12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing 

321st Bombardment Group 

History: July 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 


Saturday, 1 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, light and medium 
bombers hit fuel dumps, rail bridges, viaducts, and docks in NC Italy; fighter-bombers 
concentrate on road and rail bridges behind the battle area, destroy several fighters in 
combat over Reggio Emilia Airfield, and hit guns S of Carsoli; and a detachment of the 
12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), 
begins operating from Follonica with F-5s. During Jul, the detachments of the 414th Night 
Fighter Squadron, 63rd Fighter Wing, operating from Ghisonaccia and Borgo, Corsica 
with Beaufighters, return to base at Alghero, Sardinia. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one spare for the mission which bombed 
the east viaduct at Ronda, Italy. Six ships did some night flying early this morning. 
During the day, 9 more ships went up on a mock mission and there were 4 transition 
flights. A number of the combat crews and several ground personnel went to the rest 
camp at Capri today. Several of the bombardiers spent some time on the bomb trainer in 
the morning and afternoon. There is a rigorous training schedule in effect these days. 
“Buck” Sergeant’s new mail shack was completed today and is a decided improvement 
over the old, hot tent. It is screened in, is cool and has a slit for the mailing of enlisted 
men and officer’s mail. More night flying late tonight. 

Sergeant, William A. "Buck", Sgt, mail clerk 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 313 

TARGET: Ronta W. Viaduct, Italy DATE: 1 July 1944 

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

Lt. Armstrong led the formation. Target difficult to identify. Crews report viaduct well 
hit with concentration on N approach and tunnel entrance. Some bombs S cut tracks. 
Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate. 

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

 

447th BS War Diary: 18 of our ships participated in a raid on Ronta E Viaduct, Q-
935934, with Lt. Wiginton, leading the mission. One concentration on northeast end 
approach to target with bridge to the north hit in three places. Bombs across tracks near 
or on bridge to west of target. Bombing accuracy 73 %; Mission efficiency 50 %. Six of 
our ships practiced night landing. Usual squadron duties. 

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

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 282 (416): At 10:12 18 planes off to bomb Ronta W 
Viaduct and dropped 59 x 1000 bombs at 11:55 from 10,500 feet. Nine bombs were 
salvoed and four bombs returned, all planes down at 13:20. Two runs were made on the 
target because of difficulty of identification and crews report hits on viaduct, N approach 
and tunnel entrance. Heavy, moderate and fairly accurate flak. 2 planes were holed, one 
plane was hit by flak just before target but was reported safe at Rome. Weather: Cavu 
over target. 


Sunday, 2 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium and light 
bombers continue to pound enemy communication lines N of the battle area (mainly 
along and N of the Pisa-Florence line) and hit several fuel dumps with good results; 
fighter-bombers are active against motor transport and bridges immediately N of the 
battleline; and 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, 
moves from Voltone to Follonica with F-6s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft to bomb the fuel dump near 
Ravenna, Italy. Carrying an extra load of bombs, the bombardiers had difficulty in 
getting rid of their bombs and a number of “tumblers” fell short of the target. 
Nevertheless, there was a good coverage achieved and 5 to 7 fires were reported. Capt. 
Wilson and his crew of “Cairo Commandos” returned from their trip to Egypt with a 
good supply of liquor. There was a flight to swing the compass today. 

Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: An 18 plane mission is flown. Lt. Burandt returns from rest camp 
at Rome while Lt. Franklin goes to Rome for a vacation. 

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot Franklin, Arthur E., 2Lt, bombardier/Navigator 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 314 

TARGET: Fuel Dump near Ravenna, Italy DATE: 2 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 100 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 18 

Captain Cooper led the formation. Many reports of the target being well covered, with 
several fires being started and two explosions after the formation had left the area. Due 
to B-10 shackles and extra bombs, difficulty was experienced in getting rid of bombs in 
some cases. 

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: One of our ships flew as a spare with the 445th in a raid on Fuel 
Dumps near Ravenna at M-599399. The target was well covered, with most bombs 
starting sough and east of road, walked through to the canal. One plane not getting rid of 
bombs at target dropped on small boats in Cattolica Harbor leaving one burning. 
Bombing accuracy 90 %; Mission efficiency 70 %. The following officers and enlisted 
men are on DS at Cairo, Egypt: 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; T/Sgt. Clint R. Collins. 
Morning report: Officers-93; Enlisted Men -328. 2nd Lt. John C. Nall was promoted to 
the rank of 1st Lt. per SO 167-12th AAF. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing 
and local transition. 

Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt, bombardier 

Nall, John G., 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 


Monday, 3 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-26s and A-20s 
pound enemy fuel dumps while B-25s hit bridges, tunnels, and viaducts at Pietrasanta, 
Canneto sull'Oglio and Saviano, and fuel storage tanks in the Pontelagoscuro area; 
fighter-bombers blast motor transport and bridges in the battle area as the US Fifth Army 
begins a drive on Leghorn; vehicle park, ammunition dump, and a barge are also hit. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron sent 1 spare with the formation which bombed the 
railroad bridge at Pietrasanta, Italy. Good results were achieved. There was another rigid 
training schedule in effect today. Some of the bombardiers spent time on the bomb 
trainer in the morning and afternoon; there was formation flying; some test hops; some 
transition flights; and some ships went to the bombing range. Lt. Richardson and Sgt. 
Butler, pilot and gunner respectively, appeared before the Medical Board at 17th General 
Hospital. There was plenty of liquor flowing at both clubs tonight. 

Butler, Russell J., Sgt, gunner Richardson, John S., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: The Cairo boys return from Egypt: Captain Warren, Lts. Church, 
Jordan and Mottley, EM’s Bufkin, Kane, Perkins, Burrow. 

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

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

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

Perkins, Lawrence W., Sgt, engineering Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 315 

TARGET: Road Bridge at Pietrasanta, Italy DATE: 3 July 1944 

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

Lt. Dossey, 448th Sqdn. led the formation, Road bridge reported hit also road junction N 
of bridge. Concentration of bombs over to W of target. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly 
accurate, no fighters. 

Dossey, Vernon C., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: 18 of our ships participated in a raid on Pietrasanta Railroad 
Bridge, with Lt. Murray, leading the mission. Good concentration of bombs in target 
area – hitting northeast end of bridge. A few bombs short to southeast. Bombing 
accuracy – 51 %; Mission efficiency – 40 %. Capt. John M. Hamilton is at rest camp, 
Rome, Italy. The following enlisted men have been promoted: Sgt. Michael P. Freisen, 
to the grad of staff sergeant. Cpl. John J. Konicki, to the grade of sergeant. 1st 
Lieutenant Sherman E. Anderson, returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy. Today’s 
training consisted of practice bombing and local transition. 

Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt, bombardier Freisen, Michael P., S/Sgt, supply 

Hamilton, John M., Capt, Medical Officer Konicki, John J., Sgt, ordnance 

 

 

 

 


Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 283 (419): At 08:38 19 planes off to bomb Saviano 
viaduct but due to clouds at primary the alternate target of Pietrasanta B was bombed. 15 
planes dropped 59x1000 bombs at 10:08 from 10,000 feet. Four planes did not pick up 
target and failed to bomb. All returned at 10:46. Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate flak 
holed one plane. Spits escorted. The R/B was well hit, also hits on tracks 200 yds NW of 
target. Weather: 3/10th Cumulus at primary, CAVU at alternate. 

 

 

 


Tuesday, 4 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels 
light and medium bomber operations; fighter-bomber operations are greatly reduced but 
attacks are made on bridges, rail lines, roads, and guns in and N of the battle area as US 
Fifth Army elements clear parts of Rosignano, overrun Mount Vitalba and area to its E, 
and push into Casole d'Elsa; and the 522nd, 523rd and 524th Fighter Squadrons, 27th 
Fighter Group, move from Ciampino to Voltone with P-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron had 18 crews alerted for a mission but it was 
cancelled. It was a very quiet 4th of July. The clubs opened up in the afternoon and there 
was a goodly supply of liquor for all. A number of the engineer gunners were given 
instructions on proper pre-flight and inspections of a B-25 aircraft. There were two PDI 
flights while Lt. Hatcher flew a cross-country to Ajaccio. 

Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Dickerson and Ritger go on DS. Regular duties. A 
small mail. 

Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt, bombardier Ritger, Frederick C., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. Usual squadron duties. 
Today’s training consisted of one ship flying PDI runs for one hour and nine ships flying 
a practice formation. 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 


Wednesday, 5 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, B-25s bomb 
Villafranca di Verona marshalling yard, Aulla railroad bridge, and Ostiglia fuel dumps 
while A-20s blast a supply dump and rail lines; fighter-bombers hit tracks, bridges, roads, 
and other targets in the battle area as the US Fifth Army continues fierce fighting around 
Rosignano. 

 

445th BS War Diary: Once again 18 crews were scheduled for the mission which was 
cancelled. There were two PDI flights made while two of the bombardiers spent on-half 
hour each on the bombsight rate machine. Sgt. Henrich, one of the older gunners, left for 
the States on rotation today. In the evening, Captain Smith gave an excellent sex lecture 
ate the enlisted men’s club. The amiable “Doc”, very familiar with all Army phrasing, 
gave the lecture in a very straight-forward and frank manner. The men were very 
satisfied with the lecture. 

Henrich, James G., Sgt, gunner Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon 

 

446th BS War Diary: Another 18 plane mission is flown. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 316 

TARGET: Aulla N. RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 5 July 1944 

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

Captain Cooper led the formation. Fine concentration reported in target area, with 
heaviest concentration on S end of bridge and approaches. Other bombs fell across N end 
and tracks to N and some through center. Fires started in buildings just to SE of bridge. 
Few bursts of flak. 

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Today’s training consisted of 
three planes with full crews taking off at 04:00 for a practice mission of nine planes in the 
afternoon. Usual squadron duties. With the 42nd Engineers giving out with that 
inimitable American jive, a delicious buffet lunch and the bar doing a rushing business. 
We again chalked up another successful social gathering for the 447th enlisted men club. 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Thursday, 6 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s hit an 
ammunition ship at La Spezia during the night of 5/6 Jul and continue attacks on fuel 
supplies during the day; medium bombers again hit communication, concentrating on 
bridges N of the battleline, and attack enemy warehouses and HQ; fighter-bombers hit 
rail lines (with especially good results between Viareggio and Massa Lombarda) and 
damage several bridges just N of the battle area as the US Fifth Army continues clearing 
Rosignano and takes Castellina Marittima and Mount Vaso. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft for the mission today but 1 did 
not take off due to a malfunction. They bombed the Todi Headquarters and fuel dump in 
Italy with a bombing accuracy of 53 per cent. It was the squadron’s 300 combat mission. 
Lt Fischer took a crew over to Naples and from there to Catania, Sicily. 

Fischer, Sigmond M., 2Lt, navigator 

 

446th BS War Diary: Two missions are flown with a small mail call in the afternoon. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 317 

TARGET: Vado Viaduct, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944 

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

Lt. Muzinich, 447th Sqdn. led the formation. Splendid concentration in target area, with 
most bombs observed towards S end of bridge. Bridge reported out in two places before 
bombing. Another span knocked out by this formation. Pilot Nall killed, seven 
wounded. “Window” used. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. Nineteen planes 
holed. 

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS Nall, John G., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 318 

TARGET: Todi HQ and Dump, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. 446th Planes: 1 

Lt. Furey, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. Few scattered hits in target area. Possible hits 
on buildings in SE corner of area. Flak was heavy, intense, fairly accurate. Seven planes 
holed. 

Furey, Frank M., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 319 

TARGET: Todi HQ and Dump, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 1 

Lt. Russell, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. Majority of bombs in target area with 
concentration in S section. One concentration reported W of tracks in town covering a 
road junction there. Flak was heavy, moderate and fairly accurate to inaccurate. No 
fighters. 

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

 

 


Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued) 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 320 

TARGET: Pistoia and Lucia, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: Front Post Pamphlets. 446th Planes: 4 

Lt. Sampson led the formation. Pamphlets successfully dropped. Six bursts of flak, no 
fighters. 

Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: 18 of our ships participated in a raid on Vado Viaduct, L-814290, 
with Lt. Muzinich, leading the mission. A splendid concentration of bombs in target area 
in spite of heavy flak, with most bombs towards south end of bridge. The bridge was cut 
in two places before our bombing. Another span was knocked out by our formation. All 
eighteen of our ships were holed by flak. Bombing accuracy – 41 %’ Mission efficiency 
– 34 %. The following combat officers and combat enlisted men received wounds while 
participating in today’s raid on Vado Viaduct: 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones; 2nd Lt. William H. 
Wigmore; 2nd Lt. Paul H. Noe Jr.; 2nd Lt. Robert M. Jones; 2nd Lt. Edward J. Stanley’ 2nd 
Lt. Howard H. Lindell; 2nd Lt. James N. Watson; Staff Sergeant Robert W. Koecher; staff 
Sergeant Robert R. Vineski. 2nd Lt. John G. Nall, pilot; was killed in action while 
participating in the Vado Viaduct raid. The following enlisted men were assigned to this 
squadron per SO 105-321st Bombardment Group Headquarters: Sergeant Homer Leffler; 
Private David Budowsky; Private Warren E. Evans; Private Naseem J. Haik; Private 
Haskell R. Oden; Private Jack Kantrowitz; Private Edward J. Drabinski; Private First 
Class Giuseppe Congelosi; Private Jack B. Luck. Today’s training consisted of local 
transitions. 

Budowsky, David, Pvt, communications Congelosi, Giuseppe, PFC, transportation 

Drabinski, Edward J., Pvt, transportation Evans, Warren T., Pvt, transportation 

Haik, Naseem J., Pvt, duty soldier Jones, Claude F, 1Lt, bombardier 

Jones, Robert M., 2Lt, Kantrowitz, Jack, Pvt, transportation 

Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Leffler, Homer, Sgt, mess 

Lindell, Harold N., Lt, navigator Luck, Jack B., Pvt, communications 

Muzinich, Anthony L., 2Lt, pilot Nall, John G., 1Lt, pilot 

Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Oden, Haskell R., Pvt, transportation 

Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt, bombardier Vineski, Robert R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Watson, James N., 2Lt, bombardier Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 284 (423): At 09:20 18 planes off to bomb Todi 
Organization RR/sheds at Poretta Terme and dropped 136 x 500 bombs at 10:41 from 
11,000 feet. 8 bombs were not dropped because panel lights failed to work. All planes 
returned at 11:55. Area cover by Spits. Crews report majority of bombs in target area, 
concentration in S section, other bombs fell W of tracks in town covering the R/J. 
Heavy, moderate, inaccurate flak from IP and from batteries S of target. Some reports of 
brown colored puffs but no planes holed. Weather: CAVU at target. 

 

 


Friday, 7 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, during the night 
of 6/7 Jul A-20s bomb La Spezia harbor and motor transport in the area, and resume an 
attack on fuel supplies during the day; B-26s and B-25s score direct hits on railway 
bridges at Reggio Emilia, and over the Fratta River and possible hits on the Santa Maria 
di Mugnano bridge and 2 other bridges in the area; they also hit Collecchio fuel dump, 
causing many fires and explosions; fighter-bombers attack Ferrara Airfield, the town of 
Empoli, and rail lines, bridges, fuel and ammunition dumps, motor transport, and 
numerous other targets in the battle area as US Fifth Army forces complete the clearing 
of Rosignano; and a detachment of the 346th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, 
based at Pomigliano begins operating from Piombino with P-39s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron furnished 18 aircraft to bomb the Sasso railroad 
bridge, Italy. Due to an intense flak barrage, the bridge was not hit according to plan. 
Sgt. Lincoln W. Mark, and engineer-gunner, was killed by flak on the mission. Sgt. 
Mark, a quiet Chinese lad, was liked and respected by the men. A number of the combat 
crews went to the rest camps at Rome and Capri. Lt. Fischer and crew returned from 
Catania today. Captains Strenger, Wilson and a crew went on a sea search for a missing 
aircraft this afternoon. An oil slick and debris was sighted but there was no trace of the 
plane. 

Fischer, Sigmond M., 2Lt, navigator Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot Wilson, Charles B., Capt, pilot, Operations Officer 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 321 

TARGET: Fratta RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 7 July 1944 

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

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Excellent coverage of target area with concentration on N 
end and N approach of bridge. No flak, no fighters. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: One of our ships flew as spare with the 446th in a raid on Fratta 
Railroad bridge, - P-775608. Excellent coverage of target area with concentration on 
north and west approach of bridge. The bombs of one element were short of target area. 
Bombing accuracy -66 %; Mission efficiency – 84 %. Captain John M. Hamilton has 
returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy. 1st Lt. Svend P. Olson is on DS at Laredo, Texas, 
(Flexible Gunnery School) per orders of July 3rd. The following officers and enlisted 
men have been assigned to this squadron per SO 106—57th Wing: 2nd Lt. Robert J. 
Burns, pilot; 2nd Lt. Richard L. Willis, co-pilot; Staff Sergeant Gaston G. Poulin, radio-
gunner; Corporal Andrew C. Dubbs, engineer-gunner; Corporal George T. Lejman, 
armorer-gunner. The following combat officers have been promoted to the rank of 1st 
Lieutenant per orders dated July 2nd: 2nd Lt. Melville R. Bastin; 2nd Lt. Ralph T. Grimes; 
2nd Lt. William F. Heitman; 2nd Lt. Edward Krafka; 2nd Lt. Henry J. Magne; 2nd Lt. 
Wayne A. Manz; 2nd Lt. Anthony L. Muzinich; 2nd Lt. James M. Rosenbledt; 2nd Lt 


Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued) 

 

Wayne T. Rye, Jr.; 2nd Lt. Marvin L. Spruill; 2nd Lt. James A. Webb. All combat officers 
were briefed on, “Escape” at the officers club at 1845 hours by Captain Robert W. 
Manly. The combat enlisted men were also briefed by Captain Robert W. Manly, at their 
club at 1915 hours. Today’s training consisted of a six plane formation. 

Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot Burns, Robert J., 2nd Lt, pilot 

Grimes, Ralph T., 1Lt, pilot Hamilton, John M., Capt, Medical Officer 

Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Krafka, Edward, 1Lt, pilot 

Lejman, George T., Cpl, armorer-gunner Magne, Henry J., 1Lt, pilot 

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot 

Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot Olson, Svend P., 1Lt, navigator 

Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt, bombardier 

Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier 

Webb, James A., 1Lt, bombardier Willis, Richard L., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Saturday, 8 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, during the night 
of 7/8 Jul A-20s bomb areas in or near Empoli, Agliana, and Lucca, and hit fuel dumps 
the following day; medium bombers pound marshalling yards at Novi Ligure, Piacenza, 
Mantua, and Ferrara and tracks near Parma; fighter-bombers again blast railroads, roads, 
and bridges N of battleline, which is advancing N from above Cecina toward Leghorn; 
the 17th and 35th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 64th Troop Carrier Group, move from 
Comiso, Sicily to Ciampino with C-47s; and the detachment of the 416th Night Fighter 
Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing [attached to 6505th Fighter Control Area (Provisional)] 
moves from Tre Cancello Landing Strip to Tarquinia with Beaufighters (squadron is 
based at Pomigliano). 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no operational mission scheduled today but an 
extensive training schedule was in effect. Early this morning, 6 ships flew practice 
assembly. 12 ships flew on a mock mission but did not drop any bombs due to an 
overcast. There were 3 cross-country flights made. There were two mail calls today and 
the men were delighted. Supper was not held until 6:15 P.M. The menu was fresh 
lobsters, meat loaf, fresh plums, fresh tomatoes, potato salad, etc. Some USO girls ate at 
the enlisted men’s club and gave a show later at the theater. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Corporal Dudley is promoted to Sergeant. Lts. Vivas, Sitts and 
Sacker, plus EM’s Bove and Jacob go to Capri, while Lts. McRae and Jaksic and EM’s 
Maddox, Magnusson, Jupin and Holand go to Rome for a rest. 

Bove, Anthony P, T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dudley, Jasper E, Cpl, ordnance 

Holand, Ernest F., Sgt, ordnance Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC, engineer-gunner 

Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt, bombardier Jupin, John, Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Magnusson, Paul E., Sgt, engineering 

McRae, James A., 1Lt, bombardier Sacker, John R., 2Lt, pilot 

Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt, bombardier Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Mantua SW Choke Point, 
with Lt. Murray, leading our squadron. Bombs started just south of highway overpass 
and walked through choke point. Other bombs just short and east and thru M/Y – others 
over to NW. Large explosions resulting in flames and smoke in SW part of M/Y. 
Bombing accuracy – 54 %; Mission efficiency – 49 %. The following officers and 
enlisted men are at rest camp, Capri: 2nd Lt. William H. Wigmore; Staff Sergeant 
William H. Burke; Staff Sergeant Robert R. Vineski; Sergeant Robert W. Engels. The 
following officers and enlisted men are at rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Eugene R. 
Hermann; T/Sgt. Harry Nalesnik; T/Sgt. Albert V. Hanley; Sergeant Frank H. Bradbury; 
Corporal Peter P. Michelau. 

Bradbury, Frank H., Sgt, engineering Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner 

Engels, Robert W., Sgt, gunner Hanley, Albert V., T/Sgt, transportation 

Hermann, Eugene R., Capt, engineering Michelau, Peter P., Cpl, communications 


Saturday, 8 July 1944 (continued) 

 

Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Nalesnik, Harry, T/Sgt, engineering 

Vineski, Robert R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 285 (428): At 09:27 24 planes off to bomb Mantua M/Y 
S choke point and 20 planes dropped 80 x 1000 bombs at 10:56 from 10,000 feet and all 
returned at 12:10. 12 bombs were dropped due to tumbling of element leader’s gyro. 4 
bombs not dropped due to Bombardier’s error. No flak, 12 Spits escort. Crews report 
that bombs started jus S of highway overpass and walked through choke point. Other 
bombs fell in M/Y, there was a large explosion with flames and smoke to 1000 feet from 
SW part of M/Y. One ME-109 chased by escort, 2 other ME-109’s seen. Weather: 
CAVU. 

 

 


Sunday, 9 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather greatly 
curtails operations; fighter-bombers attack rail lines between Empoli and Montelupo 
Fiorentino with good results; other targets include roads, bridges and gun positions; and 
the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing (attached to 87th Fighter Wing), 
moves from Valtone to Solonzara, Corsica with Beaufighters. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled today and unsatisfactory weather 
prevented any training flights. Some of the bombardiers spent some time on the 
bombsight rate machine. Due to the shortage of bombardiers, several of the gunners are 
being “checked out” on their duties as wing bombardiers. There was a good attendance 
at church services this morning. Some packages arrived today but little mail. A wooden 
shack complete with screens replaced the small O.D. and C.Q. tent. Roast beef was 
served for supper. An active sports program took place in the evening with the men 
participating in baseball, basketball, volleyball and horseshows. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Hodges is made a 1st Lieut. 

Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: Today’s training consisted of local transition. Usual squadron 
duties. Morning report: Officers – 92; Enlisted Men – 341. 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Monday, 10 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
successfully hit marshalling yards, railroad bridges, and viaducts in NC Italy; weather 
restricts fighter-bombers and fighters but several targets are hit, including airfield at 
Modena and scattered gun positions, rail lines, and roads; HQ 27th Fighter Group and 
522nd and 523rd Fighter Squadrons move from Voltone to Serragia, Corsica with P-47s; 
and HQ 64th Troop Carrier Group and 16th and 18th Troop Carrier Squadrons move from 
Comiso, Sicily to Ciampino with C-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft for the group which bombed the 
rail viaduct at Recco, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 100 per cent. There were 3 cross-
country flights made and some of the bombardiers were checked out on the bombsight 
rate machine. Lt. Jackson, Assistant Intelligence Officer, gave a lecture on escape 
procedure to the combat crews. A large detailed map of the entire Pacific area was put up 
in the intelligence office. Some mail and packages arrived today. Beer was served in the 
evening. The movie for tonight was “Tampico” with Lynn Bari and Edward G. 
Robinson. Severe wind which whipped clouds of dust into the crowd detracted from the 
enjoyment of a good movie. 

Jackson, James O., Lt, intelligence 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 322 

TARGET: Bogliasco Viaduct, Italy (Alt) DATE: 10 July 1944 

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

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Bad weather led to bombing of alternate. Good 
concentration reported, heaviest at E end of viaduct with some bombs over, on center and 
short. Flak was heavy, scant and inaccurate. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: One of our ships participated as a spare with the 445th squadron. 
Due to cloud layers while approaching the primary target, Boccaccio Rail Bridge, the 
alternate, Recco Rail Viaduct P-135422, was bombed. Fine concentration in target area 
with majority of bombs starting at center of viaduct and going west. Other hits in east 
and on approach with a few short in water. Bombing accuracy – 96 %; Mission 
efficiency – 22 %. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest 
camp, Capri: Capt. W.H. Whitton; 1st Lt. M.L. Spruill; 1st Lt. J.F. McGill; 1st Lt. I.E. 
Dean; T/Sgt. A.W. Chatters; Staff Sergeant C.M. Richards. Today’s training consisted of 
a 10 ship formation practice and local transition. 

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

McGill, James F., 1Lt, Adjutant Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt, turret-gunner 

Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier Whitten, Walter H., Jr., Capt, armament 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 


Tuesday, 11 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72d 
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), arrives at Santa Maria, Italy 
from Oran, Algeria with L-5s (first mission is in Aug 44). In Italy, weather again 
hampers operations; medium bombers attack a marshalling yard at Alessandria, hit an 
approach to a railroad bridge at Chiavari, and score near misses on other bridges; fighter-
bombers hit an airfield at Rimini and attack fuel dumps, rail lines, gun positions, bridges, 
and targets of opportunity N of the battleline as the US Fifth Army engages in hard 
fighting in the Pastina and Laiatico area; the 5th Combat Mapping Squadron, 3rd 
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Viterbo to Borgo, Corsica with F-5s; 
and the 526th Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Group, moves from Orbetello to Poretta, 
Corsica with P-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 3 spares for the mission which attacked the 
Alessandria marshalling yards, Italy. Another day of extensive training. Six ships flew 
practice assembly, four more went out on the bombing range, there were 3 transitions 
flights and one to swing the compass. The personnel tent has been replaced with a 
screened-in wooden shack. Sgt. Stanford, the carpenter, is the one responsible for the 
excellent buildings around the area. Some mail arrived today. Roast beef was served for 
supper. A number of the men are finally getting wooden floors. 

Stanford, Hirman P., Sgt, Carpenter 

 

446th BS War Diary: Sergeants Holtzclaw and Langan are reported to be POW. 

Holtzclaw, James R., S/Sgt, gunner Langan, Charles H., Sgt, gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 323 

TARGET: Alessandria M/Y, Italy. DATE: 11 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. and 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 17 

Captain Cooper led the Formation. Three concentrations of bombs reported. One at N 
choke point and at E end of RR bridge, another starting at engine sheds center of M/Y 
and across tracks into N central part of town, the third short and across choke point 
around highway overpass. Other bombs were scattered about. Several fires and one 
explosion observed in M/Y. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Wojcik returned early. 

Cooper, Paul T., Capt, pilot Wojcik, Walter, 2Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: 17 of our ships participated in a raid on Alessandria, M/Ys, with 
Lt. Murray, leading the mission. Three concentration of bombs, one at North Choke 
Point, and at East end of Railroad Bridge. Another starting at engine sheds in center of 
M/Ys and across tracks into north central part of town. The third was short and across 
east choke point around. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest 
camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. E.R. Hermann; T/Sgt. Harry Nalesnik; T/Sgt. A.V. Hanley; 
Sgt. F.H. Bradbury; Cpl. Peter P. Michelau. Captain Robert W. Manly has been 
appointed squadron voting officer. The following officers and enlisted men have 
departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Robert W. Manly; 1st Lt. John J. Thomas; 

 


Tuesday, 11 July 1944 (continued) 

 

S/Sgt. Edward H. Jampsa; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler; Sgt. David Jaffe; Pfc. John C. 
Jablonsky. 

Bradbury, Frank H., Sgt, engineering Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner 

Hanley, Albert V., T/Sgt, transportation Hermann, Eugene R., Capt, engineering 

Jablonsky, John C., PFC, engineering Jaffe, David, Sgt, communications 

Jampsa, Edward H., S/Sgt, armament Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence 

Michelau, Peter P., Cpl, communications Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

Nalesnik, Harry, T/Sgt, engineering Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 286 (431): At 08:23 52 planes off to bomb Alessandria 
M/Y and 46 dropped 318 x 500 and 24 x 1000 bombs at 10:08 from 10,000 feet. 3 planes 
did not drop because of Bombardier’s error, 3 other planes returned bombs because of 
malfunction of bomb sight. No flak was fired at formation and all planes down at 11:15. 
Crews report one concentration of bombs on N choke point and E end of RR/B. Another 
string started at Center of M/Y and across tracks into N central part of town, another 
pattern fell short and across E choke point and highway overpass. Hits were observed 
along W side of M/Y in maintenance yard and in engine sheds. Some bombs fell in town 
and explosions and fires were seen. Weather: CAVU over target. 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 12 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s bomb 
scattered motor transport in the Florence-Leghorn area during the night of 11/12 Jul; 
medium bombers begin Operation MALLORY MAJOR against road and rail bridges 
over the Po River during the day; A-20s continue attacking ammunition supplies; fighter-
bombers hit barges and small boats on the Arno River and attack roads, ammunition 
dumps, gun positions, tracks, vehicles, and a number of other targets in that general area 
N of the battleline; HQ 86th Fighter Group and the 525th and 527th Fighter Squadrons 
move from Orbetello to Poretta, Corsica with P-47s; and the 86th Bombardment Squadron 
(Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), moves from Ombrone Airfield to Poretta, 
Corsica with A-20s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron sent out 18 aircraft to join the formation which 
bombed the Ostiglia road and railroad bridge, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 100 per 
cent. Lt. Joseph M. Manske was appointed Squadron Engineering Officer. There were 
four cross country flights today. Several officers from the squadron attended a party for 
Major Larson, formerly a navigator for this squadron. In the course of the night’s 
proceedings, Capt. Nickerson upset the dope by throwing Capt. Strenger in a wrestling 
match. 

Larson, Harold W., Maj, navigator Manske, Joseph M., 2Lt, Engineering 

Nickerson, James E., Capt, intelligence Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular routine. A small mail call. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 324 

TARGET: Ostiglia Rd. and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 12 July 1944 

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

Lt. Furey, 448th Sqdn. led the formation. Heaviest concentration of bombs reported on 
SW end and approach to target, with several reports of strings across center and a few to 
NE end and approach. Several direct hits on target. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. 
One plane holed no fighters. 

Furey, Frank M., 2Lt, pilot, 448 BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: One of our ships participated in a raid on Ostiglia Road and 
Railroad Bridge, F-745114 as spare with the 448th squadron. Heavy concentration of 
bombs on SW end and approach to target with several strings across center and a few on 
NE end and approach. Several direct hits and a few bombs in town area both to NW and 
SW. Bombing accuracy – 76 %; Mission efficiency – 76 %. Cpl. James T. McGinty has 
been relieved of assignment and transferred to Personnel Center No.6, for transshipment 
to the United States. Today’s training consisted of a test hop. 

McGinty, James T., Jr., Cpl, transportation 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 12 July 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 287 (432): At 08:40 38 planes off to bomb Ostiglia R 
and RR/B and 34 dropped 136 x 1000 SAP bombs at 10:27 from 10,000 feet. Four 
planes did not drop due to Bombardier’s error. All planes returned at 11:27. Heavy, 
scant and inaccurate flak, no planes holed. Crews report strings of bombs across SW 
portion of bridge and approach, fotos show direct hit on N end of bridge and good 
concentration on S with probable hits. Smoke pots were used to obscure the target. 
Weather: CAVU at target. 

 

 


Thursday, 13 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
again bomb bridges in the Po River Valley; A-20s hit an ammunition plant; and fighter-
bombers attack targets, mainly railroads, in areas N of the Arno River in advance of the 
battlefront. On Corsica, HQ 87th Fighter Wing moves from Vescovato to Furiani; and the 
524th Fighter Squadron, 27th Fighter Group, moves from Voltone, Italy to Serragia with 
P-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one plane for the first mission which 
attacked the Sermide Pontoon Bridge, Italy. In the second mission, 13 planes from the 
squadron joined the formation which hit the Ostiglia road and railroad bridge, Italy with a 
bombing accuracy of 72 per cent. Four ships went to the bombing range, there were 2 
transition flights and one cross-country. Some of the bombardiers spent some more time 
on the bombsight rate machine. Mail continues to come in very slowly and many of the 
men are complaining. 

 

446th BS War Diary: A large number of our ships go on a mission at 0830 hours but 
poor visibility obscures the target. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 325 

TARGET: Ficarolo Pontoon Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 13 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: Double load of 100 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 17 

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Strings across both approaches with possible direct hits on 
SW and SE ends of bridge. Some bombs in town SW of bridge. One direct hit in center 
of bridge, and several E of center. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Hively returned early. 

Hively, Harold H., 2Lt, pilot Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: 15 of our ships participated n a raid on the Sermide Pontoon 
Bridge, F-869065, with Lt. Murray leading the mission. One concentration north of 
center of bridge which severed it in several places. Another concentration south and west 
of target on land and in water – some over to east. Bombing accuracy – 70 %; Mission 
efficiency – 70 %. The following officers and enlisted have departed for rest camp, 
Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. William H. Martin; Staff Sergeant Jordon L. Bushnell; Staff Sergeant 
Robert W. Koecher; Staff Sergeant Arthur Schwartz; Technical Sergeant Roy J. Dodds. 
Today’s training consisted of a test hop logging one hour. 

Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner Dodds, Roy J., T/Sgt, mess 

Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot 

Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Schwartz, Arthur, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 288 (433): At 08:38 19 planes off to bomb Sermide 
pontoon R/B. They dropped 380 x 100 bombs at 10:18 from 10,000 feet, all returned at 
11:22. No flak, no E/A. Crews report concentration of bombs N of center of bridge 
severed it several places. Gap of 150 to 200 feet seen. Smoke pots were in operation 
over large areas. Weather: CAVU. 

 




Thursday, 13 July 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 289 (436): At 17:00 25 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B 
and dropped 140 x 1000 SAP bombs at 18:37 from 10,000 feet and all returned at 19:48. 
Heavy, scant and inaccurate flak, no planes holed. Formation bombed thru ineffective 
smoke screens but crews report good concentration on center of bridge with two or three 
direct hits observe red. Bombs cut SW approach. Empty life raft seen 15 miles N of 
Bastia. Weather: CAVU at target. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Friday, 14 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
concentrate on Po River Valley bridges; 600 feet (183 m) (2 center spans) of the Taglio di 
Po road bridge and 1 span of the Piacenza rail bridge are destroyed, and damaging hits 
are scored on the Corbola road and railroad bridges; fighter-bombers again hit gun 
positions and lines of communication in and N of the battle areas while light bombers 
attack supplies; HQ XII Fighter Command moves from Algiers, Algeria to Caserta; HQ 
3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance) and 23rd Photographic Reconnaissance 
Squadron move from Viterbo and Alghero, Sardinia respectively to Borgo, Corsica with 
F-5s; and the detachment of the 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd 
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance) moves from Follonica to Cecina with F-5s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron furnished 13 planes to bomb the Taglio road bridge, 
Italy with a bombing accuracy of 75 per cent. A second mission was scheduled but the 
“stand down” order came in early afternoon. Sgt. Fitzgerald, veteran bombardier, left the 
squadron for furlough in the States. There were two test flights and one cross-country 
flight made. A plane went to Rome taking men for the rest camp there. It was a very hot 
day today. An RAF band put on an excellent show for the men at night. It was 
thoroughly enjoyed by one and all who rather anticipated an ordinary show. 

Fitzgerald, Daniel J., Sgt, bombardier, gunner 

 

446th BS War Diary: The squadron has two big promotions on this date. The 
commanding officer, Captain Paul T. Cooper, is made Major. Also, to be a major is 
Captain Javornisky, one of the original ground officers of the 446th. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander Javornisky, John, Jr., Maj, Executive 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 326 

TARGET: Borgoforte RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 14 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 13 

Captain Kerr led the formation. Turned back due to 10/10 overcast. Flak was heavy, 
scant inaccurate. 

Kerr, John C., Capt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte RR Bridge, (F-
445113) with Lt. Banks leading the mission, but due to an overcast of 10/10 at L-2080, 
the mission was not completed. The following officers and enlisted men have returned 
from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Robert W. Manly; 1st Lt. John J. Thomas; S/Sgt. 
Edward H. Jampsa; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler; Sgt. David Jaffe; PFC. John C. Jablonsky. 
The following officers and enlisted men have returned from DS. Cairo, Egypt: 1st Lt. 
Robert E. Thomas; 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; S/Sgt. Clint R., Collins; T/Sgt. Robert W. 
Harman. 

Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt, pilot Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner 

Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Jablonsky, John C., PFC, engineering Jaffe, David, Sgt, communications 

Jampsa, Edward H., S/Sgt, armament Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence 


Friday, 14 July 1944 (continued) 

 

Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt, bombardier Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot 

Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt, navigator 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 290 (437): At 09:26 26 planes off to bomb Taglio R/B 
and dropped 100 x 1000 bombs at 11:20 from 10,500 feet. One plane returned bombs 
because of switch malfunction. All returned at 13:20. Heavy, moderate, accurate flak 
from Rimini holed 5 planes. Fotos show two center spans knocked out by excellent 
concentration. Weather: 2/10th Cumulus at target. 

 

 

 

 


Saturday, 15 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, the medium 
bomber campaign against Po River Valley bridges (Operation MALLORY MAJOR) 
reaches a successful conclusion (though the interdiction program against the bridges is 
subsequently continued on an expanded scale) as most of the rail and road bridges in the 
target area are destroyed or severely damaged by previous attacks and raids which struck 
bridges at Bozzolo, Desenzano de Garda, Cremona, Borgoforte, Ostiglia, Polesella, 
Sermide, Ferrara, Aulla, Filattiera, Ficarolo, and Chiavari and the marshalling yard at 
Villafranca di Verona; fighter-bombers attack road bridges N of the battleline and hit gun 
positions, roads, motor transport, and other targets, while supporting ground forces 
slowly advancing N along a line extending E from the coast below Leghorn; the 12th 
Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), 
moves from Voltone to Follonica with F-5s (a detachment is operating from Cecina); the 
84th, 85th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light), 
move from Ombrone Airfield to Poretta Airfield, Corsica with A-20s; and the 314th 
Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Castro to Corsica with P-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: In the first mission, the squadron sent 18 aircraft into the 
formation which attacked the Ostiglia road and rail bridge, Italy, bombing it with an 
accuracy of 75 per cent. In the second mission, 7 planes were sent from the squadron on 
the mission sent to attack the same target this time with a bombing accuracy of 58-%. 
Luxury rations were distributed today. They included 3 bottles of Piel’s beer which, 
needless to say, were enjoyed by one and all. The men enjoyed a very good movie 
tonight, “True to Life” with Dick Powell and Mary Martin. 

 

446th BS War Diary: More travelers go to Rome. Two missions are flown. Lt. Kinney 
goes to the states. 

Kinney, John H., 2Lt, navigator 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 327 

TARGET: Borgoforte RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 15 July 1944 

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

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Concentration of bombs in target area. Strings seen 
through N and S ends of bridge as well as center. Other bombs to S of center. Flak was 
heavy, moderate and inaccurate. Twelve planes holed, one crewman injured. No 
fighters. Lt. Burandt and Lt. Hipson returned early. 

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot Hipson, Robert G., 1Lt, pilot 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 328 

TARGET: Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 15 July 1944 

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

Lt. Hatcher led the formation. Good concentration of bombs across center of bridge. 
Direct hits reported on middle span. Some bombs to E approach and in town S of bridge. 
Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate. Hatcher, James T., 2Lt, pilot 




Saturday, 15 July 1944 (continued) 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 329 

TARGET: Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 15 July 1944 

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

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Some bombs short S of SW approach, some in center of 
bridge, some over N of NE approach. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate to 
accurate. Lt. Mickel did not take-off. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot Mickel Alan T., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte Rail Bridge, 
with Lt. Banks, leading the squadron. Good concentration of bombs in target area. 
String thru north and south ends of bridge. Other bombs to south of bridge. Bombing 
accuracy- 100 %; Mission efficiency – 67 %. One of our ships flew as a spare with the 
448th squadron in a raid on the Sermide Pontoon Bridge. A concentration of bombs hit 
the north approach and south end and approach. Some bombs to east in water. Bombing 
accuracy – 88 %; Mission efficiency – 84 %. Six of our ships participated in a raid on the 
Chiavari RR Bridge, (P-283356). With Lt. Muzinich, leading the Squadron. Good 
concentration of bombs on west end and west approach. One Cluster over and cutting 
road north of target and west of road bridge. Bombing accuracy 100%; Mission 
efficiency – 100 %. Usual squadron duties. 

Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt, pilot Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 291 (440): At 07:51 15 planes off to bomb Sermide R/B 
and dropped 84 x 1000 SAP bombs at 09:20 from 10,000 feet. One plane did not drop 
due to mechanical failure. Heavy, moderate, accurate flak all along route from IP. 12 
planes holed and one crew member injured. Good concentration of bombs in target area 
with possible hits on S end of bridge and on N and S approaches, smoke pots again seen. 
Crews reported seeing two gaps of 100 feet each in target before bombing. Weather: 
CAVU at target. 

 

 

 

 


Sunday, 16 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
hit bridges in the Po River Valley at Peschiera del Garda, Mantua, Torre Beretti, 
Piacenza, Casale Monferrato, and Bressana Bottarone; fighter-bombers hit railroads and a 
bridge just N of the battleline as US Fifth Army forces take territory SE of Leghorn and 
push to within sight of the Arno River Valley; British Eighth Army elements take Arezzo 
and thrust through to the Arno River. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron sent 9 aircraft on the mission which attacked the 
Mantua southeast railroad bridge with a bombing accuracy of 80 per cent. Some of the 
combat crews were sent to the rest camp at the Isle of Capri. There were 3 local flights 
and two cross-country trips made. Some of the bombardiers sharpened their eyes on the 
bomb trainer while another one spent some time on the bombsight rate machine. Lt. 
Fisher, a pilot, was name as Assistant Mess Officer. 

Fisher, James B., Jr., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown. A small amount of mail is called. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 330 

TARGET: Peschiera RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 16 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th Planes: 8 

Lt. Wiginton, 447th Sqdn. led the formation. Embankment at E approach and the E half 
of bridge hit with good concentration. Both reported cut. No flak, no fighters. Lt. 
Burandt did not take-off. 

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: Ten of our ships participated in a raid on the Peschiera RR Bridge, 
with Lt. Wiginton leading the squadron. The embankment at east approach and the east 
half of the bridge hit with good concentration – bridge and embankment cut. Bombing 
accuracy- 100 %; Mission efficiency – 100 %. The following officers and enlisted men 
have departed rest Camp, Capri: 1st Lt. H.J. Magne’ 1st Lt. J.R. Gillies; Sgt. Clifford A. 
Rose; Sgt. L.E. Sheppard. Morning report: Officers – 92; Enlisted Men- 339. With a 
final score of 4 to 3 our baseball team lost the game with the 409 Bty Co. A. Today’s 
training consisted of local transition. 

Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot Magne, Henry J., 1Lt, pilot 

Rose, Clifford A., Sgt, gunner Sheppard, L. E., Sgt, gunner 

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 292 (441): At 17:11 25 planes off to bomb Ostiglia 
RR/B. Formation became separated due to clouds enroute and 13 planes dropped 49 x 
1000 bombs at primary at 18:55 from 11,000 feet and returned at 19:45. 12 planes 
dropped 48 x 1000 bombs on alternate target of Chiavari RR/B at 19:00 hours from 
11,000 feet. Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate flak at primary, no flak at alternate, chaff 
used. Good results on center of primary with several direct hits scored. Concentration on 

 


Sunday, 16 July 1944 (continued) 

 

W end and approach of alternate with direct hits observed. Road N of target hit. 
Weather: Scattered Cumulus. 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 293 (443): At 08:25 19 planes off to bomb Mantua RR/B 
and dropped 74 x 1000 bombs at 10:40 from 11,000 feet. Two bombs were returned due 
to malfunction. Heavy, scant inaccurate flak from Ostiglia. All planes returned at 12:10. 
Fotos show all bombs in target area, bridge well hit in center and W portion, smoke pots 
again used. Weather: CAVU at target. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Monday, 17 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
concentrate on Po River Valley bridges, hitting road and rail bridges and viaducts at or 
near Alessandria, Ostiglia, Bogliasco, Borgoforte, Moline, Imperia, Asti, Mollere, and 
Casale Monferrato; fighter-bombers continue to hit targets N of the battle area, 
concentrating on bridges and rail lines, while US Fifth Army elements take Luciana, and 
reach the Arno River Valley, but make little progress toward Leghorn; British Eighth 
Army forces pursue the enemy toward Florence. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today and it was this 
squadron’s day fro training. Six ships practiced assembly, six more ships made practice 
formation flights and three ships went to the bombing range. There were 4 cross-country 
flights made. Some of the bombardiers practiced on the bombsight rate machine. Six of 
the enlisted gunners received promotions. Two flying officers returned from the Capri 
rest camp. 

 

446th BS War Diary: A mission bombs vital railroad bridge in northern Italy. Lt. 
Dulaney is assigned to the squadron as assistant Engineering Officer. 

Dulaney, Fred H., 2Lt, engineering 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 331 

TARGET: Bogliasco RR Viaduct, Italy (Alt) DATE: 17 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 13 

Major Cooper led the formation. First six planes of second flight concentrated bombs in 
center of bridge. Second six brought bombs back. First flight bombs hit to E and N of 
target. Three aircraft first flight brought bombs back. Flak was heavy, scant and out of 
range. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander 

 

447th BS War Diary: 12 of our ships participated in a raid on the alternate target for the 
day, Bogliasco RR Viaduct, P-075443, with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Good 
concentration of bombs in target area scoring several direct hits. Weather conditions 
prevent attack on primary. Ostiglia RR and Road Bridge F-745114. Bombing accuracy-
100 %; Mission efficiency- 50 %. 1st Lt. John Windler, promoted to the rank of Captain, 
per SO. 196 Hq. Natusa. F/O Joe W. Gould, promoted to the rank of 2nd Lt., per letter 
from 12th AAF. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, 
Italy: Capt. G.A. Cloward; 2nd Lt. R.M. James; S/Sgt. F.X. Burke; Sgt. F.J. Corbo; Cpl. 
W.J. Meehan; Pvt. J.B. Shields. The following officers and enlisted men returned from 
rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; T/Sgt R.J. Dodds; S/Sgt. J.L. Bushnell; 
S/Sgt. R.W. Koecher; S/Sgt. A. Schwartz. Today’s training consisted of local transition 
and practice bombing. 

Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot Burke, Francis X., S/Sgt, supply 

Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner Cloward, Glannin A., Capt, pilot 

Corbo, Fred J., Sgt, transportation Dodds, Roy J., T/Sgt, mess 

Gould, Joe W., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator James, Robert M, Lt, bombardier 


Monday, 17 July 1944 (continued) 

 

Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot 

Meehan, William J., Cpl, armament Schwartz, Arthur, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Shields, James B., Pvt, radio-gunner Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Tuesday, 18 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s bomb a 
road junction S of Campi and Sarzana and attack the La Spezia area during the night of 
17/18 Jul; during the day bad weather cancels medium bomber missions; fighter-
bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit several bridges, roads, rail lines, and other 
communication targets and guns N of and in the battle area as US Fifth Army forces 
reach Leghorn. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was a stand by at 1430 today but the mission was cancelled 
right after noon chow. As soon as the mission is scheduled, the combat crews invariably 
take off for the beach and the mountains for swimming. A truck is provided for them 
every day. Five of the enlisted combat crews were sent to the Sates on permanent 
rotation. Two test flights were made, 3 planes did some formation flying and there were 
two cross-country flights made. More of the bombardiers spent some time on the bomb 
trainer and the rate machine. This is a daily occurrence these days and the bombardiers 
are getting plenty of practice. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lts. Hawkes, Chudars, Mayo and EM’s Moore, Sweedler, Heery 
and McArdle go to Cairo. 

Chudars, James E., 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 

Heery, Philip M., Sgt, gunner Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt, bombardier 

McArdle, Harry E., T/Sgt, gunner 

Moore, Howard M., Sgt, engineering or Moore, Roy E., Sgt, engineering 

Sweedler, Max, T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. T/Sgt. Arthur R. 
Kammerlohr, was transferred to headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group per SO. # 113 
dated July 17th. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing mission to Sardinia and 
local transition. 

Kammerlohr, Arthur R., T/Sgt, personnel 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 19 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather again 
restricts medium bomber operations, but in the late afternoon B-26s hit bridges at 
Piacenza and Ostiglia; B-25s bomb a bridge at Sassuolo; fighter-bombers are limited to a 
few railroad targets as the US Fifth Army takes Leghorn and moves N; HQ 64th Fighter 
Wing moves from Orbetello to Santa Maria di Capua; and HQ Fighter Group and the 
315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons move from Montalto di Castro to Corsica with P-47s. 
The 347th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Sardinia with P-
39s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 19 aircraft for the mission which was 
incomplete due to weather conditions. There was another stand by at 1400 but the 
weather remained unsatisfactory and the mission was cancelled. Six bombardiers spent 
one-half hour each on the rate machine. There was practice formation flying, transition 
flights and several cross-country flights. The men are taking good advantage of the 
basketball and volley ball courts. After playing vigorously at each sport, most of the men 
usually proceed to the shower in the area to clean up. The situation is ideal except when 
the water supply is exhausted. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 332 

TARGET: Genoa Area, Italy DATE: 19 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th Planes: 2 

Lt. Burandt led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed. Flak was moderate to 
intense, fairly accurate. 

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Two of our plane participated in a successful nickeling mission 
over the Genoa Area. The following officers and enlisted men have been relieved of 
assignment and transferred on rotation to Personnel Center No.6, for transshipment to the 
United States, per letter from the 12th AAF: T/Sgt. Robert W. Harman; S/Sgt. J.H. Grant; 
S/Sgt. C.R. Collins; Today’s training consisted of practice bombing. 

Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner Grant, James H., S/Sgt, gunner 

Harman, Robert W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Thursday, 20 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): The XII Air Force 
Training and Replacement Command is disbanded in Algeria. In Italy, medium bombers 
continue to pound Po River Valley bridges in or near Ostiglia, Parma, Mantua, Ferrara, 
and Alessandria; fighter-bombers again hit targets N of the battle area, concentrating on 
rail lines and destroying or damaging a large number of railroad cars as US Fifth Army 
forces push to a point SE of Pisa. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 13 aircraft to bomb the Ostiglia road and 
railroad bridge, Italy. This target was not hit well, but the alternate target – the Parma 
railroad bridge was well hit. Capt. McLain from this squadron led the mission. 
“Mississippi Gambler II”, one of the squadron’s oldest ships, crash-landed at Foggia but 
no one was seriously injured. Old 434 was crewed by Sgt. LeMaster and one of its 
engines had already broken a group record for number of combat hours and was headed 
for a wing record when its career ended. More combat crews went to the Rome rest 
camp. There was more of the extensive training program today. 

LeMaster, James W., Sgt, engineering McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lts. Dickson and Phillips return from the states while Sgt. Dieden 
and Corporal Bass leave for home. 

Bass, Charles L., Cpl, gunner Dickson, Gale M., 2Lt, pilot 

Dieden, Clarence R., Sgt, engineering Phillips, Lowell G., 1Lt, navigator 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: 10 of our ships participated in a raid on, Parma East RR Bridge, L-
176821 with Lt. Murray leading the squadron. Good concentration of bombs in target 
area- bridge well hit. Bombing accuracy – 90 %; Mission efficiency- 75 %. The 
following enlisted men have been relieved of assignment and transferred to Personnel 
Center No. 6 for transshipment to the United States per letter from the 12th AAF: T/Sgt. 
S.J. T/Sgt Samuels; Cpl. J.P. Biel: The following officers and enlisted men have 
departed forrest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. J.W. Windler; S/Sgt. Andrew Pelak; S/Sgt. N.F. 
LaFountain; S/Sgt J.F. Toole; Sgt. T.J. Condon. Sgt. G.W. Curry, Pvt. W.A. Caston, are 
on DS at headquarters-321st Bombardment Group. The following officers are on DS 
Foggia Italy: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; 1st Lt J.J. Thomas; 2nd Lt. E.R. Haynes; 2nd Lt. N.J. 
Lundmark. A congratulatory message, for the excellent bombing results on the last four 
mission, was extended to this squadron by Captain T.C. Bounds, Command Officer. 

Biel, John P., Cpl, armament Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander 

Caston, William A., Sr., Pvt, communications Condon, Thomas J., Sgt, transportation 

Currey, George W., Sgt, communications Haynes, Eldon R., 2Lt, pilot 

LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt, gunner Lundmark, Norman J., 2Lt, bombardier 

Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

Pelak, Andrew, S/Sgt, radio-gunner Samuels, Sam J., T/Sgt, ordnance 

Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot Toole, John F., S/Sgt, gunner 

Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier 


Thursday, 20 July 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 294 (446): at 16:52 36 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B 
and 12 planes dropped 48 x 1000 bombs on primary target at 18:48 from 10,500 feet. 
Bridge was not hit, possible hits on N approach. 12 planes did not drop due to failure to 
identify target thru clouds. 12 planes dropped 40 x 1000 bombs on alternate target of 
Parma E RR/bridge direct hits were scored and all planes returned at 20:10. Heavy, 
intense, accurate flak from primary, 8 planes holed. Weather: Haze with 3/10th cover. 

 

 


Friday, 21 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels 
medium bomber operations; A-20s hit a supply dump while fighter-bombers attack rail 
and road bridges in the Po Valley and hit rail lines N of the battleline which is pushing 
into the Arno River Valley SE of Pisa; and the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, 
XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Follonica to Borgo, Corsica with F-6s (a 
detachment moves to Santa Maria). 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron had 13 crews standing by for the mission which was 
finally cancelled just before noon chow. There were three transition flights made, two 
test hops and three cross-country flights. Sgts. Woogerd and Irving returned to the 
squadron today. They were the first combat crew members to return to the squadron 
from the 30 day furlough to the States. Both boys were well quizzed on the conditions 
back home. They enjoyed their stay of course but both stated that they were glad to be 
back in the “old” outfit after sampling some of the rules set down by the “PX soldiers” 
back in the training camps. 

Irving, Ralph D., S/Sgt, gunner Woogerd, Warren G., T/Sgt, radio gunner 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Hodges goes on DS to XII Air Force. 

Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following officers and 
enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Capri: 2nd Lt. W.H. Wigmore; S/Sgt. W.H. 
Burke; S/Sgt. R.R. Vineski; Sgt. R.W. Engels; The following officers and enlisted men 
have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. G.A. Cloward; 2nd Lt. R.M. James; 
S/Sgt. F.X. Burke; Sgt. F.J. Corbo; Cpl. W.J. Meehan; Pvt. J.B. Shields. A social 
gathering took place this evening at the E/M club. Sandwiches were served and the bar 
did a rushing business. Music for the occasion was furnished by, “Doc” Smith, and his 
boys. Today’s training consisted of a local test hop. 

Burke, Francis X., S/Sgt, supply Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner 

Cloward, Glannin A., Capt, pilot Corbo, Fred J., Sgt, transportation 

Engels, Robert W., Sgt, gunner James, Robert M, Lt, bombardier 

Meehan, William J., Cpl, armament Shields, James B., Pvt, radio-gunner 

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

Vineski, Robert R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Saturday, 22 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather again 
curtails operations; during night and day operations A-20s carry out armed 
reconnaissance of the Lucca, Florence, Genoa, and Milan areas, bombing scattered motor 
transport, and attack munitions factory; B-25s bomb bridges at Ronco Scrivia and Cogoli; 
fighter-bombers hit roads, railroads, bridges, gun positions, trains, and vehicles in and N 
of the battle area, and strafe aircraft at Bergamo Airfield. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no combat mission today. Lt. Groh returned to the 
squadron today on crutches. He was the pilot who brought a badly crippled B-25 back to 
friendly territory to allow his crew to bail out safely. He also baled out last and received 
a fractured leg, his plane crashing in Ghisonaccia. He is expected to return to the zone of 
the interior soon. Luxury rations were distributed today including 3 bottles of beer. Six 
of the flying officers were promoted to 1st Lieutenant. Some mail arrived today. The 
movie “Destination Tokyo” was enjoyed by all at night but strong winds which swept up 
huge clouds of dust detracted somewhat from the show. 

Groh, Sheldon R., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Sergeant Napoliello gets his orders to return to the states. Second 
Lieutenants Fontaine, Forsberg, Gibbons, Hively, Hughes, Sacker and Wojcik are made 
1st Lieutenants. 

Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt, bombardier 

Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot Hively, Harold H., 1Lt, pilot 

Hughes, John J., 1Lt, bombardier Napoliello, Felix, Sgt, gunner 

Sacker, John R., 1Lt, pilot Wojcik, Walter, 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. 2nd Lt. E.R. Haynes and 2nd 
Lt. J.N. Watson, appointed to 1st Lt. per SO # 184, 12th AAF. A baseball game with the 
final score 5 to 3 in favor of the 57th Wing, was played this evening at our field. The 
following officers have been promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per SO # 179, 12th AAF.: 2nd 
C.B. Christian; 2nd Lt. W.E. Kibler; 2nd Lt. H.N. Lindell; 2nd Lt. W.E. Manley; 2nd Lt. N.J. 
Lundmark; 2nd Lt. E. J. Stanley. Six of our plane flew a practice mission formation and 
local transition. 

Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt, pilot Haynes, Eldon R., 1Lt, pilot 

Kibler, William E., 1Lt, pilot Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator 

Lundmark, Norman J., 1Lt, bombardier Manley, Ward E., 1Lt, pilot 

Stanley, Edward J., 1Lt, bombardier Watson, James N., 1Lt, bombardier 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 295 (447): At 17:00 19 planes off to bomb Acquasanta 
RR/B but clouds interfered with bomb run at primary and therefore target was not 
bombed. 7 planes dropped 28 x 1000 bombs on alternate of Cogoli RR/B. 12 planes did 
not bomb due to Bombardier’s error. All returned at 19:40. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate 
flak from Genoa holed 3 ships. Crews report good concentration on alternate target with 
strings across center and W approach. Some bursts on E section of bridge. Weather: 
CAVU at alternate, turbulent winds at 8,000 feet. 


Sunday, 23 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s bomb and 
strafe motor transport in the Po River Valley during the night of 22/23 Jul; B-25s and B-
26s hit bridges and bridge approaches in the Valley, at or near Antoniassi, Acqui, Molare, 
Ferrara, Ostiglia, Borgoforte, and Cervo; fighter-bombers, operating in small numbers, 
hit communication lines between the battle area (along the Pisa-Florence line) and the Po 
River Valley; and the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing (attached to the 
87th Fighter Wing), based at Solonzara, Corsica with Beaufighters, sends a detachment to 
operate from Piombino. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The strong wings abated today for which all personnel were 
thankful. The squadron did not fly a mission today although one ship went on a weather 
reconnaissance mission in the Spezia area. There was to be an inspection by a Major 
General today but he did not appear. He was reported to be from Washington and the 
area was policed up in very good fashion. More mail arrived today and there was a big 
night n the club tonight. 

 

446th BS War Diary: July 23 and 24: Lt. Brickner rejoins the squadron from Italy. 
Regular duties. 

Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 333 

TARGET: Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, Italy DATE: 23 July 1944 

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

Major Cooper led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area, particularly on 
both ends of the bridge. One string went through center. Some bombs were W of bridge. 
Flak was heavy, intense and accurate, tracking type. 18 planes holed, 9 crewmen 
wounded. Lt. Vannah was hit in arm by flak. No fighters. Lt. Mickel landed at Borgo 
with bad engine and flat tire. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander Mickel Alan T., 1Lt, pilot 

Vannah, Harold B., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier 

 

447th BS War Diary: 9 of our ships participated in a raid on Ostiglia Road and RR 
Bridge, F-745114, with Lt. Banks leading the squadron. Excellent concentration of 
bombs in target area particularly on both ends of bridge with one string thru center of 
bridge. Some bombs west of bridge in water. Due to heavy, intense and accurate flak all 
of our ships were holed, and eight officers and one enlisted man received wounds. 
Bombing accuracy-83 %; Mission efficiency – 60 %. The following officers and enlisted 
men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. E. Krafka; 1st Lt. W.A. Manz; S/Sgt. 
P.L. Free; S/Sgt. R. Mitchell. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest 

Camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. J.H. Windler; S/Sgt. A. Pelak; S/Sgt. N.F. LaFountain; S/Sgt. 
J.F. Toole; Sgt. T.J. Condon. The following officers and enlisted men are on DS 12th Air 
Force to attend a special school for advanced combat training: 1st Lt. W.C. Huffman; 1st 
Lt W.F. Heitman; 1st Lt. R.E. Murray; T/Sgt. W.J. Bilski; T/Sgt. R.J. Valeri; S/Sgt. H.E. 
Fowler; Sgt. R.C. Dawson. The following officers and enlisted men received wounds 


Sunday, 23 July 1944 (continued) 

 

while participating on the Ostiglia Bridge Raid: 1st Lt. S.E. Anderson; 2nd Lt. P.W. Noe 
(SWA); 2nd Lt. S.J. Wiechert, (SWA); 1st Lt. W.E. Neiman,(LWA); 1st Lt. M.K. 
Matthewson, (LWA); 1st Lt. H.J. Banks, (LWA); 2nd Lt. R.J. Woods, (LWA); 2nd Lt. R.T. 

Cunningham, (LWA); T/Sgt. L.G. Hubert, (LWA). Morning report: Officers- 92, 
Enlisted Men – 333. 

Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt, bombardier Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt, pilot 

Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Condon, Thomas J., Sgt, transportation 

Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt, pilot Dawson, Rob C., Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Free, Paul L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Hubert L G., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier Krafka, Edward, 1Lt, pilot 

LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt, gunner Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot 

Matthewson, Merton K., 1Lt, navigator Mitchell, Rennie, S/Sgt, gunner 

Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Neiman, William E., 2Lt, pilot 

Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Pelak, Andrew, S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Toole, John F., S/Sgt, gunner Valeri, Ramo J., T/Sgt, engineering 

Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt, pilot Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier 

Woods, Richard J., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 


Monday, 24 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 121st 
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, arrives at Pomigliano, Italy from Telergma, Algeria with 
L-4s and L-5s. In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Chivasso, Peschiera del 
Garda, Imperia, and Ronco Scrivia, and viaduct at Ovada; A-20s hit ammunition supplies 
while fighter-bombers attack rail lines in the Po River Valley, destroying and damaging 
numerous railway cars, as the US Fifth Army begins regrouping along the Arno River. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 9 planes on the mission sent to attack the 
railroad bridge at Peschiera, Italy. The bombing accuracy was 78 per cent. Jane, the Red 
Cross girl, served doughnuts and coffee in the squadron area this morning. There was 
another day of extensive training for the combat crews. A high-ranking officer from the 
Inspector General’s office made an inspection of the squadron today. The men were 
served spaghetti for supper, the movie “Adventures of Mark Twain” struck a responsive 
chord in all the men. 

 

446th BS War Diary: July 23 and 24: Lt. Brickner rejoins the squadron from Italy. 
Regular duties. 

Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. At a league game with the 
213 Searchlight Co., our squadron team won with a final score of 4 to 2. The following 
officers have been relieved of assignment to this squadron and transferred to Personnel 
Center No.6. for transshipment to the United States: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; 1st Lt E.R. 
Haynes; 1st Lt. J.J. Thomas; 1st Lt. N.J. Lundmark. 1st Lt. O.L. Schnoebelen is on DS at 
the 57th Wing. At a meeting held at 1845 at the officers club, all combat officers were 
briefed by Capt. Robert W. Manly, on Escape in France. 

Haynes, Eldon R., 1Lt, pilot Lundmark, Norman J., 1Lt, bombardier 

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Martin, William H, Jr., 1Lt, pilot 

Schnoebelen, Orval L., 1Lt, pilot Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 296 (449): At 07:50 20 planes off to bomb Peschiera 
RR/B and 17 dropped 64 x 1000 bombs at 09:35 from 9,500 feet, all returned at 10:45. 
Heavy, moderate, inaccurate flak along route, no ships holed. Fotos show excellent 
concentration with direct hits on both ends of bridge. RR/bridge E of Parma was out. 
Weather: Thin overcast. 

 

 


Tuesday, 25 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s hit a 
storage dump and rail lines while medium bombers pound bridges in NW Italy at Borgo 
San Dalmazzo, Fossano, Albenga, Casale Monferrato, Cervo, Legnano, Rovigo, and 
Chivasso; fighter-bombers continue to attack communications in the Po River Valley, 
hitting numerous targets and completely destroying a railroad bridge at Crema. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today but the combat crews 
didn’t get any rest. An extensive training program included 4 ships to the bombing 
range, 4 transition flights, 4 ships swinging the compass, and 2 check flights. Eight pilots 
from the squadron spent 1 hour each at the new link trainer down at group headquarters. 
Some of the bombardiers spent some more time on the rate machine. Word was received 
that Lt. Russell, piloting 195 on the Cairo cross-country flight, was forced to call for an 
engine change at Alexandria. 

Russell, Lawrence L., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Ten plane mission is flown. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 334 

TARGET: Legnano RR Bridge, Italy. DATE: 25 July 1944 

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

Lt. Wiginton, 447th led the formation. Good concentration on both bridges and 
approaches. N and S bridges received direct hits. Reports that one span of N bridge 
knocked down. Four ME-109s attempted to attack near Capri but were driven off by 
escort. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. 

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: 10 of our ships participated in a raid on, Legnano RR Bridge, F-
893257, with Lt. Wiginton leading the squadron. Good concentration on bridge with 
direct hits on east bound and west bound tracks. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission 
efficiency – 100 %. The 447th Barber Shop officially opened today in a small tent next to 
the mail tent. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp, 
Capri: 1st Lt. H.J. Magne; 1st Lt. J.R. Gillis; Sgt. C.A. Rose; Sgt. L.E. Sheppard. T/Sgt. 
A.R. Hasler has returned to the squadron from the United States, where he attended his 
fathers 100th birthday. At a meeting held at 1845 at the enlisted mens club all combat 
enlisted men were briefed by Capt. Manly, on Escape in France. With a final score of 9 
to 1, we chalked up another victory for the 447th Baseball Club against the 409th AA Co. 

Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot Hasler, Arthur R., T/Sgt, engineering 

Magne, Henry J., 1Lt, pilot Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence 

Rose, Clifford A., Sgt, gunner Sheppard, L. E., Sgt, gunner 

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 


Wednesday, 26 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, during the night 
of 25/26 Jul A-20s bomb roads and motor transport in the Vado Ligure area and hit fuel 
supplies during following day; B-25s and B-26s hit bridges in N Italy at Ronco Scrivia, 
Vado, Asti, Ostiglia, Carasco, Verona, and Poggio Renatico; fighter-bombers attack road 
and rail bridges in N Italy at several points, strafe and bomb many gun positions, destroy 
or damage 20+ aircraft at Valence Airfield, and hit numerous targets of opportunity. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron joined the group in hitting a rail target in Italy 
which turned out to be an extremely “hot” mission. There were a number of casualties 
and another squadron lost two planes. This squadron came through unscathed. The 
ordnance held a small arms inspection for all squadron personnel. With the advent of the 
new Hellcat, Wildcat, Seafire and other naval aircraft, the squadron personnel is being 
“checked out” on their identification. The mail situation continues to be “below par”. 
Roast beef was enjoyed for supper. The squadron orchestra left for Rome today to put on 
some shows for some outfits in that vicinity. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 335 

TARGET: Carasco Road Bridge, Italy DATE: 26 July 1944 

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

Lt. LeClair led the formation. Target area was well covered with greatest concentration 
around S end and approach. Several reports of direct hits on target, with a few bombs in 
town to the S and to the N and E of target. No flak, no fighters. 

LeClair, Edward R., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 336 

TARGET: Florence Area, Italy DATE: 26 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: “Front Post” Pamphlets. 446th Planes: 1 

Lt. Ovard led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed. 

Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: 9 of our ships participated in a raid on the Carasco Road Bridge, 
P-292400, with Lt. Muzinich, leading the squadron. Target area well covered with direct 
hits on bridge. South end and approach to bridge also hit. Bombing accuracy-100 %; 
Mission Efficiency- 100 %. One of our ships participated in a successful nickeling 
mission in the Florence area. The following enlisted men are at rest camp, Rome, Italy: 
S/Sgt. N.E. Lilly; S/Sgt. C.T. Pitts; S/Sgt. A.L. Simberg; Sgt. R.C. Stokes. 

Lilley, Newton E, Sgt, armament Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot 

Pitts, Carl T., S/Sgt, communication Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 26 July 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 297 (452): At 08:55 19 planes off to bomb Verona W 
RR/B, 15 planes dropped 56 x 1000 bombs at 10:45 from 10,500 feet. 2 planes returned 
bombs as lead Bombardier Lt. Kukorowski was killed by a direct burst of flak before 
reaching target. Fotos show that target was missed. Planes returned at 12:10. Heavy, 
intense, very accurate flak from IP to after break-away shot down two planes and holed 
14. One plane Lt. Brown, Pilot; Lt. Frasier, Co-Pilot; Lt. Maginn, Bombardier; 
Sergeants: Tracey, Engineer; Corrigan, Radio; and Mitchell, Gunner; was seen to be hit 
in one engine and appeared to be going down under control, shortly afterwards the bombs 
were salvoed and the ship fell into a spin and crashed to the ground. No chutes were 
observed. The other plane was hit in the left engine and the propeller knocked off. It too 
was seen to be leaving the target under control, no further information has been obtained 
but it is believed that the plane could have made a safe landing. The crew was Lts: 
Olson, Goff, Quartuccio; Sgts: Sullivan, Holtzendorf, Montoro and Benton. Lt. 
Armstrong and Sgt. Crow were seriously wounded by flak. 14 planes were holed. 
Weather: CAVU. 

Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot Crow, Roscoe J., Sgt, gunner 

Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier 

 

 

A/C No. unknown shot down 

 

P 

Brown, Royden (NMI), 2Lt 

or Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, 

CP 

Frazier, Leland R., Lt 

 

N 

None 

 

B 

Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt 

 

E 

Tracy, William J., Sgt 

 

R 

Corrigan, James F., Jr., Sgt 

 

G 

Mitchell, William C., Sgt 

 

F 

None 

 

 

A/C No. unknown shot down 

 

P 

Olsen, Orin E., 1Lt 

 

CP 

Goff, Melvin F., 2Lt 

 

N 

None 

 

B 

Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt 

 

E 

Sullivan, James G., Sgt 

or Sullivan, Timothy V., Sgt 

R 

Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), Sgt 

 

G 

Montoro, John A., Sgt 

 

F 

Benton, Thomas H., Sgt 

 



 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 298 (454): At 13:58 4 planes off to drop “Front Posts” 
over the Florence area, all returned without incident at 15:40. 

 

 

 

 


Thursday, 27 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s fly patrols 
on the night of 26/27 Jul over the Po River Valley, bombing lights and vehicles at 
Piacenza, Modena, and Verona; both medium and fighter-bombers concentrate on bridges 
in the Po River Valley and NW Italy throughout the day; numerous hits are scored on 
bridges and other targets, including parked aircraft, guns, and railroads. 

 

445th BS War Diary: Lt. Thompson came back a bit disgusted after today’s mission 
after he had burned out one of his engines, necessitating an engine change. Lt. Bruce 
Lowery has been relieved of his assignment as Armament Officer and is on his way to the 
States. He has been relieved by Lt. Standard. Capt. Wilson gave a one-hour lecture to all 
combat crews on the operation and use of the emergency radio set. Once again the 
bombardiers were active on the bombsight rate machine and the bomb trainer. Two ships 
went to the bombing range while two cross-country flights were made. At noon today, an 
order was posted on the bulletin board that all squadron personnel would wear firearms 
with them at all times until “further notice”. No reasons were given for the order and 
there was much speculation. 

Lowery, Bruce, 2Lt, armament Standard, Lt, armament 

Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 337 

TARGET: RR Bridge, Borgoforte, Italy DATE: 27 July 1944 

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

Lt. Alger led the formation. Target area well covered. Concentrations of bombs across N 
end and approach and across S approach. Several strings through center. Flak was 
heavy, scant, inaccurate, no fighters. 

Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: 12 of our ships participated in a raid on the Borgoforte RR Bridge, 
with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs across north end 
and both approaches. Several strings thru center. Bombing accuracy – 100 %; Mission 
efficiency – 100 %. Usual squadron duties. Orders were received from 321st 
Bombardment Group Headquarters that all men be armed and that a guard be posted on 
each plane until further notice – lasting only one day. Today’s training consisted of local 
test hops. 

Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Friday, 28 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: In Italy, the 
72nd Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, based at Santa Maria, sends a flight to operate from 
Caserta with L-5s. In Italy, A-20s bomb scattered lights and vehicles in the Po River 
Valley during the night of 27/28 Jul; and during the day light, medium, and fighter-
bombers hit targets in the Po River Valley, concentrating on bridges. Some fighter-
bombers attack motor transport in the Rhone River Valley in France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was a “stand down” order and no mission was flown today. 
The combat crews attended two movies today, one on aircraft identification and the other 
on escape procedure. There was another day of rigid training in effect with Bombardiers 
on the rate machine and bomb trainer, transition, practice formation flying, PDI training, 
practice bombing, swinging of the compass and several cross-country flights. This date 
will be remembered as the infamous date when a low-flying B-25 dispersed a horse race 
in progress at a race track at Cairo. Reports are not quite clear as yet what with “Scrap 
Iron” Lt. Russell and Lt. Lubomier (Cross-country) Shynshka – both notorious buzzers – 
in the vicinity of the crime. Sgt. Logan, S-2 section chief, points an accusing finger at Lt. 
Shynshka who vehemently denies the charge. Lt. Russell only laughed. He was in a bar 
at the time of the flight. The order to wear firearms was rescinded today. 

Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot 

Shynshka, Lubomier P. "Cross Country", 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: A small mail call in the afternoon. 

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: 1st Lt. Forrest T. Nettles; 1st Lt. William 
E. Kibler; 2nd Lt. Eric A. Johnson; 2nd Lt. William E. Neiman; Sgt. Vincent A. Mango; 
Sgt. Dale C. Miller. The following officers and enlisted men returned to the squadron 
after being on DS – 12th AAF. 1st Lt. William E. Huffman; 1st Lt. William F. Heitman; 
T/Sgt. Ramo J. Valeri; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler. The following officers and enlisted men 
have returned from rest camp, Rome Italy: 1st Lt. Edward Krafka; 1st Lt. Wayne A. 
Manz; Sgt. Harold W. Scarberry; S/Sgt. Paul L. Free; S/Sgt. Rennie Mitchell. A class on 
aircraft recognition was held at 321st Bombardment Group Headquarters. Captain R.W. 
Manly gave a short lecture on Escape in France. Today’s training consisted of local 
transition. 

Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner Free, Paul L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier 

Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt, pilot Kibler, William E., 1Lt, pilot 

Krafka, Edward, 1Lt, pilot Mango, Vincent A., Sgt, aerial gunner 

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot 

Miller, Dale C., Sgt, gunner Mitchell, Rennie, S/Sgt, gunner 

Nettles, Forrest T., 1Lt, pilot Neiman, William E., 2Lt, pilot 

Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt, gunner Valeri, Ramo J., T/Sgt, engineering 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 


Saturday, 29 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather cancels 
medium bomber operations; fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit buildings 
at Diano Marina and bridges, rail lines, airfields, and vehicles in N Italy. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was a stand down for this squadron on today’s mission. 
The usual extensive training program was in effect again today with the accent on 
practice bombing and practice assembly. There were also quite a few cross-country 
flights made today. Lts. Russell, Shynshka and crew returned from their extended tour of 
Cairo and all points east and west. Lt. Ireland replaced Lt. Standard as Squadron 
Armament officer. Luxury rations were distributed today. Civilian pictures were taken 
of all combat crews. They will be carried by the crews at all times. A large number of 
packages arrived today. Pork chops was on the menu for supper. 

Ireland, Kenneth E., 2Lt, armament Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot 

Shynshka, Lubomier P. "Cross Country", 2Lt, pilot 

Standard, Lt, armament 

 

446th BS War Diary: Sgts. Bober and Schreiner are assigned to 57th Wing. 

Bober, John, Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Schreiner, Lester B., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. Private Norman C. 
Bulfinch, and Private Frank H. Dorrel, have been promoted to the rank of private first 
class, per Squadron Order # 30. Sgt. Henry A. Lasek received head injuries by falling off 
a moving truck. Usual squadron duties. 

Bulfinch, Norman C., PFC, intelligence Dorrel, Frank H., PFC, intelligence 

Lasek, Henry A., Sgt, decontamination 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 


Sunday, 30 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, during the night 
of 29/30 Jul A-20s bomb Savona and surrounding areas; overcast in the W Po River 
Valley causes some medium bomber aborts but several bridges at Ovada, Bistagno, 
Cherasco, and Ferrara are successfully attacked; fighter-bombers attack road and rail 
bridges in N Italy, hit shipping between Savona and Ventimiglia, silence 8 flak guns at 
the Ferrara bridge, and hit several transportation targets of opportunity. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for the squadron today. 12 ships 
from the squadron participated in practice formation flying. 3 other ships went to the 
practice bombing range while another plane was sent up to swing the compass. There 
were also 3 cross-country flights made. Some replacement personnel arrived today. Lt. 
Jackson, Asst. S-2 Officer, gave an escape procedure lecture to all the combat crews 
today. Some of the bombardiers spent some more time on both the bomb trainer and rate 
machine while some pilots were on the link trainer. The men noticed with some interest 
the scheduled appearance of S/Sgt. Joe Louis in “about 4 days”. 

Jackson, James O., 2Lt, intelligence Louis, Joe, SSgt, Boxer – USO? 

 

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown to the Florence area. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 338 

TARGET: Florence Area, Italy DATE: 30 July 1944 

Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th Planes: 5 

Lt. Vivas led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed. No flak, no fighters. 

Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: 10 of our ships took off to raid the Canneto RR Bridge, but due to 
complete overcast the formation returned all bombs to the base. Cpl. Donald E. Bailey 
has been reduced to the grade of private per Group Headquarters SO 122. The following 
officers and enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 2nd Lt. Irving L. 
Altman; S/Sgt. Peter D. Pusvaskis; Sgt. Charles A. Munstein; Cpl. Ernest E. Fischinger; 
Pvt. Horace E. Drew. The following enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Rome, 
Italy: S/Sgt. Newton E. Lilley; Sgt. Alvin L. Simberg; S/Sgt. Carl T. Pitts; Sgt. Robert C. 
Stokes. 1st Lt. George G. VanJohn has been assigned to this squadron per the 445th 
Squadron Order No. 122. 1st Lt. VanJohn has been appointed assistant S-2 officer. 1st Lt. 
James M. Watson has been relieved of assignment and transferred to Det. of Pat. 35th 
Station Hospital, SO 74. 

Altman, Irving L., 2Lt, bombardier Bailey, Donald E., Pvt, transportation 

Drew, Horace E., Pvt, turret gunner Fischinger, Ernest E., Cpl, engineering 

Lilley, Newton E, Sgt, armament Munstein, Charles A., Sgt, engineering 

Pitts, Carl T., S/Sgt, communication Pusvaskis, Peter D., S/Sgt, communications 

Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner 

VanJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence Watson, James N., 1Lt, bombardier 

 

 


Sunday, 30 July 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 299 (457): At 16:37 19 planes off to bomb Canneto 
RR/B. Due to complete over-cast at primary and alternate the formation returned all 
bombs to base at 19:25 hours. No flak. Weather: Complete over-cast. 

 

 

 

 


Monday, 31 July 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather grounds 
medium bombers; fighter-bombers hit several bridges in the W Po River Valley while 
fighters strafe airfields with good results; the fighter-bombers also destroy around 50 
railroad cars and damage numerous others. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today. Six ships practiced 
assembly in the air, 3 ships did some formation flying, several transition flights were 
made, a test hop was flown and several cross-country flights were made. Lt. Wagner 
returned from Cairo today. The squadron personnel were paid today after noon chow. 
Preparations are now under way to put on a stage show celebrating the second 
anniversary of the activation of the group. 

Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lt. Jack Locke joins us as assistant S-2 officer. 

Locke, Jacob "Jack", 2Lt, intelligence 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following enlisted men 
have been reduced to the rank of private: S/Sgt. Henry M. Glass; Cpl. Richard N. 
Helwig; Cpl. Arnold W. Vollbrecht; Sgt. Leonard B. Heiman. Private Harry M. Glass 
has been promoted to the rank of corporal. The following enlisted men have been 
promoted to the rank of Technical Sergeant, per SO. 165 Headquarters, 12th AAF, dated 
June 30, 1944: S/Sgt. Joseph D. Alpino; S/Sgt. Edward S. Korzeniowski; S/Sgt. Paul L. 
Free; S/Sgt. Joseph J. Parisi; S/Sgt. William H. Pierce. The following enlisted men have 
been promoted to the grade of Staff Sergeant, per SO 165 Headquarters, 12th AAF, dated 
June 30, 1944: Sgt. Michael A. Andryscak; Sgt. Robert W. Engels; Sgt. Everett H. 
Clyne; Sgt. Clifford A. Rose; Sgt. Frederick J. Terra. The following enlisted men have 
been promoted to the grade of Sergeant per SO 165 Headquarters, 12th AAF dated June 
30, 1944: Cpl. Dominick Giaratana; Cpl. Thomas J. McKinney; Cpl. Cornelius J. 
Sexton; Cpl. Jarrold S. Oransky; Cpl. Clyde Murphy, Jr.; Cpl. Cleo W. Simms; PFC 
Arthur T. Shand; PFC. Harry B. Burns. A large percentage of the personnel of this 
squadron have shown an interest in voting by State Absentee Ballot. Usual squadron 
duties. 

Alpino, Joseph P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Andryscak, Michael A., S/Sgt, gunner 

Burns, Harry B., Sgt, photographer Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, armament-gunner 

Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt, gunner Free, Paul L., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Giaratana, Dominick, Sgt, mess Glass, Harry M., Cpl, personnel 

Glass, Henry M., Pvt, turret gunner Heiman, Leonard B., Pvt, transportation 

Helwig, Richard N., Pvt, engineering Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt, gunner 

McKinney, Thomas J., Sgt, armament Murphy, Clyde C., Jr., Sgt, engineering 

Oransky, Jarrold S., Sgt, communications Parisi, Joseph J., T/Sgt, photographer 

 

 


Monday, 31 July 1944 (continued) 

 

Pierce, William H., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Rose, Clifford A., S/Sgt, gunner 

Sexton, Cornelius J., Sgt, operations Shand, Arthur T., Sgt, photographer 

Simms, Cleo W., Sgt, gunner Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt, gunner 

Vollbrecht, Arnold W., Pvt, engineering 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


July 1944 

 

445th BS War Diary: Additional Information for July 1944 

 

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M) 

APO 650 

 

5 August 1944 

SUBJECT: Historical Records 

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

 

1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period July1st to July 31st. 

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

 

 b. Changes in organization. 

1. 1st Lt. Joseph W. Manske appointed Squadron Engineering Officer 

2. 1st Lt. Bruce (NMI) Lowery appointed Armament Officer to replace Capt. 

 Stanton W. Johnson who was sent to the United States on DS. 

3. 2nd Lt. Kenneth E. Ireland appointed Acting Armament Officer to replace Lt. 

 Lowery who was transferred to the United States on DS. 

 

 c. Strength commissioned and enlisted. 

 1. Month of July1944. 

 (a) 443 at beginning. 

 (b) 5 net decrease. 

 (c) 438 at end 

 

 d. Stations. 

 1. Solenzara Air Field. 

 

 e. Movements. 

 1. None 

 

f. Operations: 

 1. During the Month of June the Squadron participated in 208 Sorties and 22 

 Missions. 

 

 g. Command Officers in important missions. 

1. On July 2, the squadron commander participated in the missions which attacked 
the fuel dump near Ravenna, Italy. Using an extra load of 100 lb. bombs for the 
first time, excellent results were achieved in the target area. The squadron 
commander also participated in an effective attack on a bridge near Sasso, Italy. 
On July 13, he participated in an attack on the road and railroad bridge at 
Ostiglia, Italy. Good coverage was reported on the target area and the mission 
was officially credited with 72 per cent bombing accuracy. 

 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

 

 h. Losses in action.

 1. On July 7, Sergeant Lincoln W. Mark, engineer-gunner in the squadron, was 
killed by flak on the attack on the Sasso railroad bridge, Italy 

 

 i. During the month of July, the following men received the Distinguished Flying 
Cross: 1st Lt. Leon F. Hatcher (pilot), 1st Lt. Frank P. Walsh (bombardier), 1st Lt Daniel 
Galindo (bombardier), 2nd Lt. Sheldon R. Groh (pilot), 2nd Lt. Charles F. Spencer (pilot), 
2nd Lt. Henry C. Thompson (pilot), Technical Sergeant James E. Kintly (radio-gunner). 
The following officer received the Silver Star: 2nd Lt. Gerald W. Wagner (pilot). In 
addition, there were 61 awards of the Air Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster awarded. During 
the month of June, the following men received the Distinguished Flying 

 

For the Commanding Officer: 

JAMES O. JACKSON, 

 1ST Lt., Air Corps, 

 Squadron Historian. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Additional Information for July 1944 

 

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF 

321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF 

1 August 1944 

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR JULY 1944 

 

A. Original Unit 

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

 2. Organized August 1, 1942 

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

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

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

 centers. 

 

B. Strength, Commissioned and Enlisted: 

 1. 1 July 1944 90 Officers, 321 Enlisted Men 

 2. Net Increase 5 Officers 17 Enlisted Men 

 3. Net Decrease None None 

 4. 30 June 1944 95 Officers, 338 Enlisted Men 

 

D. Commanding Officer in important engagements 

 1. Engagements: 

Ravenna, Italy Bogliasco, Italy 

 Aulla, Italy Ostiglia, Italy 

 Alessandria, Italy 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

 2. Capt. Paul T. Cooper (pilot) 

 

E. Losses in action: None 



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




 1st Lt Allan T. Sampson (pilot) 

 1st Lt. Frank P. Vivas (pilot) S/Sgt. Robert F. Mygrant (gunner) 

 2nd Lt. Frank B. White (pilot) S/Sgt Felix Napoliello (gunner) 

2. Awards of Air Medals on following page: 

 

G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries. 





2. Air Medals were awarded the following: 

1st Lt John L. Farber (bombardier) S/Sgt Charles W. McFarland (gunner) 

1st Lt Arthur E. Franklin (bombardier) S/Sgt Richard O. Ricke (gunner) 

2nd Lt Frederick I. Peterson (pilot) Sgt Scott G. Henry (gunner) 

2nd Lt Donald D. Rackley (pilot) Sgt Roland M. Brown (gunner) 

2nd Lt Chester J. Tresky (pilot) Pfc Elmer A. Jacob (engineer-gunner) 

1st Lt Alfred E. Vancil (pilot) T/Sgt Anthony P. Bove (radio-gunner) 

2nd Lt John R. Sacker (pilot) T/Sgt Francis P. Bufkin (radio-gunner) 

2nd Lt Connally O. Briles (pilot) S/Sgt Henry G. Casper (gunner) 

1st Lt Thomas B. Dunn (navigator) T/Sgt Hoyt V. Harrison (radio-gunner) 

1st Lt John Fitzgerald (pilot) S/Sgt John Jupin (engineer-gunner) 

1st Lt LeRoy R. Goff (pilot) S/Sgt Cephus M. Smith (engineer-gunner) 

1st Lt Leon R. Hawkes (pilot) T/Sgt Max Sweedler (radio-gunner) 

1st Lt Robert G. Hipson (pilot) S/Sgt John Bober (engineer-gunner) 

2nd Lt Harold H. Hively (pilot) Sgt Ronald J. Kane (engineer-gunner) 

1st Lt George K. Hollingsworth (pilot) Sgt Ralph L. Larson (gunner) 

2nd Lt Paul J. Ivankovig (pilot) S/Sgt Malcolm B. Leonard (gunner) 

1st Lt Henry W. Johnson (bombardier) S/Sgt Michael Nemet (gunner) 

1st Lt Henry L. Jordan (pilot) S/Sgt Lester B. Schreiner (engineer-gunner) 

2nd Lt Estel A. Mayfield (pilot) Sgt Frank C. Smetana (gunner) 

1st Lt Gus J. Mexal (bombardier) Sgt John J. Zelnick (engineer-gunner) 

1st Lt Alan T. Mickel (pilot) S/Sgt Harold W. Zeman (gunner) 

1st Lt Lonnie C. Sitts (bombardier) Cpl Isom F. Burrow (gunner) 

1st Lt Randall L. Smith (pilot) Cpl Milton M. Mittman (gunner) 

S/Sgt Robert L. Crozer (radio-gunner) 

S/Sgt Sanders S. Kaufman (gunner) 

 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

447th BS War Diary: Additional Information for July 1944 

 

447TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) 

321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) 

APO 65 

SUBJECT: Historical Records. 

 

TO : Commanding General, 57th Bombardment Wing. 

 Attention: Historian. 

 

1. Outline History of the 447th Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 July to 31 July 
1944. 

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

 (1) 447th Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), 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) Changes in destination. No Change 

 (2) Echelons or units. 

 (a) Transferred 

 2 E/M transferred to 35th Station Hospital 

 2 Officers transferred, Brooks Field, Texas. 

 4 Officers; 7 E/M transferred Personnel Center # 6; rotation to United 

 States. 

1 E/M transferred to Brooks Field, Texas 

1 E/M transferred Hq, 321st Bombardment Group 

1 Officer transferred Det. of Patients, 35th Station Hospital. 

 (b) on TD or DS. 

 2 Officers; 2 E/M; DS, Cairo, Egypt. 

 1 Officer; DS, Laredo, Texas. 

 1 E/M; DS; 341st Service Squadron. 

 4 Officers, DS; Foggia, Italy. 

 3 Officer, 4 E/M; DS, 12th Air Force. 

 13 Officers, 25 E/M; DS, rest camp, Rome, Italy. 

 7 Officer, 7 E/M, DS, rest camp, Capri. 

 (c) No Change. 

 

 (3) No Change 

 (4) No Change 

 (5) No Change 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

c. Strength, Commission and enlisted. 

 (1) Month of July 1944. 

 (a) Beginning: 92 Officers; 341 Enlisted Men 

 (b) No Change or no increase. 

 (c) Officers no decrease; Enlisted Men- 9. 

 (d) At end: 92 Officers, 332 Enlisted Men. 

 

 d. Stations. 

 (1) Solenzara Air Field 

 (a) May 3, 1944 

 (b) Still at the same station. 

 e. Movement of units or echelons. 

 (1) No movements during July, 1944. 

 

f. Campaign. 

 (1) Italian 

 (2) From June 1 to present. 

 

 g. Operations. 

 (1) Mediterranean (Corsica) 

 (2) Objective Bombing 

 (3) 24 missions, 208 sorties 

 (4) Results of the most important missions. 

 (a) Mission: Vado Viaduct; Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge; Carasco Road Bridge. 

 1. Vado Viaduct was important because the viaduct was the open route on the 

 main line between Bologna and Florence. Over Ostiglia, was shuttled 

supplies and reinforcements for the German troops. Carasco Road Bridge, 
this bridge was used as a key supply and communication line by the 
German Forces. 

 2. Vado Viaduct, good concentration of bombs on bridge destroying span. 

 On the Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, good concentration of bombs on the 

target and especially both ends and also string thru center, span destroyed, 

rendering bridge impassible. Carasco Road Bridge, was a complete 

success because direct hits on center of bridge. Bombing accuracy-100 %. 

Mission efficiency-100 % 

 3. These missions with their successes, disrupted the German supply lines, 

thus enabling the Allied Armies to keep their steady advance to the north. 

 4. All photographs showed excellent results on these missions. 

 5. Because of our excellent bombings the Germans were unable to repel our 

drives, or launch and sustained counter attacks. 

 (5) The unit was subjected to heavy, accurate and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy 

 fighters during the entire month. 

 

h. Captain Thomas C. Bounds, lead the group on 11 July, on the Alessandria M/Ys. 


July 1944 (continued) 

 i. Losses in action 

 (1) Vado Viaduct, 6 July 1944 

 (a) Second Lieutenant John G. Nall (pilot) 

 (b) 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones (bombardier) 

 2nd Lt. William H. Wigmore (pilot) 

 2nd Lt. Edward J. Stanly (bombardier) 

 2nd Lt. Harold H. Lindell (navigator) 

 2nd Lt. James N. Watson (bombardier) 

 S/Sgt Robert W. Koecher (engineer-gunner) 

 S/Sgt. Robert R. Vineski (radio-gunner) 

 Ostiglia Road Bridge 

 1st Lt. S.E. Anderson (SWA) (Sherman E., bombardier) 

 2nd Lt. P.W. Noe (SWA) (Paul H., Jr., bombardier) 

 2nd Lt. S.J. Wiechert (SWA) (Stanley J., pilot) 

 1st Lt. W.E. Neiman (LWA) (William E., pilot) 

 1st Lt. M.K. Matthewson (LWA) (Merton K., navigator) 

 1st Lt. H.J. Banks (LWA) (Herbert J., pilot) 

 2nd Lt. R.J. Woods (LWA) (Richard J., pilot) 

 T/Sgt. L.G. Hubert (LWA) (radio-gunner) 

 (c) Missing. None 

 (d) Taken prisoner. None 

j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action. 

 (1) The following number of men received, Air Medals, 12th Air Force, General 
Order # 107, 26 July 1944; total of 6; 34 men received the Air Medal, General Order # 
107, 12th Air Force, 26 July 1944, raid on Vallecorsa. 2 Men received the Air Medal, 
G.O. # 104; 25 July 1944, 12th A.F. 1Man received the First Cluster, G.O. 104, 12th A.F. 
1 Man received the D.F.C. G.O. # 103, 12th A.F.; in a raid on Vado Viaduct, Italy. 1 man 
received D.F.C. General Order # 91, 12th A.F.; raid on Vallecorsa, Italy. 

 

k. No pictures submitted. 

 

2. Inclosed are War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 July to 31 
July: Special Account for the month of July1944; Squadron Statistics for the month of 
July1944. 

For the Commanding Officer: 

 

3 Incl: SALVATORE P. CASARELLA, Jr., 

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

 Incl – 2 Special Account (none in July) Historian. 

 Incl – 3 Squadron Statistics 

 

Missions Flown: 24 Sorties Flown: 208 

Bombs dropped (weight): 676,500 Nickels dropped (packages): 24 

Planes lost: None Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None 

Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

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

 

July 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of 1 July 1944, 101 Officers and 345 Enlisted 
Men. No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. Six missions 
were flown during the month over Northern Italian Communication Lines. Lieutenant 
Gilbert, Ordnance Officer promoted to First Lieutenant. Sergeants: Gilpatrick and 
Mauder transferred to the U.S.A. Officers and Enlisted Men of the squadron began to go 
to Rest Camps on the Isle of Capri, Rome, Naples and Catania. Several of the ground 
personnel went to Rest Camp on the Island of Corsica but reported that the weather was 
very cool and life very dull. Food continued to be good and a new projector added much 
to the enjoyment of the local movies. Beer made its first appearance on the PX rations. 

Gilbert, Ralph W., 1Lt, ordnance Gilpatrick, Jack H., Sgt, gunner 

Mauder, Charles J., Sgt, gunner 

 

July 8 – 15 – 44: Captain Farwell assigned and joined during this period. No Enlisted 
Men assigned or joined during this period. Sergeants: Robertshaw, Everhart, Robert, 
Carr and Hadjy, Wolf and France transferred to the U.S.A. Lieutenants: Lyons, McCree, 
VanRaam and PFC Hinton on DS to the U.S.A. for 30 days. Continuing the assault on 
bridges in the Po Valley the Squadron flew seven missions during this period and scored 
excellent results. Officers and Enlisted Men continued to depart and return from the 
numerous rest camps. Several members of the squadron left for 10 days in Cairo and 
vicinity. The period was exceptionally quiet as the routine work continued to occupy the 
squadron personnel’s time. Excellent weather prevailed and everyone took full 
advantage of the excellent swimming facilities on the island. Very few men visited the 
surrounding towns on their day off as the best facilities were close at hand. 

Carr, Randal C., Cpl, gunner Everhart, Clifford R., Sgt, gunner 

Farwell, Harold S., Capt, France, Charles E., Jr., Sgt, gunner 

Hadjy, Zdenek, Sgt, gunner Hinton, Zane R., PFC, engineer-gunner 

Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot or Lyons, John W., 1Lt, bombardier 

McCree, Malcolm B., 2Lt, bombardier Robert, Maurice L., Sgt, gunner 

Robertshaw, David F., Sgt, gunner VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), 2Lt, pilot 

Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt, gunner 

 

July 16 – 22 – 44: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. 
Lieutenant Blume transferred to the 9th Combat Camera Unit. Sergeants: Coleman, 
Dean, Thompson, Bennett, Chosta, Kepford, Luton, Neuman, Sharpsteen, Jackson, Rifkin 
and Scheffmeyer transferred to the U.S.A. Lieutenants: Ovard and Sheer promoted to 
First Lieutenant during this period. Sergeant Penhale returned to the squadron after 30 
days furlough in the U.S.A. Three missions were flown during the week as a layer of 
Cumulus clouds hung over Northern Italy during most of the period. Night flying was 
inaugurated and the roar of airplane engines brought memories of those nights long ago 
in Columbia and Walterboro. During this time several Hell Cats manned by Navy crews 
began operations from this field and the squadron had the opportunity of entertaining 28 
Naval Enlisted Men. 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

Bennett, Ross F., Sgt, gunner Blume, Wilbur T., 2Lt, bombardier 

Chosta, Louis, Sgt, gunner 

Coleman, Seaton L., S/Sgt, gunner or Coleman, Smith B., Sgt, Sgt, gunner 

 or Coleman, Warren H., Sgt, Sgt, gunner 

Dean, Wilmer J., Sgt, gunner Jackson, Jewel D., Sgt, gunner 

Kepford, Francis R., Sgt, gunner Luton, Howard, Sgt, tail-gunner 

Neuman, Robert A., Sgt, gunner Rifkin, Harry J., Sgt, transportation 

Scheffmeyer, John T., Sgt, cook Sharpsteen, Robert E., Sgt, gunner 

Thompson, Arthur R., Jr., Sgt, gunner 

 

July 23 – 31 – 44: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined until the last day of 
the month when Sergeants: Hambrey, Morefield, Popovich and Corporal Berman were 
assigned from the 57 Wing. The squadron strength 31 July 1944, 93 Officers and 321 
Enlisted Men. As the month drew towards the end the squadron hoped to complete it 
without loss but on July 26 the squadron suffered its worst disaster of its two years of 
existence. While on a mission over Verona, Italy, one bombardier was killed two planes 
shot down and one Pilot and gunner seriously wounded. The lost men were Lt. 
Kukorowski, killed; Lt. Armstrong and Sgt. Crow seriously wounded. Lts. Brown, 
Frasier, Maginn, Olson, Goff, Quartuccio and Sgts: Tracey, Corrigan, Mitchell, Sullivan, 
Holtzendorf, Montoro and Benton were shot down over the target. The month drew to a 
close without further incident. Men continued to enjoy the benefits of the several rest 
camps. The squadron was well settled in its home where it had remained for the longest 
period in its history, over three months. 

Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot Benton, Thomas H., Sgt, gunner 

Berman, Samuel (NMI), Cpl, gunner 

Brown, Royden (NMI), 2Lt, pilot or Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot 

Corrigan, James F., Jr., Sgt, radio-gunner Crow, Roscoe J., Sgt, gunner 

Frazier, Leland R., Lt, pilot Goff, Melvin F., 2Lt, bombardier 

Hambrey, Jessie T., Sgt, cook Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), Sgt, gunner 

Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt, bombardier 

Mitchell, William C., Sgt, gunner Montoro, John A., Sgt, gunner 

Morefield, James C., gunner Olsen, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot 

Popovich, Chris (NMI), Sgt, gunner Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt, bombardier 

Sullivan, James G., Sgt, gunner or Sullivan, Timothy V., Sgt, gunner 

Tracy, William J., Sgt, engineer-gunner 

 

 As the squadron began its duties for the month of July everyone, realizing that 
their stay on the island was to be of greater duration than they had ever experienced 
before, began to make major improvements on their living quarters. Tents were built up 
with the abundant lumber supply and in many cases floors were also laid. With the 
beautiful weather continuing and clouds over Italy hampering operations the camp in 
many respects took on the appearance of a summer resort. Swimming was a daily 
pastime for all personnel and good food, well prepared left only the absence of feminine 
companionship the sole fly in the ointment. Although heat was very noticeable during 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

the days the nights were cool and the older members sighed happily as they recalled the 
Sirocco Winds of Souk el Arba, Africa. 

 

 The Fourth of July was observed not in the “Good Old Fashioned Way”, but by 
showering bombs on enemy installations in Northern, Italy. In accordance with the 
operational plans of the Strategic Command the 448th did its part in cutting and smashing 
railroad and road bridges over the Po River during the early part of the month. The 
squadron scored four 100% missions during this period and received many 
Commendations from Allied Headquarters on their excellent work. 

 

 In the entertainment field little occurred of note, however in the middle of the 
month a new projector was secured which made the movies more enjoyable. Now only 
the generator, lack of gasoline or malfunction of the operator caused breakdowns. Every 
night found goodly representation of the 448th attending the shows which for most part 
were of very recent vintage. The Clubs continued to function with iced drinks being 
served nightly, but the initial attraction waned as soon as the novelty wore off, however 
several evenings were spent listening to the strains of the 845 Engineer’s Band. One 
U.S.O. show visited the area during the month. 

 

 Early in the month there began a new policy in the squadron and all personnel 
found themselves going to Rest Camps at Rome, Capri, Catania, Cairo and a mountain 
resort on the Island of Corsica. Reports from all of these places were to the effect that 
Rome was by far the best of the lot as it offered more entertainment and had been least 
touched by the war. In all places the living facilities were excellent but with the 
exception of Catania, Sicily, food was not as good as that prepared in the squadron’s own 
kitchens. Transportation to these various places was accomplished by airplane. The 
planes continued to make weekly visits to Catania in the search of fresh fruits, eggs and 
vegetables, this in conjunction with the daily fresh meat ration provided excellent menu. 
PX rations continued to improve and the long awaited ration of BEER appeared much to 
the satisfaction of everyone. Cokes ceased to be included but candy was increase 4 or 6 
bars per week. 

 

 Late in the month a squadron of “Hell Cats” joined the Group to work in 
conjunction with Beaufighters on night patrol. Twenty-eight of the Navy Enlisted 
personnel were assigned for rations and quarters. 

 

 The policy of rotation to the U.S.A. continued and two men of the Ground 
Echelon were returned to the U.S.A. Several combat men also returned after completing 
their tour of duty. The successes on the Russian and French Fronts continued to hearten 
those left behind and many pools were organized as to the duration of the war. The most 
optimistic chose September, while even the pessimism ceded that Germany would 
surrender before Christmas. The nine o’clock news bulletin published by S-2 was 
eagerly awaited each morning. 

 


July 1944 (continued) 

 

 As the month drew towards its close it appeared that for the first time in many 
months the 448th would escape unscathed by casualties, but on July 26 this hope was 
shattered when two planes failed to return and one Bombardier was killed and a Pilot and 
Gunner were seriously wounded, while on a mission over Verona, Italy. Just before the 
target while in an intense concentration of enemy antiaircraft fire Lieutenant Brown’s 
plane was hit in the left engine and left the formation under control. He glided down for 
a few thousand feet, then salvoed his bombs and for some unknown reason immediately 
started into a spin from which he never recovered. The plane was seen to crash but no 
chutes were observed at any time during the descent. Lieutenant Olson’s plane was also 
hit by the same burst of flak and his propeller was knocked off. He too appeared to be 
under control and started back towards the coast, when last observed he was headed 
towards the sea slowly losing altitude but under complete control. A radio call believed 
to be from Lieutenant Olson announced the he was trying to make the coast. No further 
word has been received from either plane. Lieutenant Kukorowski, was killed when the 
plane in which he was riding received a direct burst of flak in the nose and death was 
instantaneous. Lieutenant Armstrong, who was the Flight Leader received a flak wound 
in the leg which later proved to be serious but promised to heal without after effects. 
Sergeant Crow had two fingers shot off on the same ship. The entire squadron was 
greatly saddened by the loss of these men. Many awards were recommended during the 
month and expectations were high that they would soon be received. Late in the month 
news was received that the Group had been awarded a Presidential Citation for its 
excellent work during the month of October 1944, over the Balkans. 

Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot 

Brown, Royden (NMI), 2Lt, pilot or Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot 

Crow, Roscoe J., Sgt, gunner Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier 

Olsen, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

 An innovation which for most part which was not appreciated by a majority of the 
squadron was set up in the squadron area. A large Public Address System effectively 
removed the oft repeated excuse of not having heard the whistle for formation. Corporal 
McCall initiated a morning sunshine hour to awaken all personnel but the many 
comments received soon cause to cease and desist. Colonel Smith even made a few 
choice remarks on the subject. On the whole the month passed very quietly and except 
for the missions flown 448th seemed to be in one of the quiet backwaters of the main 
stream of the war. However the capture of the Island of Elba early in the month and 
regular visits by “Foto Freddie”, served to show the enemy had not completely forgotten 
the existence of this strategic Island. With growing infrequency the call to take shelter in 
“Fox Holes” came during the moonlit nights. 

McCall, Robert V., Cpl, personnel Smith, Richard H., Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander