Officer, 4 E/M; DS, 12th
Air Force.
13 Officers, 25 E/M; DS, rest camp, Rome, Italy.
7 Officer, 7 E/M, DS, rest camp, Capri.
(c) No Change.
(3) No Change
(4) No Change
(5) No Change
July 1944 (continued)
c. Strength, Commission and enlisted.
(1) Month of July 1944.
(a) Beginning: 92 Officers; 341 Enlisted Men
(b) No Change or no increase.
(c) Officers no decrease; Enlisted Men- 9.
(d) At end: 92 Officers, 332 Enlisted Men.
d. Stations.
(1) Solenzara Air Field
(a) May 3, 1944
(b) Still at the same station.
e. Movement of units or echelons.
(1) No movements during July, 1944.
f. Campaign.
(1) Italian
(2) From July 1st to present.
g. Operations.
(1) Mediterranean (Corsica)
(2) Objective Bombing
(3) 24 missions, 208 sorties
(4) Results of the most important missions.
(a) Mission: Vado Viaduct; Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge; Carasco Road Bridge.
1. Vado Viaduct was important because the viaduct was the open route on the
main line between Bologna and Florence. Over Ostiglia, was shuttled
supplies and reinforcements for the German troops. Carasco Road Bridge,
this bridge was used as a key supply and communication line by the
German Forces.
2. Vado Viaduct, good concentration of bombs on bridge destroying span.
On the Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, good concentration of bombs on the
target and especially both ends and also string thru center, span destroyed,
rendering bridge impassible. Carasco Road Bridge, was a complete
success because direct hits on center of bridge. Bombing accuracy-100 %.
Mission efficiency-100 %
3. These missions with their successes, disrupted the German supply lines,
thus enabling the Allied Armies to keep their steady advance to the north.
4. All photographs showed excellent results on these missions.
5. Because of our excellent bombings the Germans were unable to repel our
drives, or launch and sustain counter attacks.
(5) The unit was subjected to heavy, accurate and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy
fighters during the entire month.
h. Captain Thomas C. Bounds, lead the group on 11 July, on the Alessandria M/Ys.
July 1944 (continued)
i. Losses in action
(1) Vado Viaduct, 6 July 1944
(a) Second Lieutenant John G. Nall (pilot)
(b) 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones (bombardier)
2nd
Lt. William H. Wigmore (pilot)
2nd
Lt. Edward J. Stanly (bombardier)
2nd
Lt. Harold H. Lindell (navigator)
2nd
Lt. James N. Watson (bombardier)
S/Sgt Robert W. Koecher (engineer-gunner)
S/Sgt. Robert R. Vineski (radio-gunner)
Ostiglia Road Bridge
1st Lt. S.E. Anderson (SWA) (Sherman E., bombardier)
2nd
Lt. P.W. Noe (SWA) (Paul H., Jr., bombardier)
2nd
Lt. S.J. Wiechert (SWA) (Stanley J., pilot)
1st Lt. W.E. Neiman (LWA) (William E., pilot)
1st Lt. M.K. Matthewson (LWA) (Merton K., Jr., Jr., navigator)
1st Lt. H.J. Banks (LWA) (Herbert J., pilot)
2nd
Lt. R.J. Woods (LWA) (Richard J., pilot)
T/Sgt. Leo G. Hubert (LWA) (radio-gunner)
(c) Missing. None
(d) Taken prisoner. None
j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action.
(1) The following number of men received, Air Medals, 12th
Air Force, General
Order # 107, 26 July 1944; total of 6; 34 men received the Air Medal, General Order #
107, 12th
Air Force, 26 July 1944, raid on Vallecorsa. 2 Men received the Air Medal,
G.O. # 104; 25 July 1944, 12th
A.F. 1Man received the First Cluster, G.O. 104, 12th
A.F.
1 Man received the D.F.C. G.O. # 103, 12th
A.F.; in a raid on Vado Viaduct, Italy. 1 man
received D.F.C. General Order # 91, 12th
A.F.; raid on Vallecorsa, Italy.
k. No pictures submitted.
2. Inclosed are War Diary, 447th
Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 July to 31
July: Special Account for the month of July1944; Squadron Statistics for the month of
July1944.
For the Commanding Officer:
3 Incl: SALVATORE P. CASARELLA, Jr.,
Incl – 1 War Diary. 1st. Lt., Air Corps,
Incl – 2 Special Account (none in July) Historian.
Incl – 3 Squadron Statistics
Missions Flown: 24 Sorties Flown: 208
Bombs dropped (weight): 676,500 Nickels dropped (packages): 24
Planes lost: None Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None
Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None
July 1944 (continued)
448th
BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944:
July 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of 1 July 1944, 101 Officers and 345 Enlisted
Men. No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. Six missions
were flown during the month over Northern Italian Communication Lines. Lieutenant
Gilbert, Ordnance Officer promoted to First Lieutenant. Sergeants: Gilpatrick and
Mauder transferred to the U.S.A. Officers and Enlisted Men of the squadron began to go
to Rest Camps on the Isle of Capri, Rome, Naples and Catania. Several of the ground
personnel went to Rest Camp on the Island of Corsica but reported that the weather was
very cool and life very dull. Food continued to be good and a new projector added much
to the enjoyment of the local movies. Beer made its first appearance on the PX rations.
Gilbert, Ralph W., 1Lt, ordnance Gilpatrick, Jack H., Sgt, gunner
Mauder, Charles J., Sgt, gunner
July 8 – 15 – 44: Captain Farwell assigned and joined during this period. No Enlisted
Men assigned or joined during this period. Sergeants: Robertshaw, Everhart, Robert,
Carr and Hajny, Wolf and France transferred to the U.S.A. Lieutenants: Lyons, McRee,
VanRaam and PFC Hinton on DS to the U.S.A. for 30 days. Continuing the assault on
bridges in the Po Valley the Squadron flew seven missions during this period and scored
excellent results. Officers and Enlisted Men continued to depart and return from the
numerous rest camps. Several members of the squadron left for 10 days in Cairo and
vicinity. The period was exceptionally quiet as the routine work continued to occupy the
squadron personnel’s time. Excellent weather prevailed and everyone took full
advantage of the excellent swimming facilities on the island. Very few men visited the
surrounding towns on their day off as the best facilities were close at hand.
Carr, Randal C., Cpl, gunner Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt, gunner
Farwell, Harold S., Capt, pilot France, Charles E., Jr., Sgt, gunner
Hajny, Zdenek (NMI), Sgt, gunner Hinton, Zane R., PFC, engineer-gunner
Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt, bombardier
Robert, Maurice L., Sgt, gunner Robertshaw, David F., Sgt, gunner
VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt, gunner
July 16 – 22 – 44: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period.
Lieutenant Blume transferred to the 9th
Combat Camera Unit. Sergeants: Coleman,
Dean, Thompson, Bennett, Chosta, Kepford, Luton, Neuman, Sharpsteen, Jackson, Rifkin
and Scheffmeyer transferred to the U.S.A. Lieutenants: Ovard and Shear promoted to
First Lieutenant during this period. Sergeant Penhale returned to the squadron after 30
days furlough in the U.S.A. Three missions were flown during the week as a layer of
Cumulus clouds hung over Northern Italy during most of the period. Night flying was
inaugurated and the roar of airplane engines brought memories of those nights long ago
in Columbia and Walterboro. During this time several Hell Cats manned by Navy crews
began operations from this field and the squadron had the opportunity of entertaining 28
Naval Enlisted Men.
July 1944 (continued)
Bennett, Ross F., Sgt, gunner Blume, Wilbur T., 2Lt, bombardier
Chosta, Louis (NMI), Sgt, gunner Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt, gunner
Dean, Wilmer J., Sgt, gunner Jackson, Jewel D., Sgt, gunner
Kepford, Francis R., Sgt, gunner Luton, Howard W., Sgt, tail-gunner
Neuman, Robert A., Sgt, gunner Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt, pilot
Penhale, Walter B., Sgt, radio-gunner Rifkin, Harry J., Sgt, transportation
Scheffmeyer, John T., Sgt, cook Sharpsteen, Robert E., Sgt, gunner
Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Thompson, Arthur R., Jr., Sgt, gunner
July 23 – 31 – 44: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined until the last day of
the month when Sergeants: Hembrey, Morefield, Popovich and Corporal Berman were
assigned from the 57 Wing. The squadron strength 31 July 1944, 93 Officers and 321
Enlisted Men. As the month drew towards the end the squadron hoped to complete it
without loss but on July 26 the squadron suffered its worst disaster of its two years of
existence. While on a mission over Verona, Italy, one bombardier was killed two planes
shot down and one Pilot and gunner seriously wounded. The lost men were Lt.
Kukorowski, killed; Lt. Armstrong and Sgt. Crow seriously wounded. Lts. Brown,
Frasier, Maginn, Olson, Goff, Quartuccio and Sgts: Tracy, Corrigan, Mitchell, Sullivan,
Holtzendorf, Montoro and Benton were shot down over the target. The month drew to a
close without further incident. Men continued to enjoy the benefits of the several rest
camps. The squadron was well settled in its home where it had remained for the longest
period in its history, over three months.
Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt, gunner
Berman, Samuel (NMI), Cpl, gunner Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot
Corrigan, James F., Jr., Sgt, radio-gunner Crow, Roscoe J., Sgt, gunner
Frazier, Leland R., Lt, pilot Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt, pilot
Hembrey, Jesse T., Sgt, cook Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), T/Sgt, gunner
Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt, bombardier
Mitchell, William C., Sgt, gunner Montoro, John A., S/Sgt, gunner
Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt, gunner Olson, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot
Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt, gunner Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt, bombardier
Sullivan, James G., S/Sgt, gunner Tracy, William G., Sgt, engineer-gunner
As the squadron began its duties for the month of July everyone, realizing that
their stay on the island was to be of greater duration than they had ever experienced
before, began to make major improvements on their living quarters. Tents were built up
with the abundant lumber supply and in many cases floors were also laid. With the
beautiful weather continuing and clouds over Italy hampering operations the camp in
many respects took on the appearance of a summer resort. Swimming was a daily
pastime for all personnel and good food, well prepared left only the absence of feminine
companionship the sole fly in the ointment. Although heat was very noticeable during
the days the nights were cool and the older members sighed happily as they recalled the
Sirocco Winds of Souk el Arba, Africa.
July 1944 (continued)
The Fourth of July was observed not in the “Good Old Fashioned Way”, but by
showering bombs on enemy installations in Northern, Italy. In accordance with the
operational plans of the Strategic Command the 448th
did its part in cutting and smashing
railroad and road bridges over the Po River during the early part of the month. The
squadron scored four 100% missions during this period and received many
Commendations from Allied Headquarters on their excellent work.
In the entertainment field little occurred of note, however in the middle of the
month a new projector was secured which made the movies more enjoyable. Now only
the generator, lack of gasoline or malfunction of the operator caused breakdowns. Every
night found goodly representation of the 448th
attending the shows which for most part
were of very recent vintage. The Clubs continued to function with iced drinks being
served nightly, but the initial attraction waned as soon as the novelty wore off, however
several evenings were spent listening to the strains of the 845 Engineer’s Band. One
U.S.O. show visited the area during the month.
Early in the month there began a new policy in the squadron and all personnel
found themselves going to Rest Camps at Rome, Capri, Catania, Cairo and a mountain
resort on the Island of Corsica. Reports from all of these places were to the effect that
Rome was by far the best of the lot as it offered more entertainment and had been least
touched by the war. In all places the living facilities were excellent but with the
exception of Catania, Sicily, food was not as good as that prepared in the squadron’s own
kitchens. Transportation to these various places was accomplished by airplane. The
planes continued to make weekly visits to Catania in the search of fresh fruits, eggs and
vegetables, this in conjunction with the daily fresh meat ration provided excellent menu.
PX rations continued to improve and the long awaited ration of BEER appeared much to
the satisfaction of everyone. Cokes ceased to be included but candy was increase 4 or 6
bars per week.
Late in the month a squadron of “Hell Cats” joined the Group to work in
conjunction with Beaufighters on night patrol. Twenty-eight of the Navy Enlisted
personnel were assigned for rations and quarters.
The policy of rotation to the U.S.A. continued and two men of the Ground
Echelon were returned to the U.S.A. Several combat men also returned after completing
their tour of duty. The successes on the Russian and French Fronts continued to hearten
those left behind and many pools were organized as to the duration of the war. The most
optimistic chose September, while even the pessimism ceded that Germany would
surrender before Christmas. The nine o’clock news bulletin published by S-2 was
eagerly awaited each morning.
July 1944 (continued)
As the month drew towards its close it appeared that for the first time in many
months the 448th
would escape unscathed by casualties, but on July 26 this hope was
shattered when two planes failed to return and one Bombardier was killed and a Pilot and
Gunner were seriously wounded, while on a mission over Verona, Italy. Just before the
target while in an intense concentration of enemy antiaircraft fire Lieutenant Brown’s
plane was hit in the left engine and left the formation under control. He glided down for
a few thousand feet, then salvoed his bombs and for some unknown reason immediately
started into a spin from which he never recovered. The plane was seen to crash but no
chutes were observed at any time during the descent. Lieutenant Olson’s plane was also
hit by the same burst of flak and his propeller was knocked off. He too appeared to be
under control and started back towards the coast, when last observed he was headed
towards the sea slowly losing altitude but under complete control. A radio call believed
to be from Lieutenant Olson announced the he was trying to make the coast. No further
word has been received from either plane. Lieutenant Kukorowski, was killed when the
plane in which he was riding received a direct burst of flak in the nose and death was
instantaneous. Lieutenant Armstrong, who was the Flight Leader received a flak wound
in the leg which later proved to be serious but promised to heal without after effects.
Sergeant Crow had two fingers shot off on the same ship. The entire squadron was
greatly saddened by the loss of these men. Many awards were recommended during the
month and expectations were high that they would soon be received. Late in the month
news was received that the Group had been awarded a Presidential Citation for its
excellent work during the month of October 1944, over the Balkans.
Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot
Crow, Roscoe J., Sgt, gunner Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier
Olson, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot
An innovation which for the most part was not appreciated by a majority of the
squadron was set up in the squadron area. A large Public Address System effectively
removed the oft repeated excuse of not having heard the whistle for formation. Corporal
McCall initiated a morning sunshine hour to awaken all personnel but the many
comments received, soon cause to cease and desist. Colonel Smith even made a few
choice remarks on the subject. On the whole the month passed very quietly and except
for the missions flown 448th
seemed to be in one of the quiet backwaters of the main
stream of the war. However the capture of the Island of Elba early in the month and
regular visits by “Foto Freddie”, served to show the enemy had not completely forgotten
the existence of this strategic Island. With growing infrequency the call to take shelter in
“Fox Holes” came during the moonlit nights.
McCall, Robert V., Cpl, personnel Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander