12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing

321st Bombardment Group

History: March 1944

The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s 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).

A/C: Aircraft sk: sick

A/D: Aerodrome abs: absent

Assg: Assigned XC: Cross Country

BC: Bomber Command S.O.I.: Standard Operating Instructions?

CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited E/A: Enemy Aircraft

Demo: Demolition SC: Flight

E/M: Enlisted Men L/V: Large Vehicle

F/L: Formation Leader - Flight Leader IP: Initial Point

FO: Flying Officer B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory

Frag: Fragmentation L.S.T.: Landing Ship Tank

Ltr: Letter POE: Point of Embarkation

L/S: Landing Strip M/V: (some kind of water vehicle/boat?)

M/T: Motor Transport (Truck) L/G: Landing Ground

M/Y: Marshalling Yards A/F: Air Field

Repl: Replacement T.O.T: Time Over Target/Time On Target

R/J: Railroad Junction (road junction?) C.O.: Commanding Officer

RR: Railroad C.P.: Command Post

R/Y: Railroad Yards L.O.T.: ? see 447th, 2 May

S.D.: Special Duty C.A.: ? see 447th, 8 May

SO: Special Order A.A.: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery)

GO: General Order

Sq: Squadron R/B: Road Bridge

Sqdn: Squadron RR/B: Railroad Bridge

Q.M.: Quarter Master S.A.P.: Semi-Armor Piercing

Trfd: Transferred T.O.: Technical Order

TD: Temporary Duty P.B.S.: 447th, 2 June ?

D.S.: Detached Service RON: Remain OverNight

PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator PX: Post Exchange

S/E: Strategic fighter T/E: Tactical fighter

VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding Officer

NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of Operations USA

SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action

O.D.: Officer of the day C.Q.: Charge of Quarters

N.C.O.: Non-Commissioned Officer GP: General Purpose

Wednesday, 1 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Twelfth Air Force
undergoes a reorganization as a result of the loss of several operational units (see 14 Feb
44). XII Troop Carrier Command (Provisional), consisting of a single wing, is disbanded
and its personnel absorbed into the 51st Troop Carrier Wing and other units, the 51st
Troop Carrier Wing being placed under the administrative control of Twelfth Air Force.
HQ XII Bomber Command is reduced to 1 officer and 1 enlisted man as other personnel
are transferred to the 57th Bombardment Wing, which along with the 42nd Bombardment
Wing (Medium), is placed under the administrative control of Twelfth Air Force. HQ XII
Bomber Command will exist as a retaining cadre until 10 Jun 44 when it is officially
disbanded. In Italy, P-40s attack gun positions and vehicles in the US Fifth Army battle
area; P-40s and Spitfires of XII Air Support Command maintain cover over the Anzio
beachhead area. P-47s attack a 2000-ton vessel in the Adriatic Sea. HQ 57th Fighter
Group and 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons move from Amendola to Cercola, Italy with
P-47s. During March, the detachments of the 347th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter
Group, operating from Capodichino, Italy with P-39s returns to base on Corsica.

445th BS War Diary: Unusual weather today – rain and hail with the sun playing hide
and seek in the clouds – cancelled all flying. The combat crews were already out to their
planes in preparation for takeoff on the mission when word came in on the postponement.
A new replacement crew arrived today. An excellent supply of luxury rations were
distributed to the men from 2 P.M. to 4 P.M. Hamburgers were enjoyed by all for supper.
A good number of the men attended the movie “Let’s Face It” with Bob Hope down at
the group briefing room.

446th BS War Diary: A very large PX in the afternoon. Lts. Davison and Fetterly and
Sgt Guzauskas leave for the United States.

Davison, William R., 1Lt, pilot Fetterly, Orville D., 1Lt, pilot

Guzauskas, Frank, Sgt, aerial photographer

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. The following officers and enlisted men have been assigned to this squadron
per orders of the 12th Bomber Command: 2nd Lts. Fenton Dally, pilot, William H Martin,
Jr., co-pilot, William C Huffman, bombardier-navigator, Sgt Hughie L. Currey, engineer-
gunner, S/Sgt Edward S. Korzeniowski, radio-gunner, and Sgt Ralph Sinclair, gunner.
The following enlisted men have been relieved of assignment and reassigned to Personnel
Center No. 1 for transshipment to the U.S.A.: T/Sgt. Marion L. Czaja and S/Sgt. Lewis
B. Iverson. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the grade of sergeant:
Cpl. Robert P. Megivern, Cpl Richard H. Pearl, and Cpl. William F. Whipple. One of our
line trucks, operated by Sgt. Louis Steves, collided with a 2 ½ ton truck of the 58th Q.M.
at the intersection of road leading to our area. Sgt. Charles Hopp and Sgt. Joseph Cler
were riding in our truck. Our truck is in an irreparable condition. No one was injured but

Wednesday, 1 March 1944 (continued)

were slightly shaken-up. The officers’ mess hall and club is once more open for
business. Last evening the first meal in the building, at this field, was consumed.

Cler, Joseph, Sgt Curry, Hughie L., Sgt, engineer-gunner

Czaja, Marion L., Sgt, gunner Dalley, Fenton M., Lt, pilot

Hopp, Charles A., Sgt, gunner Huffman William C., Lt, bombardier-navigator

Iverson, Lewis B., S/Sgt, gunner Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Martin, William H., Jr., Lt, pilot Megivern, Robert C., Sgt, gunner

Pearl, Richard H., Sgt Sinclair, Ralph, Sgt, gunner

Steves, Louis G., Sgt, engineering Whipple, William E. Sgt, armament

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Thursday, 2 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s attack an
assembly area E of Carroceto and, with B-25s, bomb guns and an assembly area NW of
Cisterna di Roma, A-20s hit troops in the beachhead battle area; P-40s and A-36s blast
troops and guns throughout the Anzio battle area, also hitting Cisterna and Littoria; P-40s
and A-36s fly uneventful cover over Anzio. P-47s hit a motor vessel off Sibenik,
Yugoslavia leaving it burning.

445th BS War Diary: 5 Officers and 8 enlisted men were sent to rest camp at the Isle of
Capri. It is believed that Col. Cook will leave soon for a return trip to the United States.
3 B-25’s flew practice formation with dry run bombing. Another plane was slow-timed
while still another was test hopped. Those who did not receive their luxury rations
yesterday were taken care of today from 2 to 4 P.M. There were occasional rains today.
There was a big mail call in late afternoon followed by a delicious hamburger steak
supper. At the present time there is a parachute scare and precautions are being taken to
protect the ships on the line from sabotage by having the combat crews sleep in their
respective planes. At 10 P.M. a red alert was sounded and this added to the tension. No
planes were heard, however. The men enjoyed a good USO stage show today.

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown. Capt. Ford visits us around noon. Lts.
Herbert, Mayo, Chudars, Vivas, Hurley and McRae and enlisted men Fontenot, Thomas,
Raffloar, Green, Brawn, Turner, Clay, Lorentson and Tissier return from rest camp at
Capri.

Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt, Engineer-gunner Chudars, James E., Lt, pilot

Clay, Donald W., Sgt, engineer Fontenot, V. L., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Green, Harry M., S/Sgt, gunner Herbert, John J., Lt, pilot

Hurley, John R., Lt, pilot Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt, gunner,

May, Jack D., Lt, bombardier McRae, James A., Lt, bombardier

Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Thomas, Patrick, S/Sgt, gunner

Tissier, Rene G., Cpl, engineering Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt, bombardier/gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 187

TARGET: Guns and troops assembly area, Anzio, Italy. DATE: 2 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: Frags. 446th Planes: 3

Capt Olson, 447th Sqdn. led the formation. Cloud cover over immediate target area
prevented observation. Bombs were dropped by dead reckoning. Crews report bombs
fell in general target area. Flak was heavy, slight and inaccurate. Three FW-190s
observed, but did not attack.

Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot, 447th BS

447th BS War Diary: This morning 9 of our planes were scheduled to participate in a
raid on enemy troops at F-972387, but failed to attack due to a complete coverage of
target and also the failure to meet fighter escort. Each plane logged 2:05 (average) but
was not credited with a mission. The same mission was again scheduled for take-off at
1425 hrs. Only 3 of the planes attacked and dropped all bombs. Cloud coverage over

Thursday, 2 March 1944 (continued)

target prevented observation, but crews report that bombs cleared RR tracks S of target,
and fell in target area. Four officers and eight enlisted men of this squadron have
returned from rest camp at Capri. A matinee and an evening stage show was furnished
by the USO, for the entertainment of the 321st Bomb Group at headquarters. A class was
held for four new engineers. The class was held for one hour under the direction of
M/Sgt. Blount.

Blount, Lloyd L., M/Sgt, engineering

448th BS War Diary: Mission 182 (224). At 1427 14 planes off to bomb guns and troop
assembly area, F 972387, 982376, 975370, 963380 and all dropped 1536 frags from
11,500 feet at 1613 and returned at 1726. Cloud cover over immediate target area
prevented observation, however bomb run check points were picked up and bombs
dropped by dead reckoning. Crews report bombs cleared RR tracks South of target and
generally in target area. Three FW-190’s observed 1000 feet below formation as they left
target area, did not attack. Flak was slight, inaccurate. Weather: 10/10th’s
Stratocumulus, tops at 7000 feet. Visibility: Hazy 10 miles.

Friday, 3 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s bomb
Rome/Ostiense and railroad stations at San Benedetto de Marsi; weather cancels light and

other medium bomber operations; P-40s hit gun positions in the N Anzio beachhead area
while A-36s attack the train and tented area between Magliano Romano and Rome; other
P-40s fly patrol over the Anzio beachhead area. 64th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter
Group, moves from Amendola to Cercola, Italy with P-40s.

445th BS War Diary: Bad weather again played havoc with plans for a combat mission.
Takeoff time was changed twice before the mission was finally cancelled. Once again
the crews were out at their ships before word came through that the mission was
cancelled. There were 4 transition flights made today. The noon meal was a decided
success today. A delicious shredded chicken serving was enjoyed but the added touch of
a blonde Red Cross girl who distributed doughnuts to the men and then proceeded to eat
her meal with the men in the mess tent was the payoff. A large number of the men took
more time eating this meal than usual. Precautions are still being taken against the
danger of parachutists landing here for sabotage purposes and the crews are still sleeping
at the ships. The Officers Club held its grand opening tonight and Col. Cook was toasted
with a farewell party. A number of the Officers from headquarters and the other
squadrons attended and the event was a great success.

Cook, Bailey C., Col, pilot, Commander

446th BS War Diary: Mail call. No mission

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mock mission was scheduled with six of our planes
participating. The crews were briefed by Capt. Robert W. Manly. The target was to be
the Crotone A/D, but due to weather conditions the mock mission was cancelled. A six
plane formation practice was led by Lt. Banks and also another six plane formation was
led by Lt. Davies at 1:45. Lt. Button in plane #012 flew local transition for one hour and
thirty minutes and made three landings. A class on T.O. and their use was held for four
new engineers. M/Sgt. Blount was instructor. A class was held for sixteen radio
operators on the V.H.F. set. This class was under the direction of Lt. Piasta and M/Sgt.
Henderson. S/Sgt. Francis E. Davis is on D.S. at headquarters of the 321st Bomb Group.
Six officers and 7 enlisted men have left for the rest camp at Capri. Plane #553 was
landed by Major Raymond D. Sampson with a cocked and broken nose wheel. Maj.
Myron Gale was a passage on 553

Banks, Herbert J., Lt, pilot Blount, Lloyd L., M/Sgt, engineering

Davies, Robert G., Lt, pilot Davis, Frances E., S/Sgt, communication

Gale, Myron, Capt, executive Henderson, James B., M/Sgt, communications

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Piasta, John R., Lt, communications

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Saturday, 4 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels
most operations; P-40s fly a few sorties against gun emplacements in the battle area, and
others uneventfully patrol the Anzio area.

445th BS War Diary: Inclement weather again cancelled the mission and this time the
crews were enroute to the planes when word came in of the cancellation. Practice
formation flying and dry run bombing was also cancelled due to weather but three
transition flights were made and another flight was made to swing the compass. The men
drew shelter halves and pegs from supply today. Lights will be turned out at the 8
O’clock curfew place on the group temporarily due to the misconduct of several soldiers
in the group in Paestum. One of the enlisted men’s tent located just adjacent to the
dispensary caught on fire tonight and burned to the ground. Nobody was present in the
tent when it went up except a small pup who was lost in the fire. Fire trucks were
summoned to extinguish the blaze but by the time they arrived at the scene, it was too late
to salvage the tent. The fire trucks did, however, manage to put a stop to the large sparks
emanating from the tent which threatened other tents nearby. The “orphans” of the
destroyed tent lost all their equipment and slept in nearby tents for the night.

446th BS War Diary: Eleven combat men are assigned to the squadron.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: Due to bad weather there was no mission. Training was the order
of the day. Six planes practiced assembly, led by Lt. Davies, which lasted for 45
minutes. A class was held by Capt. R.W. Manly for E/M combat crew members on the
subject of map reading. M/Sgt. Blount held a class on the airplane in general for four
engineer gunners. 4 officers and 6 E/M attached for rations. PFC John Callaghan
assigned and attached to HQ. 321st Bomb Gp. 10th Feb.

Callaghan, John, PFC, communications Blount, Lloyd L., M/Sgt, engineering

Davies, Robert G., Lt, pilot Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Sunday, 5 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): XII Troop Carrier
Command (Provisional) is disbanded at Palermo. Weather again severely hampers
operations in Italy, but P-40s hit Pontecorvo and A-36s attack Formia.

445th BS War Diary: The mission and also a mock mission were cancelled today but
there was some training. This included 6 practice formation flying and dry run bombing,
2 transition flights and another flight to swing the compass. Ship 575 returned from
Pompeii after having undergone repairs for damages incurred when Lt. Wetherbee was
forced to make a tail-down landing while on a routine training flight recently. Capt.
Underwood conducted a familiarization lecture for all bombardiers in his tent. The sun
shone regularly today, a bit unusual considering all the wet weather we have been
experiencing lately. Construction was started on the enlisted men’s club today led by the
carpenter, Sgt. Stanford and a crew of volunteers. Some of the helmets belonging to the
men were collected today in order that the combat crews would be adequately supplied
with these valuable items while on missions. Ole Jupe Pluvius served up a weird mixture
of heavy rain and hail, thunder and lightning during the course of the evening.

Stanford, Hirman P., Sgt, Carpenter Underwood, James H., Lt, bombardier

Wetherbee, Dan A., Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Drew Coca Colas at supply tent late in the afternoon. Gig GI stage
show at the tobacco warehouse at night.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission due to weather again. Training was the order of the
day. There were flights for transition, PDI runs and gunnery practice. A class was held
for four new engineer gunners under the direction of M/Sgt. Blount. Lt McCormick and
Lt. Nowakowski returned from DS at Capri to duty. Today we each received 3 bottles of
Coca Cola, the first we have had since coming over seas.

Blount, Lloyd L., M/Sgt, engineering McCormick, Donald P., Lt, bombardier

Nowakowski, Joseph J., Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Monday, 6 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, P-40s pound gun
positions N of the Anzio beachhead (mostly NE of Ardea), and bomb Frosinone and hit
guns near Littoria; A-36s fly armed reconnaissance of roads and railroad NE of Rome,
hitting several vehicles and bombing railroad cars at Capranica. 302nd Fighter Squadron,
332nd Fighter Group, moves from Montecorvino to Capodichino, Italy with P-39s.

445th BS War Diary: 5 B-25’s flew practice formations today. Two new replacement
crews were assigned to the squadron today. Veteran gunners Sgts. Irving, Beaudware
and Forbes gave a lecture on combat gunnery to 9 of the new gunners in the squadron.
The abundance of rainy weather lately has turned the area into a muddy conglomeration
of puddles and muck. The men received their first Coca-Cola ration this afternoon. It
consisted of 3 bottles of this rare liquid and needless to say, it was enjoyed by one and all.
There was a big mail call in late afternoon and the morale of the men rose commensurate
with the influx of correspondence from their loved ones.

Beaudware, Leo J., Sgt, gunner Forbes, Robert W., Sgt, gunner

Irving, Ralph D., Sgt, gunner

446th BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: Morning report: 62 officers; 246 enlisted men. No mission due to
weather. The day was devoted to training which included local formation flying, PDI
runs, and dropping bombs from wing racks. A class was conducted by Maj. Sampson
and Capt. Olson on the theory of formation flying, for the flying officers. A class was
held for all new gunners and two photographers on the stripping, care and malfunction of
the cal. 50 machine gun. Major Sampson held a discussion for all flying officers on the
things to expect and avoid on future operations. Capt. Manly held a class on aircraft
identification for enlisted combat crew personnel. After the class a test was held, the
winner was S/Sgt W.E. Mathews with a perfect score. S/Sgt. Wadlow DS Capri to duty.
The following officers and enlisted men were assigned this organization: 2nd Lts. Forrest
T. Nettles, Sherman E. Anderson, Ivan E. Dean, Gerald E. Fisher, Sgt. Robert W. Engels,
S/Sgt. Robert S. Champlain, Sgt. Gerald G. O’Neil, Sgt. Grant W. Baldridge, S/Sgt. John
F. McFarland, and Sgt. Fredrick J. Tarra.

Anderson, Sherman E., Lt, bombardier Baldridge, Grant W., Sgt, gunner

Champlain, Robert S., S/Sgt, gunner Dean, Ivan E., Lt, pilot

Engels, Robert W., Sgt, gunner Fisher, Gerald E., Lt, bombardier

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Mathews, William E., S/Sgt, gunner

McFarland, John F., S/Sgt, gunner Nettles, Forrest T., Lt, pilot

Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt, gunner Wadlow, Verlin L., S/Sgt, communications

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Tuesday, 7 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s bomb the
Rome/ Ostiense marshalling yard while other B-25s hit the Littoria marshalling yard; A-
20s strike the Zagarolo railroad station; P-40s attack enemy positions in the Anzio
beachhead area with good results, while A-36s hit communication at Montebello, railroad
station near Civitavecchia, gun emplacements near Littoria Airfield, and a train at
Monterotondo; P-40s over the Anzio beachhead encounter no air opposition.

445th BS War Diary: Occasional rains forced a cancellation of training flights but a
mission was flown. Returning from the mission, the planes made downwind landings
and Lt. Wetherbee had a mishap. He landed his ship on a slick runway, wetted by rain.
His ship skidded, ground looped and for a time was skidding backward with Lt.
Wetherbee giving the ship full throttle. The ship finally ended up in a ditch with only
slight damage done and no crew members injured. It was a situation in which serious
consequences might have occurred but the cool head and skill of Lt. Wetherbee saved the
day. At a meeting at group after the mission today, the squadron’s crews together with
the whole group heard Col. Olmsted declare that this group would remain in this theatre
until Germany was defeated and then move as a unit to the Pacific theatre. Squadrons
would be expanded, he explained so that crews could be rotated and become more
experienced with constant association with one another. No one would be sent back to
the U.S.S. after completing a number of missions but the group commander promised
trips to the States for those who proved themselves “worthy”. The morale of the combat
crews hung low tonight. There was a good mail call this afternoon and pork chops were
served at supper.

Olmstead, Charles T., Col, HQ 321st BG Wetherbee, Dan A., Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission due to bad weather. There was little flying, two ships
dropped practice bombs from wing racks. Another ship made a test flight of 30 minutes.
Usual squadron duties. Sgt. Stokes and Cpl. Don Bailey abs sk hosp to duty.

Bailey, Donald E., Cpl, transportation Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: Mission 183 (225). At 10:30 18 planes off to bomb Rome/Littorio
M/Y, northern half but none dropped bombs due to complete overcast over target. All
returned at 13:18. No observations. F/L: Stokes.

Stokes, George M., Lt, pilot or Stokes, Lewis S., Capt, pilot

Wednesday, 8 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s strike at
the Orte marshalling yard and Orte-Fabrica di Roma railroad; B-26s hit the
Rome/Tiburtina marshalling yard and dock area at Porto Santo Stefano; P-40 fighter-
bombers hit gun positions and a road junction near Rome while A-36s attack a road
junction near Montalto di Castro, also hitting a bridge and a train, and guns and a castle
SW of Celano; P-47s hit gun emplacements; P-40s strafe vehicles near Rome/Via Appia.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

321st BG: Mission NO: 226 Date: 8 Mar 44 NO A/C: 24 (1 returned early)

Squadrons: 445-6 447-7

446-6 448-4

Target: Orte Marshalling Yards

Time Up: 0940 T.O.T.: 1138 Time Down: 1249

Axis of Attack: 300° Height: 11,000/11,500

Planes Lost: None Planes Holed: None

Bombs Dropped: 45x1000 with .1 & .025 fusing. 6x1000 Delay.

Escort: 12 Spitfires.

Route: Base to N-1814 to M-9733, to M-9268, to H-0652, to G-4573, A-9016 to

target, to A-7241, to G-4573, reciprocal course to base.

Weather: Enroute and Return: Scattered light rain, Clouds: 8/10 to complete overcast

through mountains breaking to 3/10, 20 miles south of target, base of clouds at

3.000’, tops at 11,000’.

Target: Clouds: 3/10 stratocumulus, tops at 7,000’. Visibility 15 miles.

Flak: None

Enemy Air: None

Claims: None

Results: Target not hit. Hits in area along railroad tracks 2 miles southeast of target. 1
report tracks cut at one point.

Observation: Large convoys (estimated 220 M/T) moving southeast along highway
from Carsoli to Avezzano and south through Capistrello, also on road southeast from
Avezzano through Trasecco; also some M/T, south on road from Pescina to Opi.

Flight Leaders: Capts. Neumann and McFadden

Number of Sorties: 24 Photos Taken:

Signed: James E. Nickerson, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t Intelligence Officer

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday, 8 March 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: There was a test hop today, another flight for dry run bombing and
another flight to Pompeii and return. Work is continuing on the enlisted men’s club and
it will be ready for use very shortly. It should be pointed out that the squadron’s combat
crews are engaged in an extensive training program which takes place daily whenever the
weather permits. This program holds true even on days when missions are flown and any
improvement noted in accomplishments on combat missions may be due in no small part
to the rigid training received by all crew members on practice bombing missions,
transitions, etc.

A/C No. 42-64527

A/C No. 42-64529

Knapp, Charles R., 1Lt

Thomas, John J., 2Lt

Dickerson, Samuel M., 1Lt

McLain, Damon I., 1Lt

None

Simpkins, Everett L., 2Lt

Paul, V.L., 2Lt

Hawkins, Vernon L., Sgt

Morisi, David D., Pvt

Marcoulier, William A., S/Sgt

Woogerd, Warren G., T/Sgt

Carson, Cecil F., Sgt

Garza, Manuel, Pvt

None

Cheosky, Alexander A, Cpl

A/C No. 41-3171

A/C No. 42-64667

Tarmichael, Arthur J., 1Lt

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt

Charville, Leighton D. “Danny”, 2Lt

Waterman, LeRoy R., 1Lt

None

Wren, Frank J., 2Lt

O’Toole, Francis X., 1Lt

DeRose, Louis A., Sgt

Filipiak, Theodore, S/Sgt

O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt

Plunk, Charles B., S/Sgt

Harris, Charles W., Jr., Sgt

Kramer, Henry P., Sgt

None

A/C No. 41-30354

A/C No. 42-32321

Wetherbee, Dan A., 1Lt

Neuman, Robert H., Capt

Coale, Julian R., 2Lt

Olmstead, Charles T., Col (Hq)

Fischer, Sigmond M., 2Lt

Paduana, Joseph A., Capt

Souders, Walter E., 1Lt

Underwood, James H., Capt

Cross, Vassil W., S/Sgt

Belt, H.C., S/Sgt

Stein, Louis, T/Sgt

Lysowski, R.A., S/Sgt

Beaudware, Leo J., S/Sgt

Ellison, Clyde, Sgt

None

Wednesday, 8 March 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Second Lts. Dickerson, LeClair, Morris get their silver bar.

Dickson, Gale M., Lt, pilot LeClair, Edward R., Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 188

TARGET: Orte M/Y, Italy. DATE: 8 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Capt. Neuman, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. Target not hit. Hits in area along railroad
tracks two miles SE of target. One report of tracks cut at one point. No flak, no fighters.
Lt Othick returned early because of a sick gunner. Lt LeClair was a spare and fill in to
complete the mission.

Morris, Meade L., Jr., Lt, pilot Neumann, Robert H., Capt, pilot, 445th BS

Othick, Ronald R., Lt, pilot

A/C No. 41-12963

A/C No. 42-32394

Vivas, Frank Paul, 2Lt

Walsh, George F., 2Lt

Sacker, John R., 2Lt

Fitzgerald, John “Jack”, 2Lt

None

McRae, James A., 2Lt

Reynolds, Laverne E., 2Lt

Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC

Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt

Maddox, Everett R., S/Sgt

Orechia, James R., T/Sgt

Brown, Ronald M., Sgt

Thornton, Edward P., Sgt

None

Tissier, Rene G., Cpl

A/C No. 41-13200

A/C No. 42-32429

Dickson, Gale M., 1Lt

Hunter, William C., Maj

Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 2Lt

Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt

None

Dickerson, Claude M., 1Lt

Rice, Sumner W., 2Lt

Mottley, John F., 2Lt

Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt

Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt

Miles, Walter J., Jr., S/Sgt

Todd, Alfred J., T/Sgt

Foley, Joseph M., Sgt

Thomas, Patrick, S/Sgt

None

A/C No. 42-64547

A/C No. 42-64511

LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt

Morris, Meade L., Jr., 2Lt

Hodges, Richard E., 2Lt

Church, Edwin A., 2Lt

None

Wotkowicz, Frank J., 2Lt

McCabe, Peter T., 2Lt

Bober, John, Jr., Sgt

Schreiner, Lester B., Sgt

Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt

Fontenot, V.L., T/Sgt

Boatright, Benjamin, Jr., Sgt

Zeman, Harold W., Sgt

None

Wednesday, 8 March 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Mission today to Orte M/Y. 445th Sq. led the formation with Col.
Olmsted flying as co-pilot in the lead ship. 445th dropped their bombs about 4 miles off
the target. We didn’t drop and bombs. Cpt. McFadden was leading the second box of
12. They saw the target but didn’t break formation to bomb. Major Sampson held a class
for pilots co-pilots, bombardiers of the mission to discuss errors on today’s mission and
remedies to be used. Plane 498 made an XC flight to Foggia. Plane 126 made an XC
flight to Naples. Plane 417 flew 45 minutes local instruments. Pfc Robert P. Biscailus
reclassified from aerial gunner to armorer.

Biscailus, Robert P., PFC, armament McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

448th BS War Diary: Mission 184 (226). At 09:40 24 planes off to bomb Orte M/Y.
One returned early and others dropped 45 x 1000 and 6 x 1000 delays at 11:38 from
11,000 feet and all returned at 12:49. Target not hit. Hits in area along RR tracks 2 miles

SE of target. One report says tracks out at one point. Large convoys (estimated at 220
M/T) moving SE along highway from Carsolia to Avezzano and S through Capistrello,

also on road SE from Avezzano through Trasecco; also some M/T S on road from
Pescina to Opi. Weather: 3/10ths Stratocumulus, visibility 10 miles.

Thursday, 9 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s strike the
dock area of Porto Stefano, some bombs falling in the Port'oErcole area; B-25s bomb a
bridge at Montalto di Castro; A-20s hit a tank repair depot N of Tivoli; P-40s blast gun
positions W of Campoleone, W of Pratica di Mare, and S of Ciampino; A-36s bomb
Capranica railroad station and targets nearby; and fighters fly uneventful patrols over
Anzio.

445th BS War Diary: Major Percy D. Register, Jr., today officially took over duties as
Squadron Commander, relieving Lt. Col. Bailey C. Cook who has left for the United
States. Col. Cook is being flown to an appropriate base for transportation to the States by
Capt. House piloting “Idaho Lassie”. Lt. Frey and Sgt. Castle are also in this ship headed
for the U.S.A. 6 planes did some formation flying and dry run bombing. Radio operators
received instructions today on VHF equipment modifications. The lecture lasted 1 hour.

Castle, Roy V., Sgt, gunner Cook, Bailey C., Lt Col, pilot, commander

Frey, Ernest Z., Lt, pilot House, Robert M., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Gawrada is promoted to first Lt.

Gawrada, Gabriel, P., 1Lt, bombardier

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 189

TARGET: San Stefano Aux. Harbor, Italy. DATE: 9 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 5

Lt Colonel Schwane led the formation. Cloud formation encountered after bomb run
started. Bombs dropped by dead reckoning. Target missed. Flak was heavy, moderate
and accurate. Eight A/C were holed. Lt Matzinger was forced to land at Pompeii. Capt
Cooper landed at home base with a feathered prop.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Matzinger, Keith R., Lt, pilot

Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Six of our ships participated in a raid on San Stefano auxiliary
harbor. Cloud formation encountered after bomb run started causing bombs to be
dropped by dead reckoning. However, some bombs observed hitting land north of port
Edale, on Isthmus at Lomboli di Fenigli Valso ¼ mile SE of target on land. Other bombs
dropped in water NW of target. Crotone airdrome was the target for a mock mission with
3 of our planes participating. The crews were briefed by Capt. Stevenson. Major
Sampson conducted a class for seven pilots, seven co-pilots, seven bombardiers and one
navigator. This class was a discussion of errors on today’s mission and remedies to be
used.

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot Stephenson, Henry W., Capt, pilot

Thursday, 9 March 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 185 (227). At 11:30 24 planes off to bomb San Stefano
Auxiliary Harbor and all dropped 81 x 1000 delay bombs at 13:50 from 11,000 feet. One

plane crashed landed at friendly field and 23 returned at 15:10. Cloud formation
encountered after bomb run started causing bombs to be dropped by dead reckoning.
However, some bombs observed hitting land N of Port Ecole, on Isthmus at Tomboli di
Fenigli and also ¼ mile SE of target on land. Other bombs in water NW of target. Eight
planes were holed and flak was heavy, moderate and accurate from Orbetello and from
Point Rividonia while on bomb run and immediately after bomb run from Tomboli di
Fenigli. Four boats length 200 feet in outer harbor of San Stefano (main harbor).
Weather: 5/10 cover at target at 6000.

Friday, 10 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s bomb the
Rome/Tiburtina marshalling yard and unsuccessfully attack the Orvieto railroad bridge,
while B-25s hit the Littoria marshalling yard; P-40s and A-36s strike at enemy positions
on the coast at San Felice Circeo, gun positions E of Littoria, guns and tanks at Cisterna
di Roma, railroad at Montalto di Castro, train at Monte Libretti station and railway
buildings at Zagarolo; and fighters patrol the Anzio area without incident. Flight of the
5th Combat Mapping Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), begins
operating from San Severo, Italy with F-5s; the squadron is based at Pomigliano, Italy.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

321st BG: Mission NO: 228 Date: 10 Mar 44 NO A/C: 24 (1 returned early)

Squadrons: 445-6 447-12 - 1 returned early

446-6 448-0

Target: Littorio M/Yds. North Section

Time Up: 1047 T.O.T.: 1248 2nd flight Time Down: 1420 2nd flight

1330 1st flight 1450 1st flight

Axis of Attack: 130° Height: 10,000/10,500

Planes Lost: None Planes Holed: Eight

Bombs Dropped: 75x1000 lb. plus 11 with delayed fusing.

Escort: 12 P-47’s (left formation before initial point).

Route: Base to N-1814 to M-9733 to M-9370 to M-2076 to F-7203 to F1574 to F-5696
to Target to G-0062 to G-1079 to F-8893 to F-3056 to F-7208 then reciprocate to base.
1st flight separated from 2nd flight due to heavy overcast. 2nd flight continued to target, 1st
flight returned to Gulf of Salerno then proceeded to target area.

Weather: Enroute and Return: Scattered areas of light rain. 6/10 multi-layers of

stratocumulus bases beginning at 4000 ft. Tops at 8000 ft also scattered cumulus
clouds. Visibility 15 miles

Target: 3/10 stratocumulus at 6000 ft. Visibility 15 miles.

Flak: Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate at target. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from
Guidonia A/D area, and heavy, slight, along Tivoli/Rome RR.

Enemy Air: None

Claims: None

Results: The 2nd flight bombed first and reported a concentration of bursts just N of the
central choke point. Car repair shop well hit. Some bombs on E. M/Y in area of forward
sidings. The 1st flight bombed 42 minutes after the 2nd and reported most of the bombs
short in Pilot School area with some bombs trailing into the M/Y at the north choke point.

Observation: One crew reported a flash of light on ground, possibly and airplane
explosion, 3000 yards SW of target. 4 Chutes were seen in air N. of same spot. 3 other
crews reported 4 chutes from B-25 shot down. One report of 6 chutes seen over target
area before bomb run.

Flight Leaders: Capt McFadden and Lt. Vallery.

Number of Sorties: 23 Photos Taken:

Signed: Sergius P. Neprash, Capt., Air Corps, Ass’t S-2 Officer

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday, 10 March 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: This squadron’s B-25’s helped deliver an unusual double-barreled
punch at the Germans in Italy today. This squadron made up the 2nd flight in the
formation which had as its target the important Littorio marshalling yards near Rome.
The 1st flight failed to go over the target and bombed the alternate target instead, covering
it with a good coverage of bombs. The 2nd flight proceeded over the primary target and
gave the Littorio yards a healthy pounding with high demolitions. There was one flight
made for dry run bombing purposes. 4 new pilots were familiarized with the use of VHF
equipment. Sgt. Thomas J. Clark, a radio gunner who completed 55 combat missions,
left for the United States today. The enlisted men’s club held its grand opening tonight
and it was hailed as a great success. A good time was had by all who remembered it the
following day.

Clark, Thomas J., Sgt, gunner

A/C No. 42-64527

A/C No. 42-12939

Thomas, William J., 2Lt

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt

Cormier, Emery O., 2Lt

Dickerson, Samuel M, 1Lt

None

Werner, Samuel., 2Lt

Wren, Frank J., 2Lt

Swingholm, Raymond J., Sgt

Thibodeau, Leo J., Sgt

Pate, Harris B., S/Sgt

Plott, John M, S/Sgt

Bellendir, John C., Sgt

McGinley, Joseph B., Sgt

None

A/C No. 42-64529

A/C No. 41-30354

Hatcher, Leon F., 2Lt

Tarmichael, Arthur J., 1Lt

Neumann, Robert H., Capt

Charville, Leighton D. “Danny”, 2Lt

Miller, Edward A., 2Lt

None

Monk, William, 1Lt

Paul, V.L., 2Lt

Malberg, Russell H., S/Sgt

Hickey, William R., Sgt

Maddox, Richard L., T/Sgt

Wilson, John P., T/Sgt

Doswell, Richard, Sgt

Imbastaro, Alexander J., S/Sgt

Abrams, Samuel, Pvt

None

A/C No. 42-32321

A/C No. 42-64659

Vallery, Dean B., 2Lt

Shynshka, Lubomier P., 2Lt

Remington, Peter H., Lt Col (Hq)

Coale, Julian R., 2Lt

Paduana, Joseph A., Capt

None

Souders, Walter E., 1Lt

Maughan, George W., 2Lt

Belt, H.C., S/Sgt

Filipiak, Theodore, S/Sgt

Shiloh, Andrew, S/Sgt

Plunk, Charles B., S/Sgt

Irving, Ralph D., S/Sgt

Carson, Cecil F., Sgt

None

Friday, 10 March 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Lt Gawrada flies his fiftieth.

Gawrada, Gabriel, P., 1Lt, bombardier

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 190

TARGET: Littorio M/Y, Italy. DATE: 10 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Capt. McFadden, 447th Sqdn. led the formation. The second flight bombed first and
report good coverage. First flight bombed forty-two minutes after the second flight and
reported most bombs short, with some trailing in M/Y at N choke point. Flak was heavy,
moderate and fairly accurate. No fighters. Lt Morris and Lt Othick were spares, and
returned early.

McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot, 447th BS Morris, Meade L., Jr., Lt, pilot

Othick, Ronald R., Lt, pilot

A/C No. 41-30293

A/C No. 42-32394 –Peg O’ My Heart

LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt

Walsh, George F., 2Lt

Hodges, Richard E., 2Lt

Fitzgerald, John “Jack”, 2Lt

None

Wotkowicz, Frank J., 2Lt

Reynolds, Laverne E., 2Lt

Bober, John, Jr., Sgt

Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

Bove, Anthony P., S/Sgt

Orechia, James R., T/Sgt

Boatright, Benjamin, Jr., Sgt

Thornton, Edward P., Sgt

None

A/C No. 41-12963

A/C No. 41-13200

Dickson, Gale M., 2Lt

Herbert, John J., 2Lt

Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt

Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 2Lt

None

Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

Johnson, Henry W., 2Lt

Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt

Clay, Donald W., Sgt

Todd, Alfred J., T/Sgt

Green, Salem M., S/Sgt

Thomas, Patrick., S/Sgt

Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt

None

A/C No. 42-64547

A/C No. 42-64549

Vivas, Frank P., 2Lt

Cooper, Paul T., Capt

Sacker, John R., 2Lt

Lewis, Vernon., 2Lt

None

Franklin, Arthur E., 2Lt

Pestalozzi, Rudolph H., 2Lt

Gawrada, Gabriel P., 1Lt

Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC

Shellhamer, Lawrence, Cpl

Roulier, Edward T., S/Sgt

Miles, Walter J., Jr., S/Sgt

Brown, Ronald M., Sgt

Foley, Joseph M., Sgt

None

Friday, 10 March 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: 11 of our planes participated in a raid on Rome Littorio M/T, led
by Maj. Sampson. The 2nd flight bombed first by 15 minutes and reported a
concentration of bursts just N of the central choke point. Car repair shop well hit. Some
bombs dropped on E side of M/Ys at the North Choke point. 12 pilots, sixteen co-pilots,
two navigators and fourteen bombardiers attended a meeting at the officers’ mess. A
lecture was given by Lt. Piasta on “Radio Procedures.”

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot Piasta, John R., Lt, communications

A/C No. 41-13181

A/C No. 42-64694

Davies, Robert G., 1Lt

Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt

Schnoebelen, Orval L., 2Lt

Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt

Mathewson, Merton K., 2Lt

None

Adcock, Leonard E., 2Lt

Huffman, William C., 2Lt

Tudor, Mathew S., S/Sgt

Morrisey, Raphael E., Cpl

Orloff, Sidney, S/Sgt

Pierce, William H., Cpl

Roberts, Herman, S/Sgt

Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

None

Statham, Alvin F., Cpl

448th BS War Diary: Mission 186 (229). At 10:15 24 planes off to bomb Orvieto M/Y
and dropped 77 x 1000 and 10 x 1000 delays from 10,500 feet at 12:30. All returned at
13:50 with one plane holed. Hits were reported across N and center and S area of M/Y
and some distance SE of S choke point. Other bombs reported hitting both N of target
area and SE. One large explosion and several fires observed in yards and warehouse type
building on S side of yards reported hit. Rolling stock about 75 cars seen at either end of
bridge near Montaldo di Castro (S-0119). 15-20 M/T’s heading E on Tuscania Viterbo
road. 20 M/T’s headed N on road running N out of San Lorenzo Muovo. On shore of
small island in Lake Boleena many small boats observed. House seen in middle of island
with seemingly more than ordinary activity. Large M/V reported seen either leaving or
entering Civitavecchi Harbor. Heavy moderate to slight and inaccurate flak from target
area. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Sowder.

Sowder, Tony K., Lt, pilot

Saturday, 11 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
strike at Florence, Orvieto and Fabriano marshalling yards with good results; P-40, A-36,
and P-47 fighter-bombers attack a supply depot, railroad station, and factory in areas NE
of Monterotondo, and numerous other targets, including gun positions in the battle areas,
railroad facilities, and 2 supply trains.

445th BS War Diary: The mission to bomb the Orvieto marshalling yards was very
successful. The crews seem to be completing very successful missions lately, probably
the results of the meticulous details carried out on the many practice bombing missions.
8 more pilots were checked out on VHF equipment and modifications. 3 ships flew
formation and did some dry run bombing while 2 other transition flights were flown. 4
bombardiers and 3 pilots were down at the new bomb trainer at group. On the trainer, the
bombardiers are now sharpening their eyes and brushing up on the fine points of their
trade.

446th BS War Diary: 1st Lt. Holloway is promoted to captain. 14 lucky Capri “visitors”
return from rest camp. Mail Call.

Holloway, McGlon T., Lt, intelligence

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 191

TARGET: Orviete M/Ys, Italy. DATE: 11 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Lt Sowder, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. Hits were reported across N, center and S
areas of M/Ys and some distance SE of S choke point. Other bombs reported hitting N
and SE of target area. One large explosion and several fires observed in yards, and
building on S side of yards hit. Flak was heavy, moderate to slight and inaccurate. No
fighters.

Sowder, Tony K., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 6 of our planes participated in a raid on Orvieto M/Y. Hits were
reported across N, center of south areas of M/Y and some distance SE of S choke point.
Other bombs reported hitting both north of target area and SE. One large explosion and
several fires observed in yards and warehouse type building on south side of yard. Lt.
Banks was flight leader. Lt. Wiginton, with Capt. Olson as co-pilot made a local
transition flight. T/Sgt Ridge trfd to 448th Sq. Morning report: officers 66; enlisted men
251.

Banks, Herbert J., Lt, pilot Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot

Ridge, Willis E., T/Sgt, communications

Wiginton, J. Maurice, Lt, pilot, pilot, operations

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Sunday, 12 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): 345th Fighter Squadron,
350th Fighter Group, ceases operating form Corsica with P-39s and returns to base on
Sardinia.

445th BS War Diary: Poor weather today prevented any flying but the training program
continued on the ground. Radio operators attended lectures which included the complete
operation and maintenance of B-25 radio equipment. A new navigator was checked out
on compass swinging by means of the astro-compass and also received instructions on
the calibration of the air speed indicator. Another new crew arrived today.

446th BS War Diary: Usual duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. A meeting was held in the
enlisted men’s mess at 1330 for 16 engineers, 18 radio operators and 20 gunners. A
lecture was given by Lt Piasta on the use and operation of all radio equipment, also on the
failure that may occur and how to correct them. Lectures on all S.O.I. as to the proper
method of using instruments was also given. M/Sgt. Horne gave a lecture on the care and
use of parachutes. Six officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp at Capri.
S/Sgt. Matthew W. Czbaj is on DS Troop Carrier Command. The following officers
have been promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per orders of the 12th A.F. of March 9th, 2nd Lts.
Howard D. Tompkins, LeRoy Alger, J. Maurice Wiginton, Lyle L. Edwards, Claude L.
Jones, Svend P. Olsen, Eugene E. Stocking, and James C. Davidson. 2nd Lt. George D.
Seavey has been promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per orders of Natusa dated Feb. 25.

Alger, LeRoy, Lt, pilot Czaja, Marion L., Sgt, gunner

Davidson, James C., Lt, pilot Edwards, Lyle L., Lt, pilot

Horne, Wendell C., M/Sgt, engineering Jones, Claude F, Lt, bombardier

Olson, Svend P., Lt, navigator Seavey, George D., Lt, pilot

Stocking, Eugene, E., Lt, pilot Tompkins, Howard D., Lt, pilot

Wiginton, J. Maurice, Lt, pilot, operations

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Monday, 13 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s bomb
railway bridges NW and W of Sarzana and at Viareggio. hit tracks S of the latter, and,
along with South African Air Force (SAAF) light bombers, bomb Fabriano marshalling
yard; B-25s bomb Spoleto marshalling yard, hitting E and W chokepoints and line to
Terni, and also attack Perugia marshalling yard with less successful results; and A-36s
bomb a railroad station between Orte and Orvieto while P-40s hit a supply dump near
Velletri and gun positions along a beachhead line directly S of Rome.

445th BS War Diary: 6 combat crew officers were promoted to 1st Lieutenant today.
After bombing the Spoleto marshalling yards in Italy, the group’s formation of B-25’s
returned on a course which took them over Isoletta where they encountered and
extremely intense flak barrage. Sgt. Connally, engineer-gunner, was killed by flak and
Sgt. Carson, turret-gunner in the same ship, was injured in the head. The ship landed at
Capodichino air-drome near Naples to allow Sgt. Carson to be taken to the hospital. Sgt.
Bellendir was also wounded on the neck while Lt. Paul received a severe flak wound in
his right ankle. 3 more radio operators were checked out on B-25 radio equipment while
Capt. Underwood, Bombing Officer, gave orientation talks to new bombardiers.
Hamburgers and fresh lettuce presented a tasty combination for the supper meal.

Bellinder, John C., Sgt, gunner Carson, Cecil F., Sgt, turret gunner

Connolly, Frank N., Sgt, engineer-gunner Paul, V.L., Lt, bombardier

Underwood, James H., Lt, bombardier, bombing officer

446th BS War Diary: Captain Springer flies his “50”

Springer, Luther B., Jr., Capt, navigator

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 192

TARGET: Spoleto M/Ys, Italy. DATE: 13 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 10

Lt Colonel Schwane led the formation. Bombs observed scattered with largest
concentration parallel to N track and over to the W. Some hits in center of yards through
W choke point. One explosion reported, and hits on buildings on N side of tracks at E
end of yards. No flak over target, but heavy intense and accurate encountered on the
route home. No fighters.

Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col, pilot

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Six of our planes and crews flew
a mock mission to Crotone A/D. The flight was led by Lt. Wiginton. The following
officers and enlisted men have been assigned to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing:
2nd Lt. Ward E. Manley, pilot, 2nd Lt. Allen E. Wingrove, bombardier, Cpl. Francis R.
Ellis, engineer, S/Sgt Jack L. Phelps, radioman, and Sgt William H. Burke, Jr., gunner.
Pfc James W. Austin, Jr. was discharged from the hospital and has returned to the
squadron. The following officers and enlisted men received the Air Medal: Lts. F.E.
Ryhead, G. J. Deane, D. P. McCormick, H. Beebe, E. D. Langston, R.G. Davies, J. J.

Monday, 13 March 1944 (continued)

Nowakowski, M/Sgt. R.J. Boyd, T/Sgt. A. Kaufold, and S/Sgt. H.E. Harmer. The
formation took place at 1530 and the medals were presented by Major R.D. Sampson.

Austin, James W., Jr., PFC, gunner Beebe, Harwood, Jr., Lt, pilot

Boyd, Robert J., M/Sgt, gunner Burke, William H., Jr., Sgt, gunner

Davies, Robert G., Lt, pilot Deane, George J., Lt, bombardier

Ellis, Francis R., Cpl, engineer Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt, gunner

Kaufold, Adolph, T/Sgt, gunner Langston, Everette D., Lt, pilot

Manley, Ward E., Lt, pilot McCormick, Donald P., Lt, bombardier

Nowakowski, Joseph J., Lt, pilot Phelps, Jack L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Ryherd, Fred E., Lt, pilot Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

Wiginton, J. Maurice, Lt, pilot, operations Wingrove, Allen E., Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: Mission 187 (230). At 08:45 24 planes off to bomb Spoleto M/Y
and dropped 83 x 1000 and 13 x 1000 delay bombs at 10:45 from 10,500 feet. One
landed at friendly field and 23 down at 12:00. Six planes holed. Escort P-47’s. Bombs
observed scattered with largest concentration parallel with N tracks and over to W. Some
hits reported in center of yard through W choke point. One explosion reported and
several reports of multi-colored fires, one near brick works W of river and N of RR,
another just S of W end of M/Y. Hits reported on buildings on N side of tracks at E end
of yard. 30 cars observed in Spoleto M/Y. Nine guns reported moving S near
AcquasParte. Heavy, intense and accurate flak from Opi Olvito. Sgt. Frank N Connolly,
Engineer killed and Sgt. Cecil Carson, Turret Gunner, wounded on plane #508 – 445th
Squadron. Weather: CAVU at target.

Carson, Cecil F., Sgt, turret gunner, 445th BS

Connolly, Frank N., Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

Tuesday, 14 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s bomb
Prenestina marshalling yard and nearby chemical plant; B-25s strike Terni and Orte
marshalling yards, causing considerable damage, while A-20s attack tank repair facilities
unsuccessfully; P-40s attack guns in the Anzio beachhead area and also hit a supply
dump; and A-36s and P-47s hit railway stations and the town of Ortia.

445th BS War Diary: 2 more radio operators received instructions on the B-25 radio
system. Capt. Underwood and Lt. Anderson were given instructions on actual loading of
bombs by armament personnel. There was 1 transition training flight flown. All
personnel signed the payroll today. There was an alert sounded at about 9:30 P.M. and
the men could see evidence of a raid in the direction of Naples. Another alert was
sounded at about 2 A.M. There were no planes over the area on either occasion.

Anderson, Melvin A., Lt, bombardier or Anderson, Charles, Lt, Bombardier

Underwood, James H., Capt, bombardier, bombing officer

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 183

TARGET: Orte M/Ys, Italy. DATE: 14 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 7

Lt Wetherbee, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. A good concentration of bombs reported on
S choke point, with other hits in center and N of yards. Some bombs short. One report of
a small fire in yard. No flak, no fighters.

Wetherbee, Dan A., Lt, pilot, 445th BS

447th BS War Diary: 4 of our planes participated in a raid on the Orte M/Y. Lt. Speer in
plane #498 was scheduled to take-off but at take-off time discovered the plane to be
without fuel. Lt. Seavey in plane #930 was to fly as element leader but returned after
logging 1:20 due to tail and waist gun malfunction. Lt. Ryherd in plane #123 also took-
off but was forced to return when the generators would not function properly. A good
concentration of bombs reported on S. choke point with the other hits in center and north
third of yards. Some bombs fell short. Capt. Olson was flight leader. 1st Lt. E.D.
Langston and Capt. H.W. Stephenson are on D.S. at 47th Wing. Six of our planes and
crews flew a mock mission to Crotone A/D. The flight was lead by Lt. Wiginton in plane
#695. The second element was led by Lt. Seavey in plane #181.

Langston, Everette D., Lt, pilot Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot

Ryherd, Fred E., Lt, pilot Seavey, George D., Lt, pilot

Speer, Leslie T., Lt, pilot or Speer, Marvin L, Lt, pilot

Stephenson, Henry W., Capt, pilot Wiginton, J. Maurice, Lt, pilot, operations

Tuesday, 14 March 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 188 (231). At 11:55 24 planes off to bomb Orte M/Y and
dropped 83 x 1000 and 10 x 1000 delay bombs from 12,000 feet at 14:15 and all returned
at 15:20. A good concentration of bombs reported on S choke point, with other hits in
center and north third of yards. Some bombs short and in river with a few over. One
report of some small fires in yard. 2 trains of 30 cars each between M/Y and Orte. One
with steam up. 15-20 M/T going N of Stimigliano. 20-30 cars at Narni. 20 M/T S of
Aquila. Large convoy of 30-50 M/T between Avezzano and Ta Gliscozzo heading N.
Another large M/T of about 50 trucks heading S from Pescina and 8-10 going N from
Pescina. Weather: CAVU at target.

Wednesday, 15 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium and
fighter-bombers, together with Mediterranean Allied Strategic Air Force (MASAF) heavy

bombers and other aircraft of the Mediterranean Allied Tactical Air Force (MATAF) in
the greatest air effort yet made in the MTO, rain bombs upon enemy concentrations in
Cassino and surrounding areas as the New Zealand Corps begins the third battle of
Cassino; light and medium bombers also hit a command post E of Ceprano and the town
of San Benedetto de Marsi; fighters on patrol and a sweep over Anzio, Cassino and Rome
meet no air opposition.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron participated in the epic 2500 ton bombing of
Cassino, flying 2 missions today. The battered city was left a town of rubble when the
strong air blows ceased. 7 bombardiers practiced on the bomb trainer at group today. All
the bombardiers were given instructions today on the actual loading of bombs by
armament personnel. Luxury rations were distributed to the men from 2 to 4 P.M. in the
enlisted men’s club. Besides affording an excellent means of enjoyment and relaxation,
the enlisted men’s club presents an excellent shelter in distributing the rations. There is
plenty of room inside where the rations can be placed on long lines and the men can be
kept moving in an orderly line from one end to the other.

446th BS War Diary: Two combat missions. 2nd Lts. McCabe, Nicklaus, Pestalozzi,
Phillips and Rice are promoted. Capts. McClelland and Tapper head for home. Sgts.
Franc and Velarde finish their big fiftieth.

Franc, John A., Sgt, gunner McCabe, Peter T., bombardier

McClelland, Alva L., Capt, pilot Nicklaus, George E., 1Lt, bombardier

Pestalozzi, Rudolph H., 1Lt, bombardier Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt, navigator

Rice, Sumner W., 1Lt, bombardier Tapper, George C., Capt, pilot
Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 194

TARGET: Area “B” Cassino, Italy. DATE: 15 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 12

Lt Colonel Remington led the formation. Target area covered with smoke and dust, but
bombs observed hitting NE section of area “B” and on into center. According to news
broadcasts 1400 tons of bombs were dropped on one square mile in an effort to rout
deeply rooted enemy troops on the Fifth Army front. No flak, no fighters.

Remington, Peter H., Lt Col, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 195

TARGET: Piedmonte Area, Italy. DATE: 15 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: Frags. 446th Planes: 6

Lt Souder, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. This was the second mission for this date. E
half of target area well covered. Some bombs over in hills some in town. No flak, no
fighters.

Sowder, Tony K., 1Lt, pilot

Wednesday, 15 March 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: 2 missions were scheduled for today. On the first mission 12 of
our shops participated in a raid on Area “B” Cassino. The target area covered with
smoke and dust but bomb hits seen NE in area “B” and into center with large
concentration on SE part of area and S and E of target, cutting road running S to RR.
Other bombs observed falling over to SW. Six of our planes participated in the second
mission in a raid on G-78225-789225-789222-782222. Easter half of target well covered.
Some bombs into hill and town. Six planes and crews of this squadron flew local
formation for 2:30. The formation was led by Lt. Banks. The second element was led by
Lt. Stocking. All bombardiers (18 officers and 2 enlisted men) were given instruction
and actual practice on loading 1000 lb. bombs. This class was under the direction of
Capt. Whitton and M/Sgt. Perry.

Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt, pilot Perry, Woodrow H., M/Sgt, armament

Stocking, Eugene, E., 2Lt, pilot Whitten, Walter H., Jr., Capt, armament

448th BS War Diary: Mission 189 (232). At 07:20 36 planes off to bomb area “B”
Cassino and dropped 132 x 1000 bombs from 10,000 feet at 08:47. All returned at 09:25.
Target area covered with smoke and dust but bomb hits observed starting NE in Area “B”
and into center with large concentration on SE part of area and S and E of target cutting
road running S to RR. Other bombs observed falling over town to SW. Weather:
CAVU. F/L: Freeland.

Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: Mission 190 (223). At 11:32 24 planes off to bomb area G-
78225, 789225, 789222, 782222 and dropped 1404 frags from 10,500 feet at 12:40. All
returned at 13:14. Eastern half of target area well covered. Some bombs in hills, some in
town. Few bursts of flak from Cassino. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Sowder.

Sowder, Tony K., Lt, pilot

Thursday, 16 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, light, medium
and fighter-bombers blast gun positions in the Cassino-Piedimonte area as the battle of
Cassino rages on; fighter-bombers also hit gun positions along the Anzio beachhead
front.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

321st BG: Mission NO: 234 Date: 16 Mar 44 NO A/C: 24

Squadrons: 445-6 447-6

446-6 448-6

Target: G-78225, 789225, 789222, 78222

Time Up: 1345 T.O.T.: (see results) Time Down: 1535

Axis of Attack: 90° and 360° Height: 6500/6700

Planes Lost: None Planes Holed: One

Bombs Dropped: 1st flight – None. 2nd flight 1512x20 frags.

Escort:

Route: Base to N-1814, M-9733, H-0303, Target, H-0818, N-5515 to base. (see results)

Weather: Enroute: Clouds. Clear until the initial point. From initial point to target

6/10 stratocumulus, base at 7,000 feet tops at 10,000 feet.

Target: Clouds. 8/10 stratocumulus, base at 7,000 feet tops at 10,000 feet.

Visibility: Unlimited

Return: Clouds, from initial point back to base clear. Visibility: Unlimited

Flak: Heavy, moderate, accurate from area of Ceprano.

Enemy Air: None Claims: None

Results: The second flight went over the target at 310 degrees as briefed and finding
overcast made a wide right turn and coming under overcast proceeded on correct heading
to target. Recognized target area, continued past making a left turn inside Ceprano and
came back on about a 90 degree heading at 6500 feet and bombed at 1515 west of
Piedmonte, reporting some hits in target area – others on hills just west of town.

The second box of six of the second flight after making the wide burn broke off
from the first box while going under overcast. Making a 60 degree right turn, leveling
out and bombing from 6700 feet what they considered the target area at 1514 – on
heading of 360°.

The first flight finding target area covered by overcast returned to base without
dropping bombs.

Observation: 200 trucks reported N of Pico at 1500.

Flight Commanders: Lt. Colonel Remington, 2nd flight, and Major Register.

Flight Leaders: Lt. Vallery and Maj Hunter.

Number of Sorties: 24 Photos Taken:

Signed: Malcolm D. Haven, Major, Air Corps, Group Intelligence Officer

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday, 16 March 1944 (continued)

445th BS War Diary: 6 planes flew formation for two hours today. Plans for revising
THE ratings to comply with various Technical Orders have been started by the new
Commanding Officer. Two members of the 68th Service Squadron are painting sketches
for the Officers Club. They are also painting squadron insignias on the jackets of many
of the men. Both men are talented artists and are doing a fine job. The weather in the
morning was very miserable with a cold wind driving a hard rain to turn the area into a
mudhole. It cleared in the afternoon, however. Pork chops were served for supper.

A/C No. 41-12817

A/C No. 42-64527

Coale, Julian R., 2Lt

Tarmichael, Arthur J., 1Lt

Cormier, Emery O., 2Lt

Charville, Leighton D. “Danny”, 2Lt

None

Wren, Frank J., 2Lt

Miller, Robert J., Jr., S/Sgt

Callister, Jack R., Cpl

Chambers, Jimmie, Sgt

Shiloh, Andrew, S/Sgt

Plott, John M., S/Sgt

Doswell, Richard2Lt, pi, Sgt

McClary, Louis E., Sgt

None

A/C No. 41-12929

A/C No. 42-30550

Smith, Alfred B., 2Lt

Vallery, Dean B., 2Lt

Hinsley, Maxwell D., 1Lt

None

Paduana, Joseph A., Capt

Underwood, James H., Capt

Monk, William, 1Lt

Caccucci, Harold A., Sgt

Belt, H. C., S/Sgt

Knight, Arnold K., Sgt

Heinbaugh, James C., S/Sgt

Zimmer, H. C., Sgt

Irving, Ralph D., S/Sgt

None

A/C No. 42-64667

A/C No. 42-32434

Knapp, Charles R., 1Lt

Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt

Rigler, Edward J., 2Lt

Gunder, William H., 2Lt

None

Yepez, Oscar W., 1Lt

Werrlein, Harry F., 2Lt

O’Toole, Francis X., 1Lt

Soltysiak, Stanley J., Pvt

Johnson, John E., S/Sgt

Marcoulier, William A., S/Sgt

Isbell, Everett N., Cpl

Garza, Manuel, Pvt

Andrews, Lamar C., S/Sgt

Abrams, Samuel, Pvt

None

Thursday, 16 March 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Sgt. Thomas gets his fiftieth mission, behind him.

Thomas, Patrick, S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 196

TARGET: Piedmonte Area, Italy. DATE: 16 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: Frags. 446th Planes: 7

The second flight bombed W of Piedmonte, reporting some hits in target area; others on
hills just W of town. The second box of six of the second flight broke off from the first
box while going under overcast, and from 6700 feet what they considered the target area.
Flak was heavy, moderate and accurate. No fighters. Lt. Walker was a spare, and filled
in to complete the mission.

Walker, Dale F., Lt, pilot

A/C No. 42-64509

A/C No. 42-32403

Walker, Dale F., 1Lt

Dickson, Gale M., 1Lt

Hipson, Robert G., 2Lt

Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt

None

Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt

Pestalozzi, Rudolph H., 1Lt

Jupin, John, Jr., S/Sgt

Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt

Youngblood, Woodrow W., S/Sgt

Cohen, George , T/Sgt

Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt

Samsel, John C., S/Sgt

None

A/C No. 41-13180

A/C No. 42-32429

Othick, Ronald R., 2Lt

Hunter, William C., Maj

Jordan, Henry L., 2Lt

Remington, Peter H., Lt Co (Hq)

None

Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt

Turner, Allen B., S/Sgt

Mottley, John F., 2Lt

McArdle, John R., PFC

Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt

Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., S/Sgt

Todd, Alfred J., T/Sgt

Parker, Jewell , Sgt

Thomas, Patrick , S/Sgt

None

A/C No. 41-29962

A/C No. 42-32446

Bsharah, Phillip, 2Lt

Kerr, John C., 1Lt

Mickel, Alan T., 2Lt

Smith, Randell L., 2Lt

None

Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

Mayo, Jack D., 2Lt

Mowry, Michael L.S., S/Sgt

Franc, John A., S/Sgt

Maddox, Everett R., S/Sgt

Sweedler, Max , S/Sgt

Fiebelkorn, Earl C., S/Sgt

Zeeman, Harold W., Sgt

None

Thursday, 16 March 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 42-32394–Peg O’ My Heart

Walsh, George F., 2Lt

Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 2Lt

None

Reynolds, Laverne E., 2Lt

Orechia, James R., T/Sgt

Antonelli, Anthony J., Sgt

Thornton, Edward P., Sgt

None

447th BS War Diary: Five of our planes participated in a raid on area G-78225, 789225,
789222, 78222. Lt Murray in plane 559 returned early when the engines would not
produce power enough to keep up with the formation. The second flight dropped its
bombs while the first flight returned without dropping its bombs. The result of the
second flight’s bombing is unknown, due to cloud coverage. Lt. Banks was flight leader.
The second flight was led by Col Remington. The first six planes of the flight bombed
while the last six also returned with their bombs. Some of our own troops were hit by
this bombing. 1st Lt. Thomas C. Bounds has been appointed to the rank of Captain per
orders from the 12th Air Force. Major R.D. Sampson in plane 553 with S/Sgt. Baldridge
as engineer and Major Myron Gale as passenger made an XC flight to Foggia and
returned. A year ago today seven of our ships participated in the squadron’s first mission
from our base Ain M’Lila.

Baldridge, Grant W., Sgt, gunner Banks, Herbert J., Lt, pilot

Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot Gale, Myron, Capt, executive

Murray, Richard E., Lt, pilot Remington, Peter H., Lt Col, pilot, 446th BS

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

448th BS War Diary: Mission 191 (234). 24 planes off to bomb target area G-78225,
789225 789222 and the second flight only dropped 1512 frags from 6,500 feet. The
second flight went over the target at 310° as briefed and finding overcast made a wide
right turn and coming under overcast proceeded on correct heading to target. Recognized
target area, continued past making a left turn inside Ceprano and come back on about 90°
heading at 6,500 feet and bombed at 15:15 W of Piedmonte, reporting some hits in target
area. Other on hiss just W of town. The second box of six of the second flight after
making the wide turn broke off from the first box while going under overcast. Making a
60° right turn, leveling out and bombing from 6700 feet what they considered the target
area at 15:15. The first flight finding the target area covered with overcast returned to
base without dropping bombs. 200 M/T reported N of Pico at 15:00. Heavy, moderate,
accurate flak from area of Ceprano. Weather 8/10ths Stratocumulus at 7000 feet tops at
10,000 feet. Visibility unlimited.

Thursday, 16 March 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 41-30125

Hales, Ermine L., 1Lt

Swanson, Earle G., Jr., 2Lt

None

Burday, Harry, 2Lt

Hinton, Zane R., PFC

Wilkenson, Robert M., Sgt

Crow, Roscoe J., Pvt

None

Friday, 17 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s bomb
Montepescali marshalling yard, Cecina, Roccasecca and Castrocielo, while A-20s hit
troop concentrations in the Cassino area; and fighter-bombers hit guns in the Cassino area
and attack a nearby railroad bridge and underpass with good results.

445th BS War Diary: There is a strong rumor in the squadron to the effect that Major
Tipton, the squadron’s former C.O., will return to the group in the capacity of Group
Operations Officer. Members of this squadron who are familiar with the “Tip”, as they
affectionately call him, are very hopeful of his return and would welcome it
enthusiastically. 3 planes did some formation flying today, another mad some practice
dry run bombing and another plane went to Foggia and returned. There was a big mail
call in late afternoon and some packages arrived. Pork chops made a repeat performance
for chow at supper.

Tipton, William L. “Tip”, Maj, pilot, operations officer, 321st BG

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 197

TARGET: Troops at Castrocielo, Italy. DATE: 17 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Capt. Cooper led the formation. Northern half of town well covered. Hits also reported
on S edge of town. Several fires observed in N part of town. Flak was slight to
moderate, inaccurate and heavy. No fighters.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Five of our planes participated in a raid on enemy troops and
stores at Castrocielo. The north half of the town was well covered. Hits on south edge of
town and along road and the road intersection on the south side of town. Several
explosions and fires were observed in northern part of town. Some bombs fell south and
east along the north section of the target. Capt. McFadden, flight leader of the second
flight. Flight training including bombing practice and local transition took place today.
At a formation of all officers and enlisted men which took place at 1530, Major Raymond
D. Sampson read a special order, by which making M/Sgt. Wendell C. Horne a 2nd Lt.
Air Medals were presented to S/Sgt. H. Roberts and S/Sgt. M.S. Tudor by Colonel C.T.
Olmsted. The Good Conduct Medal was also presented to a large number of enlisted
men of this squadron. Capt. H.A. Fraser has left on pass to inspect the Anzio Beachhead.

Fraser, Harry A., Jr, Capt, pilot Horne, Wendell C., Lt, engineering

McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot Olmstead, Charles T., Col, pilot

Roberts, Herman, Sgt, gunner Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

Tudor, Mathew S., S/Sgt, gunner

447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: Lt. Horne has an impressive record of 18
years continuous service as an enlisted man. He joined this Squadron as line chief in the
original cadre, and did a particularly outstanding job in “keeping em flying.” His
appointment was enthusiastically “approved” by the entire Squadron.

Horne, Wendell C., Lt, engineering

Friday, 17 March 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 192 (235). At 100:00 24 planes off to bomb Troops and
Stores at Castrocielo and dropped 188 x 500 bombs from 11,000 feet at 11:10 and all
returned at 11:55. One plane holed. North half of town well covered. Hits on S edge of
town and along road and road intersection on the S side of town. Several explosions in
and fires observed in N part of town. Some bombs S and E and a few along the N of the
target. Scattered M/T observed on main road N of Cassino going in both directions.
Slight to moderate inaccurate to heavy flak on bomb run and scattered heavy of tracking
type, mainly inaccurate on breakaway, experienced from Rocca Secca to Atina. Weather:
CAVU at target.

Saturday, 18 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s, B-26s,
and A-20s bomb Foligno marshalling yard, Orvieto marshalling yard and railroad bridge,
Poggibonsi railroad bridge, Piombino dock area, Colleferro railroad tracks and assembly
area N of Anzio; P-40s, A-36s, and P-47s attack gun positions in the Anzio beachhead
area, a factory at Carroceto, motor transport concentrations in the Cassino area, fuel
dump, tank repair depot, and bivouac in the beachhead area, motor transport around
Ladispoli, railroad bridge N of Rome, and railroad tracks and cars at other points.

445th BS War Diary: It was a bright, cold day in Italy today. The mission which was to
hit the Orvieto marshalling yards resulted in a successful raid and there was some dispute
between the squadrons as to whose bombs did the greatest damage in the target area. All
aerial engineers were sent to the line to witness the demonstration of raising and lowering
the landing gear. They studied the mechanism and learned all the pertinent data in
respect of this operation. T/Sgt. Shattuck, a crew chief, was the instructor. There was
one plane practicing combat tactics and bombing on the range at Dino island and also 2
transition flights. There was another cross-country flight to Pompeii. All squadron
personnel were ordered to turn in one mattress cover today. The area is still very muddy.

Shattuck, Ernest D., T/Sgt, crew chief

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Dickson and Sgt Fiebelkorn fly Number Fifty.

Dickson, Gale M., Lt, pilot Fiebelkorn, Earl C., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 198

TARGET: Orvieto M/Ys, Italy. DATE: 18 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Capt. Olson, 447th Sqdn. led the formation. SE choke point reported well covered. Other
bombs observed starting just S of yards and going thru center. Others fell N and S of
target area. Leaflets dropped 6/8 miles N of Avezzano. Flak was slight, inaccurate and
trailing at target. Enemy a/c seen but did not attack. Lt Othick was a spare, and returned
early.

Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot Othick, Ronald R., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Six of our planes participated in a raid on the Orvieto M/Y. The
southeast choke point reported well covered, with bombs starting just southeast of point
between railroad bridge and overpass. Other points observed starting just south of yards
and going through center. Others fell south and north of target area. Flight training
included local formation and transition. The following enlisted men have been assigned
to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing of March 17th: Cpl Dale G. Warner, Cpl.
Lloyd L. Rader, Pfc Allen Zumwalt, Pvt. Robert T. Kipp and Pvt. Willie Hamilton. 1st
Lt. Charles F. Jones is ordered to D.S. at Bollah Egypt. Morning report: officers – 68,
enlisted - 258.

Hamilton, Willie E., Pvt, armament Jones, Claude F, Lt, bombardier

Kipp, Robert T., Pvt, gunner Rader, Lloyd L., Cpl, engineering

Warner, Dale G., Cpl, engineering Zumwalt, Allen J., Pvt, personnel

Saturday, 18 March 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 193 (236). At 09:10 24 planes off to bomb Orvieto M/Y
(alternate Orte M/Y) and dropped 84 x1000 delayed bombs at 11:00 from 11,000 feet.
All returned at 12:15. Escort 12 P-47’s. SE choke point reported well covered with
bombs starting just SE of that point between RR bridge and overpass. Other bombs
observed starting just S of yards and going through center. Others fell N and S of target
area. No reports of RR bridge being hit all bombs reported W of that point. Leaflets
dropped 6-8 miles N of Avezzano. 20 car train at Narni, some individual cars on sidings.
15-20 M/T heading N into Rieti. 25-39 M/T SE of Avezzano heading N. 30 car train
pulling out from NW on line to Arezzo. One report of code being flashed from towns of
Attigliano, letter “B” being identified. 2 ME-109’s low, appeared to be protecting train
between Orvieto and Orte. 3 E/A took off from Terni but didn’t get up to formation.
Weather: Clouds, 2/10ths Cumulus, tops at 7000 feet. Visibility: Unlimited. F/L:
Crowell.

Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Lt, pilot

Sunday, 19 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Mediterranean Allied
Tactical Air Force (MATAF) issues a directive for Operation STRANGLE, to interdict
supply movements in Italy by destroying marshalling yards and attacking rail lines and
ports in a concentrated campaign. In Italy, B-26s attack a road bridge W of Arezzo and
port installations at San Stefano al Mare; B-25s hit a bridge approach in S Orvieto,
marshalling yards at Avezzano and Orte and a bridge at Orte; tank repair shops near
Tivoli are bombed by A-20s; and P-47s and P-40s strike at enemy concentrations, dumps
and guns in the US Fifth Army main battle area and in the area N of the Anzio
beachhead.

445th BS War Diary: The volcano at Mt. Vesuvius is in the state of eruption and there
were 4 transition flights which went to the mountain to see the sights and take some
pictures. The Orte marshalling yards was today’s target and the results of the mission
strongly paralleled those of the Littorio raid of March 10. The first flight veered away
from the target before it was reached and dumped their bombs on the alternate target with
good results. This squadron which was in the second flight went over the primary target
and achieved an excellent bomb pattern on the target area. It was learned that Col.
Olmsted is to be transferred to the 57th Wing. His successor is as yet unknown. There
were 3 bombardiers practicing on the bomb trainer at group today. Pork chops for
supper.

Olmstead, Charles T., Col, pilot, HQ 321st BG

446th BS War Diary: (1 entry for 19 and 20 March). A mission is flown each of these
days. Mission # 200 is the second of these.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 199

TARGET: Bridge (Primary) Avezzano M/Ys (Alt) DATE: 19 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Capt. Freeland, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. First flight could not pick up primary
target, so bombed alternate. Primary—RR Bridge: some bombs were reported hitting
the NW approach and some in river to SE. Alternate--Avezzano: Concentration of
bombs running from E choke point E along RR. Other bombs in SE part of town. Flak
was slight and inaccurate. Heavy flak reported from Attigliano area. No fighters. Lt
Walker was a spare and returned early.

Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Walker, Dale F., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Six of our ships participated in a raid on the Avezzano M/Y. The
first flight made a navigational error and could not pick up the target so returned to bomb
alternate target. Principal target was railroad bridge at A-561485, some hits reported on
NW approach some on river to southeast. Alternate target, Avezzano, concentration of
bombs running from east choke point east along railroad. Other bombs in SE part of
town. Six of our planes and crews participated in a mock mission to Stromboia. The
flight was led by Lt. Banks in plane 371. A meeting of all engineers, radio and turret

Sunday, 19 March 1944 (continued)

gunners was held on the line between 1300 and 1500. Mt. Vesuvius started erupting
yesterday. A number of planes made local hops to view the eruption today.

448th BS War Diary: At 10:30 24 planes off to bomb bridge at A561485 and dropped
36 x 1000 bombs on bridge and 47 x 1000 bombs on alternate target of Avezzano M/Y at
12:30 from 10,000 feet. All returned at 13:30. Escort of 8 Spitfires. First Flight made
navigational error and could not pick up target so returned to bomb alternate. The second
flight bombed bridge and reported some hits on NW approach and some in river to SE.
At Avezzano concentration of bombs running from E choke point E along RR. Other
bombs in SE part of town. Three strings totaling about 75 cars in M/Y at Stimigliano.
Slight inaccurate, heavy flak from Attigliano. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Bell and
Freeland.

Bell, Robert C., Maj, bombardier Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot

Monday, 20 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): 121st Liaison Squadron,
AAF, MTO, arrives at Oran, Algeria from the US with L-4s and L-5s; first mission is in
Sep 44. 310th Bombardment Group (Medium) is transferred from the XII Fighter
Command to the 57th Bombardment Wing, thus consolidating all B-25 units of the
Twelfth Air Force under 1 wing. In Italy, B-25s strike the harbor and shipping at
Piombino, the Poggibonsi railroad bridge, Port' Ercole and the area around the Orvieto
railroad bridge; B-25s hit Orvieto marshalling yard and underpass and road bridge
nearby, Terni marshalling yard and dock at San Stefano al Mare; a factory at Fontana Liri
is accurately bombed by A-20s; P-40s hit troop concentrations, guns and fuel dump in the
Cassino-Fontana Liri area while A-36s blast the railway station at Frosinone and also
drop food for troops in the Cassino area; and P-47s hit a fuel dump at Fontana Liri. HQ
62nd Troop Carrier Group moves from Brindisi, Italy to Ponte Olivo, Sicily. 414th Night
Fighter Squadron, 63rd Fighter Wing, based at Elmas, Sardinia with Beaufighters sends a
detachment to operate from Ghisonaccia, Corsica until Jul 44.

445th BS War Diary: It rained this morning but cleared in time for the mission which
was led by Capt. Wilson. The target at Orvieto’s marshalling yards was well-covered.
There was 1 test flight flown. There is now a volleyball court available for the Officers
and they spend a good deal of their spare time at this healthful sport. Lt. Lloyd P. Crumb,
former squadron Engineering Officer, paid his old buddies a visit today. Fresh beef was
served at supper. There was a grand jam session held in S-2 office in the evening. Sgt.
Herbick of the 68th Service Sq., brought his records and set over to make with the music.

Wilson, Charles B., Capt, pilot or Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot

Crumb, Lloyd P, Lt, engineering officer Herbick, Sgt, 68th Service Sq

446th BS War Diary: (1 entry for 19 and 20 March) A mission is flown each of these
days. Mission # 200 is the second of these.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 200

TARGET: Orvieto M/Ys, Italy. DATE: 20 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Capt. Wilson, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. Concentration of hits on E choke point and
thru M/Ys. Several reports of underpass being hit. One large explosion observed from
first flights bombs. Flak was heavy, inaccurate slight, from position one mile N of target.
No fighters.

Wilson, Charles B., Capt, pilot or Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Six of our planes participated in a raid on the Orvieto M/Y.
Concentration of bombs on east choke point and then thru M/Y. Several reports of
underpass being hit. Several bombs short of underpass. One large explosion seen. Lt.
Seavey was flight leader. 2nd Lt. Ragnar G. Lind was assigned to this squadron as asst.
Intelligence Officer per VOCO, and reported for duty. Flight training included local
formation and transition. The following officers and enlisted men have been assigned to
this squadron per orders of 57th Wing: 2nd Lts. John G. Nall, pilot, Harold N. Lindell,

Monday, 20 March 1944 (continued)

navigator, James E. Kelley, co-pilot, S/Sgts R.R. Vineski, radio-gunner, R. Mitchell,
gunner and Sgt H.W. Scarberry, engineer gunner.

Lind, Ragnar G., Lt, intelligence Lindell, Harold N., Lt, navigator

Kelley, James E, Lt, pilot Mitchell, Rennie, S/Sgt, gunner

Nall, John G., Lt, pilot Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt, gunner

Vineski, Robert R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

448th BS War Diary: Mission 195 (238). At 09:00 24 planes off to bomb Orvieto M/Y
and dropped 83 x 1000 bombs and 10 x 1000 delayed bombs from 11,000 feet at 11:00.
All returned at 12:20. Escort 12 P-47’s. Concentration of bombs on E choke point and
thru M/Y. Several reports of underpass hit. Hit believed scored on road bridge E of
target area. Several bombs short of underpass and several along to N of choke point.
One large explosion observed from first flight’s bombs. 30 car train at Narai, much
isolated road activity observed on main highways paralleling course; string of freight
cars stationary at RR bridge nine mile SE of Orvieto; RR bridge at Orte has on side
collapsed. Slight, heavy inaccurate flak from position one mile N of target. Weather:
Clouds 5/10ths Cumulus, Visibility unlimited.

Tuesday, 21 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s make an
unsuccessful attempt to bomb the Poggibonsi bridge; weather cancels other B-25
missions and all A-20 operations; B-26s attack Arezzo and Bucine viaducts and
Poggibonsi and Cecina railroad bridges; P-47s hit railroad bridges N of Rome while P-
40s bomb targets in the Anzio area; and A-36s drop food in the Cassino area.

445th BS War Diary: It rained most of the day turning the area into a slimy, soggy mess
and cancelling all flights for the day. T/Sgt. Arceneaux left today for Engineering
Officers training school in the United States. Sgts. Davis and Westbrooke left for the
United States also to attend aviation cadet school. S/Sgt. Larkin replaced Sgt. Arceneaux
as squadron technical inspector. A number of the combat crews left today for rest camp
at the Isle of Capri. The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius continues and the men are hearing
rumors that several cities may have to be evacuated.

Arceneaux, T/Sgt, engineering Davis, George W., Sgt, engineering

Larkin, Francis C., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Westbrooke, Vada L., Sgt, engineering

446th BS War Diary: Ten lucky combat members: Lt Dickson, Gawrada, McCabe,
Morris, Phillips, and Sgts Howe, Brawn, Knapp, South, and Velarde go to Cairo, Egypt
for a “vacation”.

Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt, Engineer-gunner Dickson, Gale M., Lt, pilot

Phillips, Lowell G., Lt, navigator Gawrada, Gabriel, P., Lt, bombardier

Howe, Frank M., Jr, Sgt, gunner Knapp, Walter E., Sgt, gunner

McCabe, Peter T., Lt, bombardier Morris, Meade L., Jr., Lt, pilot

South, William R., Sgt, gunner Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled but cancelled due to weather conditions.
M/Sgt Lloyd L. Blount has been reclassified from line inspector to line chief. M/Sgt.
John W. Blue has been reclassified from flight chief to line inspector. Sgt. Joseph J. Oler
has been reclassified from mechanic to crew chief. Two officers and five enlisted men
left for the rest camp at Capri. A class under the direction of Capt. E.L. Becker and Lt.
S.P. Olsen was held for 8 bombardiers and navigators on racks, switches and navigation.

Becker, Edward B., Capt, bombardier Blount, Lloyd L., M/Sgt, engineering

Blue, John W., M/Sgt, engineering Oler, Joseph J., Sgt, engineering

Olson, Svend P., Lt, navigator

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Wednesday, 22 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s attack the

Poggibonsi railroad bridge and viaduct W of Arezzo; B-25s hit a road bridge near
Poggibonsi; P-40s bomb guns in the Avezzano and Pico areas; P-40s on patrols over
Anzio and Cassino claim 2 fighters destroyed. Moves in Italy: HQ 47th Bombardment
Group (Light) and 84th, 85th, 86th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light) from
Vesuvius Airfield to Capodichino with A-20s; 486th and 488th Bombardment Squadrons
(Medium), 340th Bombardment Group (Medium), from Pompeii to Gaudo Airfield with
B-25s.

445th BS War Diary: Rain this morning cancelled the mission and all training flights
were cancelled due to the lava dust present in the air. This dust, coming from erupting
Mt. Vesuvius, is whipped into our area by a strong wind and all engines were covered on
the line. A P-39 pilot landed at this base after having his wings and plexiglass scorched
from the heat of the volcano. Before the dust moved in, Capt. Neumann managed to test
hop one of the ships. The men in the area at chow had to wear goggles to protect their
eyes from the dust whipping into the eyes. It resembled a sand storm in many ways. The
340th group is scheduled to move to this base tonight and some of the personnel in that
group will eat at this squadron. Their field is covered with 6 or 7 inches of lava dust and
their large number of aircraft were rendered useless by the erupting Vesuvius. There was
a USO stage show at group in the afternoon. There was a mail call in late afternoon after
which meat balls were enjoyed for supper.

Neumann, Robert H., Capt, pilot, operations officer

446th BS War Diary: 1st Sgt Mabe is taken to the hospital.

Mabe, John I., T/Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. Capt. H.A. Fraser has returned from Anzio beachhead and gave a talk to the
officers on conditions at the beachhead. Today’s flight training included local transition.
A number of officers and enlisted men of the 340th Group, who had to evacuate their base
due to the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, are being fed at our mess halls. It is reported that all
of the 340th planes have been destroyed.

Fraser, Harry A., Jr, Capt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Thursday, 23 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s bomb
Florence/Campo di Marte marshalling yard while B-25s hit the Pontassieve railway
bridge and its approaches; P-40s attack guns in the Cassino-Esperia area, causing many
fires and explosions; A-36s bomb the Cassino area with good results; the Germans have
been forced into a narrow zone in the W edge of Cassino but still hold positions
commanding the town and the Abbey; the New Zealand Corps breaks off the attack. HQ
340th Bombardment Group (Medium) moves from Pompeii to Paestum, Italy.

445th BS War Diary: A new replacement crew arrived today. The weather in the
morning was miserable with a cold wind whipping a hard rain. Personnel of the 340th
group ate chow this morning with this squadron and it made the chow situation very
crowded. The rain ceased in the afternoon but the wind continued and more ashes from
Mt. Vesuvius were swirled through the air making goggles a convenience. There was no
fresh meat tonight, the first time such a thing has happened in a very long time. It was
extremely cold tonight.

446th BS War Diary: Usual duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. The following promotions were ordered: T/Sgt. John Ostrowski to M/Sgt.,
Sgt Joseph J. Oler to T/Sgt., and Cpl George F. Murray to Sgt. The orders placing Lt.
Jones on D.S. to Egypt and the flight scheduled to take him there was cancelled because
of the demand for crews and planes caused by the loss of the 340th Group’s planes and
the ferry flight by one group to Telergma to pick up replacement planes for them. The
340th men and officers are continuing to arrive here. The ashes and cinders from
Vesuvius are covering the countryside as far south as Battipaglia. It is about 3 inches
deep in Salerno.

Jones, Claude F, Lt, bombardier Murray, George F., Sgt, engineering

Oler, Joseph J., T/Sgt, engineering Ostrowski, John, M/Sgt, engineering

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Friday, 24 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s pound
supply and bivouac areas in Piedimonte and Castrocielo and harbor installations at
Leghorn; B-25s hit bridge and railroad tracks NW of Orvieto, and A-20s bomb guns in
the Cassino area; P-40s and A-36s in Cassino area hit guns, troop concentrations, road,
and causeway; and P-47s on armed reconnaissance in the Rome-Orvieto-Orte areas hit a
train and a bridge. Moves in Italy: 11th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier
Group, from Gerbini, Sicily to Brindisi with C-47s; 487th and 489th Bombardment
Squadrons (Medium), 340th Bombardment Group (Medium), from Pompeii to Gaudo
Airfield with B-25s.

445th BS War Diary: Major Register and 5 other pilots left for Telergma to ferry back
some aircraft for the 340th group. There were 3 transition flights and 2 flights over the
bombing range. The tents in the area are tinged a lustrous pink from the effect of the
falling ashes of Mt. Vesuvius. There was a package call in late afternoon and quite a few
were distributed to the men. Roast beef was on the menu for supper. At night there was
no wind but the ashes of Mt. Vesuvius were still prevalent and they fell like snow on the
area. There was a particularly noise time in the enlisted me’s club tonight and the song
craze “Marrzy Doates”, which is very popular in the United States, was sung many times
during the evening.

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Walker finishes his 50th combat mission.

Walker, Dale F., Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 201

TARGET: Supply and Bivouac Area, Castrocielo, Italy. DATE: 24 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: Frags. 446th Planes: 9

Major Hunter led the formation. Good coverage reported with hits and several small fires
observed throughout the target area. Concentration of bombs in NE of area, some bombs
reported to have fallen short. Flak was heavy, moderate, accurate to inaccurate. No
fighters. Seven planes were holed. Lt Vivas was a spare and returned early.

Hunter, William C., Maj, pilot Vivas, Frank Paul, Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our planes participated in a raid on supply and bivouac at
Piedmonte. Good coverage of target reported with concentration of bombs seen on SW
slope of hill just before town. Some strings short and going up into town and others north
of target. Bombs bursting north and east of target believed to be those of A-20’s
bombing at same time. Two explosions seen, one from south part of target and other
from east edge of town. Red smoke seen just short of Abbey Hill. The mission was led
by Lt. Banks. The following officers and enlisted men have been assigned to the
squadron per SO #54, Headquarters – 321st Bomb Group: 2nd Lts. John R. Lange, pilot,
Charles D. Woods, bombardier, F/O Kenneth G. Sparling, co-pilot, S/Sgt. George J.
Sarbello, radio-gunner, Sgt. Donald H. Pinkerton, engineer-gunner, and Sgt. Robert F.

Friday, 24 March 1944 (continued)

Lamparky, gunner. Flight training for the day included local transition and practice
bombing.

Lamparky, Robert F., Sgt, gunner Lange, John R., 2Lt, pilot

Pinkerton, Donald H., Sgt, engineer-gunner Sarbello, George J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Sparling, Kenneth G., F/O, pilot Woods, Charles D., 2Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: Mission 196 (293). At 08:10 18 planes off to bomb supply and
bivouac area C-749250, 747244, 743247 (Castreciele) and dropped 1800 frags from
9,500 feet at 09:30. All returned at 10:05 with 7 planes holed. Good coverage reported
with hits and several small fires observed throughout target area. Concentration of
bombs reported in NE third of area with one report that most bombs were short and along
S edge of crossing road on the S edge of area. Another report that a string went over and
up through town. One man wounded by flak. Two explosions observed on hill in
vicinity of Mt. Cassino. Heavy, moderate, accurate to inaccurate flak from just SE of
town, from buildings and road running E and W along S boundary of target area.
Weather: CAVU at target. F/L: Crowell.

Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), Lt, pilot

Saturday, 25 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather severely curtails

operations. In Italy, B-26s bomb the Leghorn dockyard and town of Rignano sull' Amo;
P-40 fighter-bombers attack gun positions in the Anzio beachhead battle area; and
fighters fly cover over the Anzio and Cassino areas. Moves in Italy: 28th Troop Carrier
Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group, from Gerbini, Sicily to Brindisi with C-47s; 415th
Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing, from Marcianise to Pomigliano with
Beaufighters.

445th BS War Diary: Rainy weather with high winds forced a cancellation of the
mission and also training flights. 4 of our aircraft were transferred to the 340th group.
They are now quartered at this base, have their own mess and are no longer attached to
our squadron for rations. There was a meeting for all section chiefs of the various
departments. At this meeting, Capt. Gaffney informed the enlisted men that Col. Smith
would be the new group command and that it would be best to observe all the rules of
military courtesy. He also gave them a good idea of what to expect in other aspects of
their work. There were strong winds during the afternoon and night.

Gaffney, Charles, H., Capt, Adjutant Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, HQ 321st

446th BS War Diary: Same old story.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. Major R.D. Sampson held a meeting for all officers at 1700 concerning the
policies of Col. Smith our new Group Commander. The following planes have been
transferred from this squadron to the 340th Group: 175, 012, 123, and 417. It has been
reported that vast clouds of volcanic ash today still billowed from Mt. Vesuvius but the
eruption was apparently subsiding after 6 days of violent activity.

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, HQ 321st, Commander

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Sunday, 26 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Operations are at a
minimum as bad weather continues. In Italy, B-26s score numerous hits on Arezzo
viaducts, B-25s attack the Perugia railway bridge, scoring near misses, and A-20s
successfully bomb troop concentrations N of Velletri; P-47s achieve direct hits on a
railway bridge NW of Stimigliano and near misses on a railway bridge SW of Tarquinia;
and P-40s hit guns near Fontana Liri and N of the Anzio beachhead with good results.
HQ 60th Troop Carrier Group moves from Gerbini, Sicily to Brindisi, Italy.

445th BS War Diary: Major Register returned with 2 planes for the 340th group. He
stopped over at Catania in Sicily last night. A new replacement crew arrived today.
There is quite a mystery surrounding the present location of Capt. House with “02”. The
ship has been gone for over two weeks and no one seems to know where it is or when it’s
coming back. The wind was particularly strong today and at times it reached a gale
velocity. The tents were thrashed about but only one buckled. The wind blew so hard
that it was difficult to carry food in the mess kit from the kitchen to the mess tent, a
matter of about 10 yards.

House, Robert M., Capt, pilot Register, Percy D, Maj, pilot, Operations Officer

446th BS War Diary: Mission is flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 202

TARGET: RR Bridge, Perugia, Italy. DATE: 26 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 9

Capt. Wilson, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. Most bombs reported falling short and thru
M/Y with others over and to NE of bridge with possible hits on E end of bridge. Other
bombs observed hitting building several hundred yards short of target. Flak was heavy,
moderate, accurate. No fighters. Lt Walsh returned early without completing mission
because of engine trouble. He landed at Capadachino on one engine.

Walsh, George F., Lt, pilot

Wilson, Charles B., Capt, pilot or Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 10 of our planes, including one spare which filled in for another
squadron, participated in a raid on Perugia RR bridge. Result poor. Clouds interfered
with bombing on the first run on the target but the last element did drop, the bombs
falling long due to an unusual omission of the lead bombardier who forgot to cock the
trigger on the sight. Lt. Banks led our first 6 planes on a second run on the target but
missed. Flak was meagne. Two crews returned from cross country flight. The ground
training included a discussion of instruction by Major Sampson to the new crews and a
discussion by Capt. Becker on the malfunctions of bomb racks, S/Sgt. Andrew Zacharya
has been discharged from the 17th Gen Hosp. and has returned to the squadron.

Banks, Herbert J., Lt, pilot Becker, Edward B., Capt, bombardier

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot Zacharya, Andrew, S/Sgt, gunner

Sunday, 26 March 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 197 (241). At 08:30 18 planes off to bomb RR bridge ¾
miles E of Perugia M/Y and dropped 68 x 1000 bombs from 9,500 feet at 10:40. All
returned at 12:05 with 7 planes holed. Escort 14 P-47’s. Formation swung off course
near Orvieto, going too far W. Second flight overshot target some made turn and some
elements bombed on 65° axis. Most bombs reported hitting W of bridge, crossing tracks
with some near misses on bridge, with other over and N of RR bridge. One report of road
bridge S of the RR bridge being hit, some bombs short and W of river. 10-20 planes on
Perugia. Heavy, moderate, accurate flak from between bridge and A/D. Weather:
CAVU at target. F/L: Bell and Freeland.

Bell, Robert C., Maj, bombardier Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot

Monday, 27 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s
successfully bomb the Sesti Bagni railway station; B-26s hit Poggibonsi railway bridge,
and tracks and train cars in the area; and B-25s attack bridges at Marsciano, Perugia and
Grosseto railroad bridges, scoring damaging hits at Grosseto; P-40s hit a command post
and supply dumps, and fly road reconnaissance SE of Rome with good results; A-36s
bomb Sesti Bagni railway station and nearby trucks, while P-47s attack a bridge,
junctions and train cars on the Rome-Orvieto railroad; and P-47s and P-40s maintain
cover over the Cassino and Anzio battle areas.

445th BS War Diary: The crew which was recently assigned to us was transferred to
another group. It was learned that they were erroneously assigned to this unit. There is a
barber shop and shoe shine “parlor” available for use in the squadron area. The barber is
quartered in a small tent with “windows”. The shoe shine boy has a tent of his own. A
supply of K-rations was brought into squadron operations which will handle the
distribution of these rations to the combat crews. The weather was clear but still a little
windy. There is a strong rumor making the rounds to the effect that this unit will soon
move to Corsica. The men gave their tents a good cleaning in the face of a promised
inspection.

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Colonel Schwane, the squadron commanding officer finishes
his fiftieth combat mission. Lt. Dickerson and Sgt Samsel finish, also.

Dickerson, Claude M., Lt, bombardier Samsel, John C., Sgt, gunner

Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 203

TARGET: RR Bridge, Marsciano, Italy. DATE: 27 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 4

Lt Colonel Schwane led the formation. Bombs mostly in target area. Track cut W of
NW approach with bombs concentrated in that area. Bridge did not appear to have been
hit. No flak, no fighters. Lt Herbert returned early because of smoking engines. Lt
Bsharah had a flat tire while taxiing.

Bsharah, Phillip, Lt, pilot Herbert, John J., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Seven of our planes, including one spare which filled in for one of
the other squadrons, participated in a raid on a bridge north of Todi. The target area was
well covered but the bridge was not hit. No flak or E/A. One crew returned from cross
country. Flight training for the day was one cross country hop. Ground training
consisted of training on the bomb-trainer. Orders assigning the following officers, flight
officer and enlisted men has been revoked and reassigned to the 340th Bomb. GP.: 2nd Lt.
John R. Lange (P), 2nd Lt. Charles D. Woods (B), F/O Kenneth G. Sparking (CP), S/Sgt.
George J. Sanbella (RG), Sgt. Donald H. Pinkenton (EG) and Sgt. Robt. L. Lampanky
(TG).

Lamparky, Robert F., Sgt, tail-gunner Lange, John R., Lt, pilot

Pinkerton, Donald H., Sgt, engineer-gunner Sarbello, George J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Monday, 27 March 1944 (continued)

Sparling, Kenneth G., F/O, pilot Woods, Charles D., Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: Mission 198 (243). At 09:35 24 planes off to bomb RR bridge S
of Marsciano at A-685713 and 23 dropped 91 x 1000 bombs from 10,000 feet at 11:26.
One returned early and the rest at 12:48. Escort 16 P-47’s. Bombs mostly in target area.
Track cut W of NW approach with bombs concentrated in that area. Cluster of bombs
short of SE approach, one string may have cut tracks there. Bridge did not appear hit.
20-25 cars at Attigliano. At Alfadena a convoy of 25 trucks heading SW. 12 – 15 trucks
between Sulmona and Roccaraso. Weather: CAVU at target.

Tuesday, 28 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s knock out
the bridge approach E of Perugia and bomb the railway junction and marshalling yard at
Montepescali; B-25s bomb a railway bridge S of Mignano and viaduct to the SE, and hit
Certaldo railway bridge; A-20s attack a tank factory N of Tivoli; P-40s strike guns in the
Anzio area; guns, trucks, and roads during armed reconnaissance of the Cassino-
Giulianello area; and supply dumps and truck parks near Velletri and Sora; A-36s attack
2 railroad bridges and tracks at Montalto di Castro and near Orvieto; and fighters carry
out a patrol over the Anzio and Cassino areas. Moves in Italy: HQ 87th Fighter Wing
from Caserta to Bastia, Corsica; and HQ 57th Fighter Group and 65th and 66th Fighter
Squadrons from Cercola to Alto, Corsica with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: The mission today was to hit a target near Perugia. This place
never fails to present a “hot” flak barrage and today’s mission was no exception. The
raid cost the group two ships, but this squadron came through unscathed. There was 1
plane on the practice bombing range while another shop was test hopped. Lt James O.
Jackson, Asst. S-2 Officer, is acting unofficially as squadron athletic officer. There was a
tent inspection held today which proved to be satisfactory. An order was issued to dig
slit trenches today.

Jackson, James O., Lt, intelligence

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 204

TARGET: RR Bridge, Perugia, Italy. DATE: 28 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 4

Capt. McFadden, 447th Sqdn. led the formation. Bombs reported scattered with hits on
both E and W approaches to bridge. One report that W span of bridge was hit. Flak at
target was heavy, intense and accurate. Seventeen planes holed. Lt Kerr returned early
with engine trouble. Lt Jordan returned early because his Bombardier suffered a nose
bleed. Lt Herbert also returned early because he had no element leader. Lt LeClair was a
lead spare and filled in to complete the mission.

Herbert, John J., Lt, pilot Jordan, Henry L., Lt, pilot

Kerr, John C., Lt, pilot LeClair, Edward R., Lt, pilot

McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: Six of our planes took off to raid RR bridge at Perugia. Lt.
Seavey returned due to engines failure to pull enough power. Lt. Button returned when
the tail of his ship was shot by his Radio Gunner while test firing. 4 planes went over
target. Capt McFadden with Col. Smith as co-pilot led the Group. We missed the target.
The bomb run was confused because the lead bombardier forgot to turn the PDI on. Lt.
Edwards and crew were shot down by flak immediately after the bomb run and went
down in flames and was seen to strike the ground. Three chutes were seen of which two
opened. Lt. Edwards crew were: Lt. Abbott (CP), Lt. Snyder (B), S/Sgt. Harmer (AG),
S/Sgt. Champlain (RG), and Sgt. Wise (EG). Report of bombing – fair. 5 ships

Tuesday, 28 March 1944 (continued)

participated in practice bombing. 2 pilots and 2 bombardiers spent an hour on bomb-
trainer.

Button, Ervine J., Lt, pilot McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot

Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG, Commander

A/C No. 498 “Dumbo”

Edwards, Lyle L., 1Lt

Abbot, Fred E., 2Lt

None

Snyder, John D., 2Lt

Wise, Albert, Sgt

Champlain, Robert S., S/Sgt

Harmer, Harry B., S/Sgt

None

447th BS War Diary: Special Account: The Squadron suffered its 10th plane loss in
combat today, on its 211th mission, which was a return visit to the Railroad Bridge
immediately South of Perugia. Four of our planes went over the target, two having
returned early with mechanical difficulties. The ship lost was “Dumbo”, No. 498 piloted
by 1st Lt Lyle L. Edwards on his 28th mission. The following were his crew-mates:

2nd Lt. Fred E. Abbott, co-pilot (19th mission)

2nd Lt. John D. Snyder, Bombardier (22nd mission)

Sgt. Albert Wise, Engineer-Gunner (11th mission

S/Sgt. Robert S. Champlain, Radio-Gunner (7th mission)

S/Sgt. Harry B. Harmer, Armor Gunner (47th mission)

Lt. Edwards’ ship was #2, or right wing ship of the lead element in a flight of 12 that took
off at 1436 hours and attacked the target from 11/11,600 feet, axis 45°, at 1635 hours.
The formation drew heavy accurate flak all the way from the IP throughout an unusually
long bomb run, becoming intense at the B.R.L. Lt Edwards’ ship was hit shortly after
bombs away, as described in the following eye-witness accounts:

Capt. K.L. McFadden, pilot of #695, lead ship of first element: “About 35
seconds after bombs away, I felt a heavy concussion, and a wave of heat in my
face. I looked right and saw my right wing ship in flames from what appeared to
be a direct hit in the Bombardier’s compartment. I veered left as the flaming ship
went into a steep climb but still staying close to our formation. I saw the bomb-
bay doors fly open and the wheels drop down. Col. Smith, flying as co-pilot,
motioned me down and as we lost altitude, Lt. Edward’s ship rolled over our
formation flaming over-all.”

Edwards, Lyle L., 2Lt, pilot McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot

Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander

Tuesday, 28 March 1944 (continued)

The crew of ship No. 667 of the 445th Squadron: “Flak picked us up at the IP,
but all hell broke loose after bombs-away: At about 12,500 feet altitude, No. 2 of
the first element seemed to be hit by a 4-gun battery simultaneously, wrapping it
in flames from nose to tail. It pulled up in a sharp loop, then fell over and down
into a steep dive, burning fiercely amidship and around the left engine. As it spun
in, the tail broke off, and the plane seemed to hit in the smoke of the target area.
We saw one chute open at 8/9000 feet.”

Ship #509 of the 446th Squadron: “Saw a flaming B-25 hit the ground, three
chutes came out.”

From ship #005 of 448th Squadron, Lt. Armstrong, pilot: “Three chutes were
seen to come out; only two opened. Armstrong, Donald R., 2Lt, pilot

From ship #655 of 448th Squadron: “Lt. Edwards ship blew up in a ball of fire,
climbed about 200 feet, then fell down 2000 feet and seemed to explode again.
Two chutes came out O.K., possibly one scorched. Another came out on fire.”

448th Squadron also lost a ship that was last seen apparently trying a controlled landing in
Lake Trasinieno. The fact that the target results were only fair, and that the 340th Group
also lost a ship when they preceded us over the target, made the day unprofitable as well
as tragic. There was very little conversation at the evening meal, but an unspoken prayer

in everyone’s heart that by some miracle all our friends had gotten out of the ship alive
and safe.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 199 (244). At 14:36 20 planes off to bomb RR bridge at
Perugia and dropped 72 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet at 16:35 and 18 returned at
17:45. 2 planes lost. Plane #498 Lt. Edwards, pilot, 447th Squadron hit just after
dropping bombs and seen to go down in flames and hit the ground; three chutes see, two
open. Plane #552 Lt. Jones, Pilot, 448th Squadron crew reported plane hit just after
leaving target and making controlled landing near small island in Lake Trasinieno. 17
planes holed. Escort 20 P-40’s. Bombs reported scattered with hits on both E and W
approaches to bridge with other short and over E near road bridge to S. One report that
W span of bridge was hit. Flak: Heavy intense, accurate and four gun salvos in SW of
bridge along river and from batteries on W side of A/D and from NE of town. Also from
Just E of Baschi and Orvieto, heavy, meager, and accurate. Weather: CAVU at target.
F/L: Crowell.

Crowell, Weymouth (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Edwards, Lyle L., 1Lt, pilot

Jones, Truman R., 2Lt, pilot

A/C No. 552

Jones, Truman R., 2Lt

Gilbert, Stewart B., 2Lt

None

Bell, Robert C., 2Lt

Currie, James L., S/Sgt

Anglin, Paul (NMI), Sgt

Gately, Joseph A., S/Sgt

Feagans, Kenneth J., PFC

Wednesday, 29 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s attack
Viterbo Airfield, causing considerable damage to the target; B-26s hit Leghorn and many
small craft nearby. French B-26s attached to the Twelfth Air Force bomb Portoferraio on
Elba; P-40s attack supply dumps and a bivouac area SE of Rome, a tank repair shop E of
Rome and guns and supply dumps E of Velletri; P-47s cut lines at a railway overpass W
of Rome while A-36s bomb harbors at San Stefano al Mare and Civitavecchia and hit
nearby targets of opportunity; Spitfires, P-40s, and P-47s patrol the Anzio battle area.
Unit moves in Italy: 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, from Brindisi
to Pone Olivo, Sicily with C-47s; 12th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group
from Gerbini, Sicily to Brindisi, Italy with C-47s.

445th BS War Diary: Capt. Gaffney called a meeting for all ground officers. The new
group commander was discussed at this meeting. There was a test flight flown and
another plane was out on the bombing range. There was another tent inspection which
also turned out okay. The weather today was very warm and sunny, quite reminiscent of
sprint. There was softball practice in the afternoon as the aspirants for this sport loosened
up rust muscles and bones for the oncoming season. There was a meeting held in the
enlisted men’s mess where the prospects of the softball team and its participation in
league completion was discussed. A volleyball court is now available to the enlisted men
as the sports program is being expanded.

Gaffney, Charles, H., Capt, Adjutant

446th BS War Diary: Three officers and eight enlisted men go to rest camp at Capri.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 205

TARGET: Viterbo A/D, Italy. DATE: 29 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: Frags. And 250 lb. (Wing Racks) 446th Planes: 5

Capt. Freeland, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. Largest concentration of bombs reported
on E side of target area with other strings observed falling short, thru area and over to NE
with some just W of area. Two explosions and several fires seen, with reports of two
direct hits on revetments. Lt Hawkes returned early due to low oil pressure. Lt Herbert
was a spare and returned early.

Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot, 448th BS Hawkes, Leon R., Lt, pilot

Herbert, John J., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 7 ships took part in a raid on Viterbo A/D, Italy. Result of
bombing – fair. Lt. Stocking led our flight. Training for the day consisted of local
transition, navigation, bombing and XC flight to Foggia. Some lowlevel flying in fighter
formation was started. Lt. Joe L. Beal appointed Squadron Athletic Officer. He started
work on two volley courts and a softball diamond.

Beal, Joseph L., Lt, executive Stocking, Eugene, E., Lt, pilot

Wednesday, 29 March 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 200 (245). At 10:10 24 planes off to bomb W dispersal at
Viterbo A/D and dropped 2654 frags from 11,000 feet at 12:00. All returned at 13:30.
Largest concentration of bombs reported on E side of target area with other strings
observed falling short, through area, and over to NE with some Just W of area. Some
reports of bombs hitting in S dispersal area. Two explosions and several fires seen with
reports of two direct hits on revetment. As many as 20 E/A reported on the ground at
Viterbo, both S/E and T/E, dispersed mostly in S and NE dispersal area, both in and out
of revetments. Flak positions reported observed three miles E of Civitavecchia shooting
at 340th Group formation. Weather: CAVU at target. F/L: Freeland.

Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot

Thursday, 30 March 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s hit the
harbor at Leghorn and railroad bridge NW of Orte; P-40s and A-36s attack an
ammunition dump NW of Roccasecca, trucks and supply dump NE of Tivoli and near
Fumone and Gaeta, railroad bridges SE of Civita Castellana and NW of Stimigliano and

Orvieto and motor transport N of Cori and at scattered points. 64th Fighter Squadron, 57th
Fighter Group, moves from Cercola, Italy to Alto, Corsica with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: Capt. Neumann led today’s raid which was to bomb Orvieto but
due to poor visibility, the alternate target or target of opportunity had to be hit. Fighter
attacks were encountered through the clouds and Sgts. York and Dillon claimed a FW
190 each. Due to the poor weather – 6/10 cloud coverage was experienced – the planes
landed at Foggia and spent a cold, uncomfortable night in the Red Cross at that town. A
B-25 H was assigned to the squadron today and will be used for a cargo ship after it has
been stripped of all its armament. There was a mail call and pork chops were served at
supper. The men spent some time putting up a backstop and smoothing out the infield of
their new softball field located just behind the area.

Dillon, J. A., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner York, Rufus, Sgt, gunner

Neumann, Robert H., Capt, pilot, operations officer

446th BS War Diary: Lts. Bsharah, Herbert, Hurley, Matzinger and Walsh are given
their silver bar.

Bsharah, Phillip, 1Lt, pilot Herbert, John J., 1Lt, pilot

Hurley, John R., 1Lt, pilot Matzinger, Keith R., 1Lt, pilot

Walsh, George F., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 206

TARGET: Bridge NW of Orte, Italy. DATE: 30 Mar 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 6

Major Register led the formation. No hits on bridges seen. Bombs over. Cloud obscured
observation. No flak. Unsuccessful attacks made by three different flights of enemy a/c,
but all were driven off. Airplanes landed at Foggia because of bad weather, and returned
to home base next day. Lt Hurley returned early with a sick gunner. Lt Hawkes was a
spare, and filled in to complete the mission.

Hawkes, Leon R., Lt, pilot Hurley, John R., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 6 of our ships participated in a raid on Orvieto N. RR Bridge.
None of our planes dropped their bombs due to an overcast. All planes in the group
landed at Foggia Main, because this field was closed in. Lt. Wiginton led our flight.
Today’s training consisted of local transition, XC flight, navigation flights and practice
on the bomb trainer. Rations were sold today and everyone enjoyed candy and fresh
cigarettes once again. S/Sgt. Glass returned from hosp. S/Sgt. Dressler went to hosp.
Lts. Davidson, Adcock, S/Sgts. Escher, Orloff, Oryzanski, Sgt. Smith, Cpl. Statham
returned from Capri. 2 officers and 8 enlisted men left for rest camp at Capri.

Thursday, 30 March 1944 (continued)

Adcock, Leonard E., Lt, bombardier Davidson, James C., Lt, pilot

Dressler, Elmer P., S/Sgt, engineering Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt, gunner

Glass, Henry M., S/Sgt, personnel Orloff, Sidney, S/Sgt, gunner

Orzynski, Henry E., S/Sgt, gunner Smith, Leland H., Sgt, gunner

Statham, Alvin F., Cpl, photographer Wiginton, J. Maurice, Lt, pilot, operations

448th BS War Diary: Mission 201 (246). At 10:03 24 planes off to bomb Orvieto RR
bridge S (bomb bridge NW of Orte A-6234 as alternate) and dropped 48 x 1000 bombs at
12:00 from 10,500 feet. All down at Foggia at approximately 13:50. Escort P-40’s and
P-47’s. No hits on bridge seen, bombs over, clouds obscured observation. Formation
attacked by from 6-15 E/A in two main waves from coast. 6-8 ME-109’s sighted just at
coast going in but did not attack. Near Viterbo 8 ME-109’s and 3 FW-190’s attacked but
were not aggressive and were driven off by fighters. After bombs were dropped 6-9 ME-
109’s came in from both 6 and 12 o’clock above and below but were not aggressive after
first pass although they seemed experienced. They worked in teams of 2 or 3 usually
from 6 o’clock with one coming in from above and doing split S and diving, others
climbing and breaking from right to left. Reports of rockets being used and from 4 to 6
flak like bursts seen only smaller and with smoke. First element of first flight not
attacked and E/A seem to know bombers field of fire. ME-109’s reported black with blue
underneath. FW-190’s were grey. Claims 1 FW-190 destroyed claimed by both S/Sgt.
James Dillon and Sgt. Howard Luton, tail gunner. One ME-109 probably destroyed.
Confirmation of fighters destroying one FW-190. Weather: 9/10ths coverage at target.