12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing 

321st Bombardment Group 

History: August 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.: 447th 2 May? 

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

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

GO: General Order Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb) 

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 

D/H: 448th 25 Aug? MC: Maintenance Crew 


Tuesday, 1 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
hit bridges in the Po Valley, N of Genoa, at Canneto sull'Oglio, Balossa, Vigone, Ronco 
Scrivia, and Ovada, and marshalling yard at Imperia; fighter-bombers concentrate on 
airfields in the Po Valley (at Villanova d'Albenga, Airasca, and Venaria Reale), hit small 
landing grounds throughout the area, and attack several communications targets including 
roads, rail lines, bridges, and railroad cars. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The group celebrated the second anniversary of its activation 
which took place August 1, 1942 at Columbia air base. There was no mission scheduled 
and there was a “stand down” on all training. Both clubs opened their bars at 14:00. 
Cairo Scotch, VO and some Schenley’s were enjoyed by all. “Doc” Smith and his 
Mitchell-Aires entertained the Officers while a negro band from the 41st Engineers beat it 
out for the enlisted men. In the evening, men of the squadron aided by various members 
of the group put on a stage show at the “Hilltop Theater”. The variety show “Off the 
Cob” which was written, arranged and put on in just 3 days met with favorable response. 
Sgts. Lestz, Lavine, McNevin and Pvt. Naughton put the show on. The “50 mission 
men” were notified today that they would be required to fly more missions by order of 
Colonel Smith and their morale dipped quite a bit. Appropriately enough, it was revealed 
today that the group had been awarded the Presidential citation for its work in bombing 
the Balkans. All personnel are permitted to wear the blue and gold ribbon. 

Lavine, Leonard, Sgt, intelligence Lestz, Sidney, Sgt, engineering 

McNevin, John L., Jr., S/Sgt, intelligence/1st Sgt Naughton, John J., Jr., Pvt, gunner 

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

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

 

446th BS War Diary: Anniversary Day ceremonies are held as the 321st Bombardment 
Group reaches its second birthday. Major Cooper, Lieutenants Sampson, White and 
Vivas, Sergeant Mygrant are given the Distinguished Flying Cross by the Wing 
Commander. Lieut. Matzinger goes to Flying Control School at the R.A.F. station at 
Cairo. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander Matzinger, Keith R., 1Lt, pilot 

Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt, gunner Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt, pilot 

Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt, pilot White, Frank B., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: Complete stand-down for the entire group. A formation of all 
combat officers and combat enlisted men took place at 1000 hours at Group 
Headquarters. Brigadier General R.D. Knapp addressed the formation and made a 
number of presentations. Colonel R.H. Smith also addressed the formation. T/Sgt. Roy 
J. Dodds was presented the Legion of Merit by Brigadier Gen R.D. Knapp. Two years 
ago at the Columbia Air Base the 447th Bombardment Squadron officially came into 
existence. Being one of the four squadrons making up the 321st Bombardment Group 
which was activated on August 1, 1942. A party was held at the Enlisted Mens Club in 


Tuesday, 1 August 1944 (continued) 

 

celebration of the Second Anniversary of the 447th Squadron. Captain Robert W. Manly 
received word that he might be relieved of assignment and returned to the United States 
for reassignment. Brigadier General R.D. Knapp is trying to keep Captain Manly in the 
organization. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, 
Italy: First Lieutenant George L. Kamensky; Technical Sergeant Royal E. Pauschert; 
Sergeant Alois Betmarik, Jr.; Corporal Joseph B. Korenich; Private First Class Herman 
G. Kettler, Jr.; The following enlisted men departed for rest camp, Capri, Sergeant 
George T. Steele; Private LeRoy L. Huddleson. 

Betmarik, Alois, Jr., Sgt, communications Dodds, Roy J., T/Sgt, mess 

Huddleson, LeRoy L., PFC, turret gunner 

Kamensky, George L., 1Lt, personal equipment 

Kettler, Herman G., Jr., PFC, armament 

Korenich, Joseph B., Cpl, medical Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence 

Pauschert, Royal E., T/Sgt, engineering Steele, George T., Sgt, engineering 

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

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

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 2 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
strike at bridges near the border between Italy and France, doing some damage at Gilette, 
Taggia, Alessandria, and at 2 points along the Var River; fighter-bombers pound bridges 
and airfields in NW Italy and S France and attack targets of opportunity in the area. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no combat mission scheduled for today although two 
ships were sent up on a nickeling mission and leaflets were dropped in the La Spezia area 
in Italy. Two pilots and a bombardier were assigned to the squadron today as 
replacements. 11 bombardiers spent one-half hour each on the rate machine. 4 ships 
went to the bombing range, 4 ships did some instrument flying, 9 other ships flew a 
practice mission and there were two cross-country flights made. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Brickner returns to the United States. 

Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 339 

TARGET: Borgo Val Di Taro, Massa, Lucca, Italy DATE: 2 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: Propaganda Leaflets 446th Planes: 2 

Lt Daggett led the formation. Did not go as far inland or south as desired but all leaflets 
dropped. No flak, no fighters. 

Daggett, Allen L., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Var Road Bridge 
No. 2, S-518774, with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Major concentration on west 
approach. Hits on bridge. Bombing Accuracy 94 %. Mission Efficiency 83 %. Captain 
Robert W. Manly was appointed Legal Assistance Officer in addition to his other duties. 
Captain Thomas C. Bounds was relieved of his duties as Commanding Officer of this 
squadron and transferred to the 445th Squadron in the same capacity. Captain Marshall 
C. Strenger was transferred to this squadron as Commanding Officer. Today’s mission 
marks the first bombing of the mainland of France by the 321st Bombardment Group. 
The 447th Squadron participated in the raid. The following officers and enlisted men 
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 combat officers were assigned to this squadron from 57th Wing: 2nd Lt. 
Wendell E. Marchant, (CP); 2nd Lt. Albert K. Condit, (CP); 2nd Lt. Edward Gates, (CP); 
2nd Lt. Ralph Gates, (CP); 2nd Lt. Ralph E. Hennessey, (CP). 

Altman, Irving L., 2Lt, bombardier Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander 

Condit, Albert K., 2Lt, pilot Drew, Horace E., Pvt, turret gunner 

Fischinger, Ernest E., Cpl, engineering Gates, Edward, 2Lt, pilot 

Gates, Ralph, 2Lt, pilot Hennessey, Ralph E., 2Lt, pilot 

Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence Marchant, Wendell E., 2Lt, pilot 

Munstein, Charles A., Sgt, engineering Pusvaskis, Peter D., S/Sgt, communications 

Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot, Commander 

 


Wednesday, 2 August 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 309 (458): At 08:22 19 planes off to bomb Var Road 
Bridge, France. Fourteen aircraft dropped 56 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet. Heavy 
concentration of bombs on West approach probable hits on approach and possible hits on 
bridge. Heavy, moderate intense, accurate to inaccurate flak all the way from IP across 
target along breakaway. 16 planes holed. Weather: CAVU. 

 

 

 


Thursday, 3 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
achieve fair results in attacks on bridges at Gilette, Levens, Lesegno, Albenga, and Asti, 
and at 2 locations along the Var River; fighter-bombers have a successful day against 
communications targets (mainly road and railroad bridges) and airfields in N Italy; at 
least 15 bridges are damaged or demolished and several parked aircraft are destroyed. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The target today was the Var river bridge in southern France but 
Lt. Wagner led this flight over another bridge but the bombing accuracy was 100 per cent 
so all was forgiven. Captain James E. Nickerson, Intelligence Officer in the squadron, 
left today to return to the States on rotation orders. Capt. “Nick”, as he was 
affectionately known in the squadron, was probably the most respected and best liked 
officer in the outfit, and will be sorely missed. He will be succeeded by 1st Lt. James O. 
Jackson formerly Capt. Nickerson’s assistant S-2 Officer. An intensive training program 
was carried out today. It included formation flying with dry runs, cross-countrys, 
bombing range practice and a flight to swing the compass. The bombardiers in the 
squadron received lectures today on bomb rack malfunctions and cooperation with the 
pilot and navigator. 

Jackson, James O., 1Lt, intelligence Nickerson, James E. “Nick”, Capt, intelligence 

Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: A mission is flown, leaving the field at 8:20 hours to bomb a 
bridge at Laurent, France. Lieut. Levine goes to Photo Interpretation School in Italy. 
EM’s Mecca, King, Brawn and Schultheis return to the good old U.S. 

Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt, Engineer-gunner King, A. B., transportation 

Levine, William E., Lt, intelligence Mecca, Joseph D., engineering 

Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt, gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 340 

TARGET: Var River Road Bridge No. 2, France DATE: 3 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Wagener, 445th Sqdn. led the formation. Good concentration of bombs reported in 
target area, with majority of bombs observed across center and W of bridge. Flak was 
heavy, moderate and inaccurate. Window used and believed effective. 

Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. The following officers have been 
assigned to the squadron from 57th Wing: 2nd Lt. Julius W. Rubin, (CP); 2nd Lt. Floyd H. 
Sprankle, (CP). The following enlisted men have been promoted to the rank Staff 
Sergeant: Sgt. Thomas J. Condon; Sgt. Lucien J. Repczynski. The following enlisted 
men have been promoted to of sergeant: Cpl. Edward J. Drwila; Cpl. Jarrel A. Wade; 
Cpl. Joseph A. Jenutis, Jr.; Cpl Jessie P. Wallace. The following enlisted men have been 
promoted to the rank of Corporal: Pfc. John F. Barsnica; Pfc. Ora E. Holmes, Jr., Pvt. 
William R. Milam. 

 


Thursday, 3 August 1944 (continued) 

 

Barsnica, John F., Cpl, ordnance Condon, Thomas J., S/Sgt, transportation 

Drwila, Edward J., Sgt, engineering Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Cpl, photographer 

Jenutis, Joseph A., Jr., Sgt, engineering Milam, William R., Cpl, engineering 

Repczynski, Lucien J., S/Sgt, personnel Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt, pilot 

Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt, pilot Wade, Jarrel A., Sgt, engineering 

Wallace, Jessie P., Sgt, ordnance 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Friday, 4 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather severely 
hampers the day's operations. medium bombers attacking bridges at Levens, Ventimiglia, 
Fontan, and along the Var River achieve poor results; fighter-bombers in same the 
general area hit bridges, tracks, guns, junction, and airfield, and strike at Nice, France 
Harbor. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was no combat mission scheduled for today but the combat 
crews received no rest as that relentless training schedule popped up. This time it took in 
formation flying with target identification and dry runs; compass swinging; transition’ a 
practice mission and three cross-countries. Some pilots went to the link trainer while the 
bombardiers sharpened their eyes on the bombsight rate machine. With the procurement 
of extra lumber, the men are daily improving the insides of their tents with floors and 
furniture. The food is very good and the mail situation is satisfactory. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Marek, Rogenski, Markel and Maxin head for Rome and rest 
camp. 

Marek, Joseph A., Sgt, engineering Markel, Lawrence E., Sgt, medic 

Maxin, Philip A., Sgt, engineering Rogenski, Leonard J., Sgt, ordnance 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: Ten of our ships participated in a raid on the Var River Road, S-
518774 with Lt. Muzinich leading our squadron, but returned without dropping bombs 
due to the mainland being completely obscured by heavy overcast. The following 
enlisted men have been promoted to the rank of Private First Class: Pvt. Leonard B. 
Heiman; Pvt. Richard H. Helwig; Pvt. Arnold W. Vollbrecht. The following officers and 
enlisted men are on D.S. 12th Air Force: 1st Lt. Richard E. Murray; T/Sgt. Walter J. 
Bilski; Sgt. Roy C. Dawson. The following officers and enlisted men have departed for 
rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. F.T. Nettles; 1st Lt. W.E. Neiman; 1st Lt. W.E. Kibler; 2nd Lt. 
E.A. Johnson; Sgt. D.G. Miller. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing and local 
transition. Captain Windler held a meeting at the Officers Club for all bombardiers. 

Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Dawson, Roy C., Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Heiman, Leonard B., PFC, transportation Helwig, Richard N., PFC, engineering 

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

Miller, Dale G., Sgt, gunner Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot Neiman, William E., 2Lt, pilot 

Nettles, Forrest T., 1Lt, pilot Vollbrecht, Arnold W., PFC, engineering 

Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 310 (461): At 08:37 19 planes off to bomb Var River 
Road Bridge, France. Formation encountered cloud cover of 8/10 from 8000 to 10,000 
feet building up to complete overcast. All bombs returned to base. 

 


Saturday, 5 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, weather again 
restricts operations; A-20s on armed reconnaissance in the Po Valley during the night of 
4/5 Aug attack lights and vehicles; fighter-bombers fly a few unsuccessful missions 
against bridges; and the detachment of the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter 
Wing (attached to 87th Fighter Wing), operating form Piombino, Italy returns to base at 
Solonzara, Corsica with Beaufighters. 

 

445th BS War Diary: 10 crews were standing by this morning but a stand down order 
came in at 11:00. “Doc” Smith has been expanding his orchestra very effectively ant the 
new name “the Mitchell-Aires” seems to be catching on. Today, Cpl. Ray Harvey was 
transferred into the squadron from an anti-aircraft outfit. Hi is the very able drummer in 
the band and will work in the communications department. 

Harvey, Raymond P., Cpl, communications Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon 

 

446th BS War Diary: Aug 5 and 6: Regular squadron duties. A small mail call. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. The following enlisted men were 
relieved of assignment and transferred on rotation to Personnel Center No. 6 for 
transshipment to the United States: T/Sgt. William J. Murtha; Cpl. Harry D. Kitchen, Jr. 
The following officers and enlisted men have been returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 
1st Lt. George L. Kamensky; T/Sgt. Royal E. Pauschert; Sgt. Alois Betmarik, Jr.; Cpl. 
Joseph B. Korenich; Pfc. Herman G. Kettler, Jr. Today’s training consisted of a six plane 
practice formation. 

Betmarik, Alois, Jr., Sgt, communications 

Kamensky, George L., 1Lt, personal equipment Kettler, Herman G., Jr., PFC, armament 

Kitchen, Harry D., Jr, Cpl, transportation Korenich, Joseph B., Cpl, medical 

Murtha, William J., T/Sgt, engineering Pauschert, Royal E., T/Sgt, engineering 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Sunday, 6 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Medium bombers strike 
bridges in SE France in the Rhone Valley and areas to the E, in or near Tarascon and 
Arles, and alone the Var River; fighter-bombers enjoy a successful day against targets in 
NW Italy and SE France, including bridges, railroad lines, motor transport, trains, roads, 
airfields, and town areas, plus shipping at Imperia, Genoa, and La Spezia, Italy. 

 

445th BS War Diary: 13 planes took off on today’s mission but they returned before 
reaching the target due to unsatisfactory weather. Heavy clouds and some rain postponed 
the training schedule for today and the combat crews did not complain over that. 
Generally the crews gripe a bit over the training schedule but the results on the combat 
missions are improving and this is due in no small bit to the excellent training set forth by 
the Operations Officer. 

 

446th BS War Diary: August 5 and 6: Regular squadron duties. A small mail call. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Usual squadron duties. Morning 
report Officers, 94; Enlisted Men 332. 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Monday, 7 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, A-20s bomb 
shipping at Genoa, Finale Ligure, and Alassio and Monaco, Monaco during the night of 
6/7 Aug; during the day, B-25s and B-26s bomb bridges at Les Censies, Ventimiglia, La 
Voulte-sur-Rhone, Livron, Avignon, and Pont-Saint-Esprit; fighter-bombers hit rail and 
road bridges, marshalling yards at Alessandria and Albenga, shipping at Imperia and 
Nice, and airfields in NW Italy and S France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron participated in the mission which attacked the Pont 
St. Esprit railroad bridge in southern France, achieving a bombing accuracy of 67 per 
cent. The training schedule for today was cancelled due to an unexpected mission 
coming up in the afternoon. The bombs for this raid were brought out to the line despite 
rain but the mission was finally cancelled. Three Lieutenants were assigned to be OD for 
the next three days for failing to sign the voting roster. This roster was signed by officers 
and enlisted men in the intelligence tent. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Sergeants Todd and Lanza arrive at camp after being behind the 
enemy lines since late in May. 

Lanza, William A., Sgt, gunner Todd, Alfred J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 341 

TARGET: Pont St. Esprit Rail Bridge, France DATE: 7 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Good concentration in target area, with direct hits reported 
on center and S end of bridge. Few bombs over with possible hits on road bridge to W. 
Few bursts of flak, out of range. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Usual squadron duties. 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Tuesday, 8 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
attack targets in Po Valley and Rhone Valley in France, hitting bridges and railroad 
tracks in or near Alessandria, and Avignon, Pont-Saint-Esprit, and along the Var River in 
France; A-20s hit a storage dump and the nearby town of Savigliano; fighter-bombers hit 
a barge in San Stefano al Mare harbor and pontoon and railroad bridges nearby, and 
attack the Mantua causeway and nearby bridges, scoring many hits and destroying 
several vehicles. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Pont S. Esprit railroad bridge once 
again this time achieving a bombing accuracy of 82 per cent – a decided improvement. 3 
pilots and 4 bombardiers were transferred to the other squadron in the group in the best 
interest of this squadron. More ground personnel were sent to the Rome rest camp. 2 
crews were given instruction on proper ditching while some bombardiers spent some time 
on the trainer and rate machine. There was no flight training. 

 

446th BS War Diary: 2 combat missions are flown. Lots of lucky fellows get 
promotions on a lengthy list posted today. To Technical Sergeant went the following: 
Mulzer, Besha, Holstein, Milano and Taylor, J.D. to Staff: Huerner, Helgert, Kane, 
Stapleton, Sommer, Kreider, Smetana, Zelnick, Heery, Wiacek, Boston, Larson, Burrow, 
Mittman, Jacob, Bender, McArdle. To Sergeant: Williams and Yakelis and Duffy 
became a Corporal. 

Bender, Thomas J., Jr, S/Sgt, gunner or Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt, gunner 

Besha, Charles N., T/Sgt, engineering Boston, Wendell P., S/Sgt, armament 

Burrow, Isom F., S/Sgt, gunner Duffy, John L., Cpl, engineering 

Heery, Philip M., S/Sgt, gunner Helgert, Claude G., S/Sgt, gunner 

Holstein, Clarence M., T/Sgt, engineering Huerner, Elmer L., T/Sgt, communications 

Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Kane, Ronald J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Kreider, John L., S/Sgt, gunner Larson, Ralph L., S/Sgt, gunner 

McArdle, John R., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Milano, Rocco F., T/Sgt, engineering 

Mittman, Milton M., S/Sgt, gunner Mulzer, Edgar C., T/Sgt, engineering 

Smetana, Frank C., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Sommer, Willard V., S/Sgt, communications 

Stapleton, Carl B., S/Sgt, gunner Taylor, John D., T/Sgt, communications 

Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt, gunner 

Williams, David L., Sgt, engineering or Williams, Homer R., Sgt, gunner 

Zelnick, John J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Yakelis, Joseph M., Sgt, engineering 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 342 

TARGET: Pont S. Esprit Rail Bridge, France. DATE: 8 Aug. 1944 

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

Captain McLain led the formation. Majority of bombs appeared to hit just short and to S 
approach to target. Others observed falling across N approach with several reports of 
direct hits on bridge itself. No flak, no fighters. 

McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, 445th BS 

 


Tuesday, 8 August 1944 (continued) 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 343 

TARGET: Pont St. Esprit Rail bridge, France DATE: 8 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1999 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 9 

Lt. Burandt led the formation. Due to weather neither primary or alternate bombed. No 
flak, no fighters. Lt. Hipson did not take off because of gas leak. 

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

 

447th BS War Diary: Ten of our ships participated in a raid on Pont St. Esprit RR 
Bridge N-827227, with Lt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Good concentration in target 
area with majority of bombs on north end and north approach Bridge well hit. A few 
short and over to west with hits on road bridge. Bombing accuracy, 88.8 %; Mission 
efficiency 80 %. On the second mission ten of our ships participated in a raid on Var 
River Road Bridge No. 1, S-535756, with Lt. Wiginton leading the squadron. Good 
concentration although bombs scattered. Hits on both approaches, some bombs short and 
to east in town. Bombing accuracy 100 %, Mission efficiency 100 %. A large number of 
the 447th Squadron Personnel attended Joe Louis’ exhibition bout at the 41st Engineers 
recreation field. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, 
Italy: 1st Lt. George G. VanJohn; S/Sgt. Charles R. Brown; S/Sgt. Lucian J. Repczynski; 
Cpl. William R. Dobbs; Cpl. Edward S. Florio. The following officers and enlisted men 
were relieved of assignment and transferred to No. 7 Replacement Depot for 
transshipment to the United States: Captain Kenneth L. McFadden; 1st Lt Robert G. 
Davis; S/Sgt. Henry E. Orzynski. The following enlisted men were assigned to the 
squadron per SO 128- Headquarters 321st Bomb Group: Sgt. Elwood L. Brown; Cpl. 
Marion Leszcynski; Cpl. LeRoy Stainthorpe. 1st Lt. George J. Schweda and 2nd Lt. 
Gordon J. Brule were assigned to this squadron from the 445th squadron. 2nd Lt. Samuel 
A. Monger, Jr. was relieved of assignment and assigned to the 445th Squadron. Today’s 
training consisted of practice bombing. 

Brown, Charles R., S/Sgt, gunner Brown, Elwood L., Sgt, transportation 

Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt, bombardier Davies, Robert G., 1Lt, pilot 

Dobbs, William R., Cpl, mess Florio, Edward S., Cpl, armament 

Leszcynski, Marion O., Cpl, ordnance Louis, Joe, SSgt, Boxer, Special Service 

McFadden, Kenneth L., Capt, pilot Monger, Samuel A., Jr., 2Lt, pilot 

Orzynski, Henry E., S/Sgt, gunner Repczynski, Lucien J., S/Sgt, personnel 

Schweda, George J., 2Lt, pilot Stainthorpe, LeRoy, Cpl, ordnance 

VanJohn, George G., 1Lt, intelligence 

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

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 311 (463): At 15:50 twenty planes off to bomb Var River 
Road Bridge, France, and dropped 80 x 1000 bombs from 10,000/10,500 feet. Primary 
target RR Bridge at Pont St. Esprit N was not bombed but alternate Var River No. 1 was 
hit. Good concentration of bombs in target area with greatest concentration on W end. 
Both approaches believed hit. Heavy, intense, accurate flak from known positions in 
target area of pin-wheel and umbrella type. 10 planes holed. Weather 10/10 
Cumulonimbus bases at 8000 feet in primary area. CAVU with slight haze at alternate. 


Tuesday, 8 August 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 312 (465): At 07:20 19 planes off to bomb RR/Bridge at 
Pont St. Esprit N and dropped 69 x 1000 bombs from 10,000 feet. Good concentration of 
bombs in target area with strings across center, most bombs on N and N approach. 
Heavy, moderate, inaccurate to accurate flak. 2 planes holed. Weather: CAVU. 

 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 9 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bomber 
efforts are restricted by bad weather; however, during the night of 8/9 Aug A-20s hit 
targets along the coastal road from Nice, France to Genoa, and during the day B-25s hit 
the railroad at Ventimiglia and B-26s attain excellent results on the Bergamo/Orio al 
Serio Airfield; fighter-bombers sink a motor vessel in Imperia harbor and attack railroad 
facilities in NW Italy; the detachment of the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII 
Tactical Air Command, operating from Santa Maria with F-6s, returns to base at Borgo, 
Corsica. 

 

445th BS War Diary: Unfavorable weather continued and the mission was force to 
return before reaching the target. There was a meeting of all flying officers followed by a 
meeting of all combat enlisted personnel. Subject for both meetings was not disclosed 
but it is safe to presume that it was a routine “chewing”. 6 more crews received ditching 
instructions while the bad weather greatly restricted the flight training. The Mitchell-
Aires entertained at the officers club at night and were right in the grove. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Sergeant Al Todd returns to the states after a short visit with us. 

Todd, Alfred J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 344 

TARGET: St. Hippolyte Rail Bridge, France DATE: 9 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Furey led the formation. Due to weather neither primary nor alternate reached. No 
flak, no fighters. 

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

 

447th BS War Diary: One of our ships flew as spare with the 448th in a raid on St. 
Hippolyte Rail Bridge, S-219865. Due to weather the mission was not completed. An 
unexpected heavy rain storm during the night caused a great deal of discomfort. Due to 
poor drainage facilities the S-2 and Operational tents were in approximately 17 inches of 
water. Maps, purses, food kits and some of our supplies were saturated by the flood. 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 313 (467): At 07:26 26 planes off to bomb St. Hippolyte 
RR/Viaduct. Formation encountered solid overcast 15 miles from French coast and were 
unable to get over top. All bombs returned to base. No flak or E/A. Escort P-47’s. 

 

 

 

 


Thursday, 10 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Medium bomber and A-20 
missions are cancelled by bad weather; fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit 
gun positions along the S coast of France in preparation for the Allied invasion of S 
France (Operation DRAGOON). 

 

445th BS War Diary: 15 crews were scheduled for today’s mission but the bad weather 
again interfered and the mission was cancelled. The squadron said goodbye to its most 
famous and beloved airplane – “Idaho Lassie”. Capt. Wilson, Operations Officer, and a 
picked crew accompanied the old girl on her way back to the States and war bond fame. 
T/Sgt. Whitaker, who helped crew “02” to her record-breaking 150 missions, 
accompanied his ship as engineer. There was a large turnout on the line to watch “Idaho 
Lassie” take off. After the takeoff, Capt. Wilson obligingly buzzed the line area so that 
the popular old girl could “Kiss the Boys Goodbye”. The personnel in the area were 
recovering today from the effects of a heavy downpour last night. Tents were flooded, 
clothing was soaked and foxholes were turned into miniature swimming pools. A few 
men were fortunate in getting up to Ghisonaccia to see and hear Arch-bishop Spellman 
today. 

Whitaker, William H., T/Sgt, engineering 

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

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties. A meager mail. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: Stand down for the day. The following officers and enlisted men 
have departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Eugene R. Hermann; Captain John R. 
Piasta; Technical Sergeant Joseph J. Oler; Sergeant Verlin B. Rowley; Private First Class 
Robert B. Biscailus; Private First Class Patrick L. Kelly. The following officers and 
enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. George J. Repczynski; 
Corporal Edward S. Florio. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the rank 
of Private First Class; Pvt. Willie E. Hamilton; Pvt. Robert T. Kipp; Pvt. Buford T. 
Williams. The S-2 and Operational Tents were moved to higher ground just in case of a 
repetition of last nights rain storm. 

Biscailus, Robert P., PFC, armament Florio, Edward S., Cpl, armament 

Hamilton, Willie E., PFC, armament Hermann, Eugene R., Capt, engineering 

Kelly, Patrick L., PFC, ordnance Kipp, Robert T., PFC, gunner 

Oler, Joseph J., T/Sgt, engineering Piasta, John R., Capt, communications 

Repczynski, Lucien J., S/Sgt, personnel Rowley, Verlin B., Sgt, intelligence 

Williams, Buford T., PFC, armament 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 


Friday, 11 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): B-25s, B-26s, and P-47s 
strike gun positions along the French and Italian coasts W of Genoa as the Operation 
DRAGOON assault force begins a movement from the Naples area toward targets in S 
France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed some gun positions on the coast of 
southern France with a bombing accuracy of 75 per cent. The usual training program was 
in effect although not quite as extensive as usual. There was more rain today. The 
personnel of the show “Off the Cob” put their show on at the Red Cross theater at Bastia. 
Better than three-quarters of the audience was alien and the boys report a “cold” 
reception. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Sergeant Lanza heads for home. He and Todd were combat 
crewmen on the same ship that went down late in May in northern Italy. 

Lanza, William A., Sgt, gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 345 

TARGET: St. Tropez E. Gun Position, France DATE: 11 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. G.P. 446th Planes: 12 

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Good concentration in target area. Several strings of bombs 
“walked” across center of target, One explosion with fames and smoke reaching 3000 ft. 
Few bombs fell just E of target. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Briles (spare) returned early. 
Lt. Jaksic (bombardier) salvoed bombs off the coast of France due to bomb rack 
malfunction. 

Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt, pilot Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt, bombardier 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on Saint Tropez (W) 
West Gun position, U-448178 with Lt. Murray leading the squadron. Two strings of 
bombs walked across north half of target area. One concentration of bombs in wooded 
area SW of target. Other bombs in immediate vicinity of area. Bombing accuracy 70 %. 
Mission efficiency 64.5 %. Sergeant George T. Steele and Private First Class LeRoy L. 
Huddleson are at rest camp, Capri. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing. 

Huddleson, LeRoy L., PFC, turret gunner Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

Steele, George T., Sgt, engineering 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 314 (470): At 17:05 12 planes off to bomb gun positions 
Frejus, France and dropped 96 x 500 bombs from 11,000 feet. Excellent coverage of 
bombs in target area. Explosions and flames observed. No flak or E/A. Weather: 
CAVU. 

 

 

 


Saturday, 12 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Medium bombers, A-20s, 
and fighter-bombers attack targets, mainly gun positions, in the battle area N of the Arno 
River and in S France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron went out after gun positions again on the coast of 
southern France near Cape Negre. They came up with 80 per cent bombing accuracy on 
this one. One of the bombardiers in the squadron was grounded for a week’s training. 
The 4 squadrons in the group are vying for bombing accuracy honors and everything 
possible is being done to improve the bombing accuracy in the squadron. Today’s 
training schedule emphasized bombing as a number of ships went to the bombing range 
while others made some dry runs. The mail situation is falling off and the men believe 
that is indicative of another invasion. Rumors have it that southern France is next what 
with our group hammering gun positions there. 

 

446th BS War Diary: A 11 plane mission is flown to southern France. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 346 

TARGET: Porquerolles E Gun Position, France. DATE: 12 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 11 

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Center and SE position of target area reported well hit. 
Some bombs SE of target area. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Taylor did not take off because 
of nose wheel. Lt. Vivas returned early because of oil leak. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt, pilot 

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

 or Taylor, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: One of our ships flew as a spare with the 446th Squadron in a raid 
on Porquerolles (E) Gun Position Center and south easterly position of target area well 
hit. Some bombs landed SE of target area. Bombing accuracy 100 %. Mission 
efficiency 97.4 %. Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on Porquerolles (W) Gun 
Position, Z-168861, with Lt. Stocking leading the squadron. Bombs fell along west edge 
of target area and others short to the SW and over to the NE. Bombing accuracy 63.6 %. 
Mission efficiency 58.3 %. S/Sgt Charles R. Brown, Sgt. Francis J.J. Krampe and 
Corporal Milam were relieved of assignment and transferred to the 7th Replacement 
Depot per order from 57th Wing. S/Sgt. Brown, Sgt. Krampe and Corporal Milam were 
selected to join a B-29 Group. Today marks the second anniversary of the 12th Air Force. 
A congratulatory message was received, extended by General Arnold. 

Brown, Charles R., S/Sgt, gunner Krampe, Francis J.J., Sgt, engineering 

Milam, William R., Cpl, engineering Stocking, Eugene, E., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 315 (475): At 08:30 12 planes off to bomb gun positions 
at Cannes, France and dropped 96 x 500 bombs from 11,000 feet. Several runs were 
made due to difficulty in picking up target. Six planes report direct hits in target area, 
with other bombs scattered. No flak or E/A. Chaff was used. Weather CAVU. 


Sunday, 13 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, medium 
bombers blast coastal defense guns in the Marseille area while A-20s during the night of 
2/13 Aug attack targets along the Monaco-Toulon road, and fighter-bombers hit guns and 
barracks in the area; and fighters strafe airfields at Les Chanoines, Montreal, Avignon, La 
Jasse, Istres-Le-Tube, Valence, and Bergamo. In Italy, A-20s attack explosive stores in 
the battle area in the Arno River Valley. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron went out to bomb gun positions in southern France 
near La Ciotat and results brought a wide grin to the Bombing Officer’s face – 100 per 
cent bombing accuracy. Two British “big wheels” inspected the squadron area today. 
They were General Wilson, Theater Commander, and Admiral Cunningham, head of the 
Mediterranean Navy. 6 line personnel, including 3 master sergeants, were transferred 
back to the States to be assigned to a B-29 outfit. 

Cunningham, Sir Andrew Browne "ABC", Admiral, Commander-in-Chief, 

 Mediterranean Station 

Wilson, Sir Henry Maitland, General, Allied Commander-in-Chief MTO 

 

446th BS War Diary: A number of the ground personnel are assigned to very heavy 
bombers and are sent to Italy for shipment: Chavez, Dugan, Killam, Perkins, Szulwach, 
Torres, Boston, Meier, Peterson, DeMeo, Holder, James, Parker, Souza, Bolotin, 
Camelio, Johnson, Knipple, Lothes, Mattingly, Maxin, York, Hammond, Odgis, Peters, 
and Garner. 

Bolotin, Jack R., Sgt, armament Boston, Wendell P., S/Sgt, armament 

Camelio, Romeo F., Sgt, engineering Chavez, Louis, Sgt, Engineering 

DeMeo, Michael B., Sgt, engineering Dugan, Robert W., Sgt, engineering 

Garner, Sgt, Hammond, Charles D., Sgt, engineering 

Holder, Robert B., Sgt, engineering James, John, Sgt, armament 

Johnson, Randolph, Sgt, engineering Killam, Lloyd, D., M/Sgt, communications 

Knipple, Harvey, Sgt, engineering Lothes, Don G., Sgt, engineering 

Mattingly, Miles P., Jr., Sgt, engineering Maxin, Philip A., Sgt, engineering 

Meier, John H., Sgt, engineering Odgis, Alvin, Sgt, engineering 

Parker, Jewell, Sgt, armament, gunner Perkins, Lawrence W., Sgt, engineering 

Peters, Melvin E., Sgt, engineering or Peters, William G., Sgt, engineering 

Peterson, Roy T., Sgt, armament Souza, Arthur, Sgt, armament 

Szulwach, John F., Sgt, engineering Torres, Alfonso G., Sgt, engineering 

York, David N., Sgt, armament 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 347 

TARGET: La Ciotat Gun Positions, France DATE: 13 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. Demo. 446th Planes: 12 

Lt. Burandt led the formation. First box of six planes did not pick up target so a second 
run was made, bombing an emplacement to W and N of target area, nearly in center of 
island. Second box on first run believed to hit S of target area. No flak, no fighters. 

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot 


Sunday, 13 August 1944 (continued) 

 

447th BS War Diary: 11 of our ships participated in a raid on the La Ciotat Gun Position 
T-696046, with Lt. Banks leading the squadron. South section of target well hit. Other 
bombs to the north hitting extreme north tip of target area. Bombing accuracy, 56 %. 
Mission efficiency 56 %. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from 
rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain E.R. Herrman; Captain J.R. Piasta; Technical Sergeant 
J.J. Oler; Sergeant V.B. Rowley; Private First Class P.L. Kelly; Private First Class R.P. 
Biscailus. Morning Report: Officers- 93; Enlisted Men 330. Today’s training consisted 
of practice bombing and a local test hop. 

Banks, Herbert J., 2Lt, pilot Biscailus, Robert P., PFC, armament 

Hermann, Eugene R., Capt, engineering Kelly, Patrick L., PFC, ordnance 

Oler, Joseph J., T/Sgt, engineering Piasta, John R., Capt, communications 

Rowley, Verlin B., Sgt, intelligence 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 316 (478): At 09:05 12 planes off to bomb gun positions 
at La Ciotat, Y-737996, and dropped 72 x 1000 SAP bombs from 10,000 feet. All bombs 
in target area with direct hits, 100% bombing accuracy. No flak or E/A. Area cover. 
Weather CAVU. 

 

 

 


Monday, 14 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, medium 
bombers hit coastal defenses while fighter-bombers pound various gun positions, tracks, 
enemy HQ, and targets of opportunity in the Toulon-Nice area; fighters strafe radar 
installations and targets of opportunity along the S coast as Operation DRAGOON forces 
approach. In Italy, during the night of 13/14 Aug, A-20s hit targets of opportunity in the 
W Po Valley and a fuel dump N of the battle area; and the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 
62d Fighter Wing, based at Pomigliano with Beaufighters and Mosquitos, sends 
detachments to operate from Alghero, Sicily and Borgo, Corsica. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron again picked on some gun positions near Frejus in 
southern France and achieved a bombing accuracy of 90 per cent. Consistent with 
American war policy, Lt. Jackson called a meeting of the entire squadron personnel and 
gave a “briefing” of the invasion of southern France which will start tomorrow morning. 
All details were disclosed including the points of landing, the identification of landing 
forces, their strength and their plans once they make their landings. This policy of 
revealing secret military operations before they take place makes a big hit with the men. 

Jackson, James O., 1Lt, intelligence 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieut. Colonel Schwane, Sergeants Knapp and South return from 
the states. 

Knapp, Walter E., Sgt, gunner Schwane, Henry H., Lt Col, pilot 

South, William R., Sgt, gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 348 

TARGET: C. Camaret Gun Position, France. DATE: 14 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 500 lb. G.P. 446th Planes: 12 

Major Cooper was the Flight Commander. Most bombs started just S of target area and 
walked through both E and W edge of gun positions. Several flashes seen like exploding 
ammunition. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Sampson returned early due to broken exhaust 
stack. Captain Kerr led the formation. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander Kerr, John C., Capt, pilot 

Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on the St. Tropez West 
Gun Position, U-448178, with Lt. Murray leading the squadron. Good concentration in 
target area, resulting in 100 % bombing accuracy; and Mission efficiency of 100 %. The 
following enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Sgt. R.W. Shattles; Sgt. B.T. 
Oltesvig; Pfc. R.E. Kracher; Pvt. G.G. O’Neil. The following enlisted men were assigned 
to the squadron per S.O. # 131, 12th Air Force. Sgt. R.E. Eisenhauer; Sgt. E.W. Dulaney. 
Second Lieutenant Julius W. Rubin, was transferred to the 448th Squadron. Second 
Lieutenant Floyd H. Sprankle was transferred to the 445th Squadron. At 1900 hours, 
Captain Robert W. Manly briefed the combat personnel in regard to the coming invasion 
of Southern France and the target for the following day. The invasion of Southern France 

 


Monday, 14 August 1944 (continued) 

 

is expected to take place tomorrow morning at 800 hours. Today’s training consisted of 
practice bombing. 

Dulaney, Earl W., Sgt, gunner Eisenhauer, Robert E., Sgt, operations 

Kracher, Robert E., PFC, engineering Manly, Robert W., Capt, intelligence 

Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot Oltesvig, Boyd T., Sgt, mess 

O'Neil, Gerald G., Sgt, armament Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt, pilot 

Shattles, Realus W., Sgt, communications Sprankle, Floyd H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 318 (482): At 09:42 12 planes off to bomb gun positions 
Frejus S U-546259, and dropped 96 x 500 GP bombs from 11,000 feet. Most bombs in 
target area with six explosions and fires observed. No flak or E/A. Weather: CAVU 
slight haze. 

 


Tuesday, 15 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, during the 
night of 14/15 Aug A-20s bomb Le Vallon, Istres, and Orange/Plan de Dieu Airfields and 
other Rhone Valley targets while the US Seventh Army carries out preliminary 
operations to isolate Operation DRAGOON invasion beaches; the US Special Service 
Force invades Levant and Port-Cros Island and secures the left flank of the assault area; 
French commandoes land E of Cap Negre and clear coastal defenses, the French Naval 
Assault Group lands SW of Cannes and secures the right flank; the 1st Airborne Task 
Force drops in the rear of assault beaches and blocks off the invasion area from the 
interior; the main force, the US VI Corps, lands 3 divisions abreast between Nice and 
Toulon at 0800 hours local; A-20s bomb barracks in the invasion area while B-25s, B-
26s, P-38s, and P-47s, supporting the invasion, pound beaches, enemy concentrations, 
and gun positions in coastal areas and later in the day move attacks inland to interdict 
enemy communications lines successfully hitting numerous bridges; fighters maintain 
constant patrol over the convoys and invasion area; HQ 64th Fighter Wing moves from 
Santa Maria di Caputa, Italy to St Tropez; and the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance 
Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, based at Borgo, Corsica, sends a detachment to 
operate from St Maxime and Grimaud with F-6s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron went along with the group as it supported its sixth 
amphibious operations – the invasion of southern France. The invasion began at 0800 
but this squadron was out on a pre-dawn mission to bomb invasion beaches. Poor 
visibility prevented bomb fall observation. In the second mission of the day, the 
squadron bombed the Montfaucon road bridge, France with a bombing accuracy of 92 per 
cent. There was quite a bit of comment about the invasion in the squadron. One of the 
most popular deductions was that the mail might be soon coming in regularly now that 
the invasion is under way. The mail situation is very poor lately. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Four combat missions totaling 30 of our planes bomb coastal 
installations in southern France as the invasion of that area begins at 0800 hours. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 349 

TARGET: Antheor Gun Position, France DATE: 15 Aug. 1944 

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

Major Cooper led the formation. Did not drop, target obscured. No flak. One FW-190 
observed in target, but dove away. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 350 

TARGET: Antheor Beach, France DATE: 15 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 100 lb. Demo. (double load) 446th Planes: 12 

Lt. Moss led the formation. Although cloud formation made observation difficult good 
coverage of beach reported. Bombs started in water and “walked” up thru beach. Others 
reported on and over road and railroad viaduct, and on both sides of cove. Flak was 

 


Tuesday, 15 August 1944 (continued) 

 

heavy, moderate, inaccurate and out of range. Two ME-109’s observed making pass at 
B24s. 

Moss, Lt, pilot (Robert P., from 381st?) 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 351 

TARGET: Montfaucon Road Bridge, France DATE: 15 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Burandt led the formation. Very good concentration on N end and approach 
observed, with other strings seen crossing bridge N of center and S end. Several reports 
of direct hits and one span down. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate. No fighters. 

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 352 

TARGET: Pont St. Esprit Road Bridge, France. DATE: 15 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 Lb. (Azon radio-controlled) 446th Planes: 3 

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Azon bombs in experimental stage. Bridge missed. No 
flak, no fighters. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: The invasion of Southern France took place this morning at 800 
hours at points between Toulon and Cannes. 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones is on D.S. with 12th 
Air Force. Major Raymond D. Sampson, former Commanding Officer of our squadron 
has returned after a short furlough in the United States. Four of our ships participated in 
a raid on the Antheor Gun position, S-236526, with Lt. Muzinich leading the squadron. 
Majority of bombs hit in southern end of target area. On the second mission for the day, 
eleven of our planes participated in a raid on the Antheor Beach S-254531, with Lt. Manz 
leading our squadron. Due to cloud coverage no bombs were dropped. On the third 
mission, nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Montfaucon Road Bridge, with Lt. 
Alger leading the squadron. Very good concentration on north end and approach with 
other strings across the bridge, resulting in several direct hits. Bombing accuracy 92.3 %. 
Mission efficiency, 92.3 %. 

Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot Jones, Claude F, 1Lt, bombardier 

Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot 

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 321 (488): 2 planes of this squadron spares for 44th 
Bomb Squadron to bomb Antheor Beach. 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 322 (489): At 13:53 36 planes off to bomb Montfaucon 
Road Bridge and drop 144 x 1000 bombs from 9500/11,500 feet. Good concentration of 
bombs on N end of bridge, N approach and center of bridge. Heavy, scant, inaccurate 
flak from Orange-Caritat. No E/A. Area Cover. Weather: CAVU with slight haze. 

 

 


Wednesday, 16 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In support of Operation 
DRAGOON forces, fighters and fighter-bombers continue to blast enemy defenses and 
communications on the beaches and in the invasion area of S France; A-20s hit lights and 
vehicles during the night of 15/16 Aug from N of the beachhead to the Rhone River and 
during the day raid ammunition stores; medium bombers pound Rhone River bridges and 
gun positions throughout the general area. 

 

445th BS War Diary: Poor weather conditions hampered mission efficiency today. The 
squadron went out to bomb the Avignon south railroad bridge in southern France but 
weather prevented the flight from dropping any bombs. Sgt. Dowd, engineer-gunner, 
was severely injured in the hand by flak. Lt. Fischer, former Mess Officer, was sent to 
the 57th Bomb Wing on detached service for an indefinite period of time. Three 
Technical Sergeants on the line were promoted to Master Sergeant, while 8 combat crew 
members also received promotions. 

Dowd, Steven J., Sgt, engineer-gunner Fischer, 2Lt, Mess Officer 

 

446th BS War Diary: 3 missions are flown to southern France; 15 of the squadron’s 
ships taking part. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 353 

TARGET: Bourg St. Andeol Road Bridge, France. DATE: 16 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Wiginton led the formation. Due to bad weather in target area two runs were made 
with excellent results reported. Large concentration of bombs fell E of center and on E 
end of bridge. Several direct hits reported. No flak, fighter. 

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

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 354 

TARGET: Tusselage Road Bridge, France. DATE: 16 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. Demo. (Azon) 446th Planes: 3 

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Due to bad weather, two runs made on target. Bridge 
believed hit W of center on first run, over to NE on second run. No flak, no fighters. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 355 

TARGET: Avignon S Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 16 Aug. 1944 

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

Captain McLain and Captain Kerr were the leaders. First flight did not bomb due to 
weather conditions and second flight concentrated their bombs on the N end and 
approach of target. Flak was heavy, scant and inaccurate, from Orange A/D. Heavy, 
intense, accurate from target. Lt. Chudars made a forced single engine landing at St. 
Catherine, Corsica. 

Chudars, James E., 1Lt, pilot Kerr, John C., Capt, pilot 

McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, 445th BS 


Wednesday, 16 August 1944 (continued) 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Bourg S. Andeol 
Road Bridge, with Lt. Wiginton leading our squadron. Large concentration of bombs 
from east end nearly to center. Several direct hits on bridge. Bombing accuracy, 83.3 %; 
Mission efficiency, 83.3 %. On the second mission three of our ships participated on a 
raid on the Tusselage Road Bridge, with Lt. Krafka leading the squadron. Due to weather 
conditions no bombs were dropped. The following enlisted men returned from rest camp, 
Rome, Italy: Sgt. R.W. Shattles; Sgt. B.T. Oltesvig; Pfc. R.E. Kracher; Pvt. G.G. O’Neil. 
The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp- Rome, Italy: 1st Lt E.J. 
Stanley; Sgt. G.P. Sargia; Cpl. C.H. Rankin; Pfc. V.M. Contreras. T/Sgt. Vincent T. 
O’Donnell and S/Sgt. John L. Murdock, Jr. were transferred to 321st Group Headquarters. 

Contreras, Ventura M., PFC, transportation Kracher, Robert E., PFC, engineering 

Krafka, Edward, 1Lt, pilot Murdock, John L., Jr., S/Sgt, communications 

O'Donnell, Vincent T., T/Sgt, engineering Oltesvig, Boyd T., Sgt, mess 

O'Neil, Gerald G., Sgt, armament Rankin, Charles H., Cpl, medical 

Sargia, George P., Sgt, engineering Shattles, Realus W., Sgt, communications 

Stanley, Edward J., 1Lt, bombardier Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 323 (493): At 07:48 19 planes off to bomb Tusselage 
Road Bridge and encountered complete overcast at target and returned all bombs to base. 
Heavy, scant to moderate inaccurate flak. No E/A. One plane holed. 

 


Thursday, 17 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, despite bad 
weather, medium bombers attack railroad bridges leading to the beachhead area of the S 
coast and hit coastal guns SW of Toulon; A-20s hit motor transport during the night and 
drop ammunition to invasion forces; fighter-bombers and fighters on armed 
reconnaissance and patrol score excellent results against motor transport and rail cars and 
destroy several airplanes on airfields in the S. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron again went out to tackle the Montfaucon bridge 
system in southern France. This time they bombed a road bridge with 100 per cent 
bombing accuracy. The greatly-improved bombing accuracy recently is an excellent 
tribute to the rigid and extensive training schedule carried out by the squadron. A pilot 
and a radio gunner went before the Medical Board today. 3 ships went to the bombing 
range, there was a transition flight, two cross-country flights and some practice by the 
bombardiers on the bomb trainer and rate machine. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 356 

TARGET: Area inland from Beach-head, France DATE: 17 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: Propaganda Leaflets 446th Planes: 3 

Lt. Wiginton led the formation. Turned back due to weather. No flak, no fighters. 

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

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 357 

TARGET: Bourg St. Andeol Road Bridge, France. DATE: 17 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Stocking led the formation. Good concentration on bridge, hits on E pier and center. 
Possible hits on E approach. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Ivankovig (spare) returned early. 

Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt, pilot Stocking, Eugene, E., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: Three of our ships were scheduled to participate on a nickeling 
mission from the Southern France beachhead to within 30 to 50 miles inland, but due to 
weather conditions they were forced to return. Nine of our ships participated in a raid on 
Bourg St. Andeol Road Bridge N-843325, with Lt. Stocking leading our squadron. 
Excellent concentrations on center and also on the east pier. Bombing accuracy 88.8 %; 
Mission efficiency, 88.8 %. Sgt Olney W. Morris and Pfc. Buford T. Williams departed 
for rest camp, Capri. 

Morris, Olney W., Sgt, armament Stocking, Eugene, E., 2Lt, pilot 

Williams, Buford T., PFC, armament 

 

 

 

 

 


Thursday, 17 August 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 324 (496): At 16:13 18 planes off to bomb Montfaucon 
Road Bridge and dropped 72 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet. An excellent concentration 
of bombs in the target area with strings straddling the bridge and both approaches. 100% 
accuracy 448th. Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate flak from Orange A/D. Weather: 3/10th 
Cumulus Visibility 8 miles due to haze. 

 

 


Friday, 18 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, medium 
bombers blast coastal guns in the Toulon area and shipping in Toulon harbor; fighter-
bombers closely support beachhead troops, hit rolling stock and rail lines, and generally 
disrupt communications as the US VI Corps overruns the primary defenses in the coastal 
area of SE France; fighters maintain beachhead patrols and area cover for the bombers; 
and HQ XII Tactical Air Command moves from Italy to France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron went out with the group in full force to attack 
shipping in Toulon harbor. The results of the mission were extremely successful and the 
raid will undoubtedly go down in group records as one of the most if not the most 
effective raid carried out by the 321st. This squadron achieved 100 per cent bombing 
accuracy and final results showed a cruiser with its decks awash and in a sinking 
condition, a submarine sunk and a large battleship badly damaged and ablaze in 3 places. 
Lt. Daniel Galindo deserves a big hand for his part in leading this squadron’s bomb fall 
pattern by dropping his bombs squarely in the target area. The mail ice was at last broken 
with a number of packages and first class mail arriving today. Mail orderly “Buck” 
Sergeant was once again a popular boy after being in the dog-house for several weeks. 
The variety show “Off the Cob” played the 340th Group tonight. 

Galindo, Daniel, 2Lt, bombardier Sergeant, William A. "Buck", Sgt, mail clerk 

 

446th BS War Diary: A big day for the 321st as we pull off one of the most spectacular 
attacks of our combat history—the Toulon harbor mission that resulted in the gutting of 
the battleship Strasbourg, the sinking of a cruiser of the La Galissonniere class and the 
sinking of a submarine. Major Paul T. Cooper takes official command of the 446th on 
group order 136, paragraph 4. He previously held command VOCO 2-6-44. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 358 

TARGET: Toulon Harbor Shipping, France DATE: 18 Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Banks led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area. Battleship, cruiser 
and submarine hit badly. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. 27 planes holed, 11 men 
wounded. Window used. 

Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on shipping at the Toulon 
Harbor, with Lt. Banks leading our squadron. Excellent coverage of target area which 
sunk a destroyer, a submarine and left a cruiser listing to starboard with decks awash. 
Some bombs short to SE of target. Bombing accuracy, 22.2 %; Mission efficiency 100 
%. Major Raymond D. Sampson former Commanding Officer of the 447th Squadron was 
relieved of his assignment and transferred to 321st Group Headquarters. 1st Lt. Herbert J. 
Banks was promoted to the rank of Captain per SO 201, 12th Air Force. The following 
officers were promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant per SO # 208, 12th Air Force: 2nd 
Lt. John R. Gillis; 2nd Lt. Hubert P.J. Jensen; 2nd Lt. Hyman (NMI) Niedleman; 2nd Lt. 




Friday, 18 August 1944 (continued) 

 

William E Nieman; 2nd Lt. Paul H. Noe, Jr.; 2nd Lt. Leroy C. Runyon; 2nd Lt. Charles G. 
Wakeley. On 609’s return trip from today’s missions a large bird ran into the 
Bombardier’s compartment- breaking the plexiglass and showering Lt. Harold Spilko, 
bombardier, and Sgt. A.T. Shand, photographer with blood and feathers. 

Banks, Herbert J., Capt, pilot Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot 

Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt, pilot Neiman, William E., 1Lt, pilot 

Niedleman, Hyman (NMI), 1Lt, bombardier Noe, Paul H., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier 

Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt, pilot Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot 

Shand, Arthur T., Sgt, photographer Spilko, Harold, 2Lt, bombardier 

Wakeley, Charles G., III, 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 325 (498): At 10:53 36 planes off to bomb a battleship, 
cruiser, destroyer, and submarine in Toulon Harbor, France and dropped 151 x 1000 SAP 
Bombs from 13,000 feet. 28 x 1000 GP bombs were returned and salvoed due to 
mechanical failure of lead ship in one flight. Excellent coverage of warships, battleship 
listing with three separate fires, and direct hits on forward deck and turret. Destroyer and 
submarine sunk and cruiser listing to starboard, decks awash. 100% bombing accuracy 
448. Heavy, intense, accurate flak of barrage and tracking type holed 27 planes and 
wounded 11 crew members: Lts: Furey, Joyce, Schlenk, Hickey, L.P. Greene, Sgts: 
Pineda, Slafkes, and Markiewicz 448th wounded. Weather: CAVU. 

Furey, Frank M., 2Lt, pilot Greene, Louis P., 1Lt, bombardier 

Hickey, William O., 1Lt, navigator Joyce, Robert W., 2Lt, bombardier 

Markiewicz, Edward A., Sgt, gunner Pineda, Nico M., Sgt, gunner 

Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt, bombardier Slafkes, Milton M., Sgt, gunner 

 

 


Saturday, 19 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72d 
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from Santa Maria, 
Italy to St Tropez, France with L-5s; a flight is operating from Caserta, Italy. In France, 
A-20s hit marshalling yards while B-25s and B-26s bomb road and rail bridges 
throughout SE France; fighter-bombers and fighters continue to pound enemy 
communications N and W, of the beachhead and guns in the immediate battle area as the 
US Seventh Army's Task Force Butler crosses the Durance River and moves N to 
Sisteron and Digne. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron again went to the Toulon area to bomb gun 
positions and come up with another 100 per cent bombing accuracy. It’s getting to be a 
habit lately. Five new pilots were assigned today. They have not had any B-25 
experience whatsoever and a training program is being outlined for them. They were 
given B-25 orientation and Lt. Wagner took them up for some transition training. Lt. 
Russell also assisted. The Officers engaged the Enlisted men in two volleyball games 
tonight on the enlisted men’s court. They split even, the Officers taking the first game 
and the enlisted men evening the score in the nightcap. Both games were hard-fought 
and a good crowd cheered and jeered from the sidelines. 

Russell, Lawrence L. "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Ivankovig, Ottem and Wallace get their silver bar. 

Ivankovig, Paul J., 1Lt, pilot Ottem, Earl R., 1Lt, navigator 

Wallace, Robert D., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 359 

TARGET: Strip from St. Martin to Bravezer to Barjols, France. DATE: 19 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: Propaganda Leaflets. 446th Planes: 4 

Lt. Muzinich led the formation. Leaflets dropped. No flak, no fighters. 

Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 360 

TARGET: Gun Positions, Toulon Harbor, France. DATE: 19 Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. S.A.P. 446th Planes: 9 

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Both NE and SW part of target area reported hit, with some 
bombs over the road to N. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. 13 planes holed. Lts. 
Nagel, Lippy, Sgts. Britton and Burrow were wounded by flak. Lt. Jordan landed with a 
flat tire, Lt. Sacker with a feathered prop. Lt. Taylor (spare) returned early. 

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

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt, bombardier 

Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt, pilot Sacker, John R., 1Lt, pilot 

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

or Taylor, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

 




Saturday, 19 August 1944 (continued) 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Montelimar NW 
Road Bridge, N-885564, with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Excellent concentration of 
bombs on center and northwest end of bridge receiving several direct hits. Bombing 
accuracy 100 %; Mission efficiency 100 %. A successful nickeling mission was carried 
out by three of our ships. Lt. Manz led the flight. A congratulatory message was 
received from TAF which was extended for our magnificent attack on the warships at 
Toulon. Brigadier General Knapp endorsed the congratulatory message. Pfc. Robert E. 
Kracher is on DS at 57th Wing. 

Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot 

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

Kracher, Robert E., PFC, engineering Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Missin 326 (501): At 10:50 18 planes off to bomb gun position 
Toulon, France and 17 planes dropped 99 x 1000 S.A.P. Bombs from 12,000 feet. 7 
bombs returned due to bombardier’s error and malfunction of racks. No E/A. Heavy, 
intense accurate flak from known positions in target area. 13 A/C holed. Good 
concentration in NW and SW part of target area. Weather CAVU. 

 

 


Sunday, 20 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, during the 
night of 19/20 Aug A-20s attack lights and motor transport from the battleline NW to the 
Rhone River; B-26s, joined by fighter-bombers and fighters, hit coastal defense guns in 
the Toulon area, while B-25s bomb Rhone Valley bridges and airfields achieving 
especially good results at the airfield near Valence; and the 23rd Photographic 
Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, based at Borgo, 
Corsica with F-5s, sends a detachment to Le Luc, France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Le Pouzin road bridge in southern 
France and the boys slipped a bit on this one, getting a bombing accuracy of 63 per cent. 
5 combat crews were checked out on ditching procedure. 3 combat crew members went 
to the rest camp at Rome. There was more transition training for the newly-assigned 
pilots and 4 cross-country flights were made. The mail situation is much improved with 
another large supply in today. Pork chops were served for supper tonight. Some of the 
men complained that they “weren’t done enough”. 

 

446th BS War Diary: a 9 plane mission to Le Pouzin, France. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 361 

TARGET: Longeavous Rail Bridge, France. DATE: 20Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. S approach hit and several reports of hits near center pier 
of bridge. No flak, no fighters. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Le Pouzin Road 
Bridge N-915758, with Lt. Murray leading the squadron. Target area was not hit, bombs 
to NE of bridge in target area. Bombing accuracy, 97.2 %; Mission efficiency 97.2 %. 
The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. 
Edward J. Stanley; Sgt George P. Sargia; Cpl. Harry M. Glass; Cpl. Charles H. Rankin; 
Pfc. Ventura M. Contreras. The following combat officers were assigned to this 
squadron per SO # 138 321st Bombardment Group (M): 2nd Lt. D.A. Amundson; 2nd Lt. 
R.D. Applenzeller; 2nd Lt. A.E. Autry; 2nd Lt. D.W. Brice; 2nd Lt. L.C. Breckenridge; 2nd 
Lt. L.N. Brown, Jr.; 2nd Lt. P.I. Buckley; 2nd Lt. H.K. Buechner; 2nd Lt. C.W. Cahoon; 2nd 
Lt. E. Cammock. The following enlisted men have been promoted to the rand of 
Technical Sergeant: S/Sgt. Ned F. LaFountain; S/Sgt. John F. Toole; S/Sgt. John F. 
McFarland; S/Sgt. Robert R. Vineski; Sgt. Richard D. Packer. The following enlisted 
men have been promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant: Sgt. John Jaskowski; Sgt. 
William T. Mabbutt; Sgt. George Mercea; Sgt Alfred G. Richter; Sgt. Watson L. Partee; 
Sgt. Harold W. Scarberry; Sgt. Arthur T. Shand; Sgt. L.E. Sheppard. The following 
enlisted men have been promoted to the rank of sergeant: Cpl. Andrew C. Dubbs; Cpl. 
Ora E. Holmes Jr.; Cpl. George T. Lejman; Cpl. John J. Smith, Jr. Private First Class 
John C. Jablonsky has been promoted to the rank of Corporal. Morning Report: 
Officers, 91; Enlisted Men – 330. 


Sunday, 20 August 1944 (continued) 

 

Amundson, Donald A., 2Lt, pilot Applenzeller, Richard D., 2Lt, pilot 

Autry, Aaron E., 2Lt, pilot Breckenridge, Louis C., 2Lt, pilot 

Brice, David W., 2Lt, pilot Brown, Lyle N., Jr., 2Lt, pilot 

Buckley, Paul I., 2Lt, pilot Buechner, Helmut K., 2Lt, pilot 

Cahoon, Carl W., 2Lt, pilot Cammock, Elmore, 2Lt, pilot 

Contreras, Ventura M., PFC, transportation Dubbs, Andrew C., Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Glass, Harry M., Cpl, personnel Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt, photographer 

Jablonsky, John C., Cpl, engineering Jaskowski, John, S/Sgt, gunner 

LaFountain, Ned F., T/Sgt, gunner Lejman, George T., Sgt, armorer-gunner 

Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner McFarland, John F., T/Sgt, gunner 

Mercea, George, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

Packer, Richard D., T/Sgt, engineering Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Rankin, Charles H., Cpl, medical Richter, Alfred G., S/Sgt, engineering 

Sargia, George P., Sgt, engineering Scarberry, Harold W., S/Sgt, gunner 

Shand, Arthur T., S/Sgt, photographer Sheppard, L. E., S/Sgt, gunner 

Smith, John J., Jr., Sgt, armament Stanley, Edward J., 1Lt, bombardier 

Toole, John F., T/Sgt, gunner Vineski, Robert R., T/Sgt, radio-gunner 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 327 (503): At 06:52 18 planes off to bomb Longeavous 
RR Bridge and 15 planes dropped 60 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet. 3 planes returned 
bombs due to sight malfunction in lead plane. The S approach was hit and tracks cut 200 
feet S of bridge. Damaging near misses hit foundation of center pier. No flak or E/A. 
Escort area cover. Weather: CAVU at target. 100% 448 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 328 (504): At 09:27 6 planes off on nickeling mission 
over S France. 2,000,000 German leaflets dropped. No flak or E/A. Escort 12 P-47’s. 
Weather: CAVU. 

 

 


Monday, 21 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): AAF, MTO: The 14th 
Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from St Tropez to 
Brignoles with L-5s (a detachment is operating from Caserta, Italy). In Italy, medium 
bombers hit roads and bridges in the Po Valley while A-20s during the night of 20/21 
Aug strike motor transport in the W part of the Valley and bomb Alessandria barracks 
during the day. Fighter-bombers and fighters again blast enemy communications lines 
and gun positions in S France, marshalling yard and rail lines at Alessandria and Casale 
Monferrato, and motor transport and train cars in NW Italy and SE France. The 
detachments of the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, 
operating from St Maxime and Grimaud, France with F-6s returns to base at Borgo, 
Corsica; another detachment begins operating from St Raphael, France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: 10 crews were scheduled for a mission today but it was cancelled. 
5 more combat crews were checked out on ditching procedure. The men simulate actual 
procedure. They are taken down to the beach and use a rubber life raft. This particular 
course is not popular with the crews. Meeting of all bombardiers was called by Capt. 
Bounds and Lt. Yepez. Correct procedure on bomb runs, reporting of malfunctions and 
bombing in general were discussed. “Smoky”, the sleek, black darling dog of the 
squadron, gave birth to six little puppies today, her second litter overseas. One pup 
turned out to be a “malfunction”. Lt. Galindo is in charge of the maternity ward and 
reports mother and babies “doing fine”. Lt. Galindo was unable to determine identity of 
the father. 

Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander Galindo, Daniel, 2Lt, bombardier 

Yepez, Oscar W., 1Lt, bombardier/navigator 

 

446th BS War Diary: Regular duties. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission for today. First Lieutenant Claude F. Jones is on D.S. 
with 12th Air Force. First Lieutenant E.J. Button was relieved of assignment and assigned 
to Headquarters AAFSC/NITU per SO #112. Usual squadron duties. 

Button, Ervine J., 1Lt, pilot Jones, Claude F, 1Lt, bombardier 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Tuesday, 22 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather restricts 
operation in SE France; B-26s attack targets in the Po Valley of Italy where they destroy 
1 bridge and severely damage another; A-20s hit motor transport SW of Alessandria, 
Italy and in the Nice, France area during the night of 21/22 Aug and hit industrial 
buildings in S France during the day; fighters hit motor transport W of the Rhone River 
and in scattered parts of SE France; the 85th, 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons, 79th Fighter 
Group, move from Corsica to Southern France with P-47s; and the 315th Fighter 
Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Le Luc, France with P-47s. The 
detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, operating from 
Alghero, Sicily with Mosquitos, returns to base at Pomigliano, Italy. 

 

445th BS War Diary: War is hell and if you still don’t believe it, just ask the combat 
crews. They rolled out of their beds at 0330 this morning, went to briefing and were 
already out to their planes when the mission was cancelled. Strained tempers were very 
abundant this morning. 3 ships went to the bombing range while 6 others flew a practice 
mission. 

 

446th BS War Diary: More promotions. Elwell and Mote make Master Sergeant, 
Technical Sergeants newly made include DeBari, Western and Madden. Newest Staffs 
are Aderholt, Bender, V.I., Brown, R.M., DeAngelo, Henry, Lorentson, Lundtoft, 
Petrella, Slezak, Thornton and Wlodyka. Lampasona, Aken, Boedecker, Hockenburry, 
Maurin, McMeeking, Murphy, Register, Caldwell, Robbins and Toper make Sergeant. 
Newest Corporals are Finney, Hightower, Kwiatkowski, McCracken, Nigrelli, Tracy, 
Wasserman, Hairhoger, Brown, D.H., Murch. 

Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner Aken, Ronald L., Sgt, engineering 

Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt, gunner Boedecker, James, Sgt, engineering 

Brown, Dennis H., Cpl, gunner Brown, Ronald M., S/Sgt, gunner 

Caldwell, Grady B., Sgt, engineering DeAngelo, Ralph J., S/Sgt, gunner 

DeBari, Dominick R., T/Sgt, gunner Elwell, Albert W., M/Sgt, communications 

Finney, Preston N., Cpl, gunner or Finney, William T., Jr., Cpl, engineering 

Hairhoger, Carl E., Cpl, armament Henry, Scott G., S/Sgt, gunner 

Hightower, Everett A., Cpl, engineering Hockenburry, William, Sgt, engineering 

Kwiatkowski, Adam J., Cpl, engineering Lampasona, John N., Sgt, armament 

Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt, gunner Lundtoft, Hans G., S/Sgt, gunner 

Madden, James E., T/Sgt, engineering Maurin, Carl J., Sgt, armament 

McCracken, William S., Cpl, communications 

McMeeking, James, Sgt, transportation Mote, Samuel T., M/Sgt, engineering 

Murch, George M., Jr., Cpl, gunner Murphy, John M., Sgt, engineering 

Nigrelli, Ernest J., Cpl, gunner Petrella, Luigi C., S/Sgt, gunner 

Register, William E., Sgt, engineering Robbins, James S., Sgt, engineering 

Slezak, Alex E., S/Sgt, gunner Thornton, Edward P., S/Sgt, gunner 

Tracy, Edward J., Cpl, engineering Toper, Raymond S., Sgt, engineering 

Wasserman, Seymour, Cpl, supply Western, Ralph E., T/Sgt, engineering 

Wlodyka, S/Sgt 


Tuesday, 22 August 1944 (continued) 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: No mission. The following officers and enlisted men departed for 
rest camp, Rome Italy: 1st Lt. Leroy C. Runyon; 2nd Lt. Myer G. Melamed; S/Sgt. Everett 
H. Clyne; S/Sgt. John F. McFarland; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler; Sgt. Arthur T. Shand. 2nd 
Lt. W.H. Wigmore was relieved of assignment and transferred to 329th Transport 
Squadron – MATS, per SO # 210, 12th Air Force. 

Clyne, Everett H., S/Sgt, armament-gunner Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner 

McFarland, John F., T/Sgt, gunner Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt, bombardier 

Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt, pilot Shand, Arthur T., S/Sgt, photographer 

Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 23 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
attack road and rail bridges N of the Arno River and roads leading N from Florence, and 
also hit bridges in the Rhone Valley of France; widespread haze in parts of France and 
Italy prevents accurate bombing; fighter-bombers continue to attack communications, 
gun positions, and road movements in the Provence battle areas; the 314th Fighter 
Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Le Luc, France with P-47s; and 
the detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd Fighter Wing, operating from 
Borgo, Corsica with Mosquitos returns to base at Pomigliano. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bounced back with a vengeance to hang up another 
100 per cent bombing accuracy job on the Bussoleno road bridge. A new bombardier-
navigator was assigned today. The usual training program was in effect today. More 
mail arrived. Good chow today. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Robertson becomes a Captain. 

Robertson, Charles W., Capt, bombardier 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 362 

TARGET: Montpelier Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 23Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Due to weather no bombs dropped. No flak. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 363 

TARGET: Bussoleno Road Bridge, France. DATE: 23Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Jordan and Lt. Russell were the leaders. Second flight bombed on first pass and 
missed bridge. First flight on second pass concentrated bombs just E of bridge. Some 
bombs short, may have hit center of bridge. Flak was heavy, scant and inaccurate. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot Russell, Burton E., 2Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a successful raid on the 
Montelimar Road Bridge, N-885564, with Lt. Manz leading the squadron. Good 
concentration on west end and west approach – bridge received direct hits. Mission 
efficiency – 66.7 %; Bombing accuracy – 100 %. Private Joseph L. Notarian and Private 
Dan Ochs are assigned to this squadron per SO # 141 – 321st Bombardment Group. 1st 
Lt. Paul H. Noe, Jr. is relieved of assignment and transferred to Det. of Patient 35th 
Station Hospital. Today’s training consisted of local transition. 

Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot Noe, Paul H., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier 

Notarian, Joseph L., Pvt, communications Ochs, Dan N., Pvt, gunner 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, 23 August 1944 (continued) 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 329 (506): At 07:40 15 planes off to bomb Montelimar 
Road Bridge and 15 AC dropped 60 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet. 3 A/C returned 
bombs as bridge was cut prior to bombing. Great concentration on W end and W 
approach. Bridge was observed out before attack. Second flight bombed bridge 1000 
yards due W of target. No flak or E/A. Area cover. Weather: Over target light rain. 

 

 


Thursday, 24 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): During the night of 23/24 
Aug, A-20s hit motor transport and targets of opportunity in the Rhone Valley of France 
and at Genoa, Milan, and Turin, Italy; medium bombers bomb bridges at Montpellier, 
Avignon, and Lunel, France and Solignano Nuovo, and Castel del Rio, Italy, and score 
direct hits on gun positions in the Marseille, France area; and fighters bomb and strafe 
gun positions, vehicles, roads and bridges throughout SE France. In Italy, the 346th 
Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, moves from Pomigliano to Tarquinia with P-47s 
(the detachment at Piombino also moves to the new base). 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Lunel road bridge with a bombing 
accuracy of 67 per cent. Lt. Schiff finally returned from Catania, Sicily with some fresh 
food for the mess halls. Sgt. Plunk, radio gunner who was on detached service with the 
Air Service Command in Italy, returned to the squadron today and stated he was ready 
form some more combat. The usual training schedule was carried out today and 3 cross-
country flights were made. “Smoky’s” pups are coming along nicely under the watchful 
eye of their mother and Lt. Galindo. The latter feeds them very well and seems to really 
know his stuff on dog care. 

Galindo, Daniel, 2Lt, bombardier Plunk, Charles B., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Schiff, Frederick, 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenant Fitzgerald goes to flight school at Cairo. 

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

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 364 

TARGET: Lunel NE Road Bridge, France. DATE: 24Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Burandt led the formation. Splendid concentration in target area, mostly E of center 
and E end of approach. Many reports of bridge being knocked out. No flak, no fighters. 
Lt. Matthews did not take off because of engine trouble. 

Burandt, Charles L., 1Lt, pilot Matthews, John W., Jr., 2Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on Taro-Solignano Road 
Bridge P-830672, with Captain Banks leading the squadron. Heavy concentration on 
center and west end of the bridge with direct hits on the bridge. Bombing accuracy – 100 
%. Mission efficiency – 100 %. Usual squadron duties. 

Banks, Herbert J., Capt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 330 (508): At 08:53 18 planes off to bomb RR bridge 
SOLIGNANO N, dropped 68 x 1000 bombs from 10,000 feet. One A/C returned bombs 
due to rack malfunction. Heavy concentration of bombs on center in W end with very 
probable hits on bridge and adjacent tunnel entrance. No flak or E/A. Area cover. 
Weather: CAVU slight haze. 

 


Friday, 25 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): A-20s hit targets of 
opportunity during the night of 24/25 Aug, and during the day fly armed reconnaissance 
over the Po and Rhone Valleys in Italy and France respectively, and hit ammunition 
stores in S France. In France, B-25s and B-26s attack Rhone River bridges at Avignon, 
Culoz, Saint-Alban-du-Rhone, Pont d'Ain, and Loyes, and hit gun positions around 
Marseille; fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance in the battle area and in Italy, along 
the battleline N of the Arno River attack gun positions, roads, and bridges. HQ 27th 
Fighter Group and the 522nd, 523rd and 524th Fighter Squadrons move from Serragia, 
Corsica to Le Luc France with P-47s; HQ 79th Fighter Group moves from Corsica to S 
France; HQ 324th Fighter Group moves from Corsica to Le Luc, France. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron bombed the Loyes railroad bridge in France, 
receiving a bombing accuracy of 97 per cent. Two “tumbler” bombs caused by a rack 
malfunction were wild and prevented the squadron from achieving perfect bombing. The 
bridge, however, was destroyed. 7 more combat crew members went to the rest camp at 
Rome. Lt. Ashton, photo interpreter with the squadron, was transferred to group 
headquarters. 4 newly-assigned gunners were given an orientation lecture while another 
crew was checked out on ditching procedure. Other training took place. More mail and 
packages arrived today. The highlight of tonight’s meal was hamburgers which were 
very tasty. 

Ashton, Thomas W., 2Lt, intelligence 

 

446th BS War Diary: Flight Officers Taylor and Hogman are promoted to Second 
Lieutenants. 

Hogman, Francis H., 2Lt, bombardier 

Taylor, Jason G., 2Lt, pilot or Taylor, Peter D., 2Lt, pilot 

 or Taylor, Richard D., 2Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 365 

TARGET: Pont D’Ain Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 25Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area. Several direct hits 
seen on bridge. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Vancil (spare) did not fill in. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 366 

TARGET: Loyes Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 25Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Wagener led the formation. Excellent concentration observed with several direct hits 
reported. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Matthews and Lt. Swanson (spares) did not fill in. 

Matthews, John W., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Swanson, Harry A., 2Lt, pilot 

Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS 

 

 


Friday, 25 August 1944 (continued) 

 

447th BS War Diary: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on the Branoux Road 
Bridge N-322163, with Lt. Stocking leading the squadron. Mountain terrains and heave 
haze made it difficult to pick-up the target. Three ships dropped on the second run, but 
results were unobserved. Six of our ships participated on the second mission for the day 
to raid the I. Ratonneau Gun Position T-404133, with Lt. Wiginton leading the squadron. 
Excellent concentration on target – all bombs in area of gun position. Bombing accuracy 
– 100 %; Mission efficiency – 100 %. 1st Lt. Joe L. Beal is appointed Ground Safety 
Officer in addition to his other duties. The following officers and enlisted men have 
departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. M.R. Bastin; 1st Lt. R.H. Swanson; S/Sgt. 
R.J. Balling; S/Sgt. W. R. Mabbutt; Sgt. O.E. Holmes, Jr.; Sgt. J.R. O’Neil. The 
following officers and enlisted have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. L.C. 
Runyon; 2nd Lt. N.G. Melamed; S/Sgt. J.F. McFarland; S/Sgt. H.E. Fowler; Sgt. A.T. 
Shand. 

Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot 

Beal, Joseph L., 1Lt, Adjutant Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt, gunner 

Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt, photographer Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

McFarland, John F., T/Sgt, gunner Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt, bombardier 

O'Neil, James R., Sgt, engineer-gunner Runyon, Leroy C., 1Lt, pilot 

Shand, Arthur T., S/Sgt, photographer Stocking, Eugene, E., 2Lt, pilot 

Swanson, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wig", 2Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 331 (510): At 08:12 18 planes off to bomb Pont D’AIM 
RR Bridge and 16 planes dropped 62 x 1000 bombs from 12,000 feet. 6 bombs salvoed 4 
returned due to malfunction of bomb bay doors. Excellent concentration in target area 
with several D/H’s observed. Bridge appeared to be down. No flak no E/A. Area cover. 
Weather CAVU with haze over target. 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 332 (512): At 08:21 18 planes off to bomb RR bridge 
Branoux and 3 planes dropped 12 x 1000 bombs from 12,000 feet. 15 planes did not 
drop due to difficulty of identifying target because of haze and terrain. No flak or E/A. 
Area cover. Bridge was not hit although two runs were made. Weather: CAVU, slight 
haze. 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 333 (513): At 08:35 12 planes off to bomb gun positions 
I. Ratonneau and dropped 48 x 1000 bombs from 11,000 feet. Good pattern of bombs in 
target area with some in water to the S. Heavy scant inaccurate flak from coast line 
between Marseilles and Somati. No E/A, escort area cover. Weather: ceiling unlimited, 
visibility 5/6 M. 

 


Saturday, 26 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): During the night of 25/26 
Aug fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance over the W Po Valley, Italy, and over the 
Nice, France area bomb vehicles and other targets of opportunity, and during the day 
bomb ammunition dumps in SE France and in NC Italy; in France, medium bombers hit 
guns in the Marseille area but several missions into the Rhone Valley are aborted due to 
bad weather; fighter-bombers and fighters fly armed reconnaissance over N Italy and SE 
France, attacking rail lines, roads, guns, vehicles, and other targets of opportunity. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The weather has been very pleasant lately and the summer’s heat 
is gradually waning into the cool, refreshing days of early autumn. The nights are getting 
a bit longer and much cooler. Squadron morale was excellent today and this splendid 
weather probably had much to do with it. The bombardiers in the squadron got a good 
workout today. 12 bombardiers took turns on the bombsight rate machine while 6 others 
went up to the bombing range. There was transition training for the new pilots. The 
interest in baseball is practically nil these days and today some of the men were tossing 
the pigskin around hailing the coming of a new season. It is not known yet whether the 
squadron will have a football team. 

 

446th BS War Diary: 15 plane mission goes to northern Italy. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 367 

TARGET: Ners Road and Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 26Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Alger led the formation. Due to bad weather just before IP target not reached. No 
flak, no fighters. 

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

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 368 

TARGET: Berceto Railroad Bridges, Italy DATE: 26Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (Azon) 446th Planes: 6 

Lt. Jordan led the formation. South Target – Four bombs dropped and one hit believed 
on S end of bridge, and one possible hit on RR station. North target – Five bombs 
dropped, all hitting about 100 ft. to W of bridge. No flak, fighters. 

Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Thirteen of our ships participated in a raid on the Ners Road and 
Rail Bridge. Due to weather conditions, just after the IP it was impossible to reach the 
target. Lt. Alger lead the squadron. The following officers have been promoted to the 
rank of First Lieutenants: 2nd Lt. Irving L. Altman; 2nd Lt. Grover C. Brown, Jr.; 2nd Lt. 
Robert T. Cunningham; 2nd Lt. Eric A. Johnson; 2nd Lt. Meyer G. Melamed; 2nd Lt. 
Leeland A. Mesna; 2nd Lt. Robert W. Mulholland; 2nd Lt. Gordon A. Ramey; 2nd Lt. Earl 
H. Remmel; 2nd Lt. Ernest C. Rice; 2nd Lt Harold Spilko; 2nd Lt. Walter N. Vieser; 2nd Lt. 
Marion E. Walker; 2nd Lt. Edwin E. Wallace; 2nd Lt. Guy M. Washburn; 2nd Lt. Stanley J. 

 


Saturday, 26 August 1944 (continued) 

 

Wiechert; 2nd Lt. Richard J. Woods. 1st Lt. George E. Seavey was relieved of assignment 
and assigned to the 12th Air Force. 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones was relieved of assignment 
and transferred to 7th Replacement Depot on rotation for transshipment to the United 
States. Today’s training consisted of a test hop and local transition. 

Alger, LeRoy, 2Lt, pilot Altman, Irving L., 1Lt, bombardier 

Brown, Grover C., 1Lt, pilot Cunningham, Robert T., 1Lt, pilot 

Jones, Claude F, 1Lt, bombardier Johnson, Eric A., 1Lt, pilot 

Melamed, Meyer G., 1Lt, bombardier Mesna, Leeland A., 1Lt, bombardier 

Mulholland, Robert W., 1Lt, pilot Ramey, Gordon, A., 1Lt, pilot 

Remmel, Earl H., 1Lt, pilot Rice, Ernest C., 1Lt, pilot 

Seavey, George D., 1Lt, pilot Spilko, Harold, 1Lt, bombardier 

Vieser, Walter N., 1Lt, bombardier Walker, Marion S., 1Lt, pilot 

Wallace, Edwin E., 1Lt, pilot Washburn, Guy M., 1Lt, pilot 

Wiechert, Stanley J., 1Lt, pilot Woods, Richard J., 1Lt, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 334 (514): At 08:06 18 planes off to bomb Anse RR 
bridge. All planes returned to base because of weather and all bombs returned. No flak, 
no E/A, escort area cover. Weather: CAVU to coast, clouds buildings up over mountains 
to 8/10 coverage tops at 17,000 feet. 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 335 (515): At 08:06 18 planes off to bomb Ners RR and 
R bridge. All planes and bombs returned to base because of weather at target. No flak or 
E/A, escort area cover. Weather: Clear over water to land-fall, overcast at coast 3/10 
cumulus at 10,000 feet building up to 10/10 at target. 

 

 


Sunday, 27 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In France, medium 
bombers hit gun emplacements in the Marseille area and the 111th Tactical 
Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Borgo, Corsica to St 
Rahael with F-6s. In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Berceto; fighter-bombers 
continue armed reconnaissance in the Po Valley and over roads leading N from the battle 
line N of the Arno River; A-20s bomb targets of opportunity in the Po Valley during the 
night of 26/27 Aug, fly armed reconnaissance and during the day hit ammunition stores 
in NC Italy; and the detachment of the 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd 
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Cecina to Malignano with F-5s (the 
squadron is based at Follonica). 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron did it again today. 6 crews went out to hit gun 
positions at Ile Ratonneau on the southern coast of France and the results showed 100 per 
cent bombing accuracy. Spotlight is once again on the dogs but this one is rather sad. 
“Porky”, the chestnut spaniel owned by Cpl Katz, got into an argument with a 2 ½ ton 
truck near the enlisted men’s showers and came out on the losing end. He sustained a 
broken pelvis and internal injuries. Doc Smith gives him a 50-50 chance. The men are 
very sensitive about their pets and “Porky” received expert medical care. 

Katz, Paul F., Cpl, photographer Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, surgeon 

 

446th BS War Diary: August 27, 28 29: Missions are flown each of these days. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 369 

TARGET: Berceto Railroad Bridges, Italy. DATE: 27Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb (Azon) 446th Planes: 6 

Major Cooper led the formation. Six bombs dropped on each target. S bridge not hit 
although several near misses straddled center of bridge. Possibly two direct hits on N 
bridge. Other bombs to N and S of target. No flak, no fighters. 

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 370 

TARGET: Ile Ratonneau Gun Positions, France. DATE: 27Aug. 1944 

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

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area, with column of 
smoke up to 1500 ft. No flak, no fighters. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Twelve of our ships participated in a raid on the I Ratonneau Gun 
Position at T-404133, and T-403133. On the gun position at T-404133 bombs started 
south of area and walked through the area. All bombs in target area at T-403133 with an 
excellent concentration. Lt. Murray led the squadron. Bombing accuracy – 100 %; 
Mission efficiency – 91.6 %. 2nd Lt. Ernest G. Hutson, Jr. and F/O James I. Wentz were 

 

 


Sunday, 27 August 1944 (continued) 

 

assigned to this squadron per SO # 143, 321st Bombardment Group Headquarters. 
Morning Report: Officers – 96. Enlisted Men – 332. 

Hutson, Ernest G., 2Lt, pilot Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot 

Wentz, James I., F/O, pilot 

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 


Monday, 28 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): B-25s bomb railroad 
bridges in the Lyon, France area. In Italy, B-26s destroy several airplanes at Villafranca 
di Verona Airfield and a bridge at Parma; A-20s hit motor transport and other targets of 
opportunity during the night of 27/28 Aug, fly armed reconnaissance over the Po Valley 
and blast a command post SE of Genoa; fighter-bombers hit vehicles in the Rhone Valley 
of France, bomb and strafe roads and bridges in the battle area N of Arno River and hit 
shipping in Imperia and Savona harbors. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron joined the group in an attack on the Anse railroad 
bridge in southern France and once again it was 100 per cent on bombing accuracy. The 
squadron has produced some really excellent bombardiers. Sergeant Stephen A. Dowd, 
who was recently transferred to a hospital following his severe hand wounds, was 
promoted to Staff Sergeant. A new pilot and bombardier-navigator were assigned to the 
squadron today. There were transition and formation flights made. Three ships went up 
to give the gunners a workout but were forced to return due to the absence of a tow 
target. More mail arrived today although not in the great volume of recent “mail calls”. 
The enlisted men defeated the Officers in a volleyball game after supper at the officers’ 
court. 

Dowd, Stephen A., S/Sgt, gunner 

 

446th BS War Diary: August 27, 28 29: Missions are flown each of these days. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 371 

TARGET: Anse Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 28Aug. 1944 

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

Captain McClain led the formation. Two passes made due to weather, decreasing altitude 
to get below overcast. First flight had excellent concentration with most bombs just NW 
of center of bridge. Second flight unable to bomb because of smoke covering target. No 
flak, no fighters. Lt. Ligon (spare) did not fill in. 

Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt, pilot McLain, Damon I., Capt, pilot, 445th BS 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 372 

TARGET: Pontremoli Railroad Bridge, France. DATE: 28Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (Azon) 446th Planes: 6 

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Good concentration reported in target area with a large 
gap seen on W end of bridge. Several direct hits noted. Some bombs SE in town. No 
flak, no fighters. 

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Nine of our ships participated in a raid on the Bois Dien Road Rail 
Bridge X-860967 with Lt. Muzinich leading the squadron. Due to weather necessitating 
change in altitude, bombs rather scattered and over N. and NW. Both approaches and 
bridge hit. Bombing accuracy – 85.7 %; Mission efficiency – 83.3 %. Sgt. Olney W. 
Morris and Private First Class Buford T. Williams returned from rest camp, Capri. The 




Monday, 28 August 1944 (continued) 

 

following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. 
Melville R. Bastin; 1st Lt. Robert H. Swanson; S/Sgt. Robert J. Balling; S/Sgt. William T. 
Mabbutt; Sgt. Ora E. Holmes, Jr.; Sgt. James R. O’Neil. The following officers and 
enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. James M. Rosenbledt; 1st 
Lt. James A. Webb; S/Sgt. Jordon L. Bushnell; S/Sgt. Robert W. Koecher; S/Sgt. Watson 
L. Partee; S/Sgt. Francis S. Torrey. Private Ellsworth M. Karrenbouer is in arrest in 
quarters. Today’s training consisted of local transition. 

Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot 

Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt, photographer 

Karrenbouer, Ellsworth M., Pvt, duty soldier 

Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner 

Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Morris, Olney W., Sgt, armament 

Muzinich, Anthony L., 1Lt, pilot O'Neil, Gerald G., Sgt, armament 

Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt, bombardier 

Swanson, Robert H., 1Lt, pilot Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Webb, James A., 1Lt, bombardier Williams, Buford T., PFC, armament 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 336 (522): At 07:10 18 planes off to bomb Dois Dieu RR 
bridge and drop 70 x 1000 bombs from 10,000 feet. Bridge and both approaches hit, but 
because of weather necessitating change in bombing altitude most bombs scattered and to 
the N and NW. Heavy, scant, inaccurate flak from 3 miles SW of Cuneo. No E/A. 
Escort area cover. Weather: 7/10 alto stratus, bases at 11,500 with heavy haze, visibility 
10 miles over target. 

 

 

 

 


Tuesday, 29 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
hit 4 bridges and a viaduct in NE Italy while A-20s hit a fuel station; fighter-bombers hit 
roads and bridges in N Italy and support ground forces in the Arno River Valley; P-47s 
fly medium bomber escort and armed reconnaissance, claiming 100 vehicles destroyed. 
In France, fighters attack targets in the Rhone Valley; and the 316th Fighter Squadron, 
324th Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Le Luc with P-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: 10 crews were scheduled for a mission today but it was cancelled. 
A new pilot was assigned to the squadron today. The replacements are coming in slow 
but sure and the veteran combat crew members are “sweating” them out with visions of 
rotation. There was more practice bombing today, transition and one cross-country. 
With no mission scheduled, the squadron personnel got plenty of “sack time” this 
afternoon. Some mail arrived in late afternoon although not in large numbers. Spaghetti 
and meat balls were served for supper and were enjoyed by all the men. 

 

446th BS War Diary: August 27, 28 29: Missions are flown each of these days. 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 373 

TARGET: Berceto Railroad Bridge, Italy DATE: 29Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (Azon) 446th Planes: 6 

Captain Sampson led the formation. Due to haze several runs were made. Hits and near 
misses on N and S of bridge. Possible hit on SW approach. No flak, no fighters. 

Sampson, Raymond D., Maj, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Stand down for the day due to weather conditions. Usual squadron 
duties. Today’s training consisted of local transition. The following article was printed 
in the 29 August issue of the Stars and Stripes, “Mitchell Group’s Feat in Kayoing Ship 
Cited” “MAAF Headquarters, August 28 – The B-25 Mitchell Group which knocked out 
an enemy battleship, a cruiser and submarine in Toulon 18, has been commended by RAF 
Air Commodore E.O. Huddleston, senior air staff officer of the Tactical Air Force, it was 
announced today. 

 The attack, which gutted and completely disabled the battleship Strasbourg, 
destroyed a cruiser and sank a submarine, was carried out in the face of intense flak 
without loss of a plane. 

 Commodore Huddleston sent the following message to Col. Richard H. Smith, 
commander of the group. “My very highest congratulations to your unit for its 
magnificent attack against the warships in Toulon Harbor.” 

 “The Group has flown more than 500 combat missions in its 18 months of 
fighting in the Mediterranean.” 

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

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 


Wednesday, 30 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): Weather grounds the 
medium bombers; A-20s hit targets of opportunity during the night of 29/30 Aug and fuel 
storage while fighter-bombers pound roads and railroads in the Po Valley in Italy and, on 
armed reconnaissance over the Rhone Valley in France, attack rail lines and motor and 
horsedrawn vehicles, as US Seventh Army elements continue up the Rhone Valley 
toward Lyon. HQ 27th Fighter Group and 522nd, 523rd and 524th Fighter Squadrons move 
from Le Luc to Salon, France with P-47s. 

 

445th BS War Diary: There was a stand down on the mission today. 1st Lieutenant 
Joseph A. Manske, Squadron Engineering Officer, was promoted to the rank of Captain. 
Capt. Manske participated in the Doolittle B-25 raid on Tokyo as an aerial gunner. Lts. 
Russell, Schiff and Collins took the new pilots up to “shoot some landings”. Lt. Russell 
made 7 while Lts. Schiff and Collins each shot 4 landings. Lt. Galindo regretfully 
announced the death of “Smoky”, probably the most popular dog this squadron has ever 
had. She died from kidney trouble, stated Lt. Galindo, and was laid to rest under the shad 
of a little tree near his tent. Her pups are apparently unaware of their mother’s passing 
and will soon be passed out to various personnel who “ordered” them before their birth. 

Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt, pilot Galindo, Daniel, 2Lt, bombardier 

Manske, Joseph M., Capt, Engineering Officer 

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

 

446th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: No Missions 

 

447th BS War Diary: Stand down for today. The following combat officers and enlisted 
men were assigned to this squadron per orders from 57th Wing. 2nd Lt. Roland G. 
Bullion; 2nd Lt. Vincent J. Gargiulo; 2nd Lt William C. Martin, Jr.; Cpl Curtis A. Hague; 
Cpl. Carl F. Netzel; Cpl. Robert E. Young. 2nd Lt. Gordon J. Brule was appointed to the 
rank of First Lieutenant. Today’s training consisted of local transition. The following 
article was printed in the 30 August issue of “Stars and Stripes”: “MAAF Headquarters 
August 28 – The 321st Bombardment Group, a veteran B-25 Mitchell Outfit Commanded 
by Colonel Richard H. Smith, Nashville Tennessee, has been awarded a battle streamer 
denoting a Presidential Citation, it was announced today. “The citation reads in part: 
During the critical days which followed the Allies invasion of Italy, despite almost 
insurmountable difficulties which kept comparable units inoperative during a part of this 
period, the 321st Group continued uninterrupted and extremely efficient bombing 
operations against vital enemy objectives which were principally responsible for the 
reduction of the original Balkan strength of the German Air Force from 300 aircraft to 
144. 

 The 321st formerly commanded by Brig. Robert Knapp, was the first group to fly 
from the United States to an overseas base in a single mass flight. It also was the first to 
use tail and waist guns in a B-25. During more than 18 months of Combat Operations in 
this theater the unit bagged eight enemy flights for every bomber it lost.” 


Wednesday, 30 August 1944 (continued) 

 

Brule, Gordon J., 1Lt, bombardier Bullion, Roland G., 2Lt, pilot 

Gargiulo, Vincent J., 2Lt, bombardier Hagne, Curtis A., Cpl, gunner 

Martin, William C., Jr., 2Lt, Netzel, Carl F., Cpl, gunner 

Young, Robert E., Cpl, gunner 

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

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

 

448th BS War Diary: No Entry 

 

 

 

 


Thursday, 31 August 1944 

 

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th AF): In Italy, medium bombers 
attack railroad bridges in the Po Valley, cutting the bridge at Mira; and A-20s attack 
targets of opportunity in the Po Valley during the night of 30/31 Aug and along with 
fighter-bombers hit communications N of the Arno River. Other fighter-bombers attack 
communications targets in France as the US Seventh Army pushes toward Lyon. 

 

445th BS War Diary: The squadron went out to hit the Mira railroad bridge in northern 
Italy. Due to an intense flak barrage and a malfunction in the lead plane, this squadron 
was forced to salvo their bombs out of the target area. Two complete replacement crews 
arrived and were assigned to the squadron today. 4 combat crew members went to rest 
camp at Rome today. Rumors are rampant today in the squadron about the “imminent 
move”. Some theories are: that the outfit will move to France shortly; that we’re going 
back to Italy; that the outfit will move from here direct to the Pacific; and that the outfit 
will move to Cairo to send the old men back home and then proceed to the Pacific. The 
caliber of the rumors lately are excellent. Today marks the end of the first month during 
which time Capt. Thomas C. Bounds has been in command of the squadron. He came 
from the 447th Squadron to take over on August 1. Since he has been the squadron 
commander, the squadron has jumped form last place in bombing accuracy with 69 per 
cent to second place in the group with an average bombing accuracy of 87.1 per cent. 

Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander 

 

446th BS War Diary: Lieutenants Othick and Mayfield and EM’s Youngblood and 
Miller are reported to be German POW’s. 

Othick, Ronald R., 1Lt, pilot Mayfield, Estel A., 2Lt, pilot 

Miller, Edward J., Sgt, gunner Youngblood, Woodrow W., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

 

446th BS Mission Summary: Squadron Mission 374 

TARGET: Berceto Road Bridge, Italy. DATE: 31Aug. 1944 

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. (Azon) 446th Planes: 6 

Captain Kerr led the formation. Bridge not hit. Concentration on and near S and N 
approaches. No flak, no fighters. 

Kerr, John C., Capt, pilot 

 

447th BS War Diary: Six of our ships were to participate on a nickeling mission in 
Northern Italy, but after flying to Rome to be briefed they were informed that the 310th 
Group had already carried out the same mission. The following officers and enlisted men 
have returned from rest camp – Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. James M. Rosenbledt; 1st Lt James A. 
Webb; S/Sgt. Jordan L. Bushnell; S/Sgt. Robert W. Koecher; S/Sgt. Watson L. Partee; 
S/Sgt. Francis S. Torrey. The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, 
Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. Hubert P.J. Jensen; 1st Lt Guy M. Washburn; T/Sgt. Edward S. 
Korzeniowski; T/Sgt. Walter J. Bilski; S/Sgt. Elmon P. Harriman; S/Sgt. Frederick J. 
Tarra. With a final score of 0 to 1 our 447th Baseball Team won this evening game with 
the 367th Infantry Battery. Today’s training consisted of local transition. Another month 
is closed in the eventful history of the squadron. 


Thursday, 31 August 1944 (continued) 

 

Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner 

Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt, Jensen, Hubert P. J., 1Lt, pilot 

Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Korzeniowski, Edward S., T/Sgt, gunner 

Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt, bombardier 

Tarra, Frederick J., S/Sgt, gunner Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt, radio-gunner 

Washburn, Guy M., 1Lt, pilot Webb, James A., 1Lt, bombardier 

 

448th BS War Diary: Mission 337 (525): At 08:45 18 planes off to bomb Mira RR 
bridge and 14 dropped 56 x 1000 bombs from 10,000/11,000. 8 bombs returned due to 
malfunction of racks and 8 salvoed. Portion of bridge over land and near the water 
knocked out. 100% bombing accuracy 448. Heavy, scant inaccurate tracking flak on 
leaving coast. 12 A/C holed. Lt. Cottle and crew crash landed at a friendly A/D in Italy. 
Lt. Cottle and Sgts: Congdon, Donaud, and Campbell injured, another B-25 Lt. Howard 
made a single engine landing on a friendly field. The crew were not injured. Weather: 
CAVU. 

Campbell, James R., Sgt, gunner Congdon, Harry W., Sgt, gunner 

Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt, pilot Donaud, Earl J., Sgt, gunner 

Howard, Charles E., 1Lt, pilot 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


August 1944 

 

445th BS War Diary: Additional Information for August 1944 

 

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M) 

APO 650 

 

? September 1944 

SUBJECT: Historical Records 

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

 

1. Outline History of the 445th Squadron for the period August1st to August 31st. 

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

 

 b. Changes in organization. 

1. Capt. Thomas C. Bounds appointed Squadron Commander replacing Maj. 

 Percy D. Register, Jr., per Special Order, 125, 321st Group, dated 1 August. 

2. 1st Lt. James O. Jackson appointed Squadron Intelligence Officer replacing 

 Capt. James E. Nickerson who left for the U.S. on rotation. 

3. Capt. Edgar F. Ulmer appointed Squadron Adjutant replacing 1st Lt. Lee F. 

 Huchingson who was appointed Assistant Adjutant. 

 

 c. Strength commissioned and enlisted. 

 1. Month of August1944. 

 (a) 438 at beginning. 

 (b) 5 net increase. 

 (c) 443 at end. 

 

 d. Stations. 

 1. Solenzara Air Field. 

 

 e. Movements. 

 1. None 

 

f. Operations: 

 1. During the Month of August the Squadron participated in 250 Sorties and 30 

 Missions. 

 

 g. Command Officers in important missions. 

 1. On August 12, the squadron commander participated in an attack on gun 
positions at Cape Negre on the coast of southern France. This attack, coming three days 
before D-day, was designed to silence these gun positions and reduce the fire power 
capable of being brought on our invading troops. The results of the mission were 
successful with a number of bombs covering the difficult pin-point targets. Bombing 
accuracy was 76 per cent. 

 


August 1944 (continued) 

 

 h. Losses in action.

 1. None 

 

i. During the month of August, the following men received the Distinguished Flying 
Cross: Capt. Samuel M. Dickerson (pilot), 1st Lt. Julian R. Coale, Jr. (pilot), 1st Lt. 
William R. Groose (pilot), 1st Lt. George W. Maughan (bombardier), 1st Lt. Edward 
A. Miller (bombardier/navigator), 1st Lt. William (NMI) Monk (pilot), 1st Lt. 
Lawrence L. Russell (pilot), 1st Lt. Malvin S. Rygh (pilot), 1st Lt. Frederick (NMI) 
Schiff (pilot), 1st Lt. Lubomier P. Shynshka (pilot), 1st Lt. Everett L. Simpkins (pilot), 
1st Lt. LeRoy R. Waterman (pilot), 1st Lt. Frank J. Wren (pilot), 1st Lt. Oscar W. 
Yepez (bombardier/navigator), 2nd Lt. Harry F. Werrlein (bombardier), S/Sgt Edward 
F. Klunk (bombardier) and Pvt. Samuel (NMI) Abrams (gunner/photographer). The 
Legion of Merit was awarded to Capt. James E. Nickerson (intelligence). The 
Soldier’s Medal was awarded to S/Sgt. Charles F. Tarr, Jr. (gunner). The Purple Heart 
was presented to S/Sgt. Stephen J. Dowd (engineer-gunner). In addition, there were 
65 awards of the Air Medal and 55 awards of the oak leaf cluster. 

 

For the Commanding Officer: 

 

1 Incl. 

 Incl (1) – War Diary JAMES O. JACKSON, 

 Capt., Air Corps, 

 Squadron Historian. 

 

446th BS War Diary: Additional Information for August 1944 

 

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF 

321ST BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF 

1 September 1944 

 

446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR August 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 August 1944 95 Officers, 338 Enlisted Men 

 2. Net Increase 18 Officers, None 

 3. Net Decrease None 21 Enlisted Men 

 4. 31 August 1944 113 Officers, 317 Enlisted Men 


August 1944 (continued) 

 

D. Commanding Officer in important engagements 

 1. Engagements: 

Berceto, Italy 

 C. Camaret, France 

 Antheor, France 

 2. Major 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: 

 Lieutenants 

 Claude M. Dickerson (2Lt, bombardier) Gale M. Dickson (1Lt, pilot) 

 Thomas B. Dunn (1Lt, navigator) Henry L. Jordan (1Lt, pilot) 

Edward R. LeClair (2Lt, pilot) Jack D. Mayo (1Lt, bombardier) 
John F. Mottley (1Lt, bombardier) Lowell G. Phillips (1Lt, navigator) 

Frank J. Wotkowicz (1Lt, pilot) 

 

2. The Legion of Merit was awarded to: 

 Capt. Sherman Hixson (engineering) 

 S/Sgt Robert E. Freeman (communications) 

 

3. The Soldiers Medal was awarded to: 

 Sgt Leo F. Alton (engineering) 

 

4. The Bronze Star Medal was awarded to: 

 T/Sgt Samuel T. Mote (engineering) Cpl Philip A. Maxim (engineering) 

 

5. Awards of Air Medal on following page: 

Lieutenants: Sergeants: 




 Lawrence A. Clausen (2Lt, bombardier) Frank T. Beets (Sgt, gunner) 

 Raymond W. Gittings (2Lt, pilot) William J. Aderholt, Jr. (S/Sgt, gunner) 

 John W. Goodrich (2Lt, pilot) Dwight L. Bryan (Sgt, gunner) 

 Russell V. Grove (2Lt, pilot) Ralph J. DeAngelo (S/Sgt, gunner) 

 Howard A. Higgins (2Lt, pilot) Cecil O. Freeman (Sgt, gunner) 

 John W. Matthews Jr. (2Lt, pilot) Gwynn M. Leary (T/Sgt, gunner) 

 Charles E. Nagel (2Lt, pilot) Kenneth E. Leeper (Sgt, gunner) 

 Paul R. Noel (2Lt, bombardier) Orville W. Lowitz (Sgt, gunner) 

 Stanley J. Pietrowski (2Lt, pilot) Hans G. Lundtoft (S/Sgt, gunner) 

 Stanley E. Wozniak (2Lt, pilot) Lyle McCarty (Sgt, gunner) 

 Francis H. Hogman (2Lt, bombardier) William J. McKearnin (Sgt, gunner) 

 Richard E. Taylor (1Lt, pilot) William H. Poorman (Sgt, gunner) 

 Milton P. Rousos (Sgt, gunner) 


August 1944 (continued) 

 

G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries. 


 




447th BS War Diary: Additional Information for August 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 August to 31 
August 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 

 1 E/M transferred, 28th Troop carrier Service 

 2 E/M transferred, Hq., 321st Bombardment Group. 

 2 E/M transferred to 7th Replacement Depot. 

3 officers; 3 E/M transferred to 7th Replacement Depot 

 (b) on DS or TD. 

 1 Officer on DS, to United States. 

 1 Officer on DS, 12th Air Force. 

 1 E/M on DS; 16th Service Squadron. 

 1 E/M on DS; 57th Bombardment Wing 

 14 Officers, 36 E/M on DS rest camp, Rome, Italy 

 4 E/M on DS rest camp, Capri. 

 (c) No Change. 

 

 (3) Captain Marshall C. Strenger appointed Commanding Officer succeeding 

 Captain Thomas C. Bounds, August 2, 1944 

 (4) No Change 

 (5) No Change 


August 1944 (continued) 

 

c. Strength, Commission and enlisted. 

 (1) Month of August 1944. 

 (a) Officers; 98; E/M 335 

 (b) Officers 3; E/M no change 

 (c) No decrease. 

 (d) At end: Officers 101; E/M 335 

 

 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 the month of August, 1944. 

 

f. Campaigns. 

 (1) Italian and Southern France 

 (2) From 1 August, to present date. 

 

 g. Operations. 

 (1) French Campaign. 

 (2) Objective Bombing 

 (3) 27 missions, 235 sorties 

 (4) Results of the most important missions. 

 (a) Mission: La Ciotat Gun Position; Porquerolles West Gun Position; St. Tropez 

 West Gun Position; Toulon Harbor Shipping. 

1. The guns positions were important because they were used to defend the 

 beaches and coast line that our assault troops were to establish the 

 Southern France Beachhead 

 Toulon Harbor Shipping, because the large guns of the warships stationed 

 in this harbor were trained on the land and were preventing the advance of 

 our troops into this important naval base. 

 2. The gun positions were silenced or neutralized and beach defenses 

 softened up. The ships in the harbor were either sunk or were left listing to 

 starboard. 

 3. Made the invasion of Southern France possible and helped our troops in 

 the taking of the strongly defended Toulon Naval Base. 

 4. All photographs showed excellent results. 

 5. The base was a great loss to the Germans and opened another front for 

 them to defend. 

 

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

 entire month. 

 


August 1944 (continued) 

 

h. Command officers on important missions. 

 (1) Colonel Smith, Group Commander, flew as co-pilot, with Lt. Muzinich, who was 

 flight leader, on Var River Bridge, 4 August 1944. 

 

i. Losses in action 

 (1) Var River Road Bridge, 8 August, 1944 

 Toulon Harbor Shipping, 18 August 1944 

 (a) Killed. None. 

 (b) Wounded. Var River Road Bridge: 

 Lt. Remmel (IWA) (Earl H., 1Lt, pilot) 

 Lt. Washburn (LWA) (Guy M., 1Lt, pilot) 

 Toulon Harbor Shipping: 

 S/Sgt. Richards (LWA) (Charles M., S/Sgt, turret-gunner) 

 Sgt. O’Neil (LWA) (James R., Sgt, engineer-gunner) 

 (c) Missing in action: None 

 (d) Taken prisoner. None 

 

j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action. 

 (1) (a), (b), (c). 

Six members of our squadron received award of the Purple Heart, G.O. No. 28; Hq. 321st 
Bombardment Group. 

 

Three of our squadron received Award of the Purple Heart, G.O. No. 26, Hq, 321st 
Bombardment Group. 

 

One of our squadron received the Air Medal, GO No 136, 21 August 1944, Hq.12th AF. 

 

Five of our squadron members received Air Medal, GO No132, 17 August 1944, 12th AF. 

 

Two of our squadron members received Air Medal, GO No 132, 17 August 1944, 12th AF 

 

Three of our squadron members received the DFC, GO No 132, 15 August 1944, 12th AF. 

 

Two of our squadron members received the DFC, G.O. No. 126, 9 August 1944, 12th AF. 

 

31 received the Air Medal, G.O. No. 123, 7 August 1944, 12th AF. 

 

8 received Clusters, on the above G.O. 

 

83 of our members received the Air Medal, G.O. No. 136, 21 August 1944, 12th AF. 

 

The 321st Bombardment Group received the Presidential Citation, during August 1944. 

 

 


August 1944 (continued) 

 

k. No pictures submitted. 

 

2. Enclosed are War Diary, 447th Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 August 1944 
to 31 August 1944. No Special Account for the month; Squadron Statistics for the month 
of August1944. 

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: 27 Sorties Flown: 235 

Bombs dropped (weight): 788,000 lbs. Nickels: 1,000,000 leaflets dropped 

Planes lost: None Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None 

Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None 

 

 

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

 

August 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of 1 August 1944, 93 Officers and 321 Enlisted 
men. No Officers assigned or joined during this period. The following Enlisted men 
assigned and joined, Cpls: Qualls, Brusa, Randall, and Hawthorne. T/Sgt. Bernsteen and 
Cpl. Russell transferred to the U.S.A. Two missions were flown during the week over 
targets in France. Officers and Enlisted Men continued trips to Rest Camps in Rome and 
Capri. 

Bernsteen, Hilding I., T/Sgt, engineering Brusa, Robert P., Cpl, gunner 

Hawthorne, Ralph C., Cpl, gunner Qualls, Thomas B., Cpl, gunner 

Randall, Charles R., Jr., Cpl, gunner Russell, Pearl W., Cpl, armament 

 

August 8 – 15 – 44: The following Officers assigned and joined during this period. Lts: 
Simpkins, Conover, Duggan, Rubin, and Capt. Burks. The following Enlisted men 
assigned and joined during this period. Sgts: Seward, Holloway, Markiewicz, Hart, 
Bates, and Cpl. Rockwell, Pfc. Whichard and Pvts: Yarbrough, Edward and Roy. The 
Squadron flew 9 missions against targets in France. Members of the Squadron continued 
trips to Rest Camps. Good weather prevailed and moral was high. The Enlisted Men of 
the Navy who had been of DS this Squadron were transferred to their original unit. 

Bates, Warren F., Sgt, engineering Burks, Richard W., Capt, pilot 

Conover, Donald C., 2Lt, bombardier Duggan, Raymond E., 2Lt, pilot 

Hart, Gerald S., Sgt, ordnance Holloway, Garland (NMI), Sgt, gunner 

Markiewicz, Edward A., Sgt, gunner Rockwell, Stewart R., Sgt, gunner 

Rubin, Julius W., 2Lt, pilot Seward, Richard F., Sgt, gunner 

Simpkins, Everett L., 2Lt, bombardier Whichard, Sgt 

Yarbrough, Edward B., Sgt, engineering Yarbrough, Roy A., Sgt, engineering 


August 1944 (continued) 

August 16 – 24 – 44: The following Officers and Enlisted Men assigned and joined 
during this period Lts: Churchill, Cherry, Copes, Cooper, Cook, Ivory, Sheffield, and 
Private Bilodeau, Crowther, Oddo, Oneth, and Pankiewicz, and Cpls: Schaffer and Bass. 
The following Officers promoted form 2nd Lt. to first Lt: Anderson, Bard, Bongiovanni, 
Carrington, Comfort, Grady, Holcombe, Leonard, Mallin, Martin, Mitchell, Moyer, 
Reedy, Schlenk, Shaw, Stevens, Swanson, Warren, Young, Sowder, Kruse, Tilton. First 
Lt. Moss promoted to Captain. 

Anderson, Andrew H. L., 1Lt, pilot or Anderson, Douglas R., 1Lt, pilot 

Bard, John A., 1Lt, pilot Bass, Bernard G., Cpl, gunner 

Bilodeau, Arthur (NMI), Pvt, cook Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 1Lt, navigator 

Carrington, Charles C., 1Lt, pilot Cherry, Raymond (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot 

Churchill, Duane W., 2Lt, pilot Comfort, Edward P., 1Lt, bombardier 

Cook, Don W., 2Lt, p