12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing

321st Bombardment Group

History: June 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

Thursday, 1 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium, light
and fighter-bombers continue support of ground troops, striking concentrations, bivouac
areas, motor transport, railways and roads, bridges, trains and other targets; fighters fly
sweeps over the battle areas, escort medium bombers and carry out sweeps along the E
coast; 345th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, moves from Sardinia to Pomigliano
with P-39s; and during Jun, HQ 64th Fighter Wing moves from Frattamaggiore to
Orbetello.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron had two missions today. The first time it bombed a
road junction at Subiaco, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 90%. The second time it
bombed the road bridge at Narni, Italy knocking out the bridge with a bombing accuracy
of 94%. Captain Lord, the Executive Officer, gave a lecture to the enlisted men today on
the importance of military courtesy. The men are not enthusiastic about observing the
strict rules of military courtesy which were enforced back in the States. The S-2 and the
S-3 tent was renovated today with a new floor, a new wooden framework, new map
boards and a new swinging door. Carpenter work was done chiefly through the efforts of
S/Sgt. Kenneth D. Terhune.

Lord, Robert O., Jr., Capt, Executive Officer Terhune, Kenneth D., S/Sgt, operations

446th BS War Diary: A combat mission is flown. Regular duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 264

TARGET: Narni South, Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 1 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 10

Lt. Van Raam, 448th Sqdn, led the formation. Bombs reported hitting for the most part
over and to N and E of bridge, with observation of N end and N approach being hit. One
element reported bombing smaller highway bridge E of target. No flak, no fighters.

Van Raam, Rudolf (NMI), Lt, pilot, 448th BS

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 265

TARGET: Subiaco Road Block, Italy. DATE: 1 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 4

Capt. Cooper led the formation. Good coverage. Bombs concentrated in town,
especially in N section. No flak, no fighters.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 9 of our ships participated in a raid on, Narni Road Bridge, (N),
with Lt. Stocking, leading our squadron. Target received its greatest concentration of hits
across North end- North approach and across highway and road to west. A few bombs
over and to the SW. On the second mission for the day, six of our ships participated in a
raid on, Subiaco Road Block, with Lt. Speer leading our squadron. Bombs concentrated
in town and especially in north section.

Stocking, Eugene E., Lt, pilot

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

Thursday, 1 June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 259 (323): At 09:25 19 planes off to bomb Narni S. Road
bridge and dropped 152 x 500 bombs from 11,000 feet at 11:10. All planes returned at
12:25. No flak, 12 Spits escort. N end of N approach of bridge believed hit. Other
bombs fell across adjacent road. One element bombed smaller road bridge 1,000 feet E
of target. Six unidentified A/C flew parallel to formation but did not attack. Weather:
CAVU.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 260 (324): At 11:46 19 planes off to bomb Subiaco town
and dropped 152 x 500 bombs from 11,000 feet at 13:30. All returned at 15:10. No flak,
area cover. Bomb pattern started E of town, walked through target through road W of
town. Bombs were concentrated in N section of town with several direct hits on main
road. 15-20 M/T’s were stationary on road just E of Subiaco. Weather: CAVU.

Friday, 2 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
attack road and rail bridges from N of the battle area just below Rome to areas N of
Rome; fighter-bombers continue to blast motor transport, railways, trains, command
posts, roads, and bridges in the battle area, having particularly good success against
vehicles.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Spoleto railroad bridge today
destroying the bridge with a bombing accuracy of 84%. Free PX rations were distributed
and in this manner the accumulated profits were returned to the man. The new latrine
seemed to function satisfactorily. No complaints. They are screened in; they have
streamlined holes; they have upright strips of wood against which the opened seats may
rest so as to protect the backs of the men which formally served as a rest for the open
seats.

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Colonel Schwane returns to the United States and two of
his combat crew members, Staff Sergeants South and Knapp fly with him. Captain Paul
T. Cooper assumes command of the squadron.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Knapp, Walter E., Sgt, gunner

Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col, pilot South, William R., Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 266

TARGET: Subiaco Road Block, Italy. DATE: 2 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 10

Lt. LeClair led the formation. Greatest concentration of bombs fell across SE
intersection and ran up into center of town. Others observed falling on highway running
N through town, and other short across highway. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. No
fighters.

LeClair, Edward R., Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 267

TARGET: Percile Road Bridge, Italy. DATE: 2 June 1944

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

Lt. Murray led the formation. No bombs dropped. Target not picked up in time. No
flak, no fighters.

Murray, Richard E., Lt, pilot, 447th

447th BS War Diary: 7 of our ships participated in a raid on, Spoleto RR Bridge, with
Lt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Bombs started east of town – walked thru target area.
Both approaches and center of bridge believed hit – cluster of bombs, 2000 feet N of
target may have hit road bridge. Some bombs fell off target and in north section of town.
6 of our ships participated in second mission of day to attack, Percile Road Bridge, with
Lt. Murray, leading group. No bombs dropped due to leader not being able to pick up
target in time. S/Sgt. Herman Konchinsky, has been relieved of assignment and
transferred to Personnel Center No. 6 P.B.S. for transshipment on rotation to the United

Friday, 2 June 1944 (continued)

States. Major Raymond D. Sampson, on leave of absence to the United States. Captain
Robert C. Olson, is appointed commanding officer during the absence of Major Raymond
D. Sampson. Captain Thomas C. Bounds, assistant operations officer, has taken over
Captain Olson’s duties as operations officer.

Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot Herman, Byard, G., Sgt, gunner

Konchinsky, Herman, S/Sgt, bombardier Murray, Richard E., Lt, pilot, 447th

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

Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: Mission 261 (326): At 09:17 20 planes off to bomb Subiaco town
road block and 19 dropped 152 x 500 bombs from 11,000 feet at 11:05, All returned at
12:50. No E/A, heavy, scant inaccurate flak, no planes holed. Area cover. Greatest
concentration of bombs fell across SE inter-section and through center of town. Hits
were observed also on highway running N through town and across highway running into
town from S. Weather: CAVU.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 262 (327): At 16:50 20 planes off to bomb Percile road
bridge. Due to heavy ground haze, lead plane failed to identify target and all planes
returned bombs to base. No flak but six unidentified planes near Rieti. Submarine
heading 270º observed at 41º 45’ N and 10º 02’ E. Weather: Heavy ground haze.

Saturday, 3 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
pound bridges in C Italy, further damaging the enemy's communications system; fighter-
bombers continue close support of embattled ground forces immediately S of Rome and
attack several bridges N of the city to hinder a possible withdrawal of enemy forces; light
bombers attack ammunition and fuel dumps.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron had two missions again today. It bombed the
Corona railroad bridge, Italy knocking out the bridge with a bombing accuracy of 88%.
It also bombed the railroad bridge at Castiglione Fiorentino, Italy knocking out this
bridge with a bombing accuracy of 81%. The men commenced to lay out a baseball
diamond near the squadron area. Lt. Humphrey, who has been the Supply Officer for the
squadron since it was activated in the States, left the squadron to take on a new
assignment in the 310th Bombardment Group.

Humphrey, Malcom R., Lt, supply

446th BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties as there is no mission.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: 10 of our ships participated in a raid on Castiglion Fiorentino
Bridge, with Lt. Stocking leading squadron. Very good concentration of bombs in target
area with direct hits on both ends and center of bridge. Some bombs across to road
bridge to east. A few bombs short and over to south and east of town. Bombing
accuracy – 81% mission efficiency – 65%. Three of our ships also participated in a raid
on Cortona RR Bridge, with Lt. Alger, leading squadron. Good concentration of bombs
in target area – bridge hit and small highway bridge hit. Some bombs to west of target.
Bombing accuracy – 88% mission efficiency – 88%. Today’s flight training consisted of
local test flights and local transition. Capt Olson, conducted a class on formation
assembly, and landing procedure for 27 pilots and 27 co-pilots. Lt. Windler, held a class
for six new bombardiers on target identification, use of computers and bombs racks.

Alger, LeRoy, Lt, pilot Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot

Stocking, Eugene, E., Lt, pilot Windler, John H., Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: Mission 263 (328): At 09:45 19 planes off to bomb Cortona
RR/bridge. One span collapsed. Further report impossible due to loss of Intelligence
Summary.

Sunday, 4 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
hit railroad bridges in NC Italy; fighter-bombers concentrate on motor transport on roads
N of Rome over which the enemy is retreating as US Fifth Army columns converge on
the city amidst an enthusiastic welcome by the populace; a record number of 600+ motor
transport are claimed destroyed and almost as many more damaged by AAF and Royal
Air Force (RAF) units of the Mediterranean

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the railroad bridge at Viareggio, Italy
scoring hits on the bridge with a bombing accuracy of 57%. There was a lot of activity at
the Officers Club tonight. The orchestra sounded like something heard in a fashionable
night club back in the States. There were some nurses from a nearby hospital to add to
the gayety. The squadron theme some, with an unmentionable name, was played as usual
at the opening and close of activities. The theme song was written by Captain Strenger
and put to music by Captain Smith.

Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown with successful results.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 268

TARGET: Viareggio Rail Bridge, Italy. DATE: 4 June 1944

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

Capt. Cooper led the formation. Fine concentration of bombs reported in target area with
several directs on bridge reported. Several observations of large explosion in immediate
vicinity of bridge reported as being just to N and W. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Mickel
returned early because of fuel leak.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Mickel Alan T., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 269

TARGET: Viareggio Rail Bridge, Italy. DATE: 4 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 3

Lt. Russell, 445th Sqdn, led the formation. Bombs somewhat scattered and observation
difficult due to previous missions bombings. Some hits were reported on bridge, some
observed over to SW among buildings. No flak no fighters.

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 270

TARGET: Viterbo Road Block, Italy. DATE: 4 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 5

Lt. Armstrong led the formation. Being unable to get into target due to weather, four
planes dropped on targets of opportunity. One was a road bridge, the other a small M/Y.
Results unobserved. No flak, no fighters.

Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot, 448th, BS

Sunday, 4 June 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: 15 of our ships participated in a raid on Littorio Rd. Bridge, with
Lt. Wiginton leading the mission. Good concentration of bombs in target area. Bridge
and both approaches hit and road west of bridge also hit. Bombing accuracy – 99%
Mission efficiency – 89%. Four of our ships also participated in a raid on Viterbo Road
Bridge, for the second mission of the day, with Lt. Muzinich leading squadron. Target

obscured by clouds, therefore all planes returned with bombs. Morning Report: Officers
– 91. Enlisted Men – 315. Today’s training consisted of local transition.

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot, operations

448th BS War Diary: Mission 264 and 265 (370-371): Mission number 329 to 369
flown by B-25’s on DS at Tobruk. Mission made up of 39 planes which took off to
bomb Ronta E and W RR/viaduct but cloud cover caused them to drop 135 x 1000 bombs
from 10,000 feet at 12:40 on the alternate target of Via Reggio RR/bridge. No flak no
E/A. Escort by unknown number of Spits. Crews report direct hits on bridge. Also
probable hits on N approach and road over-pass. Large explosion in vicinity of bridge
followed bombing. Weather: CAVU.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 266 (373): At 14:09 18 planes off to bomb Viterbo road
bridge but were unable to reach target area because of 7/10th cloud cover. 4 planes
dropped 32 x 500 bombs on target of opportunity a small M/Y. No results observed, all
returned at 16:30. Heavy, scant flak was experienced from F6960. No planes were
holed. Remaining 14 planes returned bombs to base.

Monday, 5 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
pound road bridges just N of the forces retreating from Rome while fighter-bombers
continue attacks against motor transport, railway lines and roads in the battle areas and N
of Rome, destroying many vehicles and train cars, and scoring numerous hits on bridges,
tracks, and roads, as most of the US Fifth Army assault forces cross the Tiber River in
pursuit of the enemy and British Eighth Army forces E of Rome prepare to advance
astride the Tiber River against Terni and Rieti.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the road bridge at Ronciglione, Italy today
with a bombing accuracy of 80 %. There was great excitement among the men today
because of the announcement that Rome had been captured. A few extra drinks were
indulged in and chicken was had for supper. There were some exciting games of
volleyball between the officers this afternoon.

446th BS War Diary: Two missions are flown, totaling 22 of our ships. Lieut. Braswell
gets his orders to return to the states.

Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 271

TARGET: Ronciglione Road Bridge, Italy. DATE: 5 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 4

Lt. Van Raam. 448th Sqdn. led the formation. Heavy concentration in target area,
especially around bridge in NE part of town. Many reports of direct hits. No flak, no
fighters.

Van Ram, Rudolph (NMI), Lt, pilot, 448th BS

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 272

TARGET: RR Bridge E-5882, Italy. (Alt) DATE: 5 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 9

Lt. Hatcher led the formation. Flights split up at primary target due to second flight not
picking up target in time. First flight bombed primary with some hits on target reported.
Second flight bombed in vicinity or on bridge at E-5882, road bridge just to N and/or a
similar bridge NW of road bridge. Possible hits. No flak, no fighters.

Hatcher, James T., Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 273

TARGET: Viterbo Road Block, Italy. DATE: 5 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 9

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Fine concentration in target area. Few bombs over and
short. Report of large explosion in town near target area. No flak, no fighters.

Jordan, Henry L., Lt, pilot

Monday, 5 June 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: 15 our ships participated in a raid on, Veiano Road Block, with Lt.
Murray leading the mission. Bombs scattered thru target area, but part of town well
covered and a good concentration on the bend in the road at south part of city. Two
strings across road and buildings in north section. Bombing Accuracy – 64% Mission
efficiency – 52%. On the second mission nine of our ships participated in a raid on
Viterbo Road Block. Excellent concentration in target area in southeast part of town at
railroad junction – majority of bombs started a junction and walked parallel with road end
RR to north. One large explosion in town. Bombing accuracy and mission efficiency
87%. Lt. Muzinich, lead our squadron. The following officers and enlisted men have
been assigned to this squadron from the 57th Bomb Wing, SO # 91: 2nd Lt. Ernest C
Rice; 2nd Lt. Lester W. Robinson; 2nd Lt. Paul H. Noe; Sgt. Smith B. Applegarth; S/Sgt.
George D. Schnaars. Today’s training consisted of local transition and slow time.

Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt, gunner Murray, Richard E., Lt, pilot

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier

Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt, pilot Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt, pilot

Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: Mission 267 (374): At 09:43 19 planes off to bomb Ronciglione
R/Block and dropped 143 x 500 bombs at 10:42 from 10,000 feet. All returned at 11:59.
Heavy concentration around bridge and in NE part of town. Hits observed on bridge.
Bombs also fell along highways NW and SE of target. Heavy traffic on roads. Weather:
CAVU.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 268 (376): At 10:05 18 planes off to bomb Veiano
R/Block and dropped 109 x 500 bombs at 11:10 from 9,500 feet. All returned at 12:05.
No flak. Area cover. Center of town was well covered. One concentration of bombs on
bend in road at S part of town. Two strings across road and building area in Northern
section of town. Much traffic on road. Weather: CAVU.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 269 (378): At 17:09 18 planes off to bomb Viterbo R/B
and dropped 136 x 500 bombs at 18:19 from 10,000 feet. All returned at 18:58. No flak.
Area cover. No direct hits reported on bridge. Road cut NE of bridge and probable hits
on SW approach. Heavy M/T traffic on highways moving North. Weather: CAVU.

Tuesday, 6 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium, light
and fighter-bombers, and fighters all hit communications lines N of Rome to slow the
enemy retreat; bridges, road junctions, rail lines, roads, and motor transport are
continually attacked throughout the day, as British Eighth Army forces W of the Tiber
River reach Civita Castellana and US Fifth Army forces push N and W toward Viterbo
and Civitavecchia; HQ 324th Fighter Group and 314th Fighter Squadron move from
Pignataro Maggiore to Le Banca Airfield with P-40s; 111th Tactical Reconnaissance
Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Santa Maria to Nettuno with F-6s;
and 523rd Fighter Squadron, 27th Fighter Group, moves from Santa Maria to Le Banca
Airfield with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: The big subject of discussion today was the invasion along the
Normandy coast. As word spread among the men, some were skeptical believing it to be
just another rumor. Others paid off bets. The squadron bombed Viterbo, Italy to create a
road block to harass the retreating Germans, achieving a bombing accuracy of 78%. A
number of the men left for the Capri rest camp today. Plans are being made for the
opening night of the Officers Club. Lt. Casaburi has been detailed to go on a hunting
expedition to see if he can bring back some “meat on the hoof”. Major Register has
undertaken to procure a suitable supply of feminine pulchritude.

Casaburi, Robert R., 2Lt, navigator Register, Percy D, Maj, pilot, Operations Officer

446th BS War Diary: Enlisted Men’s Club opens officially with much fanfare—a
sixteen piece band from a nearby Engineering unit. Colonel Smith and Lt. Col. Cassidy
drop in during the evening and Captain Cooper makes a few presentations of Air Medals
and Purple Hearts. Mess Sergeant George LeMoine is given the Iron Cross in a skit put
on by Sergeants Velarde, Hanley and Zabinski. A big time was had by all.

Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, pilot, 321st BG Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot

Hanley, James, Jr., Sgt, gunner LeMoine, George F, Sgt, cook

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

Velarde, Servando J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Zabinski, Joseph J., Sgt, engineering

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 274

TARGET: Tarquinia Road Bridge, Italy. DATE: 6 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 18

Capt. Cooper led the formation. Excellent concentration reported in target area. Both
highway bridges covered and SW bridge observed as destroyed. No flak, no fighters.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. Statistics for the month of May show that the 447th Squadron lead the group
with an 89% bombing accuracy. In addition to his other duties, Captain Robert W.
Manly, is appointed Executive Officer during the absence of Major Myron Gale. The
following officers and enlisted men were presented the Purple Heart, at a formation in
front of the orderly room, with Captain Robert C. Olson, making the presentation and

Tuesday, 6 June 1944 (continued)

Captain Robert W. Manly reading the orders: 1st Lt. George D. Seavey; 1st Lt. John W.
Windler; 2nd Lt. Eldon R. Haynes; 2nd Lt. Harold Spilko; Cpl. Alvin f. Statham. At the
same formation the following officers and enlisted men were awarded the Air Medal:
Captain Thomas C. Bounds; 1st Lt John H. Windler, 2nd Lt. Eldon R. Haynes; 2nd Lt.
William C. Huffman; 2nd Lt. Wayne R. Martin; 2nd Lt. Robert N. Swanson; S/Sgt Carl S.
Escher; S/Sgt. Theodore M. Fisher; S/Sgt. Henry M. Glass; S/Sgt. Leonard F. Payne; Sgt.

Frederick J. Tarra; T/Sgt. John P. Gaydos. Today’s training consisted of a six plane
formation.

Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot Escher, Carl S., S/Sgt, gunner

Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt, gunner Gale, Myron, Capt, executive

Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt, armament-gunner Glass, Henry M., S/Sgt, turret gunner

Haynes, Eldon R., Lt, pilot Huffman, William C., 2Lt, bombardier

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Martin, Wayne R., Lt, bombardier

Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot Payne, Leonard T., Sgt, gunner

Seavey, George D., Lt, pilot Spilko, Harold, 2Lt, bombardier

Statham, Alvin F., Cpl, photographer Swanson, Robert H., Lt, pilot

Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt, gunner Windler, John H., Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Wednesday, 7 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather hampers
medium bomber operation but several rail and road bridges and viaducts are attacked;
fighter-bombers blast retreating motor transport and troops, and hit bridges N of Rome;
numerous vehicles are destroyed immediately N of Rome and especially in the Subiaco
area near Rome; many hits are scored on roads and railroads, and several railroad cars
and gun emplacements are destroyed; the US Fifth Army captures Civitavecchia; 315th
and 316th Fighter Squadrons, 324th Fighter Group, move from Pignataro Maggiore to Le
Banca Airfield with P-40s; and 522nd and 524th Fighter Squadrons, 27th Fighter Group,
move from Santa Maria to Le Banca Airfield with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: Today the squadron bombed the road bridge Acquapendente, Italy
with a bombing accuracy of 86%. This was the opening night of the Officers Club.
General Knapp and Colonel Smith were present. The squadron orchestra was in fine
shape and the alcohol flowed freely. The number of the girls which were procured for
the festivities was disappointingly small. Finishing touches were made on the bar in the
enlisted men’s club in preparation for opening night which is set for June 10.

Knapp, Robert D., Brigadier General, 57th BW Commander

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

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Herbert, Hodges, Johnson and Sergeants Bober and
Schreiner go to Capri.

Bober, John, Jr., Sgt, engineer-gunner Herbert, John J., 2Lt, pilot

Hodges, Richard E., 2Lt, pilot Johnson, Henry W., 2Lt, bombardier

Schreiner, Lester B., Sgt, engineer-gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 275

TARGET: Acquapendente Road Bridge, Italy. DATE: 7 June 1944

Albinia Road Bridge (Alt)

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 9

Lt. Jordan led the formation. First and last elements of first flight had difficulty picking
up primary target so bombed alternate with excellent results. Direct hits reported with
span of E bridge being cut. The remaining element in first flight and entire second flight
bombed primary with reports of hits on both approaches, across center and on highway
junction. No flak, no fighters.

Jordan, Henry L., Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 276

TARGET: Viterbo and Terni, Italy. DATE: 7 June 1944

Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th Planes: 2

No results to record.

Wednesday, 7 June 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: 17 of our ships participated in a raid on Magrano Road Block,
with Lt. Wiginton, leading the mission. The entire formation returned early with bombs
due to weather conditions. Today’s training consisted of a local formation test flight.
The invasion of France took place last night near Le Havre, France – confirmed by
General Eisenhower.

Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot, operations

Eisenhower, Dwight D., General of the Army, Supreme Commander Allied Forces

448th BS War Diary: Mission 267 (382): At 16:55 34 planes off to bomb Borgo Val die
Tare RR/bridge and Magrano RR/B. Both targets obscured by clouds and all ships
returned without bombing. No flak no E/A.

Thursday, 8 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather again
restricts activity; many medium bomber missions are abortive, though several bridges,
railroad lines, and guns are attacked; A-20s hit the town of Bolsena and targets in the
surrounding areas; fighter-bombers and fighters continue to patrol battle areas destroying
motor transport, and attacking train cars, roads, rail lines, and enemy concentrations, as
the US Fifth Army approaches Viterbo and the British Eighth Army pushes toward
Orvieto.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron had a day off today and did not participate in any
combat mission. This may or may not have had any connection with the party which the
Officers had last night. In any event, some of them did not get to bed until early in the
morning. Sgt. Carter, an armorer with a talent for painting, has done excellent work in
painting “Idaho Lassie” and “Oh-7”, two of the Squadron’s outstanding planes, for
decorative purposes over the bar.

Carter, Robert A., Sgt, armament

446th BS War Diary: June 8 to June 11 entry: Regular duties are performed in the
squadron as no missions are flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 277

TARGET: Montepescali, Italy. (Ammo. Dump Alt.) DATE: 8 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 18

Lt. LeClair led the formation. All planes dropped on alternate due to cloud coverage over
primary. Excellent concentration in N part of dump causing three or four large fires and
explosions. No flak, no fighters.

LeClair, Edward R., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. 2nd Lt. Wayne R. Martin, and Cpl. Raphael E. Morrissey are at rest camp on
Capri. Congratulatory messages for our outstanding efforts which resulted in the fall of
Rome were received from: General George C. Marshall; Twelfth Air Force and from
Headquarters Mediterranean Tactical Air Force. Captain Robert C. Olson and Edward T.
Becker have been relieved of assignment and have departed for the United States.
Captain Thomas C. Bounds, has been relieved of his duties as operations officer and
appointed squadron commander during the absence of Major Raymond D. Simpson. 1st
Lt. J. Maurice Wiginton is appointed operations officer. 2nd Lt. Anthony L. Muzinich is
appointed assistant operations officer. 1st Lt. John H Windler, is appointed squadron
bombardier.

Becker, Edward B., Capt, bombardier Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot

Marshall, George C., General of the Army, Chief of Staff

Martin, Wayne R., Lt, bombardier Morrisey, Raphael E., Cpl, engineer-gunner

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot Olson, Robert C., Capt, pilot

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot, operations

Windler, John H., Lt, bombardier

Thursday, 8 June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 270 (386): At 10:15 16 planes off to bomb Ficulle
RR/bridge but found primary target cloud covered and 5 planes dropped 20 x 1000 from
11,000 feet on primary but missed. Ten planes dropped 40 x 1000 bombs on ammunition
dump (alternate target) at E6582 from 11,000 feet. Crews report good concentration in S
part of dump with several fires and three explosions. Heavy, moderate inaccurate flak
from primary, no planes holed. Weather: 3/10th cover at alternate.

Friday, 9 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
again hit enemy communications, bombing bridges with good results; light bombers hit
targets of opportunity in the Acquapendente area; fighter-bombers and fighters continue
to pound motor transport retreating up the Italian peninsula, and to bomb roads and
railways in the path of the enemy retreat, as the US Fifth Army reaches Viterbo, where
the British Eighth Army shortly makes contact with it; and 86th Bombardment Squadron
(Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Vesuvious Airfield to Ponte
Galeria with A-20s.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Grossetto road bridge today with a
bombing accuracy of 53%. On this mission, Lt. Russell piloted the famed B-25 “Idaho
Lassie” on her record-breaking 150th mission. Lt Schiff has been put in charge of athletic
activities around the squadron and he is doing a swell job of organizing various teams
and making arrangements for volleyball courts, basketball courts, horseshoes, etc.

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt, pilot Schiff, Frederick, 2Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: June 8 to June 11 entry: Regular duties are performed in the
squadron as no missions are flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 278

TARGET: Centeno Road Bridge, Italy. DATE: 9 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 18

Capt. Cooper led the formation. All bombs in target area. Both approaches and center of
bridge received direct hits. No flak, no fighters. Because of prop trouble, Lt. Ivankovig
returned early.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Ivankovig, Paul J., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 18 of our ships participated in a raid on Albinia Road Bridge, with
Lt. Stocking leading the mission. Excellent concentration of bombs in target area. A few
bombs over and one string landed 250 yards SE of bridge. Bombing accuracy 90% -
mission efficiency 74%. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest
camp – Capri. 2nd Lt. William T. Heitman; 2nd Lt. Robert E. Thomas; 2nd Lt. John G.
Nall; S/Sgt. Elmer P. Dressler; Cpl. John E. Broderick, Jr. A congratulatory message for
outstanding bombing was received from General Cannon. Today’s training consisted of
practice bombing.

Broadrick, John E., Jr., operations Cannon, John K., General, 12th AF Commander

Dressler, Elmer P., S/Sgt, engineering Heitman, William F., 2Lt, pilot

Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot Stocking, Eugene, E., Lt, pilot

Thomas, Robert E., 2Lt, navigator

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Saturday, 10 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
attack bridges, railroads, and roads N, NE, and NW of Rome; light bombers hit motor
transport in the town of Arcidosso; fighter-bombers and fighters bomb and strafe motor
transport and roads N of the battle area, destroying numerous vehicles, especially along
the roads between Rome and Vetralla; in ground action the Indian 4 Division takes
Pescara and Chieti, while the New Zealand 2 Division reaches Avezzano E of Rome; HQ
XII Bomber Command is disbanded in Corsica; HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light)
and 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light) move from Vesuvius Airfield to Ponte Galeria
with A-20s.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the railroad viaduct a Bellisio, Italy today
with a bombing accuracy of 54%. The enlisted men’s club celebrated its opening night
with the presentation of awards by Col. Smith, the appearance of two Red Cross girls and
an abundance of free-flowing liquor as the highlights. Included among the awards were
DFC’s presented to Captains House, Strenger and McLain to the tune of wild cheering by
the enlisted men especially when Capt. Strenger received his. He is very popular with all
the men. Later in the evening, sandwiches, doughnuts and coffee were served although
for a number of reasons many of the men failed to remember receiving such
refreshments.

House, Robert M., Capt, pilot McLain, Damon I., 1Lt, pilot

Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: June 8 to June 11 entry: Regular duties are performed in the
squadron as no missions are flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 304

TARGET: Bellisio Rail Viaduct, Italy. DATE: 10 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 1

Lt. Hatcher led the formation. Good concentration reported in the target area with
majority of bombs falling across S end of bridge. Reports of highway bridge just to E
being hit with other bombs. No flak, no fighters.

Up to the present time the missions flown by the B-25 G’s that were assigned
to our Squadron in August 1943 have not been added to our total number of
Squadron missions. At the present time, the Group has a total of 390 missions and
our Squadron has a total of 304.

Hatcher, James T., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 1 of our ships participated in a raid on Sassaferrato RR Bridge, as
spare with the 448th squadron. No bombs dropped in target area – bombs to north of
target and some into the town. Railroad tracks believed hit north of town. Today’s
training consisted of local transition, slow time, practice bombing and a three plane
formation flight. Twenty Engineer Gunners; twenty-two Radio Gunners and Twenty-
three Turret Gunners, spent two hours on the line, stripping and cleaning guns.

Saturday, 10 June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 271 (391): At 09:30 16 planes off to bomb Sassaferrato
RR/viaduct and 14 planes dropped 55 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet at 11:01. All
returned at 12:15. Target was not hit, possible hits on RR/track N of bridge. Some
bombs fell in town. Weather: CAVU.

Sunday, 11 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels
all light and medium bomber operations; fighter-bombers and fighters operating on a
reduced scale, hit vehicles, roads, and bridges N of the battleline which the US Fifth
Army's VI Corps has extended 95 mi (153 km) N of Rome; HQ 79th Fighter Group and
85th, 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons move from Pomigliano to Corsica with P-47s; 111th
Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Nettuno to
Galera with F-6s; 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing, moves from
Pomigliano to La Banca with Beaufighters; and 524th, 525th and 526th Fighter Squadrons,
27th Fighter Group, move from La Banca (524th) and Marcianise (525th and 526th) to
Ciampino with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: No mission was flown today. The enlisted men spent quite a bit
of their time down in the new club, some of them shooting darts, others playing cribbage,
and still others taking their chances at crap. Some of the Officers went up to the hospital
to see Lt. Groh who has a plaster cast upon his leg which was injured when he bailed out
after miraculously bringing his plane back over Corsica after his right rudder and vertical
stabilizer had been shot off. Col. Smith visited the Officers Club tonight and a merry
time was had enjoying the orchestra led by “Doc” Smith. As usual, some of the boys
attended church services.

Groh, Sheldon R., Lt, pilot Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander

Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon

446th BS War Diary: June 8 to June 11 entry: Regular duties are performed in the
squadron as no missions are flown.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled but was cancelled due to weather
conditions. Morning Report: Officers – 94; Enlisted Men – 320.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Monday, 12 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
hit bridges, viaducts, and rail lines at Collazone, Perugia, Foligno, Massa Lombarda,
Pietrasanta, Cattolica, Pesaro, Arezzo and Bucine; light bombers hit Arcidosso and motor
transport in the area; fighter-bombers are restricted by bad weather but attack several
bridges and roads in the line of enemy retreat which at its farthest point is N and W of
Viterbo; moves in Italy: HQ 86th Fighter Group and 527th Fighter Squadron from
Marcianise to Ciampino with P-47s; 5th Combat Mapping Squadron, 3rd Photographic
Group (Reconnaissance), from Pomigliano to Nettuno with F-5s; 97th Bombardment
Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), from Vesuvius Airfield to Ponte
Galeria; and 522nd and 523rd Fighter Squadrons, 27th Fighter Group, from Le Banca to
Ciampino with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: Today only 1 plane went on the mission which bombed the Pesaro
railroad bridge, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 87%. Recognition was made of the
outstanding mechanical ability displayed by Sgt. James Lemaster whose ship
“Mississippi Gambler” has gung up 107 combat missions with its right engine still
running smoothly after 573 combat hours.

Lemaster, James W., Sgt, engineering

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown today.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 305

TARGET: Cattolica RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 12 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 18

Lt. Jordan led the formation. A good concentration reported in target area. Hits reported
across tracks to S, south end and center of bridge. No flak, no fighters.

Jordan, Henry L., Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 17 of our ships participated in a raid on, Pesaro RR Bridge, with
Lt. Wiginton, leading the mission. Bombs well concentrated in target area – some north
and west of target area – bridge well hit by several direct hits on center of bridge.
Bombing accuracy – 87% Mission efficiency – 70%. Today’s training consisted of slow
time and transition.

Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot, operations

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Tuesday, 13 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
bomb shipping at Leghorn with excellent results and score numerous hits on bridges,
viaducts, rail lines, and roads in NC Italy; fighter-bombers continue to disrupt the
German retreat over the entire area N of the battle zone as the British Eighth Army's 13
Corps pushes toward Orvieto and 10 Corps reaches Terni; 85th Bombardment Squadron
(Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Vesuvius Airfield to Ponte
Galeria with A-20s; and 314th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Le
Banca Airfield to Montalto Di Castro with P-40s.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Ronta east viaduct, Italy today with a
bombing accuracy of 87%. Capt. Wilson, Operations Officer, led this attack for the
squadron. The enlisted men’s club which is used as a mess hall during the day offers
great comfort in the hot days. The screened porch also helps eliminate the many insects.

Wilson, Charles B., Capt, pilot, Operations Officer

446th BS War Diary: Squadron duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 306

TARGET: Sassaferrato Rail Bridge, Italy. DATE: 13 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 1

Lt. Van Raam, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. Good concentration of bombs in target
area. Several reports of N span being knocked out. Flak was heavy, scant to moderate
and accurate. No fighters. One plane lost.

Van Ram, Rudolph (NMI), Lt, pilot, 448th BS

447th BS War Diary: 1 of our ships participated in a raid on Ronta E Viaduct, Q-
935934, as spare with the 445th squadron. Most bombs fell on southwest approach with
possible hits on the viaduct itself. Some bombs fell to the SW of the target area.
Bombing – accuracy – 87% Mission efficiency – 72%. A six plane formation was
flown.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 272 (394): At 10:18 19 planes off to bomb Sassaferrato
RR/viaduct and dropped 72 x 1000 bombs at 11:33 from 10,000 feet. All returned at
12:30. Crews report good concentration, especially heavy on N end and approach. N
span believed knocked out. Heavy, moderate and accurate flak from SE of Lake
Trasimeno holed 5 planes and 1 PLANE, pilot Lt. Greene received a direct hit in the
nose, killing Bombardier Lt. Petite and the Navigator Lt. Olszewski and causing the rest
of the crew to bail out over the home base to safety. Heavy traffic along the coast roads.
Weather: CAVU.

Greene, William A., 2Lt, pilot Petit, Rene P., 1Lt, bombardier

Olszewski, Henry (NMI), 2Lt, navigator

Tuesday, 13 June 1944 (continued)

A/C No. unknown crashed at base

Greene, William A., 1Lt

Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

Olszewski, Henry (NMI), 2Lt KIA

Petit, Rene P., 1Lt KIA

Davis, Jimmie L., Sgt

Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt

Parham, James E., Sgt

or Parham, Ralph E., Sgt

None

Wednesday, 14 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): ARMY AIR FORCES,
MTO (AAF, MTO): 72nd Liaison, AAF, MTO, arrives at Oran, Algeria from the US with
L-5s; first mission is in Aug 44. In Italy, medium bombers bomb several bridges and
viaducts in NC Italy, with especially good results on a viaduct and railway bridge N of
Arezzo; ships in Leghorn harbor also are hit; A-20s pound ammunition supplies; fighter-
bombers continue to attack roads and bridges in and just N of the battle area (only a small
number of German vehicles are seen) as US Fifth Army forces take Magliano and
Orvieto falls to elements of the British Eighth Army; HQ 324th Fighter Group moves
from Le Banca Airfield to Montalto Di Castro; and 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd
Fighter Wing, based at Pomigliano, sends a detachment to Tre Cancello Landing Strip
with Beaufighters.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one spare for the mission which bombed
the west viaduct at Borgo San Lorenzo, Italy today with a bombing accuracy of 86%.
The squadron also sent one plane out on a nickeling mission showering propaganda
leaflets around Foligno, Perugia, Siena and Grosseto, Italy. A number of the bombardiers
sharpened their eyes on the bomb trainer which is available in the squadron area.

446th BS War Diary: Promotion to First Lieutenant for the following named men is
announced: Burandt, Hawkes, Fitzgerald, Goff, Hollingsworth, Johnson, Jordan, Lewis,
McRae, Mayo, Mottley, Ritger, Smith, Chudars, Church, Wotkowicz.

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot Chudars, James E., 1Lt, pilot

Church, Edwin A., 1Lt, pilot Fitzgerald, John (NMI) "Jack", 1Lt, pilot

Goff, Leroy R., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot

Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt, bombardier

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot Lewis, Vernon, 1Lt, pilot

Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt, bombardier McRae, James A., 1Lt, bombardier

Mottley, John F., 1Lt, bombardier Ritger, Frederick C., 1Lt, pilot

Smith, Randell L., 1Lt, pilot Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 307

TARGET: West Viaduct, Borgo San Lorenzo, Italy. DATE: 14 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 17

Capt. Cooper and Lt. Hawkes were flight leaders. Good concentration in target area. W
side of viaduct hit. Viaduct believed knocked out. Flak was heavy, scant inaccurate. No
fighters.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 16 of our ships participated in a raid on Borgo San Lorenzo East
Viaduct with Lt. Murray Leading the mission. Fair concentration of bombs in target area
with hits on SW approach. Some bombs fell to north and east of target area. Bombing
accuracy – 86%. Mission efficiency – 71%. Today’s training consisted of local test
flight. Major Myron Gale, Executive Officer, who has been absent since June 6th, has
returned to the squadron. Captain Robert W. Manly was acting Executive Officer, during

Wednesday, 14 June 1944 (continued)

Major Gale’s absence. The following 2nd Lt’s have been promoted to 1st Lieutenant: 2nd
Lt. Sherman E. Anderson; 2nd Lt. Ervine J. Button; 2nd Lt. Ivan E. Dean; 2nd Lt. William
C. Huffman; 2nd Lt. James W. McDermott; 2nd Lt. Wayne R. Martin; 2nd Lt Merton K.
Matthewson, Jr.; 2nd Lt. Richard E. Murray; 2nd Lt. George B. Nelson; 2nd Lt. Marvin L.
Speer; 2nd Lt. Robert E. Thomas; 2nd Lt. Leonard E. Adcock; 2nd Lt. Harold G. McCaleb;
2nd Lt. Nathan Mims; 2nd Lt. Forrest F. Nettles; 2nd Lt. Robert H. Swanson; 2nd Lt. Orval
L. Schnoebelen; 2nd Lt. William H. Martin, Jr. The evening of June 14th, 1944, marked
the opening of our squadron N.C.O. club.

Adcock, Leonard E., 1Lt, bombardier Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt, bombardier

Button, Ervine J., 1Lt, pilot Gale, Myron, Maj, executive

Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt, bombardier

Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot Matthewson, Merton K., 1Lt, navigator

McCaleb, Harold G., 1Lt, bombardier McDermott, James W., 1Lt, bombardier

Mims, Nathan, 1Lt, pilot Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot

Nelson, George B., 1Lt, bombardier Nettles, Forrest T., 1Lt, pilot

Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot Speer, Marvin L, 1Lt, pilot

Swanson, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt, navigator

447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: The eve of June 14, 1944, marked the opening
of our squadron N.C.O. Club, which is an independent and self-supporting organization.

The club house, which was constructed by the enlisted men of the 447th squadron,
is truly one of which every member is proud. Its rustic feature, the excellent bar, the
appropriate furnishings and the elaborate interior decorating, not forgetting the
modernistic kitchen, gives it the atmosphere of a country club in the good old country.

With a wide variety of wines and liquor, music furnished by our combination
radio and victrola and the delicious snack, which demonstrated the mess staff’s virtue in
the arts culinary, succeeded in making our grand opening the greatest event that ever
occurred on the island of Corsica far surpassing the birth of Napoleon.

Guests at the opening eve, consisted of all staff officers which were served a
delicious buffet luncheon. An invitation was extended to, Colonel R.H. Smith, but due to
circumstances beyond his control he was unable to attend.

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

448th BS War Diary: Mission 273 (398): Four planes dropped 32 bombs of leaflets at
14:30 over Foligno, Perugia, Siena and Grosseto area. Heavy, scant flak but no planes
holed.

Thursday, 15 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
blast rail and road bridges in the La Spezia sector and in the area S of Florence; light bombers
again hit ammunition supples; fighter-bombers and fighters hit bridges and roads N of the
battlelines (again only scattered motor transport targets are available for strafing); US Fifth Army
patrols move into Grosseto and the British Eighth Army pushes beyond Todi toward Perugia;
315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons, 324th Fighter Group, move from Le Banca Airfield to
Montalto Di Castro with P-40s; and the detachment of the 346th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter
Group, operating from Sidi Amor, Tunisia since 7 Feb, returns to base on Sardinia with P-39s.

445th BS War Diary: Lt. Russell led the squadron on the mission which bombed the
Castiglioncello railroad bridge, Italy. This was the group’s 400th mission since
commencing operations in combat. The bombing accuracy for this attack was 41%. Lt
Shynshka piloted ship 195 from this base to Tunis taking bombardier Lt. Kauric and
enlisted bombardier Sgt Miller to a base from which they will depart for the United
States.

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt, pilot Kauric, William J., Lt, bombardier

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

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties.

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 308

TARGET: Castiglioncello RR Bridge, Italy. (Alt) DATE: 15 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 1

Lt. Russell, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. Primary not bombed due to cloud cover.
Alternate target area covered with smoke from previous bombing, but hits were reported
on rail bridge and across tracks both N and S of target. No flak, no fighters.

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS

447th BS War Diary: 1 of our ships participated in a raid on, Castiglioncello Road
Block – Q-105301, with the 448th squadron as spare. Road and RR tracks both north and
south of target cut in several places. Bombing accuracy and mission efficiency – 41%.
The following officers are on D.S. at 57th Wing: 1st Lt. E.J. Button; 1st Lt. G.D. Seavey;
1st Lt. O.L. Schnoebelen; 2nd Lt. E.R. Haynes.

Button, Ervine J., 1Lt, pilot Haynes, Eldon R., Lt, pilot

Seavey, George D., Lt, pilot Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: Mission 274 (399): At 08:37 19 planes off to bomb
Castiglioncello road bridge and dropped 76 x 1000 bombs at 10:47 from 10,000 feet, all
returned at 11:30. No flak no fighters. Crews believed road bridge received direct hit.
Road and RR/tracks both N and S of target probably cut several places. Weather:
CAVU.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 275, 276 and 277. (403, 404, 405): One plane off to
photograph invasion of the Island of Elba. Pilot Lt. Van Raam reports good coverage of
complete operations. Heavy, inaccurate flak met on two of the missions.

Van Ram, Rudolph (NMI), Lt, pilot

Friday, 16 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s and B-25s
hit rail and road bridges, viaduct and other communications targets at Casalecchio di
Reno/Villa Vergano, Lissone, Viareggio, Pisa, Vernio, Grizzana and Pietrasanta; A-20s
continue to hit ammunition supplies; fighter-bombers continue interdiction by hitting
bridges, trucks, rail lines and other targets closer to the front, which now reaches across
Italy from the W coast near Grosseto to the E coast in the vicinity of Macerata; and HQ
3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance) moves from Pomigliano to Nettuno.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron provided a lead spare for the mission which bombed
the west viaduct at Ronta, Italy today and the bombing accuracy was 85%. A special
order from group headquarters promoted 7 radio gunners to the grade of T/Sgt and 18
other combat crew members to S/Sgt. More of the bombardiers spent some time on the
bomb trainer. Lt. Yepez was made squadron Bombing Officer to replace Capt.
Underwood who has left for the States.

Underwood, James H., Capt, bombardier Yepez, Oscar W., 1Lt, bombardier/navigator

446th BS War Diary: Corporal Olsen and Sergeant Armontrout return to the states for
advanced radio schooling. Lieuts. Fitzgerald, Ritger and Mexal and Sgts. Miles and
Britton go to Capri.

Armontrout, Lawrence L., Sgt, Communications

Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

Fitzgerald, John (NMI) "Jack", 1Lt, pilot

Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt, bombardier Miles, Walter J., Jr., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Olson, Harold E., Cpl, communications Ritger, Frederick C., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 309

TARGET: Ronta E Viaduct, Italy. DATE: 16 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 18

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Several strings believed to have crossed bridge at center
and E approach, others to NE of target. Ten car train believed hit just W of target area.
Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. No fighters.

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 18 of our ships participated in a raid on, Ronta West Viaduct, Q-
924832 with Lt. Wiginton leading the mission. Direct hits on bridge and tracks to the
northeast. A few bombs fell short of the target area to the SW. Bombing accuracy – 85%
Mission efficiency – 69%. The evening of June 16th marked the opening of the Officers
Club of the 447th Bombardment Squadron. Today’s training consisted of local transition.

Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot, operations

447th BS War Diary: Special Accounts: The Squadron Officers on June 16, 1944, had
the gala opening of their Club. Although all members enjoyed the opening, Lt. Muzinich,
seemed happiest. He contributed more than anyone else to the completion of the club
although the yeoman efforts of a number of other Willing Workers are not to be

Friday, 16 June 1944 (continued)

ignored. The entire club, which was designed by, Major Sampson, along the general
lines of, Frank Lloyd Wright, from cement floor to the tar on the roof was stolen,
borrowed or requisitioned by the officers themselves with the exception of the chimney
which was built by four, “American Indians” from the 43rd Engineers through the good
will of Major Cumbee, their commanding officer. Our Major Gale, was the chief
requisitioner. He was able to get some liquor for the bar and vegetables for the buffet
table. Lt. Bastin, and Lt. McGill, each were able to lead in some stray meat on the hoof
to complete the table.

Bastin, Melville R., Lt, pilot Cumbee, Maj, 43rd Engineers, Commander

Gale, Myron, Maj, executive McGill, James F., Lt, Adjutant

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot

The guests included nurses, three Red Cross girls, and two very entertaining
Sicilian girls, one of whom posed as a model for one of the pictures which Lt. Ramey
drew and which decorated the back-bar. The colored orchestra from the 41st Engineers
was really hot and dancing continued from 20:00 hours to 01:00 hours. Everyone had
enough to eat and drink and a swell time, contrary to the predictions of many. The roof
of the club did not fall down and still stands even at this writing. It would make an
excellent home for about ten Corsican families after we leave, but we will blow it up
rather than let some heavy group come in and crowd us out of it.

Ramy, Gordon, G., 2Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Saturday, 17 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, except for a B-26
attack on 1 bridge and an A-20 raid on an ammunition dump, weather prevents
completion of light and medium bomber missions; fighter-bombers are also restricted but
manage to hit several gun positions, communications targets, boats, small ships, barges,
and targets of opportunity in the battle area and at various other locations including Capo
d'Enfola and other points on Elba Island (where French forces land and begin clearing the
island), and Rio Marina; 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic
Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Pomigliano to Voltone with F-5s (detachment is
operating from Nettuno); and 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing, moves
from La Banca to Valtone with Beaufighters.

445th BS War Diary: 18 crews were standing by for a mission but it was later cancelled
and most of the men took off for swimming in the nearby streams and the beach. Lt.
Shynshka’s “cross-country tour” took him from Tunis to Algiers and Oran. Capt.
Strenger and “Doc” Smith are shuttling 434 between Cairo and Tel Aviv.

Shynshka, Lubomier P., 2Lt, pilot Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon

Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: The following named personnel get their Technical Sergeant
rating: Bove, Contesti, Bufkin, Green, Harrison, Maddox, Miles, Mitchell and Sweedler.
Sgt. Clay becomes a Staff.

Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Bove, Anthony P, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Contesti, Alexander, T/Sgt, ordnance Clay, Donald W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

Green, Harry M., T/Sgt, gunner/bombardier or Green, Salem M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Sweedler, Max, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the rank of technical
sergeant: S/Sgt. Walter J. Bilski; S/Sgt. Frank J. Reynolds; S/Sgt Sidney Orloff. The
following enlisted men have been promoted to the rank of staff sergeant: Sgt. Ralph
Sinclair; Sgt. Joseph L. Blalock; Sgt. John Corkill; Sgt. Edmund Rogowski; Sgt. Grant
W. Baldridge; Sgt. William H. Burke Jr.; Sgt. Harold E. Fowler; Sgt. Robert W Koecher;
Cpl. Raphael E. Morrissey; Cpl. Charles M. Richards; Cpl. William H. Pierce; Walter
F.K. Tollefson. The following enlisted men have been assigned to this squadron from the
22nd Replacement Center per S.O. 97: Cpl Richard H. Lakey Jr.; P.F.C. Michael J. Ray.
Private Norman C. Bulfinch has been assigned to the S-2 staff as a clerk. Major Myron
Gale, read the Articles of War, to the enlisted men at a meeting called at 1900 hours in
the enlisted men’s club. At a meeting held at the N.C.O. club, the following enlisted men
were elected to the council: T/Sgt. Kammerlohr; T/Sgt. Small; S/Sgt. Free; S/Sgt.
Simberg; S/Sgt. Emery; Sgt. Rowley; Cpl. Franzi. Sgt. Verlin Rowley, will continue to

Saturday, 17 June 1944 (continued)

be treasurer of the N.C.O. club of the 447th Squadron. Today’s training consisted of local
test flight.

Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt, gunner Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt, gunner Bulfinch, Norman C., Pvt, intelligence

Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Corkill, John, S/Sgt, gunner

Emery, Leslie E., S/Sgt, armament Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner

Franzi, Gino C., Cpl, intelligence Free, Paul L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Gale, Myron, Maj, executive Kammerlohr, Arthur R., T/Sgt, personnel

Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Lakey, Richard H., Jr., Cpl, transportation

Morrisey, Raphael E., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Orloff, Sidney, T/Sgt, radio-gunner

Pierce, William H., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Ray, Michael J., PFC, engineering

Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt, gunner Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt, turret-gunner

Rogowski, Edmund W., S/Sgt, gunner Rowley, Verlin B., Sgt, intelligence

Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Sinclair, Ralph, S/Sgt, gunner

Small, Myron R., T/Sgt, communication Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt, gunner

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Sunday, 18 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, bad weather
grounds medium and light bombers; fighter-bombers and fighters are restricted to patrols,
mainly over the Piombino area and island of Elba, during which several gun positions,
boats, and barges are hit; 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air
Command, moves from Galera to Voltone with F-6s; and 525th Fighter Squadron, 86th
Fighter Group, moves from Ciampino to Orbetello with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: The mission was again cancelled today. The squadron had one
crew standing by. Lt. Shynshka returned from Oran today and Capt. Strenger made it
back from Cairo. Major Register made a cross-country hop to Naples. A number of the
bombardiers spent more time on the bomb trainer. Under the direction of the Athletic
Officer Lt. Schiff, a volleyball court was laid out and erected in the enlisted men’s area.
The men will make fine use of the court with the long evenings ahead of them. Plans are
also being made to erect a basketball court just adjacent to the volleyball court.

Schiff, Frederick, 2Lt, pilot Shynshka, Lubomier P., 2Lt, pilot

Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot Register, Percy D, Maj, pilot, Operations Officer

446th BS War Diary: Official opening of the Officers’ Club with a big and gay
attendance. A well affair was reported by all.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to bad
weather condition. 1st Lt. James W. McDermott, has been relieved of assignment and
transferred to Redistribution Station NO.1, for transshipment to the United States.
Morning Report: Officers – 95. Enlisted Men – 324. Recreation in the squadron has
reached its climax with the forming of a baseball club, under the efficient direction Sgt.
Robert Stokes. The team consisted of the following notables: Lt. Nelson; T/Sgt.
Mathews; S/Sgt. Yates; S/Sgt. Alpino; S/Sgt. Fowler; S/Sgt. Dressler; S/Sgt. Rubenstein;
S/Sgt. Pitts; Sgt. Irvin; Sgt. May; Sgt. Krampe; P.F.C. Kracher. The first ball game since
our move to Corsica, took place at 1820 hours – 447th VS 41st Engineers at the Engineers

baseball diamond. Both teams displayed excellent sportsmanship. The final score being
10 to 8 in favor of the Engineers.

Alpino, Joseph P., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dressler, Elmer P., S/Sgt, engineering

Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Irvin, Kenneth W., Sgt, communication

Kracher, Robert E., PFC, engineering Krampe, Francis J., Sgt, engineering

Mathews, William E., T/Sgt, gunner May, Frederick J., Sgt, aerial gunner

McDermott, James W., 1Lt, bombardier Nelson, George B., 1Lt, bombardier

Pitts, Carl T., S/Sgt, communication Rubenstein, Kenneth, S/Sgt, communication

Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner Yates, Jack, S/Sgt, intelligence

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Monday, 19 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather again
grounds light and medium bombers; fighter-bombers hit railroads, gun emplacements,
factory and shipping in an N of the battle area at scattered points in the countryside and in
and near the towns of Pontedera, Leghorn, Sestri Levante and Viareggio; and HQ 86th
Fighter Group and 527th Fighter Squadron moves from Ciampinto to Orbetello with P-
47s.

445th BS War Diary: 18 crews were again scheduled for the mission today but another
“stand down” order came through and the mission was again cancelled. Major Register
returned to this base from Naples. 6 of the squadron’s planes were up on formation
flying today while Lt. Wagner test hopped 741. The squadron’s liquor supply is very
depleted but Sgt. Graf is preparing flights to Catania, Sicily for the purpose of procuring
drinks and also eggs, fresh fruit and vegetables. The men contributed 3 dollars out of
their pay for the “mess fund”.

Graf, Edward E. "Gene", M/Sgt, communications

Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: No Entry.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. Today’s local training consisted of practice bombing. 2nd Lt. Norman J.
Lundmark departed for the rest camp at Rome, Italy.

Lundmark, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Tuesday, 20 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather
continues to hamper operations but 60+ medium bombers manage to attack rail targets
between Genoa and La Spezia; fighter-bombers destroy several road bridges in the battle
area and to the N, and damage several other road and rail bridges as the Allies' rapid
advance slows down due to the enemy's ability to strengthen his position and form a
delaying line across Italy to the S of the Gothic Line (Pisa-Rimini) where he is prepared
to make a stand; fighter-bombers also damage a 20,000-ton aircraft carrier in Genoa
harbor; and 526th Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Group, moves from Ciampino to
Orbetello with P-47s.

445th BS War Diary: After several delays, the mission was finally cancelled. Only one
spare was scheduled from this squadron. 4 of the bombardiers logged several hours time
on the bomb trainer. There were several local training and transition flights made today
and Lt. Shynshka, “the cross-country kid” took off for Naples this time.

Shynshka, Lubomier P., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Homeward bound are Lts. Morris and Rice and Sgt. Samsel. Also
getting orders to go home are Lts. Herbert, Hurley, and Sgts. Leary, E., Clay and Velarde.

Clay, Donald W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Herbert, John J., 2Lt, pilot

Hurley, John R., 2Lt, pilot

Leary, Edward M., T/Sgt, radio-gunner or Leary, Gwynn M., T/Sgt, gunner

Morris, Meade L., Jr., Lt, pilot or Morris, Richard P., Jr., Lt, pilot

Rice, Sumner W., Lt, bombardier Samsel, John C., Sgt, gunner

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

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but due to weather conditions
it was cancelled. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Usual squadron duties.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Wednesday, 21 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
have excellent results against rail bridges in N and NC Italy, also hitting viaducts, road
bridges, and other communications targets, and bombing ships at Leghorn harbor; light
bombers again hit ammunition supply while fighter-bombers concentrate on rail and road
bridges over a large area including locations in the vicinity of the Gothic Line and at
points to the N.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed a block ship at Leghorn harbor, Italy with a
bombing accuracy of 92%. The formation dropped “flak windows”, metallic strip that
fouled up the German anti-aircraft fire. The “windows” proved very effective. 2 planes
from the squadron also participated in a nickeling mission. They stopped at Rome for
briefing and leaflets. 3 planes went out for practice bombing, another went to Sicily to
procure foodstuffs and still another took off for Cairo.

446th BS War Diary: Newest Staff Sergeants are Boatright, Bober, Britton, Gribbin,
Leonard, Nemet, Schreiner and Zeman.

Boatright, Benjamin, Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Bober, John, Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Gribbin, James E., S/Sgt, ordnance

Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt, gunner Nemet, Michael, S/Sgt, gunner

Schreiner, Lester B., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt, gunner

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 310

TARGET: Massa Road Bridge, Italy. (Alt) DATE: 21 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 16

Capt. Cooper led the formation. Good concentration reported with many hits observed
on the road bridge. Primary target was not bombed due to weather. Flak was heavy,
scant and inaccurate. No fighters. Lt. Wojcik returned early because of engine trouble.
Lt. Smith returned early because of fuel leak.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Smith, Randell L., 1Lt, pilot

Wojcik, Walter, Lt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 16 of our ships participated in a raid on, Massa Canal Overpass,
with Lt. Muzinich, leading the mission. Due to malfunction of the bomb sight in the lead
plane, eight planes did not drop their bombs. Photographs show that plane that bombed
had a excellent concentration of bombs in the target area with a couple of direct hits.
Bombing accuracy – 100%. Mission efficiency – 38%. A baseball game took place this
evening at our home field for a return game with the 41st Engineers. The final score 8 to
5 in our favor. Cpl Charles W. Mais; has been assigned to the squadron from the 445th
squadron. Pvt. Charles H. Cousens has been relieved of assignment and transferred to the
445th squadron. Today’s training consisted of local transition.

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot Mais, Charles W., Cpl, engineering

Cousens, Charles H., Pvt, armament

Wednesday, 21 June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 278 (408): At 17:20 19 planes off to bomb Block Ship in
Leghorn Harbor and dropped 36 x 1000 bombs from 10,000 feet at 18:18. Heavy
inaccurate, intense flak holed one ship. Window used by the Group for the first time
caused inaccuracy of flak. Crews report fine concentration across N entrance to outer
harbor. Several direct hits on Block Ship which was in EW position. Hits registered on
N end of Quay. Weather: CAVU. Mission photos show 100% accuracy.

448th BS War Diary: Mission 279 (409): Three planes on nickeling mission over
Volterra, Gimaginano, Corigliano and Siena. No flak.

Thursday, 22 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers
attack railway bridges and viaducts, at Marzabotto, Boccheto, and Gricigliana; A-20s
again hit ammunition supplies; fighter-bombers pound road and rail bridges, mainly in
the Pisa area, and cut rail lines between Bologna and Pistoia; the detachment of the 12th
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), at
Nettuno returns to base at Voltone with F-5s; and 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 63rd
Fighter Wing, moves from Elmas to Alghero, Sardinia with Beaufighters.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron provided 18 ships to bomb the railroad bridge at
Viareggio, Italy today with a bombing accuracy of 55%. A number of the combat crews
went to rest camp at Capri. There was a meeting of all engineer-gunners called by Capt.
Strenger for the purpose of discussing pre-flight, inspections and other engineering
duties. There was a local transition flight made and also three cross-country flights.
There was a hot “jam session” at the enlisted men’s club tonight. Doc Smith and his fine
musical aggregation were “in the groove”. The drummer boy received loud applause for
his excellent work at the drums. He is from an anti-aircraft outfit.

Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Lt. LeClair goes to rest camp at Rome.

LeClair, Edward R., Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 311

TARGET: Pisa Albavola RR Bridge, Italy. (Alt) DATE: 22 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 1

Lt. Green led the formation. Due to clouds and poor visibility, the alternate target was
bombed and majority of bombs reported in target area. Both approaches and bridge itself
believed hit. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense and fairly accurate. No fighters.

Gremise, Ralph T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS

447th BS War Diary: 1 of our ships participated, as a spare, in a raid on, Viareggio RR
Bridge with the 448th squadron. Fairly good concentration of bombs in target area, most
bombs short to NE of bridge with others across west approach and some on railroad south
of bridge. Photographs show several direct hits. Bombing accuracy – 55% - mission
efficiency – 54%. T/Sgt. Charles R. Pearson was relieved of his assignment and
transferred to personnel center No.6 for transshipment (rotation) to the United States.
The following officers and enlisted men have departed for the rest camp at Capri: 1st Lt.
William H. Martin; 2nd Lt. Ralph T. Grimes; S/Sgt. T. Fisher; P.F.C. Arthur T. Shand.
Six of our ships flew night transition each making two landings.

Grimes, Ralph T., 2Lt, pilot Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt, gunner

Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot Pearson, Charles R., T/Sgt, engineering

Shand, Arthur T., PFC, photographer

Thursday, 22 June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 280 (411): At 18:20 17 planes off to bomb N Marradi
RR/bridge but found primary target obscured and dropped on Pisa Albavola RR/bridge.
16 planes dropped 63 x 1000 bombs at 19:47 from 11,000 feet. All returned at 20:50.
Crews report probable hits on bridge and both approaches from good concentration,
tracks SE of bridge cut. Heavy, moderate and fairly accurate flak. Weather: CAVU at
alternate target.

Friday, 23 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels
medium bomber operations; A-20s continue to attack ammunition supplies; fighter-
bomber operations are restricted but P-47s hit rail communications at 4 different points in
the battle area as a fierce struggle for Chiusi takes place; and 86th Bombardment
Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Ponte Galeria to
Ombrone Airfield with A-20s.

445th BS War Diary: 19 crews were standing by for the mission which was finally
cancelled early this afternoon. 2 Officers and an enlisted man returned from rest camp at
Capri. 6 of the bombardiers logged on hour each on the bombsight rate machine. Lt.
Hammar returned from Naples on a cross-country flight. There was also training for
bombardiers on the local PDI trainer. Sgt. Graf, communications chief and chief
procurement representative from the squadron, continues to make occasional trips to
Catania to obtain liquor and fresh foodstuffs.

Graf, Edward E. "Gene", M/Sgt, communications Hammar, Robert L., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Lts. Church, Jordan, Mottley, Captain Warren, Sergeants Bufkin,
Kane, Burrow and Perkins go to Cairo.

Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Burrow, Isom F., Sgt, gunner

Church, Edwin A., 1Lt, pilot Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot

Kane, Ronald J., Sgt, engineer-gunner Mottley, John F., 1Lt, bombardier

Perkins, Claude B., Sgt, transportation or Perkins, Lawrence W., Sgt, engineering

Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. The following enlisted men have been assigned this squadron from the 57th
Wing: Sgt. Leonard B. Heiman; Cpl. Richard N. Helwig; P.F.C. Walter D. Dubis; P.F.C.
James R. Gilmore; P.F.C. Merle Franklin; Pvt. Frank H. Dorrel; Pvt. Charles C. Garrison;
Pvt. Henry W. Green; Pvt. Frank C. Frockowiak. Today’s training consisted of local
transition.

Dorrel, Frank H., Pvt, intelligence Dubis, Walter D, PFC, mess

Franklin, Merle, PFC, armament Frockowiak, Frank C., Pvt, transportation

Garrison, Charles C., Pvt, transportation Gilmore, James R., PFC, engineering

Green, Henry W., Pvt, armament Heiman, Leonard B., Sgt, transportation

Helwig, Richard N., Cpl, engineering

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Saturday, 24 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels
medium bomber operations; fighter-bomber activity is restricted but P-47s attack several
bridges, railway lines, guns, and other targets in the Lucca area and other points along
and N of the battleline; 5th Combat Mapping Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group
(Reconnaissance), moves from Nettuno to Viterbo with F-5s; and 84th Bombardment
Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Ponte Galeria to
Ombrone Airfield with A-20s.

445th BS War Diary: 19 crews were left standing by as the mission was cancelled at
noon after an attempt was made to have an early briefing. Lt. Shynshka returned from his
cross-country flight to Naples. Lt. Russell flew a plane down to Sardinia to pick up two
Majors from the 310th Service Group and returned the same day. A number of the
officers in the squadron attended the grand opening of the Officers club at Group.

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt, pilot Shynshka, Lubomier P., 2Lt, pilot

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Hollingsworth to rest camp at Rome.

Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. Usual squadron duties. Pvt. Frank H. Dorrel, has joined the S-2 as a clerk.

Dorrel, Frank H., Pvt, intelligence

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Sunday, 25 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, bad weather
again prevents operations by medium bombers; light bombers hit enemy ammunition
supply; fighter-bombers bomb the towns of San Quirico di Moriano and Castelflorentino
and several rail lines and bridges in the battle area near the Gothic Line; Piombino falls to
the US Fifth Army during the day, and the enemy withdraws from Chiusi during the night
of 25/26 Jun after several days of resisting British Eighth Army forces attacking the
town; and 345th and 346th Fighter Squadrons, 350th Fighter Group, move from
Pomigliano and Sardinia respectively to Tarquinia and Pomigliano respectively with P-
47s.

445th BS War Diary: Once again the mission was cancelled and the men took off to go
swimming at the beach and in the mountains. A truck is made available each day for this
purpose. Major Register returned from Catania today. There was a meeting for all
gunners in the squadron called by Capt. Johnson who discussed negligence in the
cleaning of machine guns. The rumors in the squadron lately are of very high caliber.
Latest gem to come from “hole 3 in the latrine” has it that a meeting of all the “big
wheels” in the Air Corps including Gen. Arnold was held in Naples. The purpose for this
meeting, the rumor goes, was to discuss the future of B-25’s in this theater. It was
decided, the rumor continues, to send all the Mitchells together with the combat crews to
India where a new ground personnel would be waiting. The present ground personnel
would then be sent to either England or the United States. No matter how wild they may
be, rumors are good for morale.

Johnson, Stanton W., Capt, Armament Officer Register, Percy D, Maj, pilot

Arnold, Henry H. "Hap", General, Chief of the Army Air Forces

446th BS War Diary: No Entry

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: A mission was scheduled for today, but cancelled due to weather
conditions. The following officers and enlisted men have been relieved of assignment
and transferred to Personnel Center No. 6 for transshipment to the United States. 1st Lt.
Leonard E. Adcock; 1st Lt. Harold G. McCaleb; S/Sgt. Herman Roberts; Sgt. Archille E.
Lamoureau; Cpl. Alvin F. Statham. 2nd Lt. Norman J. Lundmark returned from the rest
camp at Rome, Italy. A social gathering took place at the enlisted men’s club with,
“Doc” Smith and his boys giving out with that inimitable American Jive. The boys did a
rushing business and everyone had a pleasant time. S/Sgt. Newton Lilley, of this
squadron is a member of “Doc” Smith’s band. Today’s training consisted of practice
bombing. Morning report – Officers 95; Enlisted Men – 321.

Adcock, Leonard E., 1Lt, bombardier McCaleb, Harold G., 1Lt, bombardier

Roberts, Herman, S/Sgt, gunner Lamoureau, Archille D., Sgt, photographer

Statham, Alvin F., Cpl, photographer Lundmark, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier

Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon, 445th BS

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Monday, 26 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, bad weather
grounds the medium bombers; fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced schedule, hit
railroad targets and other targets in the battle area S of the Gothic Line; HQ 3rd
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance) moves from Pomigliano to Nettuno; and 85th
Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Ponte
Galeria to Ombrone Airfield with A-20s.

445th BS War Diary: With 19 crews standing by, the mission was again cancelled for
today and as usual most of the crews took for the swimming truck. Sgt. Plunk, a radio
gunner, left for 30 days DS at the AAF Service Command. Some of the bombardiers
spent an hour on the bomb trainer and also the bombsight rate machine. Sgt. J.E. Wells
gave a lecture to all radio gunners on their duties before, during and after each combat
mission. There were some locals flown. The rumor about going to India has made a
reappearance in the squadron. Fresh roast beef, fresh mashed potatoes with gravy, and
cabbage were included in the menu for supper. The squadron orchestra serenaded the
men at the enlisted men’s club. There was an alert before dark.

Plunk, Charles B., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Wells, Joy E., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

446th BS War Diary: No Entry.

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. 1st Lt. John R. Piasta has
been promoted to the rank of Captain, per S.O. 166 (NATOUSA), dated June 17th. T/Sgt.
Kammerlohr has been elected president of the 447th N.C.O. Club. Today’s training
consisted of making tow compass swings.

Kammerlohr, Arthur R., T/Sgt, personnel Piasta, John R., Capt, communications

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Tuesday, 27 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, continued bad
weather cancels medium bomber operations; light bombers again hit ammunition
supplies; fighter-bombers hit roads, bridges, rail lines, and other targets in and near the
battleline; and HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) moves from Ponte Galeria to
Ombrone Airfield.

445th BS War Diary: The now-famous “13:30 stand by” order was posted on the
operations bulletin board. Just to break up the monotony, Sgt. Killeen changed the time
to 13:29 and injected quite a bit of humor into the thing. Once again the mission was
cancelled and the men took off to go swimming, enjoying the cooling waters at the beach
and in the mountains. The afternoons are very hot here in Corsica. There were some
ships sent to the bombing range today. Lt. Galindo’s current column “Hard Luck Herald”
posted on the S-2 bulletin board daily is usually good for many laughs each day. Lt.
Galindo is a bombardier with an ability to gather all the dirt for “local dirties”. A large
mail call today with many packages and letters distributed to the men. Steak was served
for supper.

Galindo, Daniel, Lt, bombardier Killeen, Frank P., Sgt, operations

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Gawrada, the athletic director of the 446th gets “home”
orders, along with Lt. Pestalozzi and Sergeant Hanley, one of the last of the old timers in
our squadron.

Gawrada, Gabriel, P., Lt, bombardier Hanley, James, Jr., Sgt, gunner

Pestalozzi, Rudolph H., Lt, bombardier

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. S/Sgt. William P. Franklin,
bombardier in ship #210 piloted by Lt. F.W. Vincent, which went down during the raid
on Isoletta Dam, on January 12th, returned to our squadron. S/Sgt. Franklin escaped
while enroute to Germany, after being a prisoner of war for 16 days. At a meeting held at
1900 hours, for all combat personnel, S/Sgt. William P. Franklin related his experiences
as a prisoner of war and regarded his escape, which was of great benefit to combat
personnel. Today’s training consisted of a local formation S/Sgt. Maurice J. Hilton was
transferred to group.

Franklin, Merle, S/Sgt, armament Hilton, Maurice J., S/Sgt, operations

Vincent, Frederick W., Lt, pilot

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Wednesday, 28 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, bad weather
cancels all light and medium bomber operations; fighter-bombers carry out rail-cutting
missions N of the battleline in NC Italy; 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier
Group, moves from Gaudo Airfield to Galera Airfield with C-47s; and 97th Bombardment
Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Ponte Galeria to
Ombrone Airfield with A-20s.

445th BS War Diary: The day was cloudy with occasional showers falling and for the
sixth consecutive day, the mission was cancelled. There was a physical inspection held at
the “Medics” this afternoon. It included a dental checkup and a “short arm”. Some mail
filtered in this afternoon. Pork chops were enjoyed for supper. Big celebrations took
place in both clubs this evening.

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Burandt goes to Rome rest camp. Sergeant Beville and
Corporal Robbins head for home after 24 months service overseas.

Beville, John A., Jr., Sgt, engineering Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot

Robbins, James S., Cpl, engineering

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Cpl. Bernard P. Mullin was
reassigned to this squadron from the 19th Replacement Center.

Mullin, Bernard P., Cpl, armament

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Thursday, 29 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, fighter-bombers,
medium, and light bombers attack ammunition dumps, viaducts', bridges', railroad cars,
landing grounds, roads, motor transport, and other targets along the battleline in NC Italy
and at various points to the N; HQ 51st Troop Carrier Wing moves from Catania, Sicily to
Lido di Roma; and 4th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, moves from
Gaudo Airfield to Galera Airfield with C-47s.

445th BS War Diary: The squadron snapped out of its period of inactivity to bomb the
railroad bridge at Ventimiglia, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 79%. This target is
located in northern Italy just near the French-Italian border not far from Nice, a famous
city along the renowned “Riviera coast”. There were 6 transition flights and 4 cross-
country flights made today. The transition flights were made at night and it marked the
first night-flying for this squadron since it arrived in the combat zone. There were 2 mail
calls today and some packages also arrived. Chicken was served at the supper meal. The
sex lecture which was scheduled for tonight was postponed until further notice.

446th BS War Diary: A 19 plane mission. New silver bars to the following Second
Lieutenants: Dunn, Chapman, Farber, Franklin, Kiernan, Mexal, Mickel, Hipson, Sitts,
Taylor and Vancil.

Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt, navigator Chapman, John E., 1Lt, navigator

Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt, bombardier Hipson, Robert G., 1Lt, pilot

Kiernan, Noble J. 1Lt, bombardier Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt, bombardier

Mickel Alan T., 1Lt, pilot Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt, bombardier

Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt, pilot or Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt, pilot or

Taylor, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 312

TARGET: Ventimiglia RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 29 June 1944

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb S.A.P. 446th Planes: 19

Capt. Cooper led the formation. Good concentration in target area with majority of
bombs falling on E and E approach. Several reports of both RR and road bridge just to N
being hit. No flak, no fighters.

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot

447th BS War Diary: 1 of our planes participated in a successful Nickeling Mission on
Poggibonsi-Rosignano-Pisa and Lucca. Two of our ships participated in a raid on
Ventimiglia RR Bridge (west) with the 445th squadron. Greatest concentration toward
East end and east approach to bridge with other bombs quite far to east across tracks in
M/Y and other to west across tracks and west of approach. Bombing accuracy – 79%
Mission efficiency – 67%. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from
rest camp – Capri: 1st Lt. William H. Martin; 2nd Lt. Ralph T., Grimes; Sgt. Anthony
Abbondanza; P.F.C. Arthur T. Shand.

Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt, aerial gunner Grimes, Ralph T., 2Lt, pilot

Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot Shand, Arthur T., PFC, photographer

Thursday, 29 June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Mission 281 (414): Four planes off at 10:30, one returned early
and three dropped 24 packets of special leaflets over Poggibonsi, Rosignano, Pisa, Lucca
areas. Gun flashes observed W side of Leghorn but no bursts.

Friday, 30 June 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather again
restricts medium bomber operations but B-25s attack the Pietrasanta railway bridge and

Marradi viaduct and tunnel; fighter-bombers hit rail lines, bridges, railroad cars, guns,
motor transport, and other targets along the battleline and the area to the N in the Pistoia
area; HQ 62nd Troop Carrier Group and 8th Troop Carrier Squadron move from Gaudo
Airfield to Galera Airfield with C-47s.

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today. The men took
advantage of the day off by going to the beach and the mountain streams for a bit of
swimming. A number of the men are acquiring an attractive tan. 4 of the bombardiers
spent 2 hours each on the bomb trainer. Beer was served at both clubs tonight while the
Officers enjoyed lobsters with their refreshments. There was more night flying tonight.

446th BS War Diary: Lieuts. Lewis, Briles and Hughes and EM Mattioli and
McMeeking go to Capri.

Briles, Connolly O., Lt, pilot Hughes, John J., 2Lt, bombardier

Hughes, Robert H., Lt, pilot Lewis, Vernon, 1Lt, pilot

Mattioli, Elio R., Sgt, engineering McMeeking, James, Sgt, transportation

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following officers and
enlisted men have departed for rest camp – Capri: Capt. Walter H. Whitton; 2nd Lt.
Marvin L. Spruill; 1st Lt. James F. McGill; 1st Lt. Ivan E. Dean; T/Sgt. Aubrey W.
Chatters; S/Sgt. Charles M. Richards. 13 of our ships participated in a formation revue.
Lt. Wiginton lead the squadron. Today’s training consisted of local formation practice.

Chatters Aubrey W., T/Sgt, gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot

McGill, James F., Lt, Adjutant Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt, turret-gunner

Spruill, Marvin L., 2Lt, bombardier Wiginton, J. Maurice, 2Lt, pilot, operations

Whitten, Walter H., Jr., Capt, armament

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

June 1944

445th BS War Diary: Additional Information for June 1944

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M)

APO 650

5 July 1944

SUBJECT: Historical Records

TO : Command General, 57th Wing, APO 650.

1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period June1st to June 30th.

a. Present Designation: 445th Sq., 321st Group, 57th Wing, 12th Command.

b. Changes in organization.

1. Lt. Malcolm R. Humphrey, Supply Officer, transferred to 310th Bomb Gp.

2. Lt Melvin A. Anderson, Asst. Bombing Officer, transferred to Gp Hdqs as
Bombing Officer.

c. Strength commissioned and enlisted.

1. Month of June 1944.

(a) 456 At beginning.

(b) 13 Net increase.

d. Stations.

1. Solenzara Air Field.

e. Movements.

1. None

f. Operations:
1. During the Month of June the Squadron participated in 232 Sorties and 27

Missions.

g. Command Officers in important missions.

1. On June 7, the squadron commander participated in the mission which knocked

out the road bridge at Acquapendente, Italy. He also flew on June 9 when the

road bridge at Grossetto, Italy was well hit with a good concentration of bombs

h. Losses in action.

1. None

i. During the month of June, the following men received the Distinguished Flying

Cross. Capt. Victor H. Wilson, Jr. (pilot), and Lt. William J. Kauric (bombardier).

For the Commanding Officer:

JAMES E. NICKERSON

Captain, Air Corps,

Squadron Historian.

June 1944 (continued)

446th BS War Diary: Additional Information for June 1944

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF

321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF

1 July 1944

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR JUNE 1944

A. Original Unit

1. 446th Bomb Sqdn (M), 321st Bomb Gp (M) AAF

2. Organized August 1, 1942

3. Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, S.C.

4. Activated at Barksdale Field, La. June 23, 1942

5. Personnel obtained by transfer from other units, training schools and replacement

centers.

B. Strength, Commissioned and Enlisted:

1. 1 June 1944 95 Officers, 317 Enlisted Men

2. Net Increase None 12 Enlisted Men

3. Net Decrease 5 Officers None

4. 30 June 1944 90 Officers, 339 Enlisted Men

C. Stations permanent or temporary of unit or parts thereof:

1. None

D. Commanding Officer in important engagements

1. Engagements:

Subiaco, Italy Borgo San Lorenzo, Italy

Tarquinia, Italy Massa, Italy

Viareggio, Italy Ventimiglia, Italy

Centeno, Italy

2. Capt. Paul T. Cooper (pilot)

E. Losses in action: None

F. Former or present members of the Squadron who have distinguished themselves in
action:
1. The D.F.C. was awarded to:

Captain Paul T. Cooper (pilot)

1st Lt. Rudolph H. Pestalozzi (bombardier)

2. The Air Medal was awarded (Posthumously) to

2nd Lt. Harry B. Wilcox, Jr. (bombardier)

G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries.

June 1944 (continued)

447th BS War Diary: Additional Information for June 1944

447TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)

321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)

APO 65

SUBJECT: Historical Records.

TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing.

Attention: Historian.

1. Outline History of the 447th Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 June to 30 June
1944.

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

(1) 447th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57th

Bombardment Wing, 12th Air Force.

(2) Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, South Carolina.
(3) 23 June 1942
(4) G.O. 143, Hq. 111 AF, 23 June 1942
(5) Transform from other units and Selective Service.

b. Changes in Organization.

(1) No Change

(2) Echelons or units.

(a) 1 enlisted man transferred to Det of patients

1 enlisted Man transferred to personnel center no. 6,

rotation to the United States

2 enlisted men transferred to 35th Station Hospital.

2 enlisted men transferred on rotation to personnel center no. 6.

(b) 1 officer duty to leave of absence United States

1 officer, 1 enlisted man DS to rest camp

2 officers, 1 enlisted man DS to E1Aouina

1 enlisted man DS to Fondock, Tunis

1 officer duty to rest camp

1 enlisted man DS, Hdqs, Hdqs., 57th Bomb. Wing

2 officers, 2 enlisted men duty to DS, rest camp

1 officer duty to DS; AAF Redistribution Station, no.1, Atlantic City, N.J.

4 officers DS to 57th Bomb. Wing

1 enlisted man DS., 12th A.F.S.C.

1 officer DS., Rome

4 officers, 2 enlisted DS., Capri.

(3) On 3 June, Major Raymond D. Sampson (pilot), returned to United States and

Captain Robert C. Olsen (pilot), appointed squadron commander. Captain

June 1944 (continued)

Thomas C. Bounds (pilot), assumed command of squadron, 8 June, upon

being relieved of duty as operations officer.

(4) 8 June, 1st Lt. Maurice Wiginton (pilot), appointed Operations Officer, 2nd Lt.

Anthony L. Muzinich (pilot), appointed assistant Operations Officer.

(5) No Change

c. Strength, Commission and enlisted.

(1) Month of June 1944.

(a) 79 officers - 277 enlisted men

(b) 12 officers – 50 enlisted men

(d) 91 officers – 327 enlisted men

d. Stations.

(1) Solenzara Air Field

(a) May 3, 1944

(b) None

e. Movements.

(1) No movements during June

f. Campaign.

(1) Italian

(2) From June 1 to present.

g. Operations.

(1) Mediterranean (Corsica)

(2) Objective Bombing

(3) 23 missions, 97 sorties

(4) Results of the most important missions.

(a) Mission: Pesaro Railroad Bridge

1. Important target because of the bridge was vital to German supply line and

communications.

2. Mission was very successful

3. Aided the ground forces by cutting enemy communications.

4. Photographs showed excellent coverage

5. The ground forces were able to move up with rapid progress.

(5) Unit was subjected to heavy, accurate and intense antiaircraft fire throughout the

month.

h. Command officers in important missions.

(1) Captain Bounds (pilot) lead the group on the mission, 21 June, on Massa Canal

Overpass.

June 1944 (continued)

i. Losses in action

(a) None

(b) Sgt. Frederick J. Tarra (gunner), 13 June, Ronta E Viaduct

(d) None.
(e) S/Sgt Willie P. Franklin (armament) returned from enemy territory.

1. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action.

(1) (a) S/Sgt. Willie P. Franklin (armament), Isoletta Dam; S/Sgt. Henry E. Orzynski

(gunner), troop concentration; 1st Lt. Eldon R. Haynes (pilot), Incisa Viaduct,

Italy; Sgt Frederick J. Tarra (gunner), Ronta Viaduct, Italy; 1st Lt George D.

Seavey (pilot), Incisa, Italy; S/Sgt. Herman Roberts (gunner), Vado Viaduct,

Italy; 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones (bombardier), Porto Ferraio, Elba; 2nd Lt Harold

Spilko (bombardier), Vado, Italy

. (b) Wounded in Action

k. None.

2. Inclosed are War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 June to 31
June1944, Special Account for the month of June 1944; Squadron Statistics for the
month of June 1944.

For the Commanding Officer:

3 Incl: SALVATORE P. CASARELLA, Jr.,

Incl – 1 War Diary. 1st. Lt., Air Corps,

Incl – 2 Special Account Historian.

Incl – 3 Squadron Statistics

Missions Flown: 23 Sorties Flown: 197

Bombs dropped (weight): 544,500 Nickels dropped (packages): 8

Planes lost: None Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None

Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None

June 1944 (continued)

448th BS War Diary: Additional Information for June 1944:

June 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength 106 Officers and 340 Enlisted Men, 1 June 1944.
The following Enlisted Men assigned and joined: Private Justice. No Officers assigned
and joined during this period. Captain Stokes transferred to the U.S.A. Several Officers
and Enlisted Men departed for the Isle of Capri for one weeks rest. Ten missions were
flown during this period over Central Italy in support of the new drive on Rome. Rome
fell 5 June 1944. The squadron anxiously gathered around all available radios on the
fateful day of 6 June 1944 when the long awaited invasion of Europe took place. The
Enlisted Men’s Cub opened on 7 June 1944 for a preflight by the squadron personnel in
anticipation of the grand opening to be held the following Sunday. Work continued on
the Officer’s Club. Fair weather and sparkling seas invited many men to take daily dips.

Stokes, George M., Lt, pilot or Stokes, Louis S., Lt, pilot

June 8 – 14 – 44: The following Enlisted Men were assigned and joined during this
period. Privates, Tiger, Thompson. No Officers were assigned and joined during this
period. Captain Freeland, Lieutenant Hales and Sergeant McEntee transferred to U.S.A.
Lieutenant Hoffman transferred to 57 Bomb Wing. Lieutenant Evans promoted to the
rank of Captain. Lieutenants: Amo, Barber, Dossey, Duncan, Bond, Burday, Greene,
Cottle, Hickey, Howard, Malec, Kukorowski, Londsdorf, McCabe, Quartuccio, Riener,
Rogers, Verkruysse, Myers, Promoted to First Lieutenant. Lieutenants Petit, and
Olszewski killed by direct anti-aircraft fire while on a mission over Sassaferrato, Italy.
The rest of the crew parachuted TO SAFETY over the home base. The Enlisted Men’s
Club opened with a bang. General Knapp and Colonel Smith were present and
complimented the builders on their excellent job. Music, dancing and drinking were the
order of the evening and the date 9 June will always stand out in the minds of all men of
the 448th. Six missions were flown over supply lines in Northern Italy. On 13 June 1944
a one hundred per-cent bombing accuracy was scored on Sassaferrato.

Amo, Leo W., 1Lt, pilot Barbour, Marshall H., 1Lt, pilot

Bond, Edward N., 1Lt, bombardier Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier

Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt, pilot Dossey, Vernon C., 1Lt, pilot

Duncan, George F., 1Lt, navigator Evans, Ivor P., Capt, bombardier

Freeland, Levi Z., Jr, Capt, pilot

Greene, Louis P., 1Lt, bombardier or Greene, William A., 1Lt, pilot

Hales, Ermine L., Lt, pilot Hickey, William O., 1Lt, navigator

Hoffman, Albert J., pilot Howard, Charles E., 1Lt, pilot

Knapp, Robert D., Brigadier General, 57th BW Commander

Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier Londsdorf, Frank L., 1Lt, pilot

Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt, bombardier McCabe, Norman M., 1Lt, pilot

McEntee, Peter M., Sgt, gunner Myers, Harold C., 1Lt, pilot

Olszewski, Henry (NMI), 2Lt, navigator Petit, Rene P., 1Lt, bombardier

Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt, bombardier Riener, William F., 1Lt, pilot

Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt, pilot

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

June 1944 (continued)

Thompson, Arthur R., Jr., Pvt, gunner or Thompson, Louis A., Pvt, communications

Tiger, George E., Pvt, cook Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt, pilot

June 15 – 21 – 44: The following Enlisted Men were assigned and joined: Sergeant
Davis, Sergeant McGinchey, PFC McEver. No Officers assigned or joined during this
period. Sergeant Riss and Van Cura transferred to U.S.A. Lieutenant Scopp transferred
to U.S.A. Sergeants: Maroney, Shaw, Watts and Atchley transferred to U.S.A. Three
missions flown during this period due to bad weather over the Italian Mainland. On 16
June 1944 the squadron area again rang with the celebration of another club opening, this
time the Officers christened their Club.

Atchley, Earl L., Sgt, communication

Davis, Jimmie L., Sgt, gunner or Davis, Roy (NMI), Sgt, intelligence

Maroney, James H., Sgt, communication McEver, Thomas J., PFC, duty soldier

McGinchey, John J., Sgt, personnel Riss, Royal C., Sgt, gunner

Scopp, Richard W., Lt, navigator

Shaw, David S., Sgt, communications or Shaw, Walter R., Sgt, engineering

Van Cura, Edward W., Sgt, gunner Watts, Kelly G., Sgt, communications

June 22 – 30 – 44: The following Enlisted Men assigned and joined during this period,
Corporals: Kovacs, Dehn, Enderle, Garmong, Grigas, Dunn, Edwards, Gentry, and
Grinstaff, Janus. Corporal Russell transferred to 35th Station Hospital. Several Officers
and Enlisted Men went to the Isle of Capri for a weeks rest and several more went to
Cairo, Egypt. Lieutenants: Blackwell, Furey, McDonough, Matthews, and Olson
promoted to First Lieutenant. One mission flown during this period, weather very bad.
The month ended quietly for the squadron. Squadron strength as of 30 June 1944: 101
Officers, 345 Enlisted Men.

Blackwell, Robert G., 2Lt, pilot Dehn, Monroe O., Cpl, armament

Dunn, Vernon L, Cpl, engineering

Edwards, Clarence C., Cpl, gunner or Edwards, Jesse R., Cpl, gunner, photographer

Enderle, Melvin J., Cpl, gunner Furey, Frank M., 2Lt, pilot

Garmong, Robert F., Cpl, engineering Gentry, Edgar W., Cpl, transportation

Grigas, Alexander C., Cpl, personnel Grinstaff, Clate J., Cpl, transportation

Janus, Bill (NMI), Cpl, cook Kovacs, George (NMI), Cpl, transportation

McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier

Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt, pilot Olsen, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot

Russell, Pearl W., Cpl, armament

The month of June began with the continuance of the assault on German
communications by the Group and the early days of the month found the Squadron
sending up 18 and 19 planes daily with excellent results against enemy targets. Several
100% bombing attacks were made on important targets behind the enemy lines and the
Squadron could truthfully say it was of great assistance in pushing back the enemy
towards Rome and beyond. Events on the far flung battle fronts drew the interest of all
Squadron personnel but the daily routine kept everyone busy.

June 1944 (continued)

Not only were the early days of the month to go down in history for such world
shaking events as the fall of Rome and the invasion of Normandy but also on June 7th in
the preflight and on June 9 in the grand opening, the Enlisted Men were justly proud of
the furor caused on the Island of Corsica by the opening of the Club Rustico. General
Knapp, Colonel Smith and other noted personages on the island attended this gala
occasion and stated that in their opinion the club compared most favorably with any they
had seen in the States. Needless to add wine and song were in abundance and the
Monday morning quarterbacks admitted that the party was an unqualified success.
Through the efforts of Sergeant Kocsis, 1st Sergeant Iseldyke and Sergeant Kuhn
refreshments and music, entertainment and fun was enjoyed by all.

Knapp, Robert D., Brigadier General, 57th BW Commander

Kocsis, Michael (NMI), Sgt, cook Kuhn, James W., Sgt, engineering

Iseldyke, LeRoy J., Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt

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

In the Officer’s Area work progressed slowly as the finishing touches were added
to the Club 48 and each Officer contributed his pet idea to the perfection of their club.
On June 16 the grand opening took place with many beautiful women (who everyone will
never forget) in attendance. Again wine flowed freely and through the efforts of Lt.
Feeley an abundance of chicken and other fresh fruits and vegetables were served. The
party was voted by all to be notable occasion.

Feeley, Walter C., Jr., Lt, bombardier

Once again small improvements were gradually being made on the living quarters
of the more ingenious members of the squadron. White sand was procured to make
floors for the tents, wood for small tables and chairs as well as for the construction of
annexes for the tents was acquired. With the completion of the S-2 building the area
offices presented a business like appearance. Not to be outdone, Captain Wonnacott with
the aid of his “saw-mill”, built a shack for his Engineering Office. After two months
residence on the island the squadron had finally secured a very adequate set up.

Wonnacott, Robert C., Capt, engineering

On the morale front, the men found that entertainment was very scarce on the
island. The two towns of Bastia and Ajaccio were small and colorless and the roads to
them hard and long. Several excellent and new motion pictures were shown but this
pleasure was often marred by the failure of the old, worn out projector. Tempers grew
short when after braving the attacks of Thunderbolt and B-25 mosquitoes the show failed
to go on or broke down after the first reel. Swimming, fishing and hiking became a
major part of the recreation program. Late in the month a tennis court was constructed on
the Line and construction begun on a baseball diamond in the squadron area. The Clubs
soon became the center of attraction for the long evenings. Most of the squadron
personnel were able to secure RON’s to Catania, Naples and other points on the Italian
mainland when the squadron’s planes mad the trip to these places on business or to pick

June 1944 (continued)

up fresh produce for the messes. One of the best USO shows seen by the squadron made
its appearance late in the month and was promptly invited to the Clubs.

On the food front conditions continued to improve with an abundance of fresh
meat, chicken and fresh vegetables “Mike’s Lunch Room and Tea Shoppe”, turned out
the best food to be found on the whole Island of Corsica. The excellent dining facilities
added much to the enjoyment of the meals. With the departure of Sergeant Buckles for
the U.S.A. Sergeant Jackson took command of the Officer’s Kitchen and performed
creditably in that capacity. Fresh eggs although expensive were frequently served. The
Enlisted Men contributed two dollars per month and the Officer’s five dollars for these
extras. The PX rations continued to improve and despite the increasingly warm weather
fresh candy bars and cokes remained on the ration. Beer was served once during the
month but there was promise of more to come.

Buckles, Kenneth L., Sgt, gunner

Jackson, Houston S., Sgt, cook or Jackson, Jewel D., Sgt, gunner

As the month progressed the weather on Corsica remained fair and warm but over
the mainland complete overcast cancelled missions and only two more were flown after
June 13. On the later date while on a mission over Sassaferrato, Italy, the lead plane
piloted by Lt. Greene received a direct hit in the nose which instantly killed Lts: Petit
and Olszewski. Lts: Green and Tilton with great skill brought the severely damaged
plane back to the home base, where they instructed Sgts: Everhart, Davis and Parham to
bail out and they followed suit themselves.

Davis, Jimmie L., Sgt, gunner Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt, gunner

Greene, William A., 1Lt, pilot Olszewski, Henry (NMI), 2Lt, navigator

Parham, James E., Sgt, gunner or Parham, Ralph E., Sgt, gunner

Petit, Rene P., 1Lt, bombardier Tilton, Harvey S., Lt, pilot

During the month several Officers and Enlisted Men departed for the USA and
several new Enlisted Men were assigned to the squadron as Ground Personnel. These
replacements were the first of what everyone hoped would be many. As the squadron
neared the end of its 17th month over-seas all the old personnel began think wishfully of
the 18 month rotation plan (rumor) and the 30 day furlough to the USA. However
conditions pointed to service over-seas at least for the duration of the European War.

At the end of the month Lt. Greiff, despite the reluctance of all concerned
conducted all personnel through a Gas Chamber in order to test their new Gas Masks.
The usual Red alerts occurred during the month but “Jerry” failed to make his
appearance. During the month several French units made their appearance on the island
and on June 17 invade the Island of Elba. After a short but bloody battle the island was
taken and a grave threat to the 321st was removed. Porto-Ricans continued to guard the
planes and no man in the squadron could complain about pulling too much guard. The
guard situation called for four hours every fifteen days.

Greiff, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt, intelligence

June 1944 (continued)

The month ended with everyone looking optimistically into the future as the
Russians advanced swiftly westward, 5th and 8th Armies continued to roll towards
Florence and the Normandy beachhead continued to withstand the determined German
counter-attacks. Predictions were made of the war ending by September or October.
Even the less optimistic predicted the fall of the German Army by the end of 1944.
Morale was high.

The following Officers and Enlisted Men have received the Award of the Purple
Heart for wounds received due to enemy action.

Captain Raymond B. Stultz (pilot) 12 October 1943

S/Sgt. Clarence J. Kessler (gunner) 12 October 1943

2nd Lt. Paul I. Clark (pilot) 8 November 1943

2nd Lt. Robert C. Bell (bombardier) 17 November 1943

2nd Lt. John D. Haskell (pilot) 17 November 1943

2nd Lt. Robert D. DeMuth (pilot) 17 December 1943

S/Sgt. Harry E. Hammerschmidt (gunner) 17 December 1943

S/Sgt. Louis H. Tomerlin (gunner) 17 December 1943

Sgt. Andrew L. Nesbit (gunner) 12 February 1944

S/Sgt. Louis H. Tomerlin (gunner) 12 February 1944 First Cluster

2nd Lt. Joseph A. Malec (bombardier) 16 February 1944

2nd Lt. Rene P. Petit (bombardier) 16 February 1944

2nd Lt. Robert D. DeMuth (pilot) 24 February 1944 First Cluster

S/Sgt. Harry E. Hammerschmidt (gunner) 24 February 1944 First Cluster

S/Sgt. Louis H. Tomerlin (gunner) 24 February 1944 Second Cluster

Captain Levi B. Freeland (pilot) 3 March 1944

2nd Lt. Warren R. Annear (pilot) 3 March 1944

2nd Lt James W. Kuykendall (pilot) 3 March 1944

2nd Lt. Willard T. Zinkand (bombardier) 3 March 1944

S/Sgt. Wilson E. Lord (gunner) 30 March 1944

1st Lt. William A. Greene (pilot) 1 April 1944

2nd Lt. Louis P. Greene (bombardier) 1 April 1944

S/Sgt. Seaton L. Coleman (gunner) 1 April 1944

Sgt. Clifford R. Everhart (gunner) 1 April 1944

Sgt. Harvey R. Rosencranz (engineering) 1 April 1944

Sgt. Clifford R. Thorsett (engineering) 1 April 1944

Private Michael C. Lellis (duty soldier) 1 April 1944

2nd Lt. Edward N. Bond (bombardier) 4 May 1944

2nd Lt. Vernon C. Dossey (pilot) 4 May 1944

2nd Lt. Frank M. Furey (pilot) 19 May 1944

2nd Lt. Phillip R. Judy (bombardier) 19 May 1944

1st Lt. Walter C. Feeley, Jr. (bombardier) 29 May 1944

2nd Lt John C. Connor (pilot) 29 May 1944

2nd Lt. Meyer Shear (pilot) 29 May 1944

1st Lt William A. Greene (pilot) 29 May 1944 First Cluster

2nd Lt. John A. Apple (bombardier) 19 June 1944

2nd Lt. Thomas W. Matthews (pilot) 19 June 1944

2nd Lt. Harvey S. Tilton (pilot) 19 June 1944

T/Sgt. James E. Parham (gunner) 19 June 1944

S/Sgt. Jimmie L. Davis (gunner) 19 June 1944

Sgt. Flavious J. Bell (gunner) 19 June 1944

S/Sgt. Clifford R. Everhart (gunner) 19 June 1944

1st Lt. William A. Greene (pilot) 19 June 1944 Second Cluster

1st Lt. Anthony P. Quartuccio (bombardier) 23 June 1944

2nd Lt. Grafton R. Norris (pilot) 23 June 1944

2nd Lt. Erle G. Swanson (pilot) 23 June 1944

S/Sgt. Kenneth M. Carrick (gunner) 23 June 1944

S/Sgt. Joseph C. Denny (radio-gunner) 23 June 1944

S/Sgt. Clarence C. Edwards (gunner) 23 June 1944

Sgt. William Bishop (gunner) 23 June 1944

Sgt. Eugene F. Carter (engineer-gunner) 29 June 1944