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12th

Air Force, 57th

Bombardment Wing

321st Bombardment Group

History: July 1944

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For my dad, Colonel John “Jack” Fitzgerald, U.S. Army (deceased)

“Lil Butch”

John T. Fitzgerald, SMSgt, U.S. Air Force (retired) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

12th

Air Force, 57th

Bombardment Wing

321st Bombardment Group

History: July 1944

The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s Headquarters and individual

Squadron War Diaries. They have been transcribed word for word, from the Squadron

Histories provided by the Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA), Maxwell Air

Force Base Alabama. At the end of each Squadron’s daily entry, the individuals cited in

the entry are identified by full name, rank and duty, in alphabetical order. The day’s

entry begins with the Tactical Operations Statement, from the United States Army Air

Forces (USAAF) Chronology, for the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO). The

history also includes mission reports, mission crew rosters, Missing Air Crew Reports

(MACR), personal mission logs, journals, and diaries made available by various sources.

Invitation

Anyone who has documentation pertaining to the 321st Bomb Group or its members, and

would like to have it included in this history, is welcome to participate. Copies of:

photos (official or personal); orders (promotion, decoration, travel, etc.); Mission

Reports; Missing Air Crew Reports; personal diaries, logs, journals, etc; other

documentation; or information that will help identify hi-lited individuals will be greatly

appreciated, as one of my goals is to correctly identify every man and plane assigned to

the 321st Bomb Group.

My only interest in this project is to honor those who served by perpetuating their story,

and making it available for future generations, particularly the families and friends of

our Great Heroes. If you are interested in helping, or if I may be of assistance in finding

information about your 321st BG Hero, please contact me at: [email protected]

Special Thanks to Very Special Folks

Agostino Alberti: Professor - historian (Soncino, Italy)

Michele Becchi: aviation history - archaeologist (Reggio Emilia, Italy)

Jack Brellenthin, great nephew of: Harold Ray Brellenthin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th

BS

Cecile Burandt, daughter of: Charles Lawson “Chuck” Burandt, Capt, pilot, 446th

BS

Sally Brown, daughter of: Barnard H. Seegmiller, Sgt, armament, 445th

BS

Dave Charville, grandson of: Leighton Daniel “Danny” Charville, 1Lt, pilot, 445th

BS

Barbara Connolly, daughter of: Edward Charles “Salvo” Ennis, T/Sgt, radar-radio-

gunner, 447th

BS

1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS

Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner

Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG

Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th

BS

mailto:[email protected]

Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)

Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS

John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th

BS

Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia,

T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th

BS

Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th

BS

John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th

BS

Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th

BS

1st Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448

th BS and friend of: Vernon Curtis Dossey, Capt,

pilot, 448th

BS

Vince Mango, son of: Vincent A. “Vince” Mango, S/Sgt, aerial gunner, 447th

BS

John J. McCarthy: Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier, 447th

BS

Lorraine McRae, daughter of: James Arrington McRae, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th

BS

T/Sgt Rocco F. “Rocky” Milano & daughter Peggy Chatham: Crew Chief of Peg O' My

Heart, Lil Butch, and Haulin' Ass, 446th

BS

Bob Ritger, nephew of: Frederic Charles Ritger, 1Lt, pilot, 446th

BS

Irving J. Schaffer: T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer, 448th

BS

1st Lt Frederick H. Smith: pilot, 447

th BS

Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner,

448th

BS

Dominique Taddei: author, U.S.S. Corsica (Corsica)

S/Sgt George B. Underwood: gunner, 381st BS

David Waldrip, nephew of: Robert Laseter Waldrip, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th

BS

Vinny J. White, son of: Joseph P. White, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 381st BS

S/Sgt, Harry (NMI) Yoa: engineer-gunner, 445th

BS

Crew lists

Aircraft information - serial #, name, etc Sometimes used

P Pilot Bomb/Nav Bombardier-Navigator

CP Co-pilot BN Bombardier-Navigator

N Navigator EG Engineer-gunner

B Bombardier RG Radio-gunner

E Engineer-gunner TG Turret gunner

R Radio-gunner AG Aerial gunner

G Gunner PH Photographer

F Photographer AP Aerial photographer

CL Cannon Loader (on B-25G) CC Crew Chief

O Observer

Acronyms & Abbreviations

A/C: Aircraft M/G: Machine Gun

A/D: Aerodrome MIA: Missing In Action

AE: Aerial Engineer M/T: Motor Transport (Truck)

A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat

AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery) M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel

abs: absent M/Y: Marshalling Yards

AGL: Above Ground Level MC: Maintenance Crew

ALO: Allied Liaison Officer NARA: National Archives and Records

Administration

ALW: Alive and Well NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air

Force

AMGOT: Allied Military Government for

Occupied Territories

NATC - Northwest African Training

Command

A.R.C.: American Red Cross NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of

Operations USA

ASC: Air Support Command Nav: Navigator

ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel) N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards

Assg: Assigned NC: Nurse Corps.

ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar) NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer

ATA: Actual Time of Arrival Nickels: propaganda Leaflets

ATC: Air Transportation Command (NMI): No Middle Initial

ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army

Telegraph Service

NOK: Next Of Kin

Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb) NRO: National Reconnaissance Office

BC: Bomber Command OAF: Occupation Air Forces

BIC: Bruised in Crash OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab

Bmb: Bombardier OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster

Bn: Battalion OTU: Operational Training Unit

B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory PAX: Passengers

BSM: Bomb System Maintenance PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator

CA: Heavy Cruiser POE: Point of Embarkation

CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited POW: Prisoner of War (also PW)

C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical

Prophylactic packet

C/D: Coastal Defense PW: Prisoner of War (also POW)

CE: Circular Error PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch

CEP: Circular Error Probable PX: Post Exchange

Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure:

tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass

fiber, or plastic. See Window

QBB: Base of cloud

CL: Cannon Loader QDM: Course to steer

CO: Commanding Officer QM: Quarter Master

CG: Commanding General R/B: Road Bridge

CP: Command Post RC: Red Cross

CQ: Charge of Quarters R/J: Road Junction

C/S: Call Sign R/Y: Railroad Yards

CWS: Chemical Warfare Service Repl: Replacement

D/H: Direct Hit RMC: Returned to Military Control

DD: Destroyer RON: Remain OverNight

DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains

found

RR/B: Railroad Bridge

Demo: Demolition RR/J: Railroad Junction

DL: Dead List RR: Railroad

DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle RTD: Returned To Duty

DOW: Died Of Wounds. R/V: Rendezvous

DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in

Action

S-1: Administration

DS: Detached Service S-2: Intelligence

E/A: Enemy Aircraft S-3: Operations

E/F: Enemy Fighter S-4: Supply

EM or E/M: Enlisted Men SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing

ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival SD: Special Duty

ETIR: Estimated Time In Route S/E: Single Engine (plane)

EUS: Evacuated to the United States S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran)

E/V: Enemy Vessel S/F: Siebel Ferry

F Boat: Flying Boat sk: sick

F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader S/M: Submarine

FO or F/O: Flying Officer SO: Special Order

FOD: Finding Of Death SOI: Standard Operating Instructions?

Frag: Fragmentation S/P: Sea Plane

F.S.: Flight Section Sq: Squadron

GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK) Sqdn: Squadron

GO: General Order SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action

GP: General Purpose/Gun Position T/A: Target Area

GTC: General Time Convention (railroad) T/C: Troop Concentration

HE: High Explosive T/E: Twin Engine (plane)

IAS: Indicated Air Speed TAC: Theater Allied Command

I & E: Information & Education TBF: Tactical Bomber Force

I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe TD: Temporary Duty

(i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name) TDY: Temporary Duty

IP: Initial Point TLC: Tactical Landing Craft

KNB: Killed Not Battle TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical

Order, and Transportation Officer

KIA: Killed In Action T/O: Table of Organization

L/A: Landing Area TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target

LC: Landing Craft Trfd: Transferred

L/G: Landing Ground TWX: Teletypewriter Message

Lox: Liquid Oxygen u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue

L/S: Landing Strip UNRRA: United Nations Relief and

Rehabilitation Administration

L/V: Large Vehicle Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun

LST: Landing Ship Tank VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding

Officer

Ltr: Letter WC: Water closet

LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action W.O.: Warrant Officer

MACR: Missing Air Crew Report WIA: Wounded In Action

MATS: Military Air Transport Service Window (British term): Radar

countermeasure: tiny strips of aluminum,

metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Chaff

WP: White Phosphorus (bombs)

WT, W/T: Watch Tower

XC: Cross Country

ZI: Zone of Interior (U.S.A.)

Saturday, 1 July 1944

USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12

th AF):

In Italy, light and medium bombers hit fuel dumps, rail bridges,

viaducts, and docks in NC Italy; fighter-bombers concentrate on road and rail bridges

behind the battle area, destroy several fighters in combat over Reggio Emilia Airfield,

and hit guns S of Carsoli; and a detachment of the 12th

Photographic Reconnaissance

Squadron, 3rd

Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), begins operating from Follonica

with F-5s. During Jul, the detachments of the 414th

Night Fighter Squadron, 63rd

Fighter

Wing, operating from Ghisonaccia and Borgo, Corsica with Beaufighters, return to base

at Alghero, Sardinia.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions against the Ronta Viaducts—one a piperoo;

one a stinkeroo. The 448th

knocked out the west one while the 447th

had difficulty in

identifying the east viaduct and scattered their bombs quite a bit as a result.

HQ 321st BG Communications Log:

0820 Maj. Cann. Received by Neumann (Robert H., Maj, pilot).

Primary target O.K.

1300 GOR Received by Storkel (Frank A., Pvt, operations).

Asked for permission to fire 10 Rds. 40 M/M at 1900 tonite.

ACTION: O.K. They are to call us 15 min. before they start. We are to Call

GOR if we have flights out.

Payne, Lawrence J., 1Lt, pilot

1705 447th

Ops. Received by LJP (ODO)

Night flying from 2200 to 2400.

009 (43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”) Banks (Herbert J., 1Lt, pilot) & Kibler (William

E., 2Lt, pilot).

718 (43-27718) Manz (Wayne A., 1Lt, pilot) & Gillis (John R., 2Lt, pilot).

751 (43-27751 “MMR”) Cloward (Glannin A., Capt, pilot) & Christian (Calvin

B., 2Lt, pilot).

040 (43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”) Manley (Ward E., 2Lt, pilot) & Neiman

(William E., 2Lt, pilot).

029 (43-4029 “Mike Hunt”) Bastin (Melville R., 2Lt, pilot) & Nall (John G., 2Lt,

pilot).

473 (43-27473 “Paper Doll”) Nettles (Forrest T., 2Lt, pilot) & Grimse (Ralph T.,

2Lt, pilot).

1730 Maj. Stout (57th

Ftr. Received by LJP. (ODO)

Rendezvous with Fighters this morning. (Temple, Arcade).

ACTION: Maj. Larson (Harold W., Maj, navigator) notified.

Saturday, 1 July 1944 (continued)

1845 Maj. Cann. Received by LJP. (ODO)

Asked about time and number of planes scheduled for night flying.

ACTION: Maj. Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot) notified.

1945 Tower

077 (43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy Val” - later 446th

ship “Stormy Weather”) is in

from X-C.

2000 448th

Ops. Received by LJP. (ODO)

Night flying from 2400 to 0200.

715 (43-27715), 051 (43-4051), 508 (43-27508), 706 (43-27706 “Silver Belle”),

726 (43-27726), 027 (43-4027).

2035 447th

Ops. Received by LJP.

Lt. J. J. Thomas (John J., 1Lt, pilot) to Rome (Rest Camp).

2123 Toohey Received by MLO.

Informed MLO that plane 968 (41-29968, 445th

BS) (P-X’d from

Capodichino for 1830 landing) did not arrive.

2200 Tower Received by LJP.

A/C 715 (43-27715) returned from Borgo.

2215 Cann. Received by Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot).

Call signs: Hitch-hike, Kilo, Jackpot

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HQ 321st BG Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415:

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321st BG Mission No 415 Date: 1 Jul 44 No A/C completing mission: 19

Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447-18 448- 0

Target: Ronta E. Viaduct.

Time OFF: 1012 T.O.T.: 1144 Time Down: 1300

(Final Report not available)

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Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-0 448- 17

Target: Ronta W. Viaduct.



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445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one spare for the mission which bombed

the east viaduct at Ronda, Italy. Six ships did some night flying early this morning.

During the day, 9 more ships went up on a mock mission and there were 4 transition

flights. A number of the combat crews and several ground personnel went to the rest

camp at Capri today. Several of the bombardiers spent some time on the bomb trainer in

the morning and afternoon. There is a rigorous training schedule in effect these days.

“Buck” Sergeant’s new mail shack was completed today and is a decided improvement

over the old, hot tent. It is screened in, is cool and has a slit for the mailing of enlisted

men and officer’s mail. More night flying late tonight.

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

445th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415:

Squadron Mission 296

TARGET: Ronta E. Viaduct.

A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” (lead

spare)

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt

N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt

B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt

E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt

F None

445th


(445th

BS did not participate)

446th

BS War Diary: Regular squadron duties.

446th


(446th


446th



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

Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. 446th

Planes: 1

Lt. Armstrong led the formation. Target difficult to identify. Crews report viaduct well

hit with concentration on N approach and tunnel entrance. Some bombs S cut tracks.

Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate.

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

BS


A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”

(lead spare)

P Ritger, Frederic Charles, 1Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt

N Chapman, John E., 2Lt

B Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt

E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt

G Heery, Philip M., Sgt

F None

446th

BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-Pilot)

Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

Mission: Test Hop

Flying Time: 1:30 (94th

mission in MTO)

Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt, pilot

446th

BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier:

“Nothing to do all day today. Read. Tried to sleep but it was too hot. Rec’d a letter

from Jim Bradley – answered it. Hung around club most of the evening. Scheduled to fly

with Hawkes tomorrow on a mission.”

Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: Six of our ships practiced night landing. Usual squadron duties.

447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 415/mission 415) Group Mission # 415: 18

of our ships participated in a raid on Ronta E Viaduct, Q-935934, with Lt. Wiginton,

leading the mission. One concentration on northeast end approach to target with bridge

to the north hit in three places. Bombs across tracks near or on bridge to west of target.

Bombing accuracy 73 %; Mission efficiency 50 %.

A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

P Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt

CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt

N None Olsen, Svend P., 1Lt

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., S/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,

S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt

N None None

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious

Aloysius”

A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 2Lt

E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt

R Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,

S/Sgt

LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs.

Runyon) A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”

(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”)

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

N None Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 2Lt

B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Webb, James A., 2Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt

R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”

P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 2Lt

CP Wigmore, William H., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt

E Dawson, Roy C., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27701

P Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Wood, Richard J., 2Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., F/O Watson, James M., 2Lt

E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt

R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt

F Burns, Harry B., Pvt Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC

A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27718

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Gillis, John R., 2Lt

CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Walker, Marion E., 2Lt

N None None

B Huffman, William C., 1Lt Altman, Irving L., 2lt

E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Free, Paul L., S/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Rose, Clifford A., Sgt

F None Shand, Arthur T., PFC

A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27785

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Manley, Ward E., 2Lt

CP Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt

N None None

B Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Pierce, William H., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde”

P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Mims, Nathan (NMI), 1Lt

CP Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt

E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt

R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt

G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt

F None None

447th


(447th


447th

BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “40th

mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Ronta east viaduct, nice bombing, flak on crossing

bomb line.”

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot


448th

BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th


(448th


448th


Mission 282 (416): At 10:12 18 planes off to bomb Ronta W Viaduct and dropped 59 x

1000 bombs at 11:55 from 10,500 feet. Nine bombs were salvoed and four bombs

returned, all planes down at 13:20. Two runs were made on the target because of

difficulty of identification and crews report hits on viaduct, N approach and tunnel

entrance. Heavy, moderate and fairly accurate flak. 2 planes were holed, one plane was

hit by flak just before target but was reported safe at Rome. Weather: Cavu over target.

A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-27528

P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt

CP Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt

N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt

B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27791

P Bard, John A., 2Lt Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt

N None None

B Greene, Louis P., 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Veeck, Richard W., Sgt Clark, Raymond S., Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Groome, Daingerfield M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”

P McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt

CP Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt

E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Neuman, Robert A., S/Sgt

F Sommer, Robert F., Sgt None


A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-27726

P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt

CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

N None None

B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Robert, Maurice L., S/Sgt

E Ernst, David L., S/Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt

R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt

F None Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt

A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27668

P Warren, William F., 2Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt

CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt

N None None

B McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27631

P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt

CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Hajny, Zdenek (NMI), S/Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt None

A/C No. 43-4076 (returned early) A/C No. 43-27523

P Grady, John R., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt

CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt

N None None

B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt

F None Benton, Thomas H., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27720 (single engine

landing at Rome) A/C No. 43-27715

P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt

CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt

N None Hickey, William O., 1Lt

B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt

E Haack, Cecil J., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC

R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Trigler, Louis E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not

Out”

A/C No. 43-27481

P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt

CP Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt

N Quartuccio, Anthony P., 2Lt None

B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt

E Jackson, Jewel D., PFC Carter, Eugene F., Sgt

R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt

G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt White, E. T., Sgt

F None Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt

Sunday, 2 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, medium and light bombers continue to pound enemy

communication lines N of the battle area (mainly along and N of the Pisa-Florence line)

and hit several fuel dumps with good results; fighter-bombers are active against motor

transport and bridges immediately N of the battleline; and 111th

Tactical Reconnaissance

Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from Voltone to Follonica with F-6s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two devastating raids today against fuel dumps in the

Ravenna area. Using 100 pounders for the first time we laid such a pattern that later

reconnaissance showed all installations and buildings either severely damaged or

destroyed.

HQ 321st BG Communications Log:

0830 Sec. Controller Received by Neumann (Robert H., Maj, pilot).

968 (42-39968, 445th

BS) was not scheduled to depart Capodichino yesterday--

signals must have been crossed up.

0835 Tipton. Received by Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot).

Set Mission back one hour.

ACTION: Sqs notified

0930 Tipton. Received by Cameron (William D., Jr., Maj, pilot).

Call sign of Spits covering A/D is “Pluto”.

P/R Flight to Rome, Foggia, Bari--0830 T.O. 3 July 1944: (not 321st BG)

P. 1st Lt. H. E. SAMPSON.

CP. 2nd

Lt. J. W. MATTHEWS.

E. Sgt. H. J. LONDORFF.

X. Capt. M. T. HOLLOWAY.

X. Capt. P. W. Manley.

X. 1st Lt. J. W. DILLON (WING)

X. 2nd

Lt. J. W. WAKELEY.

3 men from 845th

request ride to Italy on above craft.

2125 Borgo MLO Received by AJD.

Requested hours scheduled for nite flying.

ACTION: 2200 to 0200

2230 447th

Ops. Received by AJD.

Wanted to know briefing times.

ACTION: Informed

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

Sunday, 2 July 1944 (continued)


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


Squadrons: 445- 19 446- 0 447-0 448- 0

Target: Fuel Dump near Ravenna.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 18 447-0 448- 1

Target: Fuel Dump near Ravenna.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft to bomb the fuel dump near

Ravenna, Italy. Carrying an extra load of bombs, the bombardiers had difficulty in

getting rid of their bombs and a number of “tumblers” fell short of the target.

Nevertheless, there was a good coverage achieved and 5 to 7 fires were reported. Capt.

Wilson and his crew of “Cairo Commandos” returned from their trip to Egypt with a

good supply of liquor. There was a flight to swing the compass today.

Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot

445th



TARGET: Fuel Dump near Ravenna.

A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”

(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”

P Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt

N Casaburi, Robert Roland, 1Lt None

B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Conover, Donald C., 2Lt

E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R DeLaune, William P., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F Plott, John M., S/Sgt None


A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt

N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt None

B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt

G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt

CP Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N None None

B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt

E Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-girl

- no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P McLain, Damon I., Capt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt

CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt

N Fisher, Sigmund M., 1Lt None

B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt

E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt

R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

CP Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt

N None None

B Monk, William (NMI), 2Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., S/Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt

F Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl None


A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt

CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt

E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt

R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt

G Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)

P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt

G McClary, Louis E., T/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt

E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”

(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”

P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

N None None

B Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt

E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G Decker, Robert J., Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt

F None None


445th


(445th


446th

BS War Diary: An 18 plane mission is flown. Lt. Burandt returns from rest camp

at Rome while Lt. Franklin goes to Rome for a vacation.

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot

Franklin, Arthur E., 2Lt, bombardier/Navigator

446th


(446th


446th



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

Type of Bombs: 100 lb. Demo. 446th

Planes: 18

Captain Cooper led the formation. Many reports of the target being well covered, with

several fires being started and two explosions after the formation had left the area. Due

to B-10 shackles and extra bombs, difficulty was experienced in getting rid of bombs in

some cases.

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”

P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 1Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None None

B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt

E Kreider, John L., Sgt Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt

R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt

G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27480

P LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt

CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt

N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt None

B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt

E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt

G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”

P Cooper, Paul T., Capt , Commander Hodges, Richard E., 2Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt

N Dunn, Thomas B., 2Lt None

B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Kiernan, Noble J., 2Lt

E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt

G Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS

PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt

CP Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

N None None

B Sitts, Lonnie C., 2Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt

R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt

G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,

S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”

(on co-pilot side - “The Leading Lady”,

previously “Miss Dallas”)

A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later

Darlene)

P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt

G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated

lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 42-64549

P Hipson, Robert Graham, 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 2Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy

Jeanne” (unnamed to Nov 44. In 45

“Kathy Jeanne” dropped)

A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”

P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt

CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt

N None None

B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt

R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt

G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little

Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”

P Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None

B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Hogman, Frans H., F/O

E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt

G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart”

P Mickel, Alan T., 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None

446th

BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 54, Pilot)

Co-Pilot: Peterson A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

Target: Fuel Dump near Ravenna, Italy.


mission in MTO)



446th

BS: War Diary of: McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier (mission 50)

“Pre-briefed @ 0820, then on 1 hr. standby.

Pre-briefed 0820 T.O. 1045 Pilot: Hawkes CoPilot: Nagel

Ship # 696 (Baby Blue Eyes) (43-27697) Alt, 11,500’ Bombs: 20 –100 # Demos

Position: 2-3-1 Target: Oil Dump 3 mi. NE of Ravenna (44° 26’ N - 12° 15’ E).

Over target @ 1240, no flak or fighters. Only 15 bombs released ok, had to kick 5 out

over the water.

Burandt got back from Rest Camp in Rome, really enjoyed himself. Rec’d 2

letters from DF; 1 from Dot Clark. Went into Solenzara to pick up laundry. Covered Slit

trench. Flying time: 03:45 hrs.”

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., Capt, pilot

Nagel, Charles E., 1Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men are on DS at Cairo,

Egypt: 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; T/Sgt. Clint R. Collins. Morning report: Officers-93;

Enlisted Men -328. 2nd

Lt. John G. Nall was promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per SO 167-

12th

AAF. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing and local transition.

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

Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot

447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 417/mission 417) Group Mission # 417: One

of our ships flew as a spare with the 445th

in a raid on Fuel Dumps near Ravenna at M-

599399. The target was well covered, with most bombs starting south and east of road,

walked through to the canal. One plane not getting rid of bombs at target dropped on

small boats in Cattolica Harbor leaving one burning. Bombing accuracy 90 %; Mission

efficiency 70 %.

A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” (lead

spare)

P Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt

E Engels, Robert W., Sgt

R Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F None


447th


(447th


448th

BS War Diary: No Entry

448th


(448th


448th


A/C No. 43-27648 (lead spare)

P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt

CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt

B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt

R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt

G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None

Monday, 3 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, B-26s and A-20s pound enemy fuel dumps while B-25s hit

bridges, tunnels, and viaducts at Pietrasanta, Canneto sull'Oglio and Saviano, and fuel

storage tanks in the Pontelagoscuro area; fighter-bombers blast motor transport and

bridges in the battle area as the US Fifth Army begins a drive on Leghorn; vehicle park,

ammunition dump, and a barge are also hit.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Although higher headquarters wanted us to knock out some

viaducts north of Florence, weather wouldn’t permit it. However, the two 19 plane

formations knocked out the Pietrasanta bridges as an alternate.


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-0 448- 18

Target: Saviano RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Rd Bridge at Pietrasanta.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447-18 448- 0

Target: Fabricaccio RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Pietrasanta Bridge.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron sent 1 spare with the formation which bombed the

railroad bridge at Pietrasanta, Italy. Good results were achieved. There was another rigid

training schedule in effect today. Some of the bombardiers spent time on the bomb

trainer in the morning and afternoon; there was formation flying; some test hops; some

transition flights; and some ships went to the bombing range. Lt. Richardson and Sgt.

Butler, pilot and gunner respectively, appeared before the Medical Board at 17th

General

Hospital. There was plenty of liquor flowing at both clubs tonight.

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

445th


(445th


Monday, 3 July 1944 (continued)

445th



TARGET: Fabricaccio RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Pietrasanta Bridge.


(later “Winnie Mae”) (lead spare)

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt

N None

B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt

E Smith, William F., Sgt

R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None

446th

BS War Diary: The Cairo boys return from Egypt: Captain Warren, Lts. Church,

Jordan and Mottley, EM’s Bufkin, Kane, Perkins, Burrow.

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

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

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

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

446th



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


Planes: 1

Lt. Dossey, 448th

Sqdn. led the formation, Road bridge reported hit also road junction N

of bridge. Concentration of bombs over to W of target. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly

accurate, no fighters.

Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt, pilot, 448th

BS


(lead spare)

P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt

CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O



E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt

F None

446th


(446th



446th

BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Pilot)


Mission: unspecified.


mission in MTO)

446th





mission in MTO)


446th


“Club bartender tonite. Nothing scheduled today. On bomb-trainer, 1445-1700.

Attended the club bar from 1700-2230, fairly busy. On a mission tomorrow.”

447th

BS War Diary: Capt. John M. Hamilton is at rest camp, Rome, Italy. The

following enlisted men have been promoted: Sgt. Michael P. Freisen, to the grad of staff

sergeant. Cpl. John J. Konicki, to the grade of sergeant. 1st Lieutenant Sherman E.

Anderson, returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy. Today’s training consisted of practice

bombing and local transition.

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

Hamilton, John M. “Doc”, Capt, Medical Officer

Konicki, John J., Sgt, ordnance

447th


(447th


447th


of our ships participated in a raid on Pietrasanta Railroad Bridge, with Lt. Murray,

leading the mission. Good concentration of bombs in target area – hitting northeast end

of bridge. A few bombs short to southeast. Bombing accuracy – 51 %; Mission

efficiency – 40 %.

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet

Mrs. Runyon) A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

N None Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt

R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 2Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Webb, James, A., 2Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Engels, Robert W., S/Sgt

R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F None None


Aloysius”

A/C No. 43-27701

P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt

N None None

B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Watson, James N., 2Lt

E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt

R Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt

CP Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj,

HQ 321st BG


B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 2Lt

E Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary

Blonde”

A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt

E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt

G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F Burns, Harry B., Pvt None

A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”

P Gillis, John R., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Wigmore, William H., 2Lt

N None None

B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt

E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt

R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt

G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt

F Shand, Arthur T., PFC Simms, Cleo W., Cpl

A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27779

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt

N None None

B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Gould, Joe W., F/O

E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Mabbutt, William T., Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”

(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil”

P Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt Nall, John G., 2Lt

CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt

N None None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,

S/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt

F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC None


448th


448th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 419/mission 419) Group Mission # 419: Mission 283 (419): At 08:38 19 planes off to bomb Saviano viaduct but due to clouds at

primary the alternate target of Pietrasanta B was bombed. 15 planes dropped 59x1000

bombs at 10:08 from 10,000 feet. Four planes did not pick up target and failed to bomb.

All returned at 10:46. Heavy, moderate, fairly accurate flak holed one plane. Spits

escorted. The R/B was well hit, also hits on tracks 200 yds NW of target. Weather:

3/10th

Cumulus at primary, CAVU at alternate.

A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-4027

P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt

CP Riley, Robert L., 2Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt

N Hickey, William O., 1Lt Bond, Edward N., 1Lt

B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt

E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt

R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Congdon, Harry W., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”

P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

N None None

B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Ernst, David L., S/Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., PFC Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

N None None

B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt

G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt



A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27481

P Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt

CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

N None Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt

B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Greene, Louis P., 1Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt

R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-4051

P Lonsdorf, Frank L., Jr., 1Lt Bard, John A., 2Lt

CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt

N None None

B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt

E Clark, Raymond S., Sgt Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt

R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield M., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt None

A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27523

P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt

CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt

N None None

B Bearden, James, E., 2Lt McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt

E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt

R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt

G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F None None


P Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 1Lt

N None None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt

G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt




P Warren, William F., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt

E Veeck, Richard W., Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt

R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt



P Rogers, Henry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt

N None Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt

G Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Crow, Roscoe J., PFC

F White, E. T., Sgt None

448th


(448th


Tuesday, 4 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, weather cancels light and medium bomber operations;

fighter-bomber operations are greatly reduced but attacks are made on bridges, rail lines,

roads, and guns in and N of the battle area as US Fifth Army elements clear parts of

Rosignano, overrun Mount Vitalba and area to its E, and push into Casole d'Elsa; and the

522nd

, 523rd

and 524th

Fighter Squadrons, 27th

Fighter Group, move from Ciampino to

Voltone with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: After briefing—stood down---weather.

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron had 18 crews alerted for a mission but it was

cancelled. It was a very quiet 4th

of July. The clubs opened up in the afternoon and there

was a goodly supply of liquor for all. A number of the engineer gunners were given

instructions on proper pre-flight and inspections of a B-25 aircraft. There were two PDI

flights while Lt. Hatcher flew a cross-country to Ajaccio.

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

445th

BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:

07/04/44: “This Independence Day has been most inappropriately observed of any I

can remember. After a strenuous night of bomb loading, I slept considerably this

forenoon. The weather was warm and uncomfortable, putting me in a rather petulant,

sour mood. After dinner several of us went to our usual hole for a swim. I enjoyed it

very much and returned feeling much better. The club was opened at two o’clock and by

the time we returned much boisterousness in the squadron had resulted. It’s quite

different from our “4ths” on horseback when I was a kid.”

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Lieutenants Dickerson and Ritger go on DS.

Regular duties. A small mail.

Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt, bombardier Ritger, Frederic Charles, 1Lt, pilot

446th


“Went to pre-briefing @ 0650, mission cancelled due to weather. Spent the a.m. writing

to D.F. and Mary Mooney. Went swimming this afternoon – good. Rec’d letter from

Alice. Meeting all combat crews @ 1915, “Escape Procedure”. Doc Warren repaid

$100.00 he borrowed. Wrote Alice. Rec’d a letter from Eddy – answered. Strong wind

blowing all day.

Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer

Tuesday, 4 July 1944 (continued)

447th

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

Today’s training consisted of one ship flying PDI runs for one hour and nine ships flying

a practice formation.

448th


Wednesday, 5 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, B-25s bomb Villafranca di Verona marshalling yard, Aulla

railroad bridge, and Ostiglia fuel dumps while A-20s blast a supply dump and rail lines;

fighter-bombers hit tracks, bridges, roads, and other targets in the battle area as the US

Fifth Army continues fierce fighting around Rosignano.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: One mission today took off late—about 1300 hours.

However, they picked up the target and photos showed 90% of the bombs in the target

area with the bridge blanketed with bombs.


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 18 447-0 448- 1

Target: Aulla N. RR Bridge



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

445th

BS War Diary: Once again 18 crews were scheduled for the mission which was

cancelled. There were two PDI flights made while two of the bombardiers spent one-half

hour each on the bombsight rate machine. Sgt. Henrich, one of the older gunners, left for

the States on rotation today. In the evening, Captain Smith gave an excellent sex lecture

at the enlisted men’s club. The amiable “Doc”, very familiar with all Army phrasing,

gave the lecture in a very straight-forward and frank manner. The men were very

satisfied with the lecture.

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

445th


(445th


446th

BS War Diary: Another 18 plane mission is flown.

446th



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


Planes: 18

Captain Cooper led the formation. Fine concentration reported in target area, with

heaviest concentration on S end of bridge and approaches. Other bombs fell across N end

and tracks to N and some through center. Fires started in buildings just to SE of bridge.

Few bursts of flak.

Wednesday, 5 July 1944 (continued)

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”

P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt

CP Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt

N None None

B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt

E Kreider, John L., Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt

R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt

G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,

S/Sgt

F None None





Admiral” (later Lady Jane)

P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt

N None None

B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt

G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Heery, Philip M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Cooper, Paul T., Capt, Commander Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt

CP Smith, Richard H., Col, 321st BG

Commander

White, Frank B., 2Lt


B Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt

G Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 42-64549 A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated

lady - no name/lettering)

P Taylor, Jason G., 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt

CP Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt

R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt

G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-27480

P Matzinger, Keith Robinson, 1Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., Sgt

E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt

G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name

dropped from nose art) A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic

Pad”

P Hipson, Robert Graham, 2Lt Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt

CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O Goodrich, John W., 2Lt

N None Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt

B Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt Kiernan, Noble J., 2Lt

E Zelnick, John J., Sgt Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt

R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt

G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”

P Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 2Lt

CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., S/Sgt

N None None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Noel, Paul R., 2Lt

E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Green, Salem M., T/Sgt

G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-27496 “PRINCESS

PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS)

P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt

CP Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt

N None None

B Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt Sitts, Lonnie C., 2Lt

E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Brown, Ronald M., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart”

P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt

N None None

B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None

446th


Co-Pilot: Sacker A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

Target: Aulla N. RR Bridge, Italy.


mission in MTO)

Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt, pilot

446th


“Mission standby. Around club reading.

Pre-briefed 1630 T.O. 1751 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Gibbons

Ship # 503 (43-27503 “Miss Arabella”) Alt. 10,800 Bombs: 8-500 # Demos

Position: 2-2-1

Target: Road & RR bridge 2 mi. North of Aulla (44° 13’ N - 09° 57½’ E). Over target

@ 1910, no fighters or flak. Excellent concentration of bombs.

Rec’d 2 letters from Alice, 1 – Grandma. Flying time: 02:40 hrs.”

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Gibbons, George H., 1Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Today’s training consisted of

three planes with full crews taking off at 04:00 for a practice mission of nine planes in the

afternoon. Usual squadron duties. With the 42nd

Engineers giving out with that

inimitable American jive, a delicious buffet lunch and the bar doing a rushing business.

We again chalked up another successful social gathering for the 447th

enlisted men club.

447th


(447th


448th



448th



P Greene, William A., 1Lt


N Hickey, William O., 1Lt

B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt

E Blasingame, Emery J., S/Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt

F None

Thursday, 6 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, A-20s hit an ammunition ship at La Spezia during the night

of 5/6 Jul and continue attacks on fuel supplies during the day; medium bombers again

hit communication, concentrating on bridges N of the battleline, and attack enemy

warehouses and HQ; fighter-bombers hit rail lines (with especially good results between

Viareggio and Massa Lombarda) and damage several bridges just N of the battle area as

the US Fifth Army continues clearing Rosignano and takes Castellina Marittima and

Mount Vaso.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Four missions today including one of the nickeling variety to

Pistoia and Lucca. Two flights of 19 aircraft each hit two sections of the Todi

Headquarters and Dump. Good coverage in the north section but practically no bombs in

the south section.


Heavy, intense flak was expected from the Vado Viaduct which 19 aircraft attacked today

and nothing happened to change those expectations. All 19 planes were holed—one pilot

killed.

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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-18 448- 0

Target: Vado Viaduct



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 1 447-0 448- 18

Target: Todi Hdqs & Dump.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 17 446- 1 447-0 448- 0

Target: Todi Hdqs & Dump.



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

Thursday, 6 July 1944 (continued)


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 4 447-0 448- 0

Target: Pistoia and Lucca (Nickels)

Time OFF: 1605 T.O.T.: 1709 - 1717 Time Down: 1820


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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft for the mission today but 1 did

not take off due to a malfunction. They bombed the Todi Headquarters and fuel dump in

Italy with a bombing accuracy of 53 per cent. It was the squadron’s 300 combat mission.

Lt Fischer took a crew over to Naples and from there to Catania, Sicily.

Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt, pilot

445th


(445th


445th


(445th


445th



TARGET: Todi Organization H.Q. at Poretta Terni.

Type of Bombs: 128 x 500 lb bombs drpd (8 returned in 631)

900 rds of ammunition expended.

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt

CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

N Sharp, Kenneth R., Capt None

B Maughan, George W., 1Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt

E Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None


A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”

P Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt

CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond F., F/O

N None Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt

B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt

E Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt

R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt

G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt

CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N None None

B Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt

E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt

R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt

G McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s Cookin’?”

(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”)

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt

CP Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt

N None None

B Monk, William (NMI), 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., S/Sgt

E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Hickey, William R., S/Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None



(later “Winnie Mae”)

A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph R., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt


B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., Sgt

G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi

Gambler II”

P Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt Jeffery, James C., 2Lt

CP Martin, John W., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt

N None None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt

E Walther, Henry W., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

N None None

B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt

E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt

R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt



- no name/lettering)

A/C No. 43-27509 (did not take off –

engine trouble) (only pilot listed – likely

crew is)

P McLain, Damon I., Capt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N Napple, Francis L., 2Lt None

B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Shiloh, Andrew (NMI), T/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl

F None None

445th


(445th



446th

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

446th



TARGET: Vado Viaduct, Italy DATE: 6 July 1944


Planes: 1

Lt. Muzinich, 447th

Sqdn. led the formation. Splendid concentration in target area, with

most bombs observed towards S end of bridge. Bridge reported out in two places before

bombing. Another span knocked out by this formation. Pilot Nall killed, seven

wounded. “Window” used. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate. Nineteen planes

holed.

Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt, pilot, 447th

BS Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot, 447th

BS

A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic

Pad”

P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt



B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt

R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt

G Burrow, Isom F., Cpl

F None

446th



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


Planes: 1

Lt. Furey, 448th

Sqdn. led the formation. Few scattered hits in target area. Possible hits

on buildings in SE corner of area. Flak was heavy, intense, fairly accurate. Seven planes

holed.

Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th

BS



P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt


N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O

E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC

R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt

G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt

F None


446th



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


Planes: 1

Lt. Russell, 445th

Sqdn. led the formation. Majority of bombs in target area with

concentration in S section. One concentration reported W of tracks in town covering a

road junction there. Flak was heavy, moderate and fairly accurate to inaccurate. No

fighters.

Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 2Lt, pilot, 445th

BS

A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”

P Vancil, Alfred E., 2Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt

N Dunn, Thomas B., 2Lt

B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt

E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt

G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt

F None

446th



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

Type of Bombs: Front Post Pamphlets. 446th

Planes: 4

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

fighters.

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy



P Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt

CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt

N None None

B Casper, Henry G., Sgt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Henry, Scott G., Sgt

R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,

S/Sgt

F None None





A/C No. 43-27745

P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt

N Robertson, Charles W., 1Lt None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt

G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None

446th


Co-Pilot: White A/C B-25J-1-NC: 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

Target: Pistoia and Lucia, Italy


mission in MTO)

446th





mission in MTO)

Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt, pilot

446th


“Practice bombing mission with Burandt. 5 bombs, CE-109. Reading all afternoon.

Meeting in Officer’s Club @ 1900, few boys got promoted, air medals given out. Rec’d

my first Oak Leaf Cluster to Air Medal. Rec’d 2 letters from Ma. To show, Danny Kaye

“Up in Arms” – Excellent. Flying time: 01:30 hrs.”


447th

BS War Diary: The following combat officers and combat enlisted men received

wounds while participating in today’s raid on Vado Viaduct: 1st Lt. Claude F. Jones; 2

nd

Lt. William H. Wigmore; 2nd

Lt. Paul H. Noe Jr.; 2nd

Lt. Robert M. James; 2nd

Lt. Edward

J. Stanley, 2nd

Lt. Harold N. Lindell; 2nd

Lt. James N. Watson; Staff Sergeant Robert W.

Koecher; Staff Sergeant Robert R. Vineski. 2nd

Lt. John G. Nall, pilot; was killed in

action while participating in the Vado Viaduct raid. The following enlisted men were

assigned to this squadron per SO 105-321st Bombardment Group Headquarters: Sergeant

Homer Leffler; Private David Budowsky; Private Warren E. Evans; Private Naseem J.

Haik; Private Haskell R. Oden; Private Jack Kantrowitz; Private Edward J. Drabinski;

Private First Class Giuseppe Congelosi; Private Jack B. Luck. Today’s training consisted

of local transitions.

Budowsky, David (NMI), Pvt, communications

Congelosi, Giuseppe (NMI), PFC, transportation

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

Haik, Naseem J., Pvt, duty soldier James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier


Jones, Claude F., 1Lt, bombardier Kantrowitz, Jack (NMI), Pvt, transportation

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

Lindell, Harold N., 2Lt, navigator Luck, Jack B., Pvt, communications

Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt, pilot Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot

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

Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt, bombardier

Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner

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

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on Vado Viaduct, L-814290, with Lt. Muzinich, leading

the mission. A splendid concentration of bombs in target area in spite of heavy flak, with

most bombs towards south end of bridge. The bridge was cut in two places before our

bombing. Another span was knocked out by our formation. All eighteen of our ships

were holed by flak. Bombing accuracy – 41 %; Mission efficiency – 34 %.

A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 2Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Col, HQ 321st

BG

N None Lindell, Harold N., 1lt

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Orloff, Stanley (NMI), T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt

G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl”

P Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt

CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Wigmore, William H., 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., F/O Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt

E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt

R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”

P Nall, John G., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 2Lt

CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt Watson, James N., 2Lt

E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt


S/Sgt

Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt



A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Cpl Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt

F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl None


Aloysius”

A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”

P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt

N None Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt

B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt

E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt

R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt

G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-27718

P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Gillis, John R., 2Lt

CP Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt Walker, Marion E., 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Smith, William L., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt

R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Free, Paul L., S/Sgt

G Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt Rose, Clifford A., Sgt

F None None


(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Bastin, Melville R., 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

N None None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-27701

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

N None None

B Rosenbledt, James M., 2Lt Webb, James, A., 2Lt

E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., Sgt Not listed – likely Balling, Robert J.,

S/Sgt

F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC Burns, Harry B., Pvt

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt

R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt

F None None

447th


(447th


447th


(447th


447th


(447th


447th

BS: War Diary of: Mango, Vincent A. "Vince", Sgt, aerial gunner (Mission 26)

“Target: Vado Viaduct Bologna Flak: HIA 12 min Combat: 2:20 Bombs: 1,000 lbs

Escorts: Spits Plane # 79 (43-4079 “Little David) Crew: P-Lt Monger

CP-Lt Jensen B-Lt Mesna E-Sgt Smith R-Sgt Fiocca G-Sgt Mango

Lt Nall KIA. Lt Watson & Lt Stanly both seriously wounded and hospitalized. Lt James,

Lt Lindell, Lt Wigmore, Lt Noe, SSG Vineski & SSG Koecher were wounded lightly but

not hospitalized. All aircraft holed. Four making single engine landings. Splendid

concentrations in target area despite heavy flak w/most bombs on S end of Bridge.

Bridge reported out in 2 places.”

Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt, radio-gunner James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier

Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner


Lindell, Harold N., 1lt, navigator Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt, bombardier

Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt, pilot Nall, John G., 2Lt, pilot

Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt, bombardier Smith, William L., Sgt, engineer-gunner

Stanley, Edward J., 2Lt, bombardier


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

448th


448th


(448th


448th


Mission 284 (423): At 09:20 18 planes off to bomb Todi Organization RR/sheds at

Poretta Terme and dropped 136 x 500 bombs at 10:41 from 11,000 feet. 8 bombs were

not dropped because panel lights failed to work. All planes returned at 11:55. Area

cover by Spits. Crews report majority of bombs in target area, concentration in S section,

other bombs fell W of tracks in town covering the R/J. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate flak

from IP and from batteries S of target. Some reports of brown colored puffs but no

planes holed. Weather: CAVU at target.

A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not

Out”

P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt

CP Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt

N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt None

B Greene, Louis P., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt

G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”

P Bard, John A., 2Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt

CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

N None None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”

P Warren, William F., 2Lt Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt

CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt

N None None

B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-27508

P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

N None None

B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt

E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt

R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Irvine, Josef F., Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Dembrowski, Henry J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-4076

P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Myers, Harold C. “Casey”, 1Lt

CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt


B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt McCue, William M., Jr., 1lt

E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27631

P Grady, John R., 2Lt Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt

CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

N None None

B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E White, Joseph John, Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt

R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4051 A/C No. 43-27481

P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt

CP Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt

N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt None

B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt

E Sullivan, James G., PFC Carter, Eugene F., Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt

F None White, E. T., S/Sgt

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”

P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt

CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Ernst, David L., S/Sgt Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt

R Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt

G Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt

F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt None


Sadie”

A/C No. 43-27668

P Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt

CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt

N None None

B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt

E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt


448th


(448th


448th


(448th


Friday, 7 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, during the night of 6/7 Jul A-20s bomb La Spezia harbor and

motor transport in the area, and resume an attack on fuel supplies during the day; B-26s

and B-25s score direct hits on railway bridges at Reggio Emilia, and over the Fratta River

and possible hits on the Santa Maria di Mugnano bridge and 2 other bridges in the area;

they also hit Collecchio fuel dump, causing many fires and explosions; fighter-bombers

attack Ferrara Airfield, the town of Empoli, and rail lines, bridges, fuel and ammunition

dumps, motor transport, and numerous other targets in the battle area as US Fifth Army

forces complete the clearing of Rosignano; and a detachment of the 346th

Fighter

Squadron, 350th

Fighter Group, based at Pomigliano begins operating from Piombino

with P-39s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Two missions today against the Sasso and Fratta bridges.

The Fratta bridge was knocked out with a devastating pattern; while on the Sasso one the

terrain made it tough to pick up and as a result it was missed entirely. Nine planes were

holed in the later raid.


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


Squadrons: 445-18 446- 0 447-0 448-1

Target: Sasso RR Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445-0 446- 18 447-1 448-0

Target: Fratta RR Bridge.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron furnished 18 aircraft to bomb the Sasso railroad

bridge, Italy. Due to an intense flak barrage, the bridge was not hit according to plan.

Sgt. Lincoln W. Mark, and engineer-gunner, was killed by flak on the mission. Sgt.

Mark, a quiet Chinese lad, was liked and respected by the men. A number of the combat

crews went to the rest camps at Rome and Capri. Lt. Fischer and crew returned from

Catania today. Captains Strenger, Wilson and a crew went on a sea search for a missing

aircraft this afternoon. An oil slick and debris was sighted but there was no trace of the

plane.

Friday, 7 July 1944 (continued)

Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt, pilot Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt, engineer-gunner

Strenger, Marshall C., Capt, pilot Wilson, Victor H., Capt, pilot, Operations Officer

445th



TARGET: RR Bridge 10 mile south of Bologna, Italy

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt


B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Mark, Lincoln W., Sgt

R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design”

P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Jeffery, James C., 2Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt

N None None

B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt

E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt

R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt

G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt

F None Plott, John M., S/Sgt

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27509

P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt

E Hickey, William R., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Sgt

F None None


(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27553

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt

N None None

B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt

E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”


- no name/lettering)

P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt McLain, Damon I., Capt

CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt

N None Sides, Harry F., 2Lt

B Reddy, John E., S/Sgt Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt

E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt

R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt

G Weaver, Dale W., Cpl Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt

F None None


(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt

N None None

B Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt

E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt

R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt

G Decker, Robert J., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

N Conover, Donald C., 2Lt None

B Monk, William (NMI), 1Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt

F None Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl

A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi

Gambler II”

P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None None

B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt

R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt

G Walburn, John A., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N None None

B Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt

E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt

R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt

G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt

F None None

445th


(445th


446th

BS War Diary: Regular duties.

446th


(446th


446th



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


Planes: 18

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Excellent coverage of target area with concentration on N

end and N approach of bridge. No flak, no fighters.

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later

Darlene)


CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Ligon, Walter M., 2Lt

N None None

B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt

E Kreider, John L., Sgt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt

R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt


S/Sgt

F None None







P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt

CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt

N None None

B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt

G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-32394 “Peg O’ My Heart”

P Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt

N Franklin, Arthur E., 1Lt None

B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Burrow, Isom F., Cpl Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name

dropped from nose art)

P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., S/Sgt

G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None


P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-27480

P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt

CP Goodrich, John W., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt

N Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt None

B Chapman, John E., 1Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt

E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC

R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt

G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Brown, Ronald M., Sgt

F None None





P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Cohen, George (NMI), S/Sgt

G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated


P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt

N None None

B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt

R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt

G Heery, Philip M., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”

P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt

CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None

B Leith, William V., 2Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt

R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None


446th



Target: Fratta RR Bridge, Italy.

Flying Time: 2:40 (101st mission in MTO)

Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt

446th


“Pre-briefed 0820 T.O. 0950 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Ligon

Ship # 097 (43-4097 “Tiny?” - later “Darlene”) Alt. 10,800 Bombs: 4-1000 #

Demos Position: 1-2-1 Target: RR Bridge 5 mi. N.E. of Ostia (44° 35’ N - 09° 56’ E).

Over target 1103, no fighters or flak. Excellent concentration on bridge.

Signed payroll. Shaved & showered. Rec’d letter from Billy. Wrote Ma,

Grandma, D.F. Flying time: 02:35 hrs.”

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Ligon, Walton M., 1Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: Captain John M. Hamilton has returned from rest camp, Rome,

Italy. 1st Lt. Svend P. Olsen is on DS at Laredo, Texas, (Flexible Gunnery School) per

orders of July 3rd

. The following officers and enlisted men have been assigned to this

squadron per SO 106—57th

Wing: 2nd

Lt. Robert J. Burns, pilot; 2nd

Lt. Richard L.

Willis, co-pilot; Staff Sergeant Gaston G. Poulin, radio-gunner; Corporal Andrew C.

Dubbs, engineer-gunner; Corporal George T. Lejman, armorer-gunner. The following

combat officers have been promoted to the rank of 1st Lieutenant per orders dated July

2nd

: 2nd

Lt. Melville R. Bastin; 2nd

Lt. Ralph T. Grimse; 2nd

Lt. William F. Heitman; 2nd

Lt. Edward Krafka; 2nd

Lt. Henry J. Magne; 2nd

Lt. Wayne A. Manz; 2nd

Lt. Anthony L.

Muzinich; 2nd

Lt. James M. Rosenbledt; 2nd

Lt Wayne T. Rye, Jr.; 2nd

Lt. Marvin L.

Spruill; 2nd

Lt. James A. Webb. All combat officers were briefed on, “Escape” at the

officers club at 1845 hours by Captain Robert W. Manly. The combat enlisted men were

also briefed by Captain Robert W. Manly, at their club at 1915 hours. Today’s training

consisted of a six plane formation.

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

Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl, engineer-gunner Grimse, Ralph T., 1Lt, pilot

Hamilton, John M. “Doc”, Capt, Medical Officer

Heitman, William F., 1Lt, pilot Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot

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

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

Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt, pilot Olsen, Svend P., 1Lt, navigator

Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt, radio-gunner

Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt, bombardier

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

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

447th


(447th



447th


of our ships flew as spare with the 446th

in a raid on Fratta Railroad bridge, - P-775608.

Excellent coverage of target area with concentration on north and west approach of

bridge. The bombs of one element were short of target area. Bombing accuracy -66 %;

Mission efficiency – 84 %.


P Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt

N Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt

B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None

448

th BS War Diary: No Entry

448th


A/C No. 43-27791

P Riener, William F., 1Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt

N None

B Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt

R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt

G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None

448th


(448th



USAAF Chronology: MTO Tactical Operations (12th

AF):

In Italy, during the night of 7/8 Jul A-20s bomb areas in or near

Empoli, Agliana, and Lucca, and hit fuel dumps the following day; medium bombers

pound marshalling yards at Novi Ligure, Piacenza, Mantua, and Ferrara and tracks near

Parma; fighter-bombers again blast railroads, roads, and bridges N of battleline, which is

advancing N from above Cecina toward Leghorn; the 17th

and 35th

Troop Carrier

Squadrons, 64th

Troop Carrier Group, move from Comiso, Sicily to Ciampino with C-

47s; and the detachment of the 416th

Night Fighter Squadron, 62nd

Fighter Wing [attached

to 6505th

Fighter Control Area (Provisional)] moves from Tre Cancello Landing Strip to

Tarquinia with Beaufighters (squadron is based at Pomigliano).

HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No non-mission information)


One 24 aircraft effort this date--against the southwest choke point of Mantua M/Y.

Pictures showed the choke point well hit as well as numerous units of rolling stock and

road overpass.

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


Squadrons: 445-0 446- 0 447-12 448-12

Target: Mantua SW Choke Point.



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

445th

BS War Diary: There was no operational mission scheduled today but an

extensive training schedule was in effect. Early this morning, 6 ships flew practice

assembly. 12 ships flew on a mock mission but did not drop any bombs due to an

overcast. There were 3 cross-country flights made. There were two mail calls today and

the men were delighted. Supper was not held until 6:15 P.M. The menu was fresh

lobsters, meat loaf, fresh plums, fresh tomatoes, potato salad, etc. Some USO girls ate at

the enlisted men’s club and gave a show later at the theater.

445th


(445th



446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Corporal Dudley is promoted to Sergeant. Lts.

Vivas, Sitts and Sacker, plus EM’s Bove and Jacob go to Capri, while Lts. McRae and

Jaksic and EM’s Maddox, Magnuson, Jupin and Holland go to Rome for a rest.

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

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

Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt, bombardier

Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

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

McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt, bombardier Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt, pilot

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

446th


(446th


446th


“Notified at breakfast that I was to be on my way to Rest Camp at Rome. Left from 57th

Wing (310th

Field). Arr. Rome @ 10:30, staying at Regina Hotel. Sightseeing all

afternoon, Rome is really pretty. Wakeley & I met 2 I-T gals, supper, etc. Dry Run.

Hotel a mad-house. (S.O. # 107, 321st BG, 7-7-44, Par. # 6).

Flying time: 01:00 hrs.”

Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt, pilot, 447th

BS

447th

BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Mantua SW Choke Point,

with Lt. Murray, leading our squadron. Bombs started just south of highway overpass

and walked through choke point. Other bombs just short and east and thru M/Y – others

over to NW. Large explosions resulting in flames and smoke in SW part of M/Y.

Bombing accuracy – 54 %; Mission efficiency – 49 %. The following officers and

enlisted men are at rest camp, Capri: 2nd

Lt. William H. Wigmore; Staff Sergeant

William H. Burke; Staff Sergeant Robert R. Vineski; Sergeant Robert W. Engels. The

following officers and enlisted men are at rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Eugene R.

Hermann; T/Sgt. Harry Nalesnik; T/Sgt. Albert V. Hanley; Sergeant Frank H. Bradbury;

Corporal Peter P. Michelau.

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

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

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

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


Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot


447th


A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt


B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt

F None None


(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary

Blonde”

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt

N None None

B James, Robert M., 2Lt Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt

F Shand, Arthur T., PFC None

A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., F/O Webb, James, A., 1Lt

E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

R Alpino, Joseph D., Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F None None



Aloysius”

A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”

P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt

E Not listed –likely Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt

R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27701

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt

N None None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt

F Burns, Harry P., Pvt Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC


(lead spare – did not fill in due to

mechanical trouble)

P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2lt

N None

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt

R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt

F None

448th


448th


Mission 285 (428): At 09:27 24 planes off to bomb Mantua M/Y S choke point and 20

planes dropped 80 x 1000 bombs at 10:56 from 10,000 feet and all returned at 12:10. 12

bombs were dropped due to tumbling of element leader’s gyro. 4 bombs not dropped due

to Bombardier’s error. No flak, 12 Spits escort. Crews report that bombs started just S of

highway overpass and walked through choke point. Other bombs fell in M/Y, there was

a large explosion with flames and smoke to 1000 feet from SW part of M/Y. One ME-

109 chased by escort, 2 other ME-109’s seen. Weather: CAVU.


A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27528

P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt

CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt


B McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt

F None Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt

A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4027

P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

CP Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

N None None

B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess”

(returned early – flying time 1:00 hr.) A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”

P Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

N None None

B Bearden, James E., 2lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt

E Sullivan, James G., PFC Clark, Raymond S., Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F None None


P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt

CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt

N Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt None

B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt

E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt



A/C No. 43-27791 A/C No. 43-27631

P Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt

N None None

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Young, Robert B., 2Lt

E Tracy, William G., Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt

G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt



P Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N None None

B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27523 (wing spare)

P Warren, William F., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt

N None

B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt

F None

Sunday, 9 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, weather greatly curtails operations; fighter-bombers attack

rail lines between Empoli and Montelupo Fiorentino with good results; other targets

include roads, bridges and gun positions; and the 415th

Night Fighter Squadron, 64th

Fighter Wing (attached to 87th

Fighter Wing), moves from Valtone to Solonzara, Corsica

with Beaufighters.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Mission---weather.

445th

BS War Diary: The mission was cancelled today and unsatisfactory weather

prevented any training flights. Some of the bombardiers spent some time on the

bombsight rate machine. Due to the shortage of bombardiers, several of the gunners are

being “checked out” on their duties as wing bombardiers. There was a good attendance

at church services this morning. Some packages arrived today but little mail. A wooden

shack complete with screens replaced the small O.D. and C.Q. tent. Roast beef was

served for supper. An active sports program took place in the evening with the men

participating in baseball, basketball, volleyball and horseshoes.

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Lt. Hodges is made a 1st Lieut.

Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot

446th


“Up and ate breakfast, walked around town sightseeing, met I-T have a supper date.

Slept awhile after dinner, then to Red Cross. Took a carriage ride. Date for supper

never showed up. Had a lot of fun with LaBella. Jeemey no good – presto. To bed

early.”

LaBella, Dante (NMI) "GI Joe", T/Sgt, radio-gunner, bombardier, 448th

BS

447th

BS War Diary: Today’s training consisted of local transition. Usual squadron

duties. Morning report: Officers – 92; Enlisted Men – 341.

448th


Monday, 10 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers successfully hit marshalling yards, railroad

bridges, and viaducts in NC Italy; weather restricts fighter-bombers and fighters but

several targets are hit, including airfield at Modena and scattered gun positions, rail lines,

and roads; HQ 27th

Fighter Group and 522nd

and 523rd

Fighter Squadrons move from

Voltone to Serragia, Corsica with P-47s; and HQ 64th

Troop Carrier Group and 16th

and

18th

Troop Carrier Squadrons move from Comiso, Sicily to Ciampino with C-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Weather prevented the primary bridge at Acquasanta and

Boccaccio from being bombed so the formation attacked the alternates at Recco and

Bogliasco. Crews reported both objectives well knocked out but pictures showed that the

446th

had whacked the Sori RR bridge instead of the Bogliasco one. A striking similarity

in surround features accounted for the error.


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


Squadrons: 445-18 446- 0 447-1 448-0

Target: Boccaccio RR Bridge – Bombed alt. Recco Rail Viaduct.



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


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


Squadrons: 445-0 446- 17 447-0 448-1

Target: Acquasanta RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Bogliasco Viaduct.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 18 aircraft for the group which bombed the

rail viaduct at Recco, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 100 per cent. There were 3 cross-

country flights made and some of the bombardiers were checked out on the bombsight

rate machine. Lt. Jackson, Assistant Intelligence Officer, gave a lecture on escape

procedure to the combat crews. A large detailed map of the entire Pacific area was put up

in the intelligence office. Some mail and packages arrived today. Beer was served in the

evening. The movie for tonight was “Tampico” with Lynn Bari and Edward G.

Robinson. Severe wind which whipped clouds of dust into the crowd detracted from the

enjoyment of a good movie.

Jackson, James O., 2Lt, intelligence


445th



TARGET: Recco Rail Viaduct

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)

P Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt


B Yepez, Oscar W., 1Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-

girl - no name/lettering)

P Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O

N None Sides, Harry F., 2Lt

B Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt

E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt

R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt

G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt

N None None

B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt

E Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s

Cookin’?” (later “Pretty Kitty Blue

Eyes”)

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt

N None None

B Monk, William (NMI), 1Lt Tarr, Charles F., Jr., S/Sgt

E Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt

R Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt

F None None



Mouse”

A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT”

P Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt

CP Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ

321st BG

N None Napple, Francis L., 2Lt

B Klein, Robert J., 2Lt Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt

E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Bellendir, John C., Sgt

R Gray, John H., S/Sgt Pate, Harris B., Jr., S/Sgt

G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”

P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt

N None None

B Reddy, John E., S/Sgt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G Weaver, Dale W., Cpl Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27509

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt


B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”

P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt

E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou” A/C No. 43-27742 “Vicious Vera”


P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt

R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

F None None

445th


(445th


446th


446th


(446th


446th



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


Planes: 17

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Bad weather led to bombing of alternate. Good

concentration reported, heaviest at E end of viaduct with some bombs over, on center and

short. Flak was heavy, scant and inaccurate.

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-4097 “Tiny?” (later

Darlene)


CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt


B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt

E Kreider, John L., Sgt Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt

R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt


S/Sgt

F None None







P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt

G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None


Pad”

A/C No. 43-27480

P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None

B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt

E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt

G Heery, Philip M., Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None


P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”


CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt


G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None





A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt

CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

N None None

B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt

R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt

G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt

F None None


Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”

P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None


lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C”

P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt

CP Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt

N None Dunn, Thomas B., 1Lt

B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt

E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Kane, Ronald J., Sgt

R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt

G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Burrow, Isom F., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 43-27745 (returned early –

engine cut out)

P Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt

CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Leith, William V., 2Lt Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt

E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt

R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt

G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt

F None None


446th



Target: Acquasanta RR Viaduct – Bombed alt. Bogliasco Viaduct.

Flying Time: 3:00 (102nd

mission in MTO)

Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt

446th


“Up early, ate chow, walked thru town, then to Vatican City. St. Peter’s Church

magnificent, never saw anything to compare with it. Beautiful, gorgeous immense, etc.

At 1230 was to present at an audience before the Pope, gave a short speech. Shook

hands, and kissed his ring. Very imposing, feel very small and humble before him. Spoke

in French & English. To Red Cross, cake & coffee. At 1730, went to Opera, saw La

Traviata, very good. Believe Toscanini there (check).”

447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest

camp, Capri: Capt. W.H. Whitton; 1st Lt. M.L. Spruill; 1

st Lt. J.F. McGill; 1

st Lt. I.E.

Dean; T/Sgt. A.W. Chatters; Staff Sergeant C.M. Richards. Today’s training consisted of

a 10 ship formation practice and local transition.

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

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

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

447th


of our ships participated as a spare with the 445th

squadron. Due to cloud layers while

approaching the primary target, Boccaccio Rail Bridge, the alternate, Recco Rail Viaduct

P-135422, was bombed. Fine concentration in target area with majority of bombs

starting at center of viaduct and going west. Other hits in east and on approach with a

few short in water. Bombing accuracy – 96 %; Mission efficiency – 22 %.


P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt

N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt



F None

447th


(447th



448th


448th


(448th


448th


A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” (lead

spare)

P Greene, William A., 1Lt

CP Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt

N None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt

E Sullivan, James G., PFC

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt

F None



th AF): AAF, MTO: The 72

nd

Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), arrives at Santa Maria, Italy

from Oran, Algeria with L-5s (first mission is in Aug 44).

In Italy, weather again hampers operations; medium bombers attack a

marshalling yard at Alessandria, hit an approach to a railroad bridge at Chiavari, and

score near misses on other bridges; fighter-bombers hit an airfield at Rimini and attack

fuel dumps, rail lines, gun positions, bridges, and targets of opportunity N of the

battleline as the US Fifth Army engages in hard fighting in the Pastina and Laiatico area;

the 5th

Combat Mapping Squadron, 3rd

Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves

from Viterbo to Borgo, Corsica with F-5s; and the 526th

Fighter Squadron, 86th

Fighter

Group, moves from Orbetello to Poretta, Corsica with P-47s.



52 aircraft took off today to bomb the Alessandria M/Y an immense concentration of

tracks and rolling stock 40 miles east of Turin. Surprisingly no flak or fighters were

encountered and the target was well hit—especially the east choke point which was

smothered by the last flight of nine planes. A large number of box-cars were derailed and

destroyed.

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


Squadrons: 445-3 446- 17 447-17 448-16

Target: Alessandria M/Yds.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 3 spares for the mission which attacked the

Alessandria marshalling yards, Italy. Another day of extensive training. Six ships flew

practice assembly, four more went out on the bombing range, there were 3 transitions

flights and one to swing the compass. The personnel tent has been replaced with a

screened-in wooden shack. Sgt. Stanford, the carpenter, is the one responsible for the

excellent buildings around the area. Some mail arrived today. Roast beef was served for

supper. A number of the men are finally getting wooden floors.

Stanford, Hirman P., Sgt, Carpenter


445th



TARGET: Alessandria M/Y, Italy.

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner”

(flew with 447th

Squadron) A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design”

(flew with 446th

Squadron)

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Jeffery, James C., 2Lt

CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt

E Smith, William F., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt

R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt

G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27519 (picture of Hula-

girl - no name/lettering) (flew with 448th

Squadron)

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt

CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt


R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt

G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None

446th

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

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

446th



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

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

Planes: 17

Captain Cooper led the Formation. Three concentrations of bombs reported. One at N

choke point and at E end of RR bridge, another starting at engine sheds center of M/Y

and across tracks into N central part of town, the third short and across choke point

around highway overpass. Other bombs were scattered about. Several fires and one

explosion observed in M/Y. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Wojcik returned early.


A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” (returned

early – accidental salvo of bombs) A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”

P Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt

CP Goodrich, John W., 1Lt Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt

N None None

B Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt Hogman, Frans H., 2Lt

E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt

R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt

G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27499

P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None

B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt

E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt

G Borrow, Isom F., Cpl Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical

(observer)

None

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name


P Cooper, Paul T., Capt, Commander Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O


B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt

E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt

G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI), Jr. “Ben”,

S/Sgt

Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None




A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”

P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt

R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt

G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt

F None None





A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”

P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt

CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt

N None None

B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., Sgt

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt

R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt

G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated


P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt

CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt


B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt

R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt

G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27480 A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little


P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt

CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt

N None None

B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt

E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt

G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Beets, Frank T., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 42-64549

P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt

R Green, Salem M., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27747 A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

N None None

B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt

E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt

R Heery, Philip M., Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt

G Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt

F None None

446th


Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25D


Flying Time: 3:10 (103rd

mission in MTO)

446th


“Up early – ate chow, then packed prior to leaving. Took bus out to Littorio A.P., Left

for Corsica. Landed 1130, back to camp. Got PX rations. Rec’d letters from Louise, M.

Mooney, H.Y. Maguire, and Billy. Wrote Ma, H.Y.M., Louise, Alice.


447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest

camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. E.R. Hermann; T/Sgt. Harry Nalesnik; T/Sgt. A.V. Hanley;

Sgt. F.H. Bradbury; Cpl. Peter P. Michelau. Captain Robert W. Manly has been

appointed squadron voting officer. The following officers and enlisted men have

departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Robert W. Manly; 1st Lt. John J. Thomas;

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

Jablonsky.

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

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

Jablonsky, John C., PFC, engineering Jaffe, David (NMI), Sgt, communications

Jampsa, Edward H., S/Sgt, armament

Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence

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

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

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on Alessandria, M/Ys, with Lt. Murray, leading the

mission. Three concentration of bombs, one at North Choke Point, and at East end of

Railroad Bridge. Another starting at engine sheds in center of M/Ys and across tracks

into north central part of town. The third was short and across east choke point around

highway overpass.


A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”

P Gillis, John R., 2Lt Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, Commander

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj,

HQ 321st BG

N None Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt

B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 2Lt Windler, John H., 1Lt

E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt

R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt

G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”

(returned early)

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2lt

N None None

B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F None None


(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Webb, James, A., 1Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F., K., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt


B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt

R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt

G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling

Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Smith, William L., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt

R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious

Aloysius”

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt

N None None

B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt

F None Simms, Cleo W., Cpl

A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt

CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Wood, Richard J., 2Lt

N None None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Gould, Joe W., F/O

E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Mabbutt, William T., S/Sgt

R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt

G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl”

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt

E Partee, Watson L., Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt

R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt

F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC


A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet

Mrs. Runyon) A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary

Blonde”

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt

N None None

B James, Robert M., 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt

R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt

F None None

448th


448th


Mission 286 (431): At 08:23 52 planes off to bomb Alessandria M/Y and 46 dropped

318 x 500 and 24 x 1000 bombs at 10:08 from 10,000 feet. 3 planes did not drop because

of Bombardier’s error, 3 other planes returned bombs because of malfunction of bomb

sight. No flak was fired at formation and all planes down at 11:15. Crews report one

concentration of bombs on N choke point and E end of RR/B. Another string started at

Center of M/Y and across tracks into N central part of town, another pattern fell short and

across E choke point and highway overpass. Hits were observed along W side of M/Y in

maintenance yard and in engine sheds. Some bombs fell in town and explosions and fires

were seen. Weather: CAVU over target.

A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27528

P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt

CP Greene, William A., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

N Duncan, George F., 1Lt None

B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt McCue, William M., Jr., S/Sgt

E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt

R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27631 A/C No. 43-27668

P Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt

CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Tracy, William G., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27726

P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Grady, John R., 2Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt

N None None

B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., PFC Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt

F None Knudtson, Orville Fred, S/Sgt, 9th

Combat Camera

A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”

(returned early – flying time: 1:55 hrs.) A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

N None None

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Bowman, William E., Sgt


A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27523

P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N None None

B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt

E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt

R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”

P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

CP Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Ernst, David L., S/Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt

F Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt None


A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27791

P Bard, John A., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt

N None None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt

R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-4051 A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable”

P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt

CP Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt

N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt

E Sullivan, James G., PFC Veeck, Richard W., Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt

G Brisco, Albert S., M/Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (returned

early – flying time 1:10)

P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt


Commander

Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt


B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt

R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt

G Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None



AF):

In Italy, A-20s bomb scattered motor transport in the Florence-

Leghorn area during the night of 11/12 Jul; medium bombers begin Operation

MALLORY MAJOR against road and rail bridges over the Po River during the day; A-

20s continue attacking ammunition supplies; fighter-bombers hit barges and small boats

on the Arno River and attack roads, ammunition dumps, gun positions, tracks, vehicles,

and a number of other targets in that general area N of the battleline; HQ 86th

Fighter

Group and the 525th

and 527th

Fighter Squadrons move from Orbetello to Poretta, Corsica

with P-47s; and the 86th

Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th

Bombardment Group

(Light), moves from Ombrone Airfield to Poretta, Corsica with A-20s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: The long awaited offensive against the Po Valley bridges

begins today.


The target for our 38 planes---Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge. The crews and pictures

indicate an excellent concentration on the bridge but no spans down.

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


Squadrons: 445-18 446- 1 447-1 448-18

Target: Ostiglia R. & RR Bridges.



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

445th

BS War Diary: Lt. Joseph W. Manske was appointed Squadron Engineering

Officer. There were four cross country flights today. Several officers from the squadron

attended a party for Major Larson, formerly a navigator for this squadron. In the course

of the night’s proceedings, Capt. Nickerson upset the dope by throwing Capt. Strenger in

a wrestling match.

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

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

445th


Squadron Mission: 304

TARGET: Ostiglia R. & RR Bridges.

The squadron sent out 18 aircraft to join the formation which bombed the Ostiglia road

and railroad bridge, Italy with a bombing accuracy of 100 per cent.


A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi

Gambler II”

A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”

P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

CP Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt


B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt

R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None None


(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt

CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt


B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., S/Sgt

E Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Arcuri, John M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt

N None None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt

E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt


A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt

CP Glasford, Loren G., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N Smith, Raymond (NMI), 1Lt None

B Monk, William (NMI), 1Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), S/Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Bellendir, John C., S/Sgt

F None None



girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt

CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt

E Smith, William F., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt

R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt



(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s


Eyes”)

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt

CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt


B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady)

P McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Gunder, William H., 1Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt

G Swingholm, Raymond J., T/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt

CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N None None

B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt

E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Smith, William A., Sgt

R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt

G McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt

N None None

B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt

E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R McDonald, Thomas E., Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None

446th

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

446th



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


Planes: 1

Lt. Furey, 448th

Sqdn. led the formation. Heaviest concentration of bombs reported on

SW end and approach to target, with several reports of strings across center and a few to

NE end and approach. Several direct hits on target. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate.

One plane holed no fighters.

Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt, pilot, 448 BS


Pad” (lead spare)

P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt



B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt

R Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt

G Heery, Philip M., Sgt

F None

446th


“Not scheduled. Took laundry into Solenzara. Reading “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” –

very good. Tired, sacked most of the afternoon. Rec’d letters from Alice, J. McInerney,

Pa, Ma. Wrote Pa, Mac.”

447th

BS War Diary: Cpl. James T. McGinty has been relieved of assignment and

transferred to Personnel Center No.6, for transshipment to the United States. Today’s

training consisted of a test hop.

McGinty, James T., Jr., Cpl, Chemical Warfare Service


447th


of our ships participated in a raid on Ostiglia Road and Railroad Bridge, F-745114 as

spare with the 448th

squadron. Heavy concentration of bombs on SW end and approach

to target with several strings across center and a few on NE end and approach. Several

direct hits and a few bombs in town area both to NW and SW. Bombing accuracy – 76

%; Mission efficiency – 76 %.


(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) (spare

- completed mission)

P Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt

N Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt

B Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Partee, Watson L., Sgt

R Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt

F None

447th


“Target: Ostiglia RR Br. Flak: HIS Combat: 2:45 Bombs: 1,000 lbs

Escorts: None Plane # 476 (43-27476 “Lovely Lady” - previously “Shoo-Shoo

Baby!”)

Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, N- Lt Lindell, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG Alpino,

G-Sgt Mango

Heaviest concentration of bombs reported on SW end and approach to target w/several

strings across center and on NE end.”

Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt, radio-gunner Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt, pilot

Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator

Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier

448th


448th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 432/mission 432) Group Mission # 432: Mission 287 (432): At 08:40 38 planes off to bomb Ostiglia R and RR/B and 34 dropped

136 x 1000 SAP bombs at 10:27 from 10,000 feet. Four planes did not drop due to

Bombardier’s error. All planes returned at 11:27. Heavy, scant and inaccurate flak, no

planes holed. Crews report strings of bombs across SW portion of bridge and approach,

fotos show direct hit on N end of bridge and good concentration on S with probable hits.

Smoke pots were used to obscure the target. Weather: CAVU at target.


A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”

P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Connor, John C., 2Lt

N None None

B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt

E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt

R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt

G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt DeGeorge, Harman (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4051

P Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt

N None None

B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield, M., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt

N None None

B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt

E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt

G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27631 A/C No. 43-27523

P Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

N None None

B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt

R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt

G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27726

P Warren, William F., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N None None

B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC

R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt



P Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt

CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt

N None None

B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Ernst, David L., S/Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt

F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt

A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27528

P Bard, John A., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt

CP Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt

N McCue, William M., Jr., 1Lt None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt

R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Parham, James E., T/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27481

P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt

CP Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt Grady, John R., 2Lt

N Bond, Edward N., 1Lt Duncan, George F., 1Lt

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Carter, Eugene F., Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not

Out”

P Moss, Raymond W., 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt

CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt

N Hickey, William O., 1Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt

B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None None



th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers again bomb bridges in the Po River Valley;

A-20s hit an ammunition plant; and fighter-bombers attack targets, mainly railroads, in

areas N of the Arno River in advance of the battlefront. On Corsica, HQ 87th

Fighter

Wing moves from Vescovato to Furiani; and the 524th


Fighter

Group, moves from Voltone, Italy to Serragia with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: 100 pounders against bridges wasn’t too extraordinary

considering that our targets were the pontoon bridges at Sermide and Ficarola and the

“lightweights” were expected to finish them off. The Sermide bridge was well hit

severing the bridge in two places but the Ficarola one still stands after today’s onslaught.

25 aircraft again scored direct hits on the Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge on the

afternoon mission this date. However, the bridge is still standing.


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


Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447- 15 448- 3

Target: Sermide Pontoon Rd Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 17 447- 0 448- 1

Target: Ficarolo Pontoon Rd Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 12 446- 0 447- 0 448- 13

Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.



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


445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied one plane for the first mission which

attacked the Sermide Pontoon Bridge, Italy. In the second mission, 13 planes from the

squadron joined the formation which hit the Ostiglia road and railroad bridge, Italy with a

bombing accuracy of 72 per cent. Four ships went to the bombing range, there were 2

transition flights and one cross-country. Some of the bombardiers spent some more time

on the bombsight rate machine. Mail continues to come in very slowly and many of the

men are complaining.

445th



TARGET: Sermide Pontoon Rd Bridge.


P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt


N None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt

E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt


G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt

F None

445th


(445th


445th



TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.


girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt


B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt

R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

F None None



Mouse”

A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT”

P Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt

CP Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt

N None None

B Klein, Robert J., 2Lt Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt

E Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt

R Gray, John H., S/Sgt Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt

G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt

F None None


(returned early) A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt

N None None

B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt

R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Walburn, John A., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Gunder, William H., 1Lt

CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt


B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None


(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N None None

B Reddy, John E., S/Sgt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt

E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt

R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt

G Decker, Robert J., Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None


A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”

P Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt

E Freiler, Walter C., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None Plott, John M., S/Sgt

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt

CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt

E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt

R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt

G Bellendir, John C., Sgt

F None

446th

BS War Diary: A large number of our ships go on a mission at 0830 hours but

poor visibility obscures the target.

446th


(446th


446th



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

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

Planes: 17

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Strings across both approaches with possible direct hits on

SW and SE ends of bridge. Some bombs in town SW of bridge. One direct hit in center

of bridge, and several E of center. No flak, no fighters. Lt. Hively returned early.

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My

Heart”

P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt


B McRae, James A., 1lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt

R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt


S/Sgt

Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt

F None None



P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Larson, Ralph L., Sgt

F None None





Pad”

P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Bender, Vernon I., S/Sgt

R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt

G Napoliello, Felix (NMI), S/Sgt Heery, Philip M., Sgt

F None None



P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt

N None None

B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt

E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt

G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 42-64549

P Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP White, Frank B., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Leith, William V., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None





A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C”

P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt

CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt


B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Kane, Ronald J., Sgt

R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., T/Sgt

G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Burrow, Isom F., Cpl

F None None





P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt

N None None

B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt

G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27503 “Miss Arabella”

P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None

B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt Forsberg, Robert A., 2Lt

E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt

G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”

(returned early – windshield broken by

cartridge falling from gun of ship ahead

of him)

P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt

CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Ricke, Richard O., Sgt Hogman, Frans H., F/O

E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt

R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt

G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt

F None None


446th


(446th


446th


Co-Pilot: unknown A/C B-25C



mission in MTO)

446th


“Pre-briefed 0715 T.O. 0845 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Wozniak

Ship # 678 (43-27678 “Lemmon Lu”) Alt. 12,250 Bombs: 20-100 # Demos

Position: 2-1-1

Target: Pontoon Rd. bridge (1050’ x 20’) @ Ficarolo (44° 57’ N - 11° 26’ E). Over

target @ 1019, no fighters or flak. Lot of tumbler bombs.

Rec’d UCFC letter. Combat hrs. to date – 160:05 hrs. Wrote Ma.


Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted have departed for rest camp,

Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. William H. Martin; Staff Sergeant Jordon L. Bushnell; Staff Sergeant

Robert W. Koecher; Staff Sergeant Arthur Schwartz; Technical Sergeant Roy J. Dodds.

Today’s training consisted of a test hop logging one hour.

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

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

Murray, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot

Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on the Sermide Pontoon Bridge, F-869065, with Lt.

Murray leading the mission. One concentration north of center of bridge which severed it

in several places. Another concentration south and west of target on land and in water –

some over to east. Bombing accuracy – 70 %; Mission efficiency – 70 %.


Blonde”

A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

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

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt


B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt

R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Toole, John F., S/Sgt

G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Mabbutt, William T., Sgt

R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt

F None None


Aloysius”

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Smith, William L., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt


A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt

CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt


B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Jones, Claude F., 1Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt


N None None

B Gould, Joe W., F/O Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27779

P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt

CP Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt

N None None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt

R Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G Simms, Cleo W., Cpl Flowers, Frank J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27636

P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt

CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt

E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl

R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27718

P Gillis, John R., 2Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt

N None

B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt

E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt

R Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt

F None

447th


(447th


447th


(447th


448th


448th


Mission 288 (433): At 08:38 19 planes off to bomb Sermide pontoon R/B. They

dropped 380 x 100 bombs at 10:18 from 10,000 feet, all returned at 11:22. No flak, no

E/A. Crews report concentration of bombs N of center of bridge severed it several

places. Gap of 150 to 200 feet seen. Smoke pots were in operation over large areas.

Weather: CAVU.


A/C No. 43-4051 A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”

P Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Bell, Flavius J., S/Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt

F White, E. T., T/Sgt None

A/C No. 43-27481

P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt

CP Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt

N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt

B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt

E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt

R Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC

F None

448th



P Bard, John A., 2Lt


N Duncan, George F., 1Lt

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt

E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt

R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt

F None

448th


Mission 289 (435): At 17:00 25 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B and dropped 140 x

1000 SAP bombs at 18:37 from 10,000 feet and all returned at 19:48. Heavy, scant and

inaccurate flak, no planes holed. Formation bombed thru ineffective smoke screens but

crews report good concentration on center of bridge with two or three direct hits

observed. Bombs cut SW approach. Empty life raft seen 15 miles N of Bastia. Weather:

CAVU at target.



P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt

N None None

B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt

R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt

F Benton, Thomas H., Sgt None

A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

P Howard, Charles E., 1Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt

N None None

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt

E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt

G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27631 A/C No. 43-43-27668

P McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Warren, William F., 2Lt

N None None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt

R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt

F None Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt

A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”

P Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt

E Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Carrington, James F., Jr., S/Sgt

G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, S/Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt

F None Sommer, Robert F., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-28081

P Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt

CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Remington, Peter H., Lt Col, HQ 57th

BW

N Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt None

B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt

E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt

R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt

A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4027

P Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt Olson, Orin E., 1Lt


Commander

Grady, John R., 2Lt

N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt None

B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Bell, Flavius J., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC

R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Montoro, John A., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable”

P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt

CP Bell, Albert R., Maj, Commander

N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2Lt


E Bergstrom, Donald P., S/Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt

G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F None

Friday, 14 July 1944


AF):

In Italy, medium bombers concentrate on Po River Valley bridges;

600 feet (183 m) (2 center spans) of the Taglio di Po road bridge and 1 span of the

Piacenza rail bridge are destroyed, and damaging hits are scored on the Corbola road and

railroad bridges; fighter-bombers again hit gun positions and lines of communication in

and N of the battle areas while light bombers attack supplies; HQ XII Fighter Command

moves from Algiers, Algeria to Caserta; HQ 3rd

Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)

and 23rd

Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron move from Viterbo and Alghero,

Sardinia respectively to Borgo, Corsica with F-5s; and the detachment of the 12th

Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd

Photographic Group (Reconnaissance)

moves from Follonica to Cecina with F-5s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Mallory Plan—to knock out the Po Valley bridges—is in

full swing. We took care of another one by knocking two spans out of the Taglio Road

Bridge—the bridge closest to the delta of the Po. Our other mission to Borgoforte was

abortive due to weather.


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 13 447- 13 448- 0

Target: Borgoforte RR Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 13 446- 0 447- 0 448- 13

Target: Taglio Rd Bridges.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron furnished 13 planes to bomb the Taglio road bridge,

Italy with a bombing accuracy of 75 per cent. A second mission was scheduled but the

“stand down” order came in early afternoon. Sgt. Fitzgerald, veteran bombardier, left the

squadron for furlough in the States. There were two test flights and one cross-country

flight made. A plane went to Rome taking men for the rest camp there. It was a very hot

day today. An RAF band put on an excellent show for the men at night. It was

thoroughly enjoyed by one and all who rather anticipated an ordinary show.

Fitzgerald, Daniel J., Sgt, bombardier-gunner


445th


(445th


445th



TARGET: Taglio Road Bridge (55 miles NE of Bologna), Italy.

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 4 3-27680 “Stuff”

P Wagner, Gerald W., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt


Commander

Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt


B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt

E York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt

R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None None


girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt

CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N None None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt

E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Duggan, Raymond E., F/O Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt


B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryal, Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt

CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt

N None None

B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt


G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt

F None None



(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”

(lead spare)

P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt

CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt

N None None

B Emery, Ben D., 2Lt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt

R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt



A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Jones, Harvey J., Sgt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”

P Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt

CP Martin, John W., 2Lt

N None

B Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt

E Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None

446th

BS War Diary: The squadron has two big promotions on this date. The

commanding officer, Captain Paul T. Cooper, is made Major. Also, to be a major is

Captain Javornisky, one of the original ground officers of the 446th

.

Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander

Javornisky, John (NMI), Jr., Maj, Executive

446th



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


Planes: 13

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

scant inaccurate.






P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None

B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 2Lt

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt


S/Sgt

Wiacek, Emil J., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”

P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt

N None None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt

G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None


Admiral” (later Lady Jane) A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My

Heart”

P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt

E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 42-64549

P Kerr, John C., Capt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt


B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None





A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt

R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt

G Napoliello, Felix (NMI), S/Sgt Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic

Pad”

P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt

CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt

N None Chapman, John E., 1Lt

B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt

R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Finney, Preston N., Sgt (error – likely

Heery, Philip M., Sgt)

G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Huntoon, Stuart Layne, Pvt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”

P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt

CP Born, Walter B., Jr., 2Lt

N None

B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt

R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt

G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt

F None

446th


(446th


446th


“Pre-briefed 0810 T.O. 0945 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: R.E. Taylor

Ship # 501 (43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy Jeanne” - unnamed to Nov 44. In 45 “Kathy

Jeanne” dropped) Alt. 10,500’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos Position: 1-3-1

Target: RR bridge @ Borgoforte (45° 04’ N - 10° 45’ E). Target completely covered by

clouds, no bombs dropped. Light, inacc. flak.

Sacked all afternoon. RAF Gang Show put on a show, excellent and very funny.

Very early mission tomorrow a.m. Flying time: 02:40 hrs.”

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Taylor, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot


447th

BS War Diary: 13 of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte RR Bridge, (F-

445113) with Lt. Banks leading the mission, but due to an overcast of 10/10 at L-2080,

the mission was not completed. The following officers and enlisted men have returned

from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Captain Robert W. Manly; 1st Lt. John J. Thomas; S/Sgt.

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

The following officers and enlisted men have returned from DS. Cairo, Egypt: 1st Lt.

Robert E. Thomas; 1st Lt. Wayne R. Martin; S/Sgt. Clint R., Collins; T/Sgt. Robert W.

Harman.

Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt, pilot Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt, gunner

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

Jablonsky, John C., PFC, engineering Jaffe, David (NMI), Sgt, communications

Jampsa, Edward H., S/Sgt, armament

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

Thomas, John J., 1Lt, pilot Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt, navigator

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte RR Bridge, (F-445113) with Lt. Banks

leading the mission, but due to an overcast of 10/10 at L-2080, the mission was not

completed.


Blonde”

A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria”

P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt



E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt

R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt

G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”

P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt

R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC Anderson, Lt (observer)



(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt


B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt

R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Richards, Claude M., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox” 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., F/O Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt


A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne” A/C No. 43-27785

P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt Manley, Ward E., 2Lt

CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt

N Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt None

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt

G Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt

F None Burns, Harry B., Pvt

A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27718

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt

N None None

B Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt



A/C No. 43-27636

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt

CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt

N None

B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt

E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt


F None

447th


(447th


447th


“Target: Borgoforte RR BR Flak: HIS Combat: 2:40 Bombs: 1,000 lbs

Escorts: None Plane # 77 (43-4077 “Ann’s Little Boy Val” - later “Stormy

Weather”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, N- Lt Rye, E-Sgt Partee,

R-SSG Alpino, G-Sgt Mango

Target covered by 9/10ths cumulus clouds”


Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner

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

448th


448th


(448th


448th


Mission 290 (437): At 09:26 26 planes off to bomb Taglio R/B and dropped 100 x 1000

bombs at 11:20 from 10,500 feet. One plane returned bombs because of switch

malfunction. All returned at 13:20. Heavy, moderate, accurate flak from Rimini holed 5

planes. Fotos show two center spans knocked out by excellent concentration. Weather:

2/10th

Cumulus at target.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-4027

P Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt Olson, Orin E., 1Lt

CP Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt


B Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt Sullivan, James G., PFC

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None None



P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt

CP McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N None None

B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

P Grady, John R., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt

N None None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt

E Haack, Cecil J., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt



P Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Warren, William F., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

N None None


E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Bell, Flavious, J., S/Sgt

R Wilkinson, Robert M., S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27791

P Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt

R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt

F White, E. T., S/Sgt None


A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27726

P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt

CP Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

N None None

B Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt

E Carter, Eugene F., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt

R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27508

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

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt

N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC

F None



th AF):

In Italy, the medium bomber campaign against Po River Valley

bridges (Operation MALLORY MAJOR) reaches a successful conclusion (though the

interdiction program against the bridges is subsequently continued on an expanded scale)

as most of the rail and road bridges in the target area are destroyed or severely damaged

by previous attacks and raids which struck bridges at Bozzolo, Desenzano de Garda,

Cremona, Borgoforte, Ostiglia, Polesella, Sermide, Ferrara, Aulla, Filattiera, Ficarolo,

and Chiavari and the marshalling yard at Villafranca di Verona; fighter-bombers attack

road bridges N of the battleline and hit gun positions, roads, motor transport, and other

targets, while supporting ground forces slowly advancing N along a line extending E

from the coast below Leghorn; the 12th

Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd

Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Voltone to Follonica with F-5s (a

detachment is operating from Cecina); the 84th

, 85th

and 97th

Bombardment Squadrons

(Light), 47th

Bombardment Group (Light), move from Ombrone Airfield to Poretta

Airfield, Corsica with A-20s; and the 314th


Fighter Group, moves

from Castro to Corsica with P-47s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Four more missions in the Mallory Plan totaled 87 sorties this

date. The Ostiglia Bridge was again hit—twice; flak reported for the first time in that

area holed 35 planes including those attacking and hitting the Borgoforte and Sermide

bridges. One flight could not clear the clouds going into Ostiglia for the afternoon

mission so they turned around and smothered the Chiavari Rail Bridge—alternate target.

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

HEADQUARTERS

57th

BOMBARDMENT WING

APO 650

15 July 1944.

SUBJECT: Congratulatory Message.

TO: Commanding Officer, 310th

Bombardment Group.

321st Bombardment Group.

340th

Bombardment Group.

313th

Signal Company Wing.

Hq & Hq Squadron, 57th

Bomb Wing.

9th

Combat Camera Unit.

The following is a paraphrase of a message from the Secretary of War:

“BOTH AIR FORCES OF THIS THEATER OF OPERATIONS HAVE

DISPLAYED THE HIGHEST TYPE OF A FIGHTING SPIRIT AND

DETERMINATION. IT IS BELIEVED THAT THE ALLIED COUNTIES ARE WELL


ON THE ROAD OF VICTORY. THE DANGER YOU FACE AND YOUR

CONTRIBUTION WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN BY THOSE ON THE HOME

FRONT. THE SUPPORT THAT THE GROUND ARMIES HAVE RECEIVED FROM

THE SUPERB WORK OF THE TACTICAL AIR FORCE IS ALREADY A MATTER

OF HISTORY. YOUR EFFORTS GIVE A SUPREME CONFIDENCE TO US AT

HOME FOR A VICTORIOUS COMPLETION. CURTAILING AXIS POWER IN

HUNGARY, ROMANIA AND AUSTRIA BY THE STRATEGIC FORCES HAS

CAUSED A UNION BETWEEN THE RUSSION ARMY AND ALLIED FORCES.

MY PERSONAL THANKS AND CONGRATULATIONS. I WISH YOU GOD-SPEED

AND GOOD-LUCK IN COMPLETING YOUR TASK AND WE WILL GIVE YOU

EVERY SUPPORT. IT WAS MY DESIRE TO PERSONALLY VISIT ALL

OFFICERS AND MEN. CONVEYING THE GRATUTUDE AND APPRECIATION

WE IN AMERICA HAVE FOR YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS. WITH DEEP

REGRET I FIND IT NECESSARY TO LEAVE BEFORE COMPLETION OF MY

TOUR OF YOUR AIR FORCE.”

By command of Brigadier General KNAPP:

J. A. McCOUBREY,

Major, Air Corps,

Actg Asst Adj Gen.

A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:

S. P. NEPRASH,

Capt, A.C.

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


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 11 447- 13 448- 0

Target: Borgoforte RR Bridge



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 18 446- 1 447- 0 448- 0

Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.



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



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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 0 447- 1 448- 14

Target: Sermide Pontoon Rd Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 7 446- 6 447- 6 448- 6

Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – bombed alt. Chiavari Rd Bridge



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

445th

BS War Diary: Luxury rations were distributed today. They included 3 bottles of

Piel’s beer which, needless to say, were enjoyed by one and all. The men enjoyed a very

good movie tonight, “True to Life” with Dick Powell and Mary Martin.

445th


(445th


445th



TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge.

In the first mission, the squadron sent 18 aircraft into the formation which attacked the

Ostiglia road and rail bridge, Italy, bombing it with an accuracy of 75 per cent.

A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi

Gambler II”

A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Cameron, William D. “Bill”, Jr., Maj

CP Wilson, Victor H., Capt Cassidy, Charles F., Jr., Lt Col, HQ

321st BG


B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt

E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Gonzalez, Alfred R., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27509

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt

N None None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Pate, Harris B., Jr., T/Sgt Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt

G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl

F None None


girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P McLain, Damon I., Capt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt


B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt

E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None


Mouse”

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt

CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N None None

B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt


G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt



A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie”

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Place, Winston R., 1Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt

E Smith, William F., Sgt Smith, William A., Jr., Sgt

R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Stephens, Robert T., S/Sgt

G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Whelan, Edward J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”

P Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt

N None None

B Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Walther, Henry W., Sgt Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt

R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Hafner, Duane H., Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

F None None


(later “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt

N None None

B York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt

E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt

R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt

G Decker, Robert J., Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Moore, Henry D., 2Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

N None None

B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt

E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., S/Sgt

G McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt

F None None

445th


(445th



445th



TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – bombed alt. Chiavari Rd Bridge

In the second mission, 7 planes were sent from the squadron on the mission sent to attack

the same target this time with a bombing accuracy of 58-%.

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt


B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., S/Sgt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt

E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”

P Gunder, William H., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt

N None None

B York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt

E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt

R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt

N None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt

F None


446th

BS War Diary: More travelers go to Rome. Two missions are flown. Lt. Kinney

goes to the states.

Kinney, John H., 2Lt, navigator

446h BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 438/mission 438) Group Mission # 438:


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


Planes: 11

Lt. Jordan led the formation. Concentration of bombs in target area. Strings seen

through N and S ends of bridge as well as center. Other bombs to S of center. Flak was

heavy, moderate and inaccurate. Twelve planes holed, one crewman injured. No

fighters. Lt. Burandt and Lt. Hipson returned early.



“Kathy Jeanne” dropped) (returned

early)


P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Taylor, Richard E., F/O Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt

N None None


E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt

G Boatright, Benjamin (NMI) “Ben”, Jr.,

S/Sgt

Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None


P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None





P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt

CP Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt


B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Mayo, Jack D., 1Lt

E McArdle, John R., Pvt Kane, Ronald J., Sgt

R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt

G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Burrow, Isom F., Cpl

F None None



dropped from nose art) (returned early)

P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt

N None None

B Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt

G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None


PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My

Heart”


CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt

E Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt Brawn, Jean H., S/Sgt

R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt

F None None


Pad”

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots”

P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O

N Chapman, John E., 1Lt None

B Gilligan, John W., 2Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt

G Heery, Philip M., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27480


CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None

B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt




F None


446th



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


Planes: 1

Lt. Hatcher led the formation. Good concentration of bombs across center of bridge.

Direct hits reported on middle span. Some bombs to E approach and in town S of bridge.

Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate.

Hatcher, James T., 2Lt, pilot, 445th

BS


Admiral” (later Lady Jane) (lead spare

with 445th

)

P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt

N Ottem, Earl R., 2Lt

B Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt

E Britton, William J., Jr., S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt

F None

446th


(446th


446th





Planes: 6

Lt. Hawkes led the formation. Some bombs short S of SW approach, some in center of

bridge, some over N of NE approach. Flak was heavy, moderate, fairly accurate to

accurate. Lt. Mickel did not take-off.


dropped from nose art) A/C No. 43-27747 “Spider’s Frolic

Pad”

P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 2Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt


B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt

R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt


S/Sgt

Heery, Philip M., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated


P Gibbons, George H., 2Lt Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt

N None None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O

E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt

R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt

G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt

F None None





P Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt

CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt


B Kiernan, Noble J., 1Lt Leith, William V., 2Lt

E Leonard, Malcolm B., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt

G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” (failed

to take off due to engine trouble) (only

pilot listed – likely crew: )

P Mickel, Allan T., 1Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt

N None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt

G Schultheis, Thomas R., S/Sgt

F None

446th



Mission: Test Hop


mission in MTO)

446th



Mission: Test Hop


mission in MTO)


446th


“Up at 0400, pre-briefed @ 0450, T.O. @ 0715, target RR bridge @ Borgoforte. Last

flight on assembly, had to return to field. Sacked all afternoon. Rec’d 3 letters from

Alice. Wrote Alice. To show – very good. Flying time: 01:40 hrs.”

447th

BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties.

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on Borgoforte Rail Bridge, with Lt. Banks, leading the

squadron. Good concentration of bombs in target area. String thru north and south ends

of bridge. Other bombs to south of bridge. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission



P Gillis, John R., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt


B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt

E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Dawson, Roy C., Sgt

R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Fowler, Harold E., Sgt

G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt

F None None


(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Jensen, Herbert P. J., 2Lt

N None None

B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt


R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Alpino Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”

P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Byrn, Ernest E., S/Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt



A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”


CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt

R Balling, Robert J., Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt


A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey” A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck”

P Cloward, Glannin A., Capt Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Burns, Robert J., 2Lt

N Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt None

B Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt

E Freeman, Millard C., Sgt Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt

R See, Russell K., S/Sgt Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt

G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt


A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary

Blonde”

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Gould, Joe W., F/O

E Smith, William L., Sgt O’Neill, Joseph W., Sgt

R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Simms, Cleo W., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27636

P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

CP Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt

N None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt

E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt

R Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt

F None

447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 439/mission 439) Group Mission # 439: 447th



447th


of our ships flew as a spare with the 448th

squadron in a raid on the Sermide Pontoon

Bridge. A concentration of bombs hit the north approach and south end and approach.

Some bombs to east in water. Bombing accuracy – 88 %; Mission efficiency – 84 %.

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet

Mrs. Runyon) (lead spare)

P Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt

B Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt

E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt

R LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt

F None

447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 441/mission 441) Group Mission # 441: Six

of our ships participated in a raid on the Chiavari RR Bridge, (P-283356). With Lt.

Muzinich, leading the Squadron. Good concentration of bombs on west end and west

approach. One Cluster over and cutting road north of target and west of road bridge.

Bombing accuracy 100%; Mission efficiency – 100 %.


Aloysius”

P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt



E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt

R Free, Paul L., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Miller, Dale G., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None



(previously “Shoo-Shoo Baby!”) A/C No. 43-27636

P Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt

CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt

N None None

B James, Robert M., 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt

E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt McFarland, John F., S/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt

F None None

447th


“Target: Borgoforte RR BR Flak: HMA Combat: 2:50 Bombs: 1,000 lbs

Escorts: P-47s Plane # 77 (43-4077 “Ann’s Little Boy Val” - later “Stormy

Weather”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG

Alpino, G-Sgt Mango

Concentration of bombs in target area. Strings seen through N & S ends of bridge as well

as center. Other bombs to S of bridge. Received flak from 3 areas other than target.

Received 1st OLC to AM”


Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Partee, Watson L., Sgt, engineer-gunner

Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt, bombardier

448th


448th


(448th


448th


(448th


448th


Mission 291 (440): At 07:51 15 planes off to bomb Sermide R/B and dropped 84 x 1000

SAP bombs at 09:20 from 10,000 feet. One plane did not drop due to mechanical failure.

Heavy, moderate, accurate flak all along route from IP. 12 planes holed and one crew

member injured. Good concentration of bombs in target area with possible hits on S end

of bridge and on N and S approaches, smoke pots again seen. Crews reported seeing two

gaps of 100 feet each in target before bombing. Weather: CAVU at target.



P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt

N None None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Tracy, William G., Sgt Johnson, Roy C., Sgt

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Veeck, Richard W., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27791 (returned early – no

credit) A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”

P Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt Amo, Leo W., 1Lt

CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N None None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (returned

early – no credit)

P McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt

CP Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Zinkand, William T., 2Lt

E Sullivan, James G., PFC Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None


Sadie”

A/C No. 43-4051

P McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

N None None

B McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt

R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt

G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Irvine, Josef F., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27508

P Warren, William F., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt

N None None

B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt Judy, Philip R., 2Lt

E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt

R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt

F None None


credit) A/C No. 43-27631

P Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

N None None

B Bearden, James E., 2Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F None None


P Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Grady, John R., 2Lt

N None None

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt

F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Benton, Thomas H., Sgt


credit) A/C No. 43-27726

P Swanson, Erle G. “Swanny”, Jr., 2Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 2Lt

CP Connor, John C., Jr., 2Lt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt


B McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt

E Carter, Eugene F., Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt

R Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt

G Bishop, William (NMI) “Bill”, Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-28081 A/C No. 43-27715

P Bard, John A., 2Lt Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt

CP Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Farwell, Harold S., Capt

N None Duncan, George F., 1Lt

B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Parham, James E., T/Sgt

G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., Sgt


448th


Mission 292 (441): At 17:11 25 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B. Formation became

separated due to clouds enroute and 13 planes dropped 49 x 1000 bombs at primary at

18:55 from 11,000 feet and returned at 19:45. 12 planes dropped 48 x 1000 bombs on

alternate target of Chiavari RR/B at 19:00 hours from 11,000 feet. Heavy, moderate,

fairly accurate flak at primary, no flak at alternate, chaff used. Good results on center of

primary with several direct hits scored. Concentration on W end and approach of

alternate with direct hits observed. Road N of target hit. Weather: Scattered Cumulus.


P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt

N None None

B Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt

E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt



P Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt

N None None

B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt



A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27523

P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Furey, Frank M. “Mickey”, 1Lt

CP Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt

N None Duncan, George F., 1Lt

B Bearden, James E., 2Lt Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt

E Sullivan, James G., PFC Perillo, Anthony L., S/Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Doughty, Paul V., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Trigler, Louis E., Sgt

F None None

Sunday, 16 July 1944


th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers hit bridges in the Po River Valley at

Peschiera del Garda, Mantua, Torre Beretti, Piacenza, Casale Monferrato, and Bressana

Bottarone; fighter-bombers hit railroads and a bridge just N of the battleline as US Fifth

Army forces take territory SE of Leghorn and push to within sight of the Arno River

Valley; British Eighth Army elements take Arezzo and thrust through to the Arno River.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Away from the Po Valley—two formations of 19 aircraft

attacked the Rail bridges at Mantua and Peschiera. Good concentration in both target

areas got the east approach at Peschiera and western end at Mantua.

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

HEADQUARTERS

57th

BOMBARDMENT WING

APO 650, US Army,

16 July 1944.

SUBJECT: Congratulations.


Bomb Group.

321st Bomb Group.

340th

Bomb Group.

Hq & Hq Sq, 57th

Bomb Wing

313th

Signal Company Wing.

12th

Weather Squadron.

Ninth Combat Camera Unit.

The following paraphrased message is forwarded for your information:

“GENERAL EISENHOWER SENDS MESSAGE TO GENERAL EAKER WHO

DIRECTS IT TO BE PASSED TO ALL RANKS. YOUR RECENT OPERATIONS

HAVE BEEN OF INESTIMABLE VALUE HERE. TO YOU AND ALL SERVING

UNDER YOU I EXTEND MY GRATFUL APPRECIATION AND

CONGRATULATIONS. BEST WISHES AND GOOD LUCK.”


J. A. McCoubrey

Major, Air Corps,

Actg Asst Adj Gen.

A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY

S. P. NEPRASH,

Capt, A.C.

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


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

HEADQUARTERS

57th

BOMBARDMENT WING

APO 650, US Army,

16 July 1944.

SUBJECT: Congratulatory Message.


Bomb Group, APO 650, US Army.

Commanding Officer, 321st Bomb Group, APO 650, US Army.

Commanding Officer, 340th


1. The following message from the Commander of the Twelfth Air Force

paraphrased for your information.

(Note: PD = period; CMA= comma; RPT = repeat)

“THE MALLORY MAJOR OPERATION YOU WERE ORDERED TO

COMMENCE ON ONE TWO JULY CMA HAVE DAMAGED OR DESTROYED NO

LESS THAN TWENTY TWO BRIDGES OVER THE PO RIVER CMA IN JUST

OVER SEVEN TWO HOURS CMA BY YOUR WING PD IN THE HISTORY OF AIR

WARFARE I REGARD THIS FEAT AS BEING OUTSTANDING PD TO YOUR

STAFF CMA AIRCREWS AND GROUND PERSONNEL WILL YOU KINDLY

ACCEPT AND CONVEY MY SINCERE APPRECIATION AND ADMIRATION OF

THEIR SKILL CMA ENTHUSIASM AND EFFICIENY PD ON THE PROGRESS OF

THE CAMPAIGN IN THIS THEATRE CMA YOUR EFFORTS WILL HAVE FAR

REACHING EFFECTS PD”

2. In addition to the thirteen PO River Bridges destroyed or made

unserviceable during this period by the B-25’s of the 57th

Bomb Wing, nine other targets

vital to the enemy armed forces were successfully attacked as alternates due to effectual

smoke screens on primary targets during this time. I wish to add my congratulations to

all members of this Wing for the splendid cooperation and excellent performance in

successfully completing the operation MALLORY MAJOR in record time.

ROBERT D. KNAPP,

Brigadier General, U. S. A.,

Commanding.


S. P. NEPRASH,

Capt, A.C.

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



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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 8 447- 10 448- 0

Target: Peschiera R.R. Bridge at F-420548



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 10

Target: Mantua SE R.R. Bridge at F-493222.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron sent 9 aircraft on the mission which attacked the

Mantua southeast railroad bridge with a bombing accuracy of 80 per cent. Some of the

combat crews were sent to the rest camp at the Isle of Capri. There were 3 local flights

and two cross-country trips made. Some of the bombardiers sharpened their eyes on the

bomb trainer while another one spent some time on the bombsight rate machine. Lt.

Fischer, a pilot, was named as Assistant Mess Officer.

Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt, pilot

445th


(445th


445th



TARGET: Mantua Rail Bridge.


girl - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Cormier, Emery O., 1Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Martin, John W., 2Lt


B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

CP Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt

N None None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt

R Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt

CP Boucher, Arthur Paul, F/O Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N None None

B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt


G Zimmer, Henry G., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27502 “What’s


Eyes”)

P Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt Frank, Robert R., 2Lt

CP Weld, Willis R., 2Lt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

N None None

B Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt

E Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt

G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Weaver, Dale W., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt

N None

B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt

G Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None


446th

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

446th



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


Planes: 8

Lt. Wiginton, 447th

Sqdn. led the formation. Embankment at E approach and the E half

of bridge hit with good concentration. Both reported cut. No flak, no fighters. Lt.

Burandt did not take-off.

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 2Lt, pilot, 447th

BS


PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) (did not

take off – hydraulic trouble. Ship

grounded after pre-flight)




P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None None

B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino H., S/Sgt Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt


S/Sgt

Lorentson, Edward H., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27490 “Mrs C” A/C No. 43-4021 “The Little


P Jordan, Henry L., 1Lt Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt

CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt


B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Noel, Paul R., 2Lt

E Kane, Ronald J., Sgt Bober, John M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Bufkin, Francis P., Jr., T/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt

G Burrow, Isom F., Cpl Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 43-4074 (picture of seated


P Hively, Harold Henry, 2Lt Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Helgert, Claude George, Sgt

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27480 A/C No. 43-5052 “Lil Butch”

P Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Larson, Ralph L., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None


P Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt


N None

B Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None

446th


(446th


446th


“Up @ 0600, pre-briefed @ 0625, ship was out of commission so did not go on a

mission. Sacked all a.m., reading in the afternoon. Got a jeep after supper, took laundry

into Solenzara, then took a ride. Enjoying. To bed early, on a mission tomorrow. Wrote

Alice.”

447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have departed for rest

Camp, Capri: 1st Lt. H.J. Magne; 1

st Lt. J. R. Gillies; Sgt. Clifford A. Rose; Sgt. L.E.

Sheppard. Morning report: Officers – 92; Enlisted Men- 339. With a final score of 4 to

3 our baseball team lost the game with the 409 Bty Co. A. Today’s training consisted of

local transition.

Gillis, John R., 1Lt, pilot Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot

Rose, Clifford A., Sgt, gunner Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt, gunner


447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 442/mission 442) Group Mission # 442: Ten

of our ships participated in a raid on the Peschiera RR Bridge, with Lt. Wiginton leading

the squadron. The embankment at east approach and the east half of the bridge hit with

good concentration – bridge and embankment cut. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission




Blonde”


P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt



B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt

R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,

S/Sgt

F None None


P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt

E Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt

R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Blalock, Joe T., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt

N None None

B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Partee, Watson, L., Sgt

R Bilski, Walter J., T/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt

F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC

A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck”

P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt

CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt

E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt

R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Grant, James H., S/Sgt



A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet

Mrs. Runyon)

A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt” (lead

spare)

P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt



E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt

G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt

F None None

447th


(447th


447th


“Target: Peschiera RR Br Flak: None Combat: 3:05 Bombs: 1,000 lbs

Escorts: None Plane # 40 (43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”) Crew: P-Lt. Dean,

CP-Lt Jensen, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG Alpino, G-Sgt Mango, F-PFC Holmes

The embankments E approach & E half of bridge hit w/good concentration. Bridge

reported out.”


Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC, photographer Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot


447th

BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “41st

mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Peschiera R.R. bridge, nice bombing & nice navigation

by Lt. Thomas, no opposition.”

Wiginton, J. Maurice "Wigs", 1Lt, pilot Thomas, Robert E., 2Lt, navigator

448th


448th


(448th


448th


Mission 293 (443): At 08:25 19 planes off to bomb Mantua RR/B and dropped 74 x

1000 bombs at 10:40 from 11,000 feet. Two bombs were returned due to malfunction.

Heavy, scant inaccurate flak from Ostiglia. All planes returned at 12:10. Fotos show all

bombs in target area, bridge well hit in center and W portion, smoke pots again used.

Weather: CAVU at target.


A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not

Out”

P Moss, Raymond W., 1Lt Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt

CP Farwell, Harold S., Capt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt


B Joyce, Robert W. “Dead-eye”, 1Lt Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt



P Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt

CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt

N None None

B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt

E Tracy, William G., Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt

G Mitchell, William C., Sgt Irvine, Josef F., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing” A/C No. 43-4051

P Grady, John R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Kiska, George P., 2Lt

E Roberts, Clarence J., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”

P Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N None None

B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt



A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27791

P Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt Ovard, Glen S., 2Lt

CP Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt


B Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Haack, Cecil J., Sgt

R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Wald, Douglas A., Sgt




th AF):

In Italy, medium bombers concentrate on Po River Valley bridges,

hitting road and rail bridges and viaducts at or near Alessandria, Ostiglia, Bogliasco,

Borgoforte, Moline, Imperia, Asti, Mollere, and Casale Monferrato; fighter-bombers

continue to hit targets N of the battle area, concentrating on bridges and rail lines, while

US Fifth Army elements take Luciana, and reach the Arno River Valley, but make little

progress toward Leghorn; British Eighth Army forces pursue the enemy toward Florence.



25 aircraft bombed the Bogliasco Viaduct as an alternate to the Ostiglia bridge which was

clouded in. Bomb strike photos showed a 45’ section taken out of the center and the west

end caved in.

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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 13 447- 12 448- 0

Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – bombed alt. Bogliasco RR Viaduct.



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

445th

BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today and it was this

squadron’s day for training. Six ships practiced assembly, six more ships made practice

formation flights and three ships went to the bombing range. There were 4 cross-country

flights made. Some of the bombardiers practiced on the bombsight rate machine. Six of

the enlisted gunners received promotions. Two flying officers returned from the Capri

rest camp.

445th


(445th


446th

BS War Diary: A mission bombs vital railroad bridge in northern Italy. Lt.

Dulaney is assigned to the squadron as assistant Engineering Officer.

Dulaney, Fred H., 2Lt, engineering

446th



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


Planes: 13

Major Cooper led the formation. First six planes of second flight concentrated bombs in

center of bridge. Second six brought bombs back. First flight bombs hit to E and N of

target. Three aircraft first flight brought bombs back. Flak was heavy, scant and out of

range.


A/C No. 43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes” A/C No. 43-3989 “My Georgia Peach”



P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt

CP Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt

N None None


E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt McArdle, John R., Pvt

R Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt


S/Sgt

Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

P Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 2Lt

CP Ligon, Walton M., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt


B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Gilligan, John W., 2Lt

E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Kreider, John L., Sgt

R Miles, Walter J., Jr., T/Sgt McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt

G Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None


lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 2Lt

CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

N None None

B Derringer, Albert J., F/O Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O

E Helgert, Claude George, Sgt Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC

R Fellmer, Carl M., S/Sgt Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt

G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Brown, Ronald M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby” A/C No. 43-27480

P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt

R McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt

G Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt Larson, Ralph L., Sgt

F None None





A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My

Heart”

P Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 2Lt

CP Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None None

B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name


P Mickel, Alan T., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Zelnick, John J., Sgt

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt

G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745

P Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt

N None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt

E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt

G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt

F None

446th


“Pre-briefed 0800 T.O. 0920 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Wozniak

Ship # 696 (43-27696 “Baby Blue Eyes”) Alt. 10,800’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos

Position: 1-2-1

Target: 1) RR Bridge @ Ostiglia (45° 04’ N - 11° 08’ E).

2) Viaduct @ Bogliasco Pieve (8 mi. E of Genoa) (44° 23’ N - 09° 04’ E).

Over primary @ 1109, target covered by haze & low clouds. No bombs dropped, used

windows, no flak seen. Made 2 passes @ alternate, bombs away @ 1207.

Rec’d letter from Mr. Nye. To show “Old Acquaintance” – very good.


Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt, pilot


447th

BS War Diary: 1st Lt. John Windler, promoted to the rank of Captain, per SO. 196

Hq. Natusa. F/O Joe W. Gould, promoted to the rank of 2nd

Lt., per letter from 12th

AAF.

The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. G.A.

Cloward; 2nd

Lt. R.M. James; S/Sgt. F.X. Burke; Sgt. F.J. Corbo; Cpl. W.J. Meehan; Pvt.

J.B. Shields. The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest camp, Rome,

Italy: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; T/Sgt R.J. Dodds; S/Sgt. J.L. Bushnell; S/Sgt. R.W. Koecher;

S/Sgt. A. Schwartz. Today’s training consisted of local transition and practice bombing.

Burke, Francis X., S/Sgt, supply Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt, gunner

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

Dodds, Roy J., T/Sgt, mess Gould, Joe W., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator

James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier Koecher, Robert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

Martin, William H., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Meehan, William J., Cpl, armament

Schwartz, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

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

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on the alternate target for the day, Bogliasco RR

Viaduct, P-075443, with Lt. Alger leading the squadron. Good concentration of bombs

in target area scoring several direct hits. Weather conditions prevent attack on primary.

Ostiglia RR and Road Bridge F-745114. Bombing accuracy-100 %; Mission efficiency-

50 %.

A/C No. 43-27779 A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”


P Neiman, William E., 2Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt

CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Heitman, William F., 2Lt


B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt

E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Ford, Leonard W., Sgt

R Simberg, Alvin L., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Grant, James H., S/Sgt

F None None


P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Walker, Marion E., 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27701 (early return) A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

P Nettles, Forrest Truett, 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt


B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., Sgt Collins, Clint R., S/Sgt

R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC

F None None


Aloysius”

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt

N None None


E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt


A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)


(lead spare)

P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt


B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt

R Balling, Robert J., Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt


A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”

P Christian, Calvin B., 2Lt Manley, Ward E., 2Lt

CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt

E Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt

R Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt Pierce, William H., S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt




Blonde”

P Mims, Nathan (NMI), 1Lt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt

N None

B Gould, Joe W., F/O

E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt

R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt

G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt

F None

447th


“Target: Bogliasco RR Viaduct (Genoa) Flak: HIS Combat: 3:20 Bombs: 1,000 lbs

Escorts: None Plane # 009 (43-4009) Crew: P-Lt. Dean, CP-Lt Jensen,

N-Lindell, B-Lt Spruill, E-Sgt Partee, R-SSG Alpino, G-Sgt Mango

Bridge hit and 60' knocked out. Also hits to E & N of target. Primary target, Ostiglia RR

bridge covered by 9/10th

s cumulus clouds.”


Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt, pilot Lindell, Harold N., 1Lt, navigator


448th


448th


(448th




th AF):

In Italy, A-20s bomb a road junction S of Campi and Sarzana and

attack the La Spezia area during the night of 17/18 Jul; during the day bad weather

cancels medium bomber missions; fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit

several bridges, roads, rail lines, and other communication targets and guns N of and in

the battle area as US Fifth Army forces reach Leghorn.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission—weather.

445th

BS War Diary: There was a stand by at 1430 today but the mission was cancelled

right after noon chow. As soon as the mission is scheduled, the combat crews invariably

take off for the beach and the mountains for swimming. A truck is provided for them

every day. Five of the enlisted combat crews were sent to the Sates on permanent

rotation. Two test flights were made, 3 planes did some formation flying and there were

two cross-country flights made. More of the bombardiers spent some time on the bomb

trainer and the rate machine. This is a daily occurrence these days and the bombardiers

are getting plenty of practice.

445th


07/18/44: 22:00 hours

“Things are slow. We have been bombing bridges in the Po Valley for the past

month preparatory to the mounting offensive against Hitler’s Gothic line. The weather is

getting very warm. Day before yesterday, Rucker and I went up toward Bastia and saw

some of my Lowry Field buddies; Coupe, Doyle, Creelman and Cunningham. They are

just the same and quite disgusted with Armament. Corsica has become the Britain of the

Mediterranean with all the personnel and equipment that is being deployed here. There

must be another invasion in the plan. I expect August to be the big month of the war.”

Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Lts. Hawkes, Chudars, Mayo and EM’s Moore,

Sweedler, Heery and McArdle go to Cairo.

Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot

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

McArdle, Harry E., T/Sgt, gunner

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

Sweedler, Max (NMI), T/Sgt, radio-gunner


446th



Mission: Test Hop.


mission in MTO)

446th



Mission: Test Hop


mission in MTO)

446th


“Hawkes & Chudars to Cairo for 10 days rest. Bomb trainer, 1445-1800. Nothing

doing all. On a nickeling mission tomorrow a.m. Wrote Billy, started a letter to Mary

Mooney, will finish tomorrow.”

Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., 1Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. T/Sgt. Arthur R.

Kammerlohr, was transferred to headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group per SO. # 113

dated July 17th

. Today’s training consisted of practice bombing mission to Sardinia and

local transition.

Kammerlohr, Arthur R., T/Sgt, personnel

448th




AF):

In Italy, weather again restricts medium bomber operations, but in the

late afternoon B-26s hit bridges at Piacenza and Ostiglia; B-25s bomb a bridge at

Sassuolo; fighter-bombers are limited to a few railroad targets as the US Fifth Army takes

Leghorn and moves N; HQ 64th

Fighter Wing moves from Orbetello to Santa Maria di

Capua; and HQ 324th

Fighter Group and the 315th

and 316th

Fighter Squadrons move

from Montalto di Castro to Corsica with P-47s. The 347th


Fighter

Group, moves from Corsica to Sardinia with P-39s.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: One accredited mission today—4 aircraft nickelled in the

Genoa area. Another mission was abortive due to weather before they left friendly

territory—Ostiglia Bridge.

HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: MEMORANDUM:

19 July 1944---26 A/C took off to bomb Ostiglia Rd., & RR Bridge at 1556 hours.

Formation turned back at 1708 hours at Piombino due to 10/10s cloud cover up to

16,000 feet. Visibility—very poor.

Landed at 1745 hours—all bombs returned.


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 2 447- 2 448- 0

Target: Genoa Area (Nickeling).



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 19 aircraft for the mission which was

incomplete due to weather conditions. There was another stand by at 1400 but the

weather remained unsatisfactory and the mission was cancelled. Six bombardiers spent

one-half hour each on the rate machine. There was practice formation flying, transition

flights and several cross-country flights. The men are taking good advantage of the

basketball and volley ball courts. After playing vigorously at each sport, most of the men

usually proceed to the shower in the area to clean up. The situation is ideal except when

the water supply is exhausted.

445th


(445th



445th


07/21/44: “There is much talk about camp today on the subject of the abortive

attempt to assassinate Hitler. Weather windy, cloudy, warm. For several days we have

been trying to knock out a bridge across the Po River without success. I may start flying

soon.”

446th


446th



TARGET: Genoa Area, Italy DATE: 19 July 1944

Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th

Planes: 2

Lt. Burandt led the formation. Pamphlets dropped as briefed. Flak was moderate to

intense, fairly accurate.





P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt


B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Ricke, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

R Howe, Frank M., Jr., T/Sgt Nemet, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt


S/Sgt

DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

F None None

446th



Mission: Test Hop


mission in MTO)

446th


“Had breakfast @ 0600, T.O. for Rome @ 0720, land @ 0850. Loaded leaflets in ship

for nickeling mission. Lve. Rome @ 1000, land at base @ 1115.

Pre-briefed 1300 T.O. 1400 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Reilly

Ship # 496 (PRINCESS PAOLA II) (43-27496) Nickeling mission Position: 1-1-1

Target: Genoa. Over target @ 1505, rec’d hvy., intense & acc. Flak on coast.

To show “What A Woman” – good. Rec’d a package, candy & tobacco from Ma.

Flying time: 02:45 hrs. & 02:30 hrs.”

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Reilly, John A., 2Lt, pilot


447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men have been relieved of

assignment and transferred on rotation to Personnel Center No.6, for transshipment to the

United States, per letter from the 12th

AAF: T/Sgt. Robert W. Harman; S/Sgt. J.H. Grant;

S/Sgt. C.R. Collins; Today’s training consisted of practice bombing.

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

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

447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 445/mission 445) Group Mission # 445: Two

of our planes participated in a successful nickeling mission over the Genoa Area.

A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

(wing spare) A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck”

(wing spare)

P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Burns, Robert J., 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt

E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt

R Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt May, Frederick J., Sgt

F None None

448th


448th


(448th




th AF): The XII Air Force

Training and Replacement Command is disbanded in Algeria.

In Italy, medium bombers continue to pound Po River Valley bridges

in or near Ostiglia, Parma, Mantua, Ferrara, and Alessandria; fighter-bombers again hit

targets N of the battle area, concentrating on rail lines and destroying or damaging a large

number of railroad cars as US Fifth Army forces push to a point SE of Pisa.



The flights in this 36 plane mission to the Ostiglia Bridge split up in their results; the first

flight bombed and missed the primary; the second flight brought their bombs back; the 3rd

flight bombed and demolished the rail bridge at Parma which was their alternate target.

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


Squadrons: 445- 13 446- 0 447- 10 448- 13

Target: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – alt. Parma E. RR Bridge.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 13 aircraft to bomb the Ostiglia road and

railroad bridge, Italy. This target was not hit well, but the alternate target – the Parma

railroad bridge was well hit. Capt. McLain from this squadron led the mission.

“Mississippi Gambler II”, one of the squadron’s oldest ships, crash-landed at Foggia but

no one was seriously injured. Old 434 (43-32434) was crewed by Sgt. LeMaster and one

of its engines had already broken a group record for number of combat hours and was

headed for a wing record when its career ended. More combat crews went to the Rome

rest camp. There was more of the extensive training program today.

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

445th



TARGET: Ostiglia Rd & RR Bridge – alt. Parma E. RR Bridge.


- no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!”

P McLain, Damon I., Capt Schiff, Frederick (NMI), 1Lt

CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt


B Voelker, Joseph M., 1Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E DeRose, Louis A., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt

R O’Leary, John D., T/Sgt Kintly, James E., T/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27509

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt

E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Stone, Donald R., T/Sgt Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt

G McGinley, Joseph B., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl


A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt

CP Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Doherty, Charles S., Sgt

E Smith, William F., Sgt Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt

R Rossi, Sam J., T/Sgt Rockett, James J., S/Sgt


F None None

A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P Jeffery, James C., 2Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt

CP Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

N Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt None

B Rehrig, Earl E., 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Freiler, Walter C., Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby” A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis”

P Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt

CP Martin, John W., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt

N None None

B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Jones, Harvey J., Sgt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Bates, Leonard H., Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27792 “Cuddle Bunny”

P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 2Lt

CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt

N None None

B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt

E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt

R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-3535 “Rum Runner” (lead

spare)

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt

N None

B Conover, Donald C., 2Lt

E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt

F None

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Lts. Dickson and Phillips return from the states

while Sgt. Dieden and Corporal Bass leave for home.

Bass, John D., Cpl, operations Dickson, Gale Monroe, 1Lt, pilot

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

446th


(446th


446th



Mission: Test Hop


mission in MTO)

446th


“Not scheduled for anything today. Reading “Last Time I Saw Paris” – pretty good. To

Solenzara and got laundry. Showered and shaved. Rec’d letters from Ma, Billy & Alice.

Wrote Ma, Billy, Alice.”


447th

BS War Diary: The following enlisted men have been relieved of assignment and

transferred to Personnel Center No. 6 for transshipment to the United States per letter

from the 12th

AAF: T/Sgt. S. J. Samuels; Cpl. J. P. Biel: The following officers and

enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. J. H. Windler; S/Sgt. Andrew

Pelak; S/Sgt. N. F. LaFountain; S/Sgt J. F. Toole; Sgt. T. J. Condon. Sgt. G. W. Currey,

Pvt. W. A. Caston are on DS at headquarters-321st Bombardment Group. The following

officers are on DS Foggia Italy: 1st Lt. W. H. Martin; 1

st Lt J. J. Thomas; 2

nd Lt. E. R.

Haynes; 2nd

Lt. N. J. Lundmark. A congratulatory message, for the excellent bombing

results on the last four mission, was extended to this squadron by Captain T. C. Bounds,

Command Officer.

Biel, John P., Cpl, armament

Bounds, Thomas C., Capt, pilot, Commander

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

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

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

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

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

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

Windler, John H., Capt, bombardier

447th


of our ships participated in a raid on, Parma East RR Bridge, L-176821 with Lt. Murray

leading the squadron. Good concentration of bombs in target area- bridge well hit.

Bombing accuracy – 90 %; Mission efficiency- 75 %.

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-4077 Ann’s Little Boy

Val”(later 446th

ship “Stormy

Weather”)

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Murray, Richard E., 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt


B Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,

S/Sgt

Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

(early return)

P Jensen, Robert P. J., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt

N None None

B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Partee, Watson L., S/Sgt


G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet Mrs.

Runyon) A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt


B Dawson, Roy C., Sgt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt


F None Simms, Cleo W., Cpl

A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

(early return) A/C No. 43-27701

P Manley, Ward E., 2Lt Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 2Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt

E Dobbs, William R., Cpl Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt

R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt

G Sinclair, Ralph (NMI), S/Sgt Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt

F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC


Aloysius”


P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt Johnson, Eric A., 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt

E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt

R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Vineski, Robert R. “The Reverend”,

S/Sgt

G Shand, Arthur T., PFC Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27636 A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt

E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None None

447th

BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “42nd

mission, flew with Lt. Bastin, flew as bombardier & bombed Parma R.R. bridge, nice

bombing, flak 3 times.”

Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt, pilot

448th


448th


Mission 294 (446): at 16:52 36 planes off to bomb Ostiglia RR/B and 12 planes dropped

48 x 1000 bombs on primary target at 18:48 from 10,500 feet. Bridge was not hit,

possible hits on N approach. 12 planes did not drop due to failure to identify target thru

clouds. 12 planes dropped 40 x 1000 bombs on alternate target of Parma E RR/bridge

direct hits were scored and all planes returned at 20:10. Heavy, intense, accurate flak

from primary, 8 planes holed. Weather: Haze with 3/10th

cover.

A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”

P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Rogers, Harry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt

CP Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

N None None

B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Donaud, Earl J., Sgt

R Jacobson, Fred (NMI), T/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt (error: likely

Knauss, Charles F., Sgt)

Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”

P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt Farwell, Harold S., Capt

N None None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., 2Lt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4068 “The Dutchess”

P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt

CP Riener, William F., 1Lt Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt McDonough, Thomas E., Jr., 1Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt


A/C No. 43-27668 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie”

P Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2Lt

N None None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Gager, Joseph R., S/Sgt

R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Wilkinson, Robert M., T/Sgt

G Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt Bowman, Wilmer E., Sgt


A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27791

P Warren, William F., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt

N None None

B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt

R Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27528 A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not

Out”


CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt

N None McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt

B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Greene, Louis P., 1Lt


R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Walker, Jack L., S/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt



A/C No. 43-4051

P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt

CP Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt

N None

B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt

E Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt

F None



th AF):

In Italy, weather cancels medium bomber operations; A-20s hit a

supply dump while fighter-bombers attack rail and road bridges in the Po Valley and hit

rail lines N of the battleline which is pushing into the Arno River Valley SE of Pisa; and

the 111th

Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from

Follonica to Borgo, Corsica with F-6s (a detachment moves to Santa Maria).

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission—weather.

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron had 13 crews standing by for the mission which was

finally cancelled just before noon chow. There were three transition flights made, two

test hops and three cross-country flights. Sgts. Woogerd and Irving returned to the

squadron today. They were the first combat crew members to return to the squadron

from the 30 day furlough to the States. Both boys were well quizzed on the conditions

back home. They enjoyed their stay of course but both stated that they were glad to be

back in the “old” outfit after sampling some of the rules set down by the “PX soldiers”

back in the training camps.

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

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Lt. Hodges goes on DS to XII Air Force.

Hodges, Richard E., 1Lt, pilot

446th

BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-pilot)

Pilot: unknown Douglas C-47Skytrain



mission in MTO)

446th

BS: Pilot Log of: Fitzgerald, John (NMI) “Jack”, 1Lt, pilot (Co-pilot)

Pilot: unknown A/C Cessna UC-78 Bobcat



mission in MTO)

446th


“Overcast today, nothing scheduled as yet. To PX for rations. Rate machine 1500-1600.

Rec’d letter from Alice. Air raid alert. Around club all evening listening to the radio.”

447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following officers and

enlisted men have returned from rest camp, Capri: 2nd

Lt. W.H. Wigmore; S/Sgt. W.H.

Burke; S/Sgt. R.R. Vineski; Sgt. R.W. Engels; The following officers and enlisted men

have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. G.A. Cloward; 2nd

Lt. R.M. James;

S/Sgt. F.X. Burke; Sgt. F.J. Corbo; Cpl. W.J. Meehan; Pvt. J.B. Shields. A social

gathering took place this evening at the E/M club. Sandwiches were served and the bar


did a rushing business. Music for the occasion was furnished by, “Doc” Smith, and his

boys. Today’s training consisted of a local test hop.

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

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

Engels, Robert W., Sgt, gunner James, Robert M., 2Lt, bombardier

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

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

BS


Wigmore, William H., 2Lt, pilot

448th




th AF):

In Italy, weather again curtails operations; during night and day

operations A-20s carry out armed reconnaissance of the Lucca, Florence, Genoa, and

Milan areas, bombing scattered motor transport, and attack munitions factory; B-25s

bomb bridges at Ronco Scrivia and Cogoli; fighter-bombers hit roads, railroads, bridges,

gun positions, trains, and vehicles in and N of the battle area, and strafe aircraft at

Bergamo Airfield.



Weather prevented accurate bombing of the primary target at Acquasanta and one flight

bombed the alternate at Cogoleto RR Viaduct. Crews and photos indicated good

concentration with bridge knocked out.

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


Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 10

Target: Acquasanta RR Viaduct – Alt. RR & Rd Bridge E. of Cogoleto.



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


445th

BS War Diary: There was no combat mission today. Lt. Groh returned to the

squadron today on crutches. He was the pilot who brought a badly crippled B-25 back to

friendly territory to allow his crew to bail out safely. He also bailed out last and received

a fractured leg, his plane crashing in Ghisonaccia. He is expected to return to the zone of

the interior soon. Luxury rations were distributed today including 3 bottles of beer. Six

of the flying officers were promoted to 1st Lieutenant. Some mail arrived today. The

movie “Destination Tokyo” was enjoyed by all at night but strong winds which swept up

huge clouds of dust detracted somewhat from the show.

Groh, Sheldon R., 2Lt, pilot

445th



TARGET: Cogoleto Road and Railroad Bridges, Italy.

A/C No. 43-27740 A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P Dickerson, Samuel M., Capt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt

CP Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt


B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Decker, Robert J., Sgt


A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27509

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Weld, Willis R., 2Lt


B Simpkins, Everett L., 1Lt Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt

E Walther, Henry W., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt

G Harris, Charles W., Jr., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl

F None None


(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt

CP Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None None


E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt

R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt Kavan, Lester D., S/Sgt

G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff” A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” (lead spare

- returned early)

P Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt

CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N None None

B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt

E Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt

R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt

N None None

B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt

R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Walburn, John A., Sgt McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt

F None None

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Sergeant Napoliello gets his orders to return to the

states. Second Lieutenants Fontaine, Forsberg, Gibbons, Hively, Hughes, Sacker and

Wojcik are made 1st Lieutenants.

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

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

Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt, bombardier

Napoliello, Felix (NMI), Sgt, gunner Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt, pilot

Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt, pilot

446th


(446th


446th


“Nothing scheduled today. Played cribbage with Lewis. Rate machine 1430-1500.

Officers meeting @ 1755 – Promotions. Went on ODO @ 1700, took Jaksic’s place who

was sick. Ate at group. Got very little sleep, too much noise. Wrote Ma and Alice.”

Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt, bombardier Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt, pilot


447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. 2nd

Lt. E.R. Haynes and 2nd

Lt. J.N. Watson, appointed to 1st Lt. per SO # 184, 12

th AAF. A baseball game with the

final score 5 to 3 in favor of the 57th

Wing, was played this evening at our field. The

following officers have been promoted to the rank of 1st Lt. per SO # 179, 12

th AAF.: 2

nd

C.B. Christian; 2nd

Lt. W.E. Kibler; 2nd

Lt. H.N. Lindell; 2nd

Lt. W.E. Manley; 2nd

Lt. N.J.

Lundmark; 2nd

Lt. E. J. Stanley. Six of our planes flew a practice mission formation and

local transition.

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

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

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

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

447th


(447th


448th


448th


Mission 295 (447): At 17:00 19 planes off to bomb Acquasanta RR/B but clouds

interfered with bomb run at primary and therefore target was not bombed. 7 planes

dropped 28 x 1000 bombs on alternate of Cogoli RR/B. 12 planes did not bomb due to

Bombardier’s error. All returned at 19:40. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate flak from Genoa

holed 3 ships. Crews report good concentration on alternate target with strings across

center and W approach. Some bursts on E section of bridge. Weather: CAVU at

alternate, turbulent winds at 8,000 feet.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle”

P Dossey, Vernon Curtis, 1Lt Dalbey, Roy R., 1Lt

CP Riener, William F., 1Lt Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt


B Malec, Joseph A., 1Lt Burday, Harry (NMI), 1Lt

E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Johnson, Roy C., S/Sgt

R Parham, James E., T/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27508 A/C No. 43-4076

P Blackwell, Robert G., 1Lt Warren, William F., 2Lt

CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Donaud, Earl J., Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Magyar, Steven J., Sgt

F None None



P McKay, Donald I., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

CP Grady, John R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

N None None

B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt

R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”

P Kuykendall, James William “Kukie”, 1Lt Howard, Charles E., 1Lt

CP Farwell, Harold S., Capt Anderson, Douglas R., 2Lt

N None None

B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Bearden, James E., 2Lt

E Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt

G Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt

F Sommer, Robert F., S/Sgt Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt


Out”

A/C No. 43-27528

P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt

CP Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt

N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt

B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Hochron, Manuel (NMI), Sgt Grim, Robert E., S/Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt

F None None



th AF):

In Italy, A-20s bomb and strafe motor transport in the Po River

Valley during the night of 22/23 Jul; B-25s and B-26s hit bridges and bridge approaches

in the Valley, at or near Antoniassi, Acqui, Molare, Ferrara, Ostiglia, Borgoforte, and

Cervo; fighter-bombers, operating in small numbers, hit communication lines between

the battle area (along the Pisa-Florence line) and the Po River Valley; and the 415th

Night


Fighter Wing (attached to the 87th

Fighter Wing), based at

Solonzara, Corsica with Beaufighters, sends a detachment to operate from Piombino.



Despite heavy intense accurate flak at the target area which holed all 19 aircraft the

Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge was well hit with concentration at both ends. Nine crew

members were wounded.

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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 10 447- 9 448- 0

Target: Ostiglia Road & R. R. Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 0 447- 0 448- 0

Target: Weather Recce Mission.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The strong wings abated today for which all personnel were

thankful. The squadron did not fly a mission today although one ship went on a weather

reconnaissance mission in the Spezia area. There was to be an inspection by a Major

General today but he did not appear. He was reported to be from Washington and the

area was policed up in very good fashion. More mail arrived today and there was a big

night in the club tonight.

445th


(445th



445th



TARGET: Weather Recon.

A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt

N Sides, Harry F., 2Lt

B None

E Woody, Louie M., Sgt

R Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None

446th

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

Regular duties.

Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot

446th




Type of Bombs: 1000 lb. GP 446th

Planes: 10

Major Cooper led the formation. Excellent concentration in target area, particularly on

both ends of the bridge. One string went through center. Some bombs were W of bridge.

Flak was heavy, intense and accurate, tracking type. 18 planes holed, 9 crewmen

wounded. F/O Vannah was hit in arm by flak. No fighters. Lt. Mickel landed at Borgo

with bad engine and flat tire.


Darlene)

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”

P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt

CP Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt


B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hogman, Frans H., F/O

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt


S/Sgt

Slezak, Alex E., Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 42-64549

P Gibbons, George H., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Briles, Connolly O., 2Lt Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt

N None None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt

E Kreider, John L., Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Bender, Thomas J., Pvt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27477 “Boots” A/C No. 43-4020 “Bourbon Baby”


CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None None

B Noel, Paul R., 2Lt Riche, Richard O., S/Sgt

E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt


G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None





P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

N None None

B Sitts, Lonnie C., 1Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt

E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Bender, Vernon I., Sgt

R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt

F None None


lady - no name/lettering) A/C No. 43-27501 “Sweet Sue Kathy



P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt

CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Higgins, Howard A., 1Lt


B Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt

E Davis, Virgil F., Sgt Henry, Scott G., Sgt

R Holder, Paul F., S/Sgt Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt

G Wlodyka, Andrew J., Sgt Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt

F None None


446th


(446th


446th





mission in MTO)

446th


“On a mission today. Col. Smith had a meeting of all officers @ 0630. Funny. No

breakfast.

Pre-briefed 0700 T.O. 0820 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: Maj. Cooper

Ship # 097 (43-4097 “Tiny?” - later “Darlene”) Alt 11,500’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos

Position: 1-1-1 Target: Ostiglia RR Bridge (45° 03’ N - 11° 08’ E).

Over target @ 1006, Rec’d hvy., int., and acc. Flak, 20-30 holes. Good concentration on

bridge. 84% accuracy on today’s mission.

Went swimming with Burandt and Lewis. Tent inspection tomorrow @ 0830 by

Maj. Cooper, cleaned then all evening. Bmbdr. Position on missions as follows: Wing

16, Element 34, Flight 7 = 57. Flying time: 03:45 hrs.”


Cooper, Paul T., Maj, pilot, Commander

Lewis, Vernon, 1Lt, pilot

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

447th

BS War Diary: The following officers and enlisted men departed for rest camp,

Rome, Italy: 1st Lt. E. Krafka; 1

st Lt. W. A. Manz; S/Sgt. P. L. Free; S/Sgt. R. Mitchell.

The following officers and enlisted men returned from rest Camp, Rome, Italy: Capt. J.

H. Windler; S/Sgt. A. Pelak; S/Sgt. N. F. LaFountain; S/Sgt. J. F. Toole; Sgt. T. J.

Condon. The following officers and enlisted men are on DS 12th

Air Force to attend a

special school for advanced combat training: 1st Lt. W. C. Huffman; 1

st Lt W. F.

Heitman; 1st Lt. R. E. Murray; T/Sgt. W. J. Bilski; T/Sgt. R. J. Valeri; S/Sgt. H. E.

Fowler; Sgt. R. C. Dawson. The following officers and enlisted men received wounds

while participating on the Ostiglia Bridge Raid: 1st Lt. S. E. Anderson; 2

nd Lt. P. H. Noe

(SWA); 2nd

Lt. S. J. Wiechert, (SWA); 1st Lt. W. E. Neiman,(LWA); 1

st Lt. M. K.

Matthewson, (LWA); 1st Lt. H. J. Banks, (LWA); 2

nd Lt. R. J. Woods, (LWA); 2

nd Lt. R.

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

Enlisted Men – 333.

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

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

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

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

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

Huffman, William C., 1Lt, bombardier Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot

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


Matthewson, Merton K., Jr., 1Lt, navigator Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner

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

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

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

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

Woods, Richard J., 2Lt, pilot

447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 448/mission 448) Group Mission # 448: 9 of

our ships participated in a raid on Ostiglia Road and RR Bridge, F-745114, with Lt.

Banks leading the squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs in target area particularly

on both ends of bridge with one string thru center of bridge. Some bombs west of bridge

in water. Due to heavy, intense and accurate flak all of our ships were holed, and eight

officers and one enlisted man received wounds. Bombing accuracy-83 %; Mission


A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

P Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Wiechert, Stanley J., 2Lt


B Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt Anderson, Sherman E., 1Lt

E Quintenz, Robert P., S/Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Orloff, Sidney (NMI), T/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt

G Burke, William H., Jr., Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt

F None None


Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”) A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”


CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Burns, Robert J., 2Lt

N None None

B Martin, Wayne R., 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Tollefson, Walter F. K., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Fiocca, Theodore Aurelio, S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

(early return)

P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt

N None None

B Noe, Paul H., Jr., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Partee, Watson L., Sgt


S/Sgt

Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt

F Holmes, Ora E., Jr., PFC Shand, Arthur T., PFC


A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27751 “MMR” (Meet

Mrs. Runyon)

P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt

CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt James, Robert M., 2Lt

E Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt O’Neil, James R., Sgt

R Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt Keefe, John A., S/Sgt

G Bauder, Harold R., Sgt Flowers, Frank J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27701 (lead spare) A/C No. 43-27779

P Kibler, William E. “Kib”, 1Lt Neiman, William E., 2Lt

CP Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt

N Rye, Wayne T., Jr., 1Lt None

B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Mabbutt, William T., Sgt

R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt

G Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt

F None None

447th


(447th


448th


448th


(448th


448th


(448th




th AF): AAF, MTO: The 121

st

Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, arrives at Pomigliano, Italy from Telergma, Algeria with

L-4s and L-5s.

In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Chivasso, Peschiera del

Garda, Imperia, and Ronco Scrivia, and viaduct at Ovada; A-20s hit ammunition supplies

while fighter-bombers attack rail lines in the Po River Valley, destroying and damaging

numerous railway cars, as the US Fifth Army begins regrouping along the Arno River.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Major General Junius P. Jones, the Air Inspector, and

entourage thoroughly canvassed the Group this date.

Jones, Junius Wallace, Major General, Air Inspector


17 of our planes smothered the Peschiera RR bridge. Both approaches appeared out.

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


Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 8

Target: Peschiera RR Bridge.



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

445th

BS War Diary: The squadron supplied 9 planes on the mission sent to attack the

railroad bridge at Peschiera, Italy. The bombing accuracy was 78 per cent. Jane, the Red

Cross girl, served doughnuts and coffee in the squadron area this morning. There was

another day of extensive training for the combat crews. A high-ranking officer from the

Inspector General’s office made an inspection of the squadron today. The men were

served spaghetti for supper, the movie “Adventures of Mark Twain” struck a responsive

chord in all the men.

445th



TARGET: Peschiera rail bridge, Italy.

A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT” A/C No. 43-27716 “Shit House

Mouse”

P Hatcher, Leon F., Jr., 1Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt

CP Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt


B Galindo, Daniel (NMI), 1Lt Reddy, John E., S/Sgt

E Hawkins, Vernon L., S/Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt


G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None



(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27572 “Babs”

P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Moore, Henry D., 1Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt

N None None

B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt

R Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Riley, William J., Jr., Cpl McClary, Louis E., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design”

(returned early) A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Hammar, Robert L., 1Lt

CP Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt


B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt

E Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Wells, Joy E., T/Sgt Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt

G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora” A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt

CP Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

N None None

B Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Marinucci, Andrew J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R Rossi, Sam J., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27534 (standing lady) (lead

spare – filled in third element) A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Eatherly, Joseph A., 2Lt

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt

E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Smith, William F., Sgt

R Rockett, James J., Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt

G Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl Bates, Leonard H., Sgt

F None Plott, John M., Sgt


445th


07/24/44 “On the morning of the 22nd I arose early and after a light breakfast,

strolled up to the Operations tent where I learned Capt. Wilson was taking a plane to

Foggia to investigate the crash of #434 (42-32434 “Mississippi Gambler II”. I obtained

his permission to go. We miscalculated a little, and the first land we saw after leaving

Corsica was the volcanic island of Stromboli, off the coast of Sicily. From that bearing

we flew up the west coast to Paestum and then over the mountains to Foggia. It took us

nearly three hours to make the trip. Foggia was extremely dusty and miserable. Planes

were even grounded on account of the dust. We gathered up some chutes and flak suits

from the wrecked ship (I can hardly believe everyone came out of the wreck alive) and

attended some other business before going to town. My plans were to get in touch with

Chaplain Rick’s and obtain from him the names of some boys on Corsica with the idea of

arranging services over here. I could not locate him however, nor did I see any of the

boys I knew. I desired very much to stay for the conference they are having there on the

24th, but could not, as our plane was returning on the 23rd.

Wilson, Victor H., Jr., Capt, pilot, operations officer

We stayed that night at the Red Cross. In the evening we saw a show and an

Italian stage unit featuring a thirteen year-old girl whom they acclaim as the Deanna

Durbin of Italy. She sang Italian song marvelously, particularly Ava Maria, but did not

do so well with popular American songs.

We took off at 12 noon on the 23rd for Corsica. We flew high over the mountains,

as there were many clouds, and made our approach to the coast at the mouth of the

Garigliano River. We then dropped down and flew up the coast inspecting the battle-

scarred towns and villages. Just before reaching Anzio we passed over the large section

of farmland inundated by the Germans. For several minutes we cruised over the main

sector of the 5th Army beachhead. There is hardly a place large enough to stand that is

not shell-pocked. It must have been hell. From Anzio we went to the Holy City and

looked it over. I was impressed by its cleanly appearance and size. I saw the Coliseum

but could not make out the Vatican. I am eager to go there. Then we headed again

toward the sea and in an hour were touching down our wheels on Corsica. My future

rests in the decision of Sgt. Lash who does not want to let me out of Armament so I can

go on combat.”

Lash, Wayne H., Sgt, armament

446th

BS War Diary: July 23 and 24: No Missions. Lt. Brickner rejoins the squadron

from Italy. Regular duties.

Brickner, Walter H., 2Lt, pilot

446th


(446th



446th





mission in MTO)

446th


“Total Combat time to date: 180:05 hrs. Rate machine 0900-1100. Inspection by Maj.

Gen. Jones. Lewis on X-C to Catania, Burandt to Naples. Read “Suds in Your Eye” –

good. Sacked all afternoon. To show, “Adventures of Mark Twain” – excellent.”

Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt, pilot Lewis, Vernon, 1Lt, pilot

Jones, Junius Wallace, Major General, Air Inspector

447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. At a league game with the

213 Searchlight Co., our squadron team won with a final score of 4 to 2. The following

officers have been relieved of assignment to this squadron and transferred to Personnel

Center No.6. for transshipment to the United States: 1st Lt. W.H. Martin; 1

st Lt E.R.

Haynes; 1st Lt. J.J. Thomas; 1

st Lt. N.J. Lundmark. 1

st Lt. O.L. Schnoebelen is on DS at

the 57th

Wing. At a meeting held at 1845 at the officers club, all combat officers were

briefed by Capt. Robert W. Manly, on Escape in France.

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

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

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

447th


(447th


448th


448th


Mission 296 (449): At 07:50 20 planes off to bomb Peschiera RR/B and 17 dropped 64 x

1000 bombs at 09:35 from 9,500 feet, all returned at 10:45. Heavy, moderate, inaccurate

flak along route, no ships holed. Fotos show excellent concentration with direct hits on

both ends of bridge. RR/bridge E of Parma was out. Weather: Thin overcast.

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds”

(returned early – no credit) A/C No. 43-27791

P Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt Barbour, Marshall H. “Red”, 1Lt

CP Warren, William F., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

N None None

B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt

R Fry, Tom M., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., S/Sgt

G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27528

P Leonard, Lee V., 2Lt Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Tetlow, John S., 2Lt

N None None


E Roberts, Charles J., Sgt Clark, Raymond S., S/Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt Montoro, John A., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz” A/C No. 43-4067 “The Big Swing”

P Grady, John R., 2Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt

N None None

B Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt

E Pineda, Nico M., Sgt Donaud, Earl J., Sgt

R Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt Campbell, James R., S/Sgt

G Irvine, Josef F., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27726 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie” (returned

early – no credit)


CP Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

N None McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt

B Shaw, Charles W., 2Lt Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt


R Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt

G Wald, Douglas A., Sgt Congdon, Harry W., S/Sgt



Out”

A/C No. 43-28081

P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Bard, John A., 2Lt

CP Gladwill, James G., 2Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt


B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt Young, Robert B., 2Lt

E Bergstrom, Donald P., Sgt Tracy, William G., Sgt

R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt

G Trigler, Louis E., Sgt Mitchell, William C., Sgt




th AF):

In Italy, A-20s hit a storage dump and rail lines while medium

bombers pound bridges in NW Italy at Borgo San Dalmazzo, Fossano, Albenga, Casale

Monferrato, Cervo, Legnago, Rovigo, and Chivasso; fighter-bombers continue to attack

communications in the Po River Valley, hitting numerous targets and completely

destroying a railroad bridge at Crema.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: (No-non mission information)


20 aircraft were dispatched to destroy the twin railroad bridges at Legnago. Recce photos

taken immediately after the raid showed one span out of the northerly bridge and the

southerly bridge completely impassible. 4 attacking ME-109’s were driven off by the

escort of P-47’s

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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 10 447- 10 448- 0

Target: Legnago RR Bridge.



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

445th

BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today but the combat crews

didn’t get any rest. An extensive training program included 4 ships to the bombing

range, 4 transition flights, 4 ships swinging the compass, and 2 check flights. Eight pilots

from the squadron spent 1 hour each at the new link trainer down at group headquarters.

Some of the bombardiers spent some more time on the rate machine. Word was received

that Lt. Russell, piloting 195 (43-4195) on the Cairo cross-country flight, was forced to

call for an engine change at Alexandria.

Russell, Lawrence Lee “Scrap Iron”, 2Lt, pilot

445th


(445th


446th

BS War Diary: Ten plane mission is flown.


446th



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


Planes: 10

Lt. Wiginton, 447th

led the formation. Good concentration on both bridges and

approaches. N and S bridges received direct hits. Reports that one span of N bridge

knocked down. Four ME-109s attempted to attack near Capri but were driven off by

escort. Flak was heavy, scant, inaccurate.

Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 2Lt, pilot, 447th

BS





P Goff, Leroy Robert, Jr., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt


B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Henry, Scott G., Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt

G Lowitz, Orville W., S/Sgt Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27678 “Lemmon Lu” A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE”

P Kerr, John C., Capt Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt


B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 2Lt Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt

E Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt Aderholt, William J., Jr., S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Poorman, William H., S/Sgt

G Cooper, Paul T., Maj, Commander Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name


P Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt

R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt

G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None



Pad”

A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt Gibbons, George H., 1Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt

N None None


E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

R McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt Maddox, Everett R., T/Sgt


S/Sgt

Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara” A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”

P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt

CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O

E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt Smith, Salem M., S/Sgt

R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt Mittman, Milton M., Cpl

F None None

446th


“Not scheduled on a mission today. Reading all a.m. Got a short haircut, what a weird

sight I’m today. The Head. Sacked awhile after dinner. Hung around club all nite,

listening to radio, playing cards with Gus Mexal. Rec’d a letter from MJ Carney.”

Mexal, Gus J., 2Lt, bombardier

447th

BS War Diary: The 447th

Barber Shop officially opened today in a small tent next

to the mail tent. The following officers and enlisted men have returned from rest camp,

Capri: 1st Lt. H.J. Magne; 1

st Lt. J.R. Gillis; Sgt. C.A. Rose; Sgt. L.E. Sheppard. T/Sgt.

A.R. Hasler has returned to the squadron from the United States, where he attended his

fathers 100th

birthday. At a meeting held at 1845 at the enlisted mens club all combat

enlisted men were briefed by Capt. Manly, on Escape in France. With a final score of 9

to 1, we chalked up another victory for the 447th

Baseball Club against the 409th

AA Co.

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

Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt, pilot Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence

Rose, Clifford A., Sgt, gunner Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt, gunner

Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 2Lt, pilot


447th


of our ships participated in a raid on, Legnago RR Bridge, F-893257, with Lt. Wiginton

leading the squadron. Good concentration on bridge with direct hits on east bound and

west bound tracks. Bombing accuracy- 100 %; Mission efficiency – 100 %.

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt



B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Windler, John H., Capt,

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Mathews, William E., T/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”,

S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”


CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt

R Balling, Robert J., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), Sgt

G Lejman, George T., Cpl Simms, Cleo W., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-27701 A/C No. 43-27476 “Lovely Lady”


P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Christian, Calvin B., 1Lt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Wigmore, William H., 2Lt

N None None

B Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt Nelson, George B., 2Lt

E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Byrn, Ernest E., Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Torrey, Francis S., S/Sgt

G Harriman, Elmon P., S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt



(lead spare)

P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt

N None None

B Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Morrissey, Raphael E., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Bowman, John (NMI) “Red”, Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt



A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-27542 “Superstitious

Aloysius”

P Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt

CP Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt Willis, Richard L., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt

E Dimondstein, Herbert (NMI), Sgt Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt

R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Reynolds, Frank J., T/Sgt

G Corkill, John (NMI), S/Sgt Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None None

447th

BS: War Diary of: Rogowski, Edmund (NMI) “Butch”, S/Sgt, gunner: “43rd

mission, flew with Wigs, bombed Legnago R.R. bridge, good bombing, flak from Tarra, 4

fighters jumped us, no damage.”


448th


448th


(448th




th AF):

In Italy, during the night of 25/26 Jul A-20s bomb roads and motor

transport in the Vado Ligure area and hit fuel supplies during following day; B-25s and

B-26s hit bridges in N Italy at Ronco Scrivia, Vado, Asti, Ostiglia, Carasco, Verona, and

Poggio Renatico; fighter-bombers attack road and rail bridges in N Italy at several points,

strafe and bomb many gun positions, destroy or damage 20+ aircraft at Valence Airfield,

and hit numerous targets of opportunity.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: A disastrous mission today with very little damage done.

The target was the Verona RR Bridge which was known to be heavily defended. 2 A/C

were shot down at the target. One crash landed at base and 14 others holed out of a total

of 19 A/C that took off. Lt. Albert A. Kukorowski, bombardier of the 448th

was killed.

The N approach of the bridge was well hit but the other bombs were scattered.

Two other missions this date – one to the Carasco wiped the road bridge off the

terrain, the other was a nickeller to the Florence area dropping pamphlets giving

instructions to the citizens there in regard to their conduct with the Germans; and soon

the Americans.


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


Squadrons: 445- 9 446- 0 447- 0 448- 10

Target: Verona RR Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 10 447- 9 448- 0

Target: Carasco Rd Bridge.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 1 446- 1 447- 1 448- 1

Target: Nickeling over Florence area.



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


445th

BS War Diary: The squadron joined the group in hitting a rail target in Italy

which turned out to be an extremely “hot” mission. There were a number of casualties

and another squadron lost two planes. This squadron came through unscathed. The

ordnance held a small arms inspection for all squadron personnel. With the advent of the

new Hellcat, Wildcat, Seafire and other naval aircraft, the squadron personnel is being

“checked out” on their identification. The mail situation continues to be “below par”.

Roast beef was enjoyed for supper. The squadron orchestra left for Rome today to put on

some shows for some outfits in that vicinity.

445th



TARGET: Verona Rail Bridge, Italy


(later “Winnie Mae”) A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy

Pants”

P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt

CP Register, Percy D., Maj, Commander Martin, John W., 2Lt


B Rehrig, Earl E., 1Lt Knight, Arnold K., S/Sgt

E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Cummings, Walter T., Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Morgan, John A., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., 2Lt

N None None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Barton, Samuel V., 2Lt

E Malmberg, Russell H., S/Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Kintly, James E., T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt

G Doswell, Richard (NMI), S/Sgt Arcuri, John (NMI), Sgt



Mouse”

P Daggett, Allen L. “Jerry”, 2Lt Fischer, Franklyn R., 1Lt

CP Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

N None None

B Brule, Gordon J., 2Lt Klein, Robert J., 2Lt

E Smith, William F., Sgt Hope, Amos (NMI), Sgt

R Leach, Earl V., S/Sgt Gray, John H., S/Sgt

G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt Kramer, Henry P., Sgt



A/C No. 43-27509 A/C No. 43-27698 “Peggy Lou”

P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Rygh, Malvin S. “Mal”, 1Lt

CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt

N None None

B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Hagerman, Millard W., 2Lt

E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Cavanaugh, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt McDonald, Thomas E., S/Sgt

G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt Bates, Leonard H., Sgt

F None None


P Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt

N None

B Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Rockett, James J., S/Sgt

G Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None

445th


(445th


445th



TARGET: Nickeling over Florence area.

A/C No. 43-27553 “Evora”

P Frank, Robert R., 2Lt


N None

B Gifford, Robert H., 2Lt (Bomb/Nav)

E Malloy, Edward J., S/Sgt

R Wells, Robert J., T/Sgt

G Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt

F None

446th


446th


(446th



446th



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


Planes: 10

Lt. LeClair led the formation. Target area was well covered with greatest concentration

around S end and approach. Several reports of direct hits on target, with a few bombs in

town to the S and to the N and E of target. No flak, no fighters.


Darlene)

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull”

P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Hively, Harold Henry, 1Lt

CP LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt


B McRae, James Arrington, 1Lt Hogman, Frans H., F/O

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt

R Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt

G Bruner, Edward (NMI), S/Sgt Slezak, Alex E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745 A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

P Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt Wojcik, Walter (NMI), 1Lt

CP Peterson, Frederick I., 2Lt White, Frank B., 2Lt

N None None

B Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt Leith, William V., 2Lt

E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt Kreider, John L., Sgt

R Crozer, Robert L., S/Sgt McKearin, William Jerome, S/Sgt

G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt Bender, Thomas J., S/Sgt

F None None




A/C No. 43-27480

P Sampson, Allan T., 1Lt Lewis, Vernon (NMI), 1Lt

CP Gibbons, George H., 1Lt Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Farber, Joseph L., 1Lt Pettit, Robert H., 2Lt

E Bender, Vernon I., Sgt DeAngelo, Ralph J., Sgt

R Mygrant, Robert F., S/Sgt Kaufman, Sanders S., S/Sgt

G Lorentson, Edward H., Sgt Larson, Ralph L., Sgt

F None None




P Matthews, John Walker, Jr., 2Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Grove, Russell V., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Jupin, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt

R Maddox, Everett R., S/Sgt McCarty, Lyle (NMI), S/Sgt

G Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None


Pad”



P Pietrowski, Stanley J., 2Lt Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt

CP Reilly, John A., 2Lt Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt

N None Chapman, John E., 1Lt

B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Clausen, Lawrence A., 2Lt

E Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt

R Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt

G Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl Beets, Frank T., Sgt

F None None

446th



TARGET: Florence Area, Italy DATE: 26 July 1944

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

Planes: 1

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

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

BS


P Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt

CP Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None


E Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt

R Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt

G Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None


446th


“Group Alert Officer – cancelled, took Jaksic’s place on the 22nd

.

Pre-briefed 0820 T.O. 0940 Pilot: Burandt CoPilot: LeClair

Ship # 097 (43-4097 “Tiny?” - later “Darlene”) Alt 10,500’ Bombs: 4-1000 # Demos

Position: 1-1-1 Target: RR Bridge @ T. Sturla (44° 21’ N - 09° 21’ E).

Over target @ 1101, no fighters or flak, excellent concentration of bombs.

Had watermelon today, good. Capt. Birmingham dropped in, as funny as ever.

To show “4 Jills in A Jeep” – lousy. Flying time: 02:30 hrs.”

Birmingham, George G., Jr., Capt, pilot, 487th

BS


Jaksic, Francis R., 1Lt, bombardier LeClair, Edward R., 1Lt, pilot

447th

BS War Diary: The following enlisted men are at rest camp, Rome, Italy: S/Sgt.

N.E. Lilly; S/Sgt. C.T. Pitts; S/Sgt. A.L. Simberg; Sgt. R.C. Stokes.

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

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

Stokes, Robert C., Sgt, gunner

447th


(447th


447th

BS Mission Summary (Ops Order 453/mission 453) Group Mission # 453: 9 of

our ships participated in a raid on the Carasco Road Bridge, P-292400, with Lt.

Muzinich, leading the squadron. Target area well covered with direct hits on bridge.

South end and approach to bridge also hit. Bombing accuracy-100 %; Mission

Efficiency- 100 %.

A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary Blonde” A/C No. 43-27636

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Muzinich, Anthony L. “Tony”, 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt


B James, Robert M., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Keefe, John A., S/Sgt Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt


F None None


A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”

P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Cloward, Glannin A., Capt

CP Woods, Richard J., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R MacNeil, Joseph W., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt

F None None


(returned early) A/C No. 43-28082 “Traveling

Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”)

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Mabbutt, William T., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt

R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F Simms, Cleo W., Cpl Shand, Arthur T., PFC

A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-27718

P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Gillis, John R., 1Lt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt

E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt


S/Sgt

Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt

G Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt Rose, Clifford A., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David” (lead

spare)

P Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt





G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt



447th


of our ships participated in a successful nickeling mission in the Florence area.


P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt

CP Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

N None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt

E Applegarth, Smith B., Sgt



F None

448th


448th


Mission 297 (452): At 08:55 19 planes off to bomb Verona W RR/B, 15 planes dropped

56 x 1000 bombs at 10:45 from 10,500 feet. 2 planes returned bombs as lead Bombardier

Lt. Kukorowski was killed by a direct burst of flak before reaching target. Fotos show

that target was missed. Planes returned at 12:10. Heavy, intense, very accurate flak from

IP to after break-away shot down two planes and holed 14. One plane Lt. Brown, Pilot;

Lt. Frasier, Co-Pilot; Lt. Maginn, Bombardier; Sergeants: Tracy, Engineer; Corrigan,

Radio; and Mitchell, Gunner; was seen to be hit in one engine and appeared to be going

down under control, shortly afterwards the bombs were salvoed and the ship fell into a

spin and crashed to the ground. No chutes were observed. The other plane was hit in the

left engine and the propeller knocked off. It too was seen to be leaving the target under

control, no further information has been obtained but it is believed that the plane could

have made a safe landing. The crew was Lts: Olson, Goff, Quartuccio; Sgts: Sullivan,

Holtzendorf, Montoro and Benton. Lt. Armstrong and Sgt. Crow were seriously

wounded by flak. 14 planes were holed. Weather: CAVU.

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

Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt, bombardier

A/C No. 43-27631 (MACR-7065 - shot

down over target)

A/C No. 43-4051 (MACR-7064 - shot

down over target)

P Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt Olson, Orin E., 1Lt

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt

N None None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt

E Tracy, William G., Sgt Sullivan, James G., S/Sgt

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), T/Sgt

G Mitchell, William C., S/Sgt Montoro, John A., S/Sgt

F None Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27715 A/C No. 43-27648 “Sweetie”

P Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt

CP Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Gladwill, James G., 2lt

N Hickey, William O., 1Lt None

B Bond, Edward N., 1Lt McCue, William M., Jr., 2Lt

E Davis, Jimmie L., S/Sgt Roberts, Charles J., Sgt

R Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, S/Sgt Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt

G Groome, Daingerfield M., S/Sgt DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-4076 A/C No. 43-27668

P Warren, William F., 2Lt Reedy, Walter W., 2Lt

CP Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt Norris, Grafton R., 2Lt

N None None

B Young, Robert B., 2Lt Kukorowski, Albert A., 1Lt

E Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt

R Dilts, Robert E., S/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt

G Crow, Roscoe J., PFC Irvine, Josef F., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27652 “Out of Bounds” A/C No. 43-4037 “Cherry Fizz”

P Moyer, Emerson C., 2Lt Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt

CP Tetlow, John S., 2Lt Farwell, Harold S., Capt

N None None

B Judy, Philip R., 2Lt Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt

E Veeck, Richard W., Sgt Weyeneth, Carl H., Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt

G Knauss, Charles F., Sgt Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt


A/C No. 43-4027 A/C No. 43-27528

P Cottle, Robert J., 1Lt Matthews, Thomas W., 1Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Riley, Robert L., 2Lt

N Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt None

B Farris, Stephen C., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Hospod, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt

R Hassenbein, Sam (NMI), S/Sgt Poteet, Edward J., S/Sgt

G Congdon, Harry W., Sgt Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt



448th

BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 7064:

A/C No. 43-4051 (MACR-7064 - shot down over target)

P Olson, Orin E., 1Lt - KIA

CP Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt - MIA, POW,

N None

B Quartuccio, Anthony P., 1Lt - MIA, POW,

E Sullivan, James G., S/Sgt - KIA

R Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), T/Sgt - KIA

G Montoro, John A., S/Sgt - MIA, POW,

F Benton, Thomas H., S/Sgt - KIA

Individual Casualty Questionnaire: Montoro, John A., S/Sgt, gunner, 448th

BS

German intelligence officer told me that he was in the cockpit dead. However, I

do not think that this is true because the airplane hit the ground and started to burn, and in

approx. 3 min. the bombs exploded 4 1000lb G.P. bombs. I saw the plane hit the ground

and start to burn. I do not believe that anyone got that close to the burning and exploding

plane.

It is my belief that he was in the plane, when it hit the ground.

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

Individual Casualty Questionnaire: Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt, pilot, 448th

BS

At the command of the pilot the bombardier and gunner bailed out through the

navigators hatch and I followed. I saw no parachutes at all or anyone else leave the plane

after I bailed out. It is my belief that I was last to leave.

The aircraft hit the ground approx. 200 yds north of where I hit. This was along

the eastern Bank of Lake Garda, West of Verona.

Pilot, Radio gunner, Photographer, & Tail Gunner: These men were never seen or

heard of by the remainder of the Crew.

The last member I saw was the pilot Lt. Olson. He seemed to be O.K. and after

the bombardier and gunner left he told me to go.

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


448th

BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 7065:

A/C No. 43-27631 (MACR-7065 - shot down over target)

P Brown, Wyndham E., III, 1Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD

CP Frazier, Leland R., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD

N None

B Maginn, Thomas A., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD

E Tracy, William G., Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD

R Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt - MIA, evaded enemy, RTD 14 Oct 44

G Mitchell, William C., S/Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD

F None

Eyewitness Account: Feeley, Walter C., Jr., 1Lt, navigator, 448th

BS

448th

BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF

321st

BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF

26 July1944

As we were going down the bomb run, I saw Lieutenant Brown’s ship hit

underneath the left engine. Immediately it started smoking and the ship peeled off to the

right. We dropped, then broke hard left -- made a long 180°, then as we were passing

over the lake I picked up Lieutenant Brown’s ship again at the south-east corner of the

lake at about 7000 feet. He dropped his bombs, which hit about three miles from the

south-east corner of the lake.

He now looked under control and flew on a course to intercept us. About two

minutes later and about thirty miles south of Lake Garda, his plane peeled up and off to

the right and spiraled to the ground.

The gunners and myself saw no chutes as the plane crashed, however, it is very

possible that we couldn’t see them at that distance.

WALTER C. FEELEY, JR.,

1st Lieut., Air Corps,

Navigator.

(Attachment -- MAC Report,

Brown, Wyndham E. III (O) and

crew, dated 26 July 1944.)

Incl. 2

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


Eyewitness Account: Corrigan, James F., Jr., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 448th

BS

14 October 1944

Aircraft was hit in left wing at 10,000 feet: Source saw petrol pouring from left

tank. Source bailed at 8,000 feet and observed four other chutes while descending.

Corrigan was told by local eyewitnesses that a total of five chutes were observed and the

aircraft crashed: they further stated that one person was dead and one of the personnel

had been captured. Before the mishap, Source spoke to Pilot and Co-pilot; Mitchell,

turret gunner, was seated in the section of the aircraft hit by the flak, and may have been

injured.

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


448th


(448th


448th


Mission 298 (454): At 13:58 4 planes off to drop “Front Posts” over the Florence area,

all returned without incident at 15:40.

A/C No. 43-28081

P Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

N Bongiovanni, Michael (NMI), 2lt

B Schlenk, Henry O., 2Lt

E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt

R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt

G Slafkes, Milton M., S/Sgt

F None



AF):

In Italy, A-20s fly patrols on the night of 26/27 Jul over the Po River

Valley, bombing lights and vehicles at Piacenza, Modena, and Verona; both medium and

fighter-bombers concentrate on bridges in the Po River Valley and NW Italy throughout

the day; numerous hits are scored on bridges and other targets, including parked aircraft,

guns, and railroads.



36 A/C to the Borgoforte Rail Bridge finally knocked a span down putting the bride out

of commission.

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


Squadrons: 445- 12 446- 13 447- 12 448- 0

Target: Borgoforte RR Bridge – Alt. Acquasanta RR Bridge.



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

445th

BS War Diary: Lt. Thompson came back a bit disgusted after today’s mission

after he had burned out one of his engines, necessitating an engine change. Lt. Bruce

Lowery has been relieved of his assignment as Armament Officer and is on his way to the

States. He has been relieved by Lt. Standard. Capt. Wilson gave a one-hour lecture to all

combat crews on the operation and use of the emergency radio set. Once again the

bombardiers were active on the bombsight rate machine and the bomb trainer. Two ships

went to the bombing range while two cross-country flights were made. At noon today, an

order was posted on the bulletin board that all squadron personnel would wear firearms

with them at all times until “further notice”. No reasons were given for the order and

there was much speculation.

Lowery, Bruce (NMI), 2Lt, armament Standard, Lt, armament

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

445th



TARGET: Borgoforte RR Bridge.


A/C No. 43-27741 “Modern Design” A/C No. 43-27680 “Stuff”

P Jeffery, James C., 1Lt Swanson, Harry A., 1Lt

CP Register, Percy D., Maj Payne, Lawrence J., 2Lt



E Poirier, Andre (NMI), Sgt Woody, Louie M., Sgt

R Gonzales, Alfred R., T/Sgt Kneisel, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Miller, Robert Ryle, Sgt Valley, Arnold E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27748 “Mama!” A/C No. 43-27714 “Blonde Beauty”

P Groose, William R. “Bud”, 1Lt Glasford, Loren G., 2Lt

CP Shenk, Stanley R., 2Lt Hardman, Albert F. “Al”, Jr., 1Lt

N None None

B Robson, Herbert E., 2Lt Emery, Ben D., 2Lt

E Leith, Douglas L., S/Sgt Isbell, Everett N., S/Sgt

R Scott, Aurelias M., T/Sgt Davis, Olin (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt

G Kramer, Henry P., S/Sgt Bricen, Thomas J., Jr., Sgt





P Schweda, George J., 1Lt Hadsell, Donald M., 1Lt

CP Elliott, James R., Jr., 2Lt Moore, William H., Jr., 2Lt


B Werner, Samuel (NMI), 1Lt Palmer, Richard W., 2Lt

E Swingholm, Raymond J., S/Sgt Kofmehl, James J., Sgt

R Pate, Harris B., Jr., S/Sgt Rockett, James J., T/Sgt

G Bellendir, John C., Sgt Walburn, John A., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27899 “Flo” A/C No. 43-3631 “FAN - IT”

P Dyer, Robert H., 2Lt Baker, Thomas J., 2Lt

CP McLaughlin, Elwood F., Jr., 2Lt Duggan, Raymond E., F/O

N None None

B Finkhouse, Lloyd L., 2Lt York, Rufus (NMI), S/Sgt

E Dowd, Stephen J., Sgt Walther, Henry W., Sgt

R Sauer, Carlton F., S/Sgt Giorgio, John B., S/Sgt

G Decker, Robert J., S/Sgt Hafner, Duane H., Sgt



A/C No. 43-27769 “Miss Fancy Pants” A/C No. 43-27733 “Porky’s Baby”

P Lyons, Lawrence L., 1Lt Wolfe, Robert A., 1Lt

CP Frank, Robert R., 2Lt Collins, Daniel P., 2Lt

N None None

B Doherty, Charles S., Sgt Hunt, Jerry E., S/Sgt

E Cummings, Walter T., Sgt Yoa, Harry (NMI), Sgt

R Hall, Warren Francis, T/Sgt Parlette, Oliver C., T/Sgt

G Weaver, Dale W., S/Sgt Jannetta, Floridi D. “Floyd”, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27545 “Maggie” A/C No. 43-27509

P Place, Winston R., 1Lt Smith, Alfred B., 1Lt

CP Ottinger, Warren F., 2Lt Morgan, John A., 2Lt

N None None

B Krause, Richard E. “Dick”, 2Lt Gifford, Frank (NMI), 2Lt

E Smith, William A., Jr., S/Sgt Bertling, Gerald M., Sgt

R Stephens, Robert T., T/Sgt Carney, Robert J., S/Sgt

G Whelan, Edward J., S/Sgt Jacobs, Harry E., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-4008 “Spirit of St Louis” (returned early – engine trouble)

P Thompson, Henry C., Jr., 2Lt

CP Spencer, Charles F., 2Lt

N None

B Baldwin, Harold O., 2Lt



G Lemke, Leslie J., Sgt

F None

446th


446th



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


Planes: 12

Lt. Alger led the formation. Target area well covered. Concentrations of bombs across N

end and approach and across S approach. Several strings through center. Flak was

heavy, scant, inaccurate, no fighters.

Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 447th

BS






P Burandt, Charles Lawson “Chuck”, 1Lt Grove, Russell V., 2Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Reilly, John A., 2Lt


B Johnson, Henry W., 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt

E Bellamy, Herbert E., S/Sgt Davis, Virgil F., Sgt

R Freeman, Cecil O., S/Sgt Cohen, Irwin (NMI), S/Sgt

G Lowitz, Orville W., Sgt Bender, Thomas J., Pvt

F None None


Pad”


P Fontaine, Eugene A., Jr., 1Lt Ivankovig, Paul J., 2Lt

CP Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt Rackley, Donald D., 2Lt


B Wotkowicz, Frank J., 1Lt Derringer, Albert J., F/O

E Mowry, Michael L. S., S/Sgt Stapleton, Carl B., Sgt

R Brugioni, Dino A., S/Sgt Nagy, Julius L., S/Sgt

G Haxby, William H., Jr., Cpl Wiacek, Emil J., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27732 “LEYDALE” A/C No. 43-27497 “Barbara”

P Hollingsworth, George K., Jr., 1Lt Smith, Randell Leroy, 1Lt

CP Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O Nagel, Charles E., 2Lt

N None None

B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt Vannah, Harold P., Jr., F/O

E Aderholt, William J., Jr., Sgt Smetana, Frank C., Jr., Sgt

R Poorman, William H., S/Sgt Rousos, Milton P., S/Sgt

G Leary, Gwynn M., Sgt Leeper, Kenneth E., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 42-64549 A/C No. 43-27699 “Jessie” (later name

dropped from nose art) (did not take-off

– engine trouble)

P Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt Hipson, Robert Graham, 1Lt

CP Trosky, Chester J., 2Lt Taylor, Richard E., F/O

N None None

B Finney, Preston N., S/Sgt Jaksic, Francis R., 2Lt

E Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt Cassidy, Warren J., Sgt

R Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt Harrison, Hoyt V., T/Sgt

G Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt Glendening, George F., Jr., Sgt

F None None



PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 43-4052 “Lil Butch”

P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Sacker, John R. “Sad Sack”, 1Lt

CP Schmid, Kenneth L., 2Lt Doyle, John D., 2Lt

N None None


E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Bender, Vernon I., Sgt

R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt McFarland, Charles W., S/Sgt

G Brown, Ronald M., T/Sgt Thornton, Lotus Moody, Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27660 “Shooting Bull” A/C No. 42-32394 “Peg O’ My

Heart”


CP Higgins, Howard A., 2Lt Goodrich, John W., 2Lt

N None None

B Hogman, Frans H., F/O Noel, Paul R., 2Lt

E Lundtoft, Hans G., Sgt Smith, Cephus M., Jr., S/Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt DeBari, Dominick R., S/Sgt

G Slezak, Alex E., Sgt Zeman, Harold W., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27745

P Wozniak, Stanley E., 2Lt

CP Gibbons, George H., 1Lt

N None

B Forsberg, Robert A., 1Lt

E Shettleworth, William E., Sgt

R Wilking, Robert L., Cpl

G Cifuni, Robert J., Sgt

F None

446th


“Not on a mission today, so far anyway. Had 100% accuracy & efficiency on yesterdays

target. Boys went to Borgoforte, no flak. Small arms inspection today. Group order that

will all carry guns in the area, also placing a guard on each plane (?). Took laundry into

Solenzara. Sacked. Package from MJC. Put 60 bombs on my jacket. Wrote Alice &

MJC.”

447th

BS War Diary: Usual squadron duties. Orders were received from 321st

Bombardment Group Headquarters that all men be armed and that a guard be posted on

each plane until further notice – lasting only one day. Today’s training consisted of local

test hops.

Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt, pilot


447th


of our ships participated in a raid on the Borgoforte RR Bridge, with Lt. Alger leading the

squadron. Excellent concentration of bombs across north end and both approaches.

Several strings thru center. Bombing accuracy – 100 %; Mission efficiency – 100 %.


(returned early) A/C No. 43-4040 “Fearless Fosdick”

P Wakeley, Charles G., III, 2Lt Alger, LeRoy (NMI), 1Lt

CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Wiginton, J. Maurice “Wigs”, 1Lt


B Nelson, George B., 2Lt Webb, James A., 1Lt

E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Ford, Leonard W., S/Sgt

R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt Williamson, Myles O., T/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Lejman, George T., Cpl

F None None

A/C No. 43-4069 “Ruptured Duck” A/C No. 43-27520 “Amorous Anne”

P Monger, Samuel A. “Sam”, Jr., 2Lt Manz, Wayne A., 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt

N None None

B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt LaFountain, Ned F., S/Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Smith, William L., Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-4029 “Mike Hunt”

P Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt


B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt

R McFarland, John F., S/Sgt Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt

F None Holmes, Ora E., Jr., Sgt

A/C No. 43-27730 “Katie” A/C No. 43-27701

P Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Jensen, Hubert P. J., 2Lt Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt

N None None




G Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt Bushnell, Jordan L., S/Sgt



A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-3403 “Incendiary

Blonde”

P Gillis, John R., 1Lt Remmel, Earl Howard “The Fox”, 2Lt

CP Hall, Earl W., 2Lt Washburn, Guy M. “Pappy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Gould, Joe W., 2Lt

E Sheppard, Luther Edgar “L.E.”, Jr., Sgt Ifshin, Isidore (NMI) “Sonny”, Sgt

R Toole, John F., S/Sgt Korzeniowski, Edward S., S/Sgt

G Rose, Clifford A., Sgt Bauder, Harold R., Sgt


A/C No. 43-27785 A/C No. 43-27473 “Paper Doll”

P Manley, Ward E., 1Lt Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt

CP Runyon, Leroy C., 2lt Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt

N None None

B Niedelman, Hyman (NMI), 2Lt Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt

E Gillies, Robert H., S/Sgt Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt

R Pierce, William H., S/Sgt Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt

G Connolly, Paul B., Sgt Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt

F None None


Comedy” (later “Modern Maiden”)

P Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 1Lt

N Thomas, Robert E., 1Lt

B Altman, Irving L., 2Lt

E Clyne, Everett H., Sgt

R Chatters, Aubrey W., T/Sgt

G Jaskowski, John (NMI) “Jack”, Sgt

F None

448th


448th


(448th




th AF): AAF, MTO: In Italy, the

72nd

Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO, based at Santa Maria, sends a flight to operate from

Caserta with L-5s.

In Italy, A-20s bomb scattered lights and vehicles in the Po River

Valley during the night of 27/28 Jul; and during the day light, medium, and fighter-

bombers hit targets in the Po River Valley, concentrating on bridges. Some fighter-

bombers attack motor transport in the Rhone River Valley in France.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No mission – weather.

445th

BS War Diary: There was a “stand down” order and no mission was flown today.

The combat crews attended two movies today, one on aircraft identification and the other

on escape procedure. There was another day of rigid training in effect with Bombardiers

on the rate machine and bomb trainer, transition, practice formation flying, PDI training,

practice bombing, swinging of the compass and several cross-country flights. This date

will be remembered as the infamous date when a low-flying B-25 dispersed a horse race

in progress at a race track at Cairo. Reports are not quite clear as yet what with “Scrap

Iron” Lt. Russell and Lt. Lubomir (Cross-country) Shyshka – both notorious buzzers – in

the vicinity of the crime. Sgt. Logan, S-2 section chief, points an accusing finger at Lt.

Shyshka who vehemently denies the charge. Lt. Russell only laughed. He was in a bar at

the time of the flight. The order to wear firearms was rescinded today.

Russell, Lawrence Lee "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot

Shyshka, Lubomir P. "Cross Country", 2Lt, pilot

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. A small mail call in the afternoon.

446th


“No mission today. Lecture on Aircraft Ident. @ 1000. All Bmbdr’s to line @ 1430,

lecture on releases (A Glorified RTV). Freddy Northrup made Captain today. Lecture &

movie to all combat crews at Group @ 1900, on “Ditching”. Chudars & Hawkes

returned from Cairo. Had a case of Cokes with them. Bull session.”

Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Hawkes, Leon R., Capt, pilot

Northrup, Frederick W., Capt, armament

447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following officers and

enlisted men have departed for rest camp, Capri: 1st Lt. Forrest T. Nettles; 1

st Lt. William

E. Kibler; 2nd

Lt. Eric A. Johnson; 2nd

Lt. William E. Neiman; Sgt. Vincent A. Mango;

Sgt. Dale C. Miller. The following officers and enlisted men returned to the squadron

after being on DS – 12th

AAF. 1st Lt. William E. Huffman; 1

st Lt. William F. Heitman;

T/Sgt. Ramo J. Valeri; S/Sgt. Harold E. Fowler. The following officers and enlisted men

have returned from rest camp, Rome Italy: 1st Lt. Edward Krafka; 1

st Lt. Wayne A.

Manz; Sgt. Harold W. Scarberry; S/Sgt. Paul L. Free; S/Sgt. Rennie Mitchell. A class on

aircraft recognition was held at 321st Bombardment Group Headquarters. Captain R.W.


Manly gave a short lecture on Escape in France. Today’s training consisted of local

transition.

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

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

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

Krafka, Edward (NMI), 1Lt, pilot

Mango, Vincent A. “Vince”, Sgt, aerial gunner

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

Miller, Dale C., Sgt, gunner Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner

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

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

448th




th AF):

In Italy, weather cancels medium bomber operations; fighter-

bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit buildings at Diano Marina and bridges, rail

lines, airfields, and vehicles in N Italy.


445th

BS War Diary: There was a stand down for this squadron on today’s mission.

The usual extensive training program was in effect again today with the accent on

practice bombing and practice assembly. There were also quite a few cross-country

flights made today. Lts. Russell, Shyshka and crew returned from their extended tour of

Cairo and all points east and west. Lt. Ireland replaced Lt. Standard as Squadron

Armament officer. Luxury rations were distributed today. Civilian pictures were taken

of all combat crews. They will be carried by the crews at all times. A large number of

packages arrived today. Pork chops was on the menu for supper.

Ireland, Kenneth E., 2Lt, armament

Russell, Lawrence Lee "Scrap Iron", 2Lt, pilot

Shyshka, Lubomir P. "Cross Country", 2Lt, pilot

Standard, Lt, armament

445th


07/29/44: “My morale has been rather high the last several days for no reason in

particular. Before that it was very low. I guess I just reached the nadir of hypochondria

and there had to be a change. Yesterday Coupe came down from the 27th

Fighter Group

and spent the night with me. We saw a baseball game, in which Rucker was the star and

a natural, and a midnight show. Also yesterday we finished building a very excellent

floor and siding for our tent. It is the best we have ever had. This morning Herman, the

remarkable dog that has been with us ever since Africa, was struck by a car and had to

be shot. Poor old Herman! We had begun to believe he was indestructible and

unloosable. There is very little activity other than training. It is very clear they are

cooking up a big push, which I expect to break in a week or so. I believe the month of

August will be the most decisive month of the war.”

“Herman Berman the German”, belonged to Barnes, Warren H. “Bobo”, engineering

Rucker, Elbert A., Sgt, armament

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Sgts. Bober and Schreiner are assigned to 57th

Wing.

Bober, John (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner

Schreiner, Lester B. “Les”, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner


446th


“Nothing scheduled for today, weather poor. Went to PX with Chudars for rations.

Sacked. Showered & shaved. Rec’d letter from Grandma & Alice, pkg. from MJC. Got

a surprise at supper, CLB met Jim Horvath in Rome, took him back with him. Had a

great time, same old Jim, stayed overnite.”

Chudars, James E. “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot

Horvath, James (NMI) “Jim”, 37th

BS, 17th

BG (M - B-26)

447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. Private Norman C.

Bulfinch, and Private Frank H. Dorrel, have been promoted to the rank of private first

class, per Squadron Order # 30. Sgt. Henry A. Lasek received head injuries by falling off

a moving truck. Usual squadron duties.

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

Lasek, Henry A., Sgt, decontamination

448th




th AF):

In Italy, during the night of 29/30 Jul A-20s bomb Savona and

surrounding areas; overcast in the W Po River Valley causes some medium bomber

aborts but several bridges at Ovada, Bistagno, Cherasco, and Ferrara are successfully

attacked; fighter-bombers attack road and rail bridges in N Italy, hit shipping between

Savona and Ventimiglia, silence 8 flak guns at the Ferrara bridge, and hit several

transportation targets of opportunity.

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Mission to Canneto Rail Bridge abortive due to weather.

Nickellers again dropped on Florence.


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 5 447- 0 448- 0

Target: Nickeling—Florence Area.



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


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


Squadrons: 445- 0 446- 0 447- 10 448- 10

Target: Canneto R.R. Bridge at F-147237, Alternate—Sori Rd Bridge at P-104434



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

445th

BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for the squadron today. 12 ships

from the squadron participated in practice formation flying. 3 other ships went to the

practice bombing range while another plane was sent up to swing the compass. There

were also 3 cross-country flights made. Some replacement personnel arrived today. Lt.

Jackson, Asst. S-2 Officer, gave an escape procedure lecture to all the combat crews

today. Some of the bombardiers spent some more time on both the bomb trainer and rate

machine while some pilots were on the link trainer. The men noticed with some interest

the scheduled appearance of S/Sgt. Joe Louis in “about 4 days”.

Jackson, James O., 2Lt, intelligence

Barrow, Joseph Louis “Joe Louis”, SSgt, Boxer, Special Service

445th


(445th



445th


(445th


446th

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

446th



TARGET: Florence Area, Italy DATE: 30 July 1944

Type of Bombs: Pamphlets. 446th

Planes: 5

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


PAOLA II” (later PRINCESS) A/C No. 43-27745

P Vivas, Frank Paul, 1Lt Church, Edwin Adem, 1Lt

CP Doyle, John D., 2Lt Gallagher, Andrew R., F/O


B Mottley, John F., 1Lt Lippy, Harvey W., 2Lt

E Jacob, Elmer A., Jr., PFC Clickner, Albert H., S/Sgt

R Bove, Anthony P., T/Sgt Crozer, Robert L., T/Sgt

G Brown, Ronald M., Sgt Cifuni, Robert J., S/Sgt

F None None



P Vancil, Alfred E., 1Lt Taylor, Jason G., 1Lt

CP Wallace, Robert D., 2Lt Gittings, Raymond W., 2Lt

N None None

B Mexal, Gus J., 1Lt Hughes, John Jerome “Jack”, 1Lt

E Britton, William W., Jr., S/Sgt Petrella, Luigi C., Sgt

R Mitchell, John J., T/Sgt Bundy, Garland A., S/Sgt

G Beets, Frank T., Sgt Bryan, Dwight L., Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27480


CP Born, Walter E., Jr., 2Lt

N None

B Casper, Henry G., S/Sgt




F None

446th


(446th



446th


“No mission today. Rate machine 1430-1500. With Horvath all, lot of fun, left @ 1530,

got a ride back to Sardinia. Had an argument at dinnertime with the Doc about rotation.

Still don’t know from nothing. Rec’d 2 letters from Alice. Wrote Grandma, Alice.”

Horvath, James (NMI) “Jim”, 37th

BS, 17th

BG (M - B-26)

Warren, Joseph E., Capt, medical officer

447th

BS War Diary: Cpl. Donald E. Bailey has been reduced to the grade of private per

Group Headquarters SO 122. The following officers and enlisted men have departed for

rest camp, Rome, Italy: 2nd

Lt. Irving L. Altman; S/Sgt. Peter D. Pusvaskis; Sgt. Charles

A. Munstein; Cpl. Ernest E. Fischinger; Pvt. Horace E. Drew. The following enlisted

men have returned from rest camp, Rome, Italy: Sgt. Newton E. Lilley; S/Sgt. Alvin L.

Simberg; S/Sgt. Carl T. Pitts; Sgt. Robert C. Stokes. 1st Lt. George G. VenJohn has been

assigned to this squadron per the 445th

Squadron Order No. 122. 1st Lt. VenJohn has

been appointed assistant S-2 officer. 1st Lt. James N. Watson has been relieved of

assignment and transferred to Det. of Pat. 35th

Station Hospital, SO 74.

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

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

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

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

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

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


(447th


447th


of our ships took off to raid the Canneto RR Bridge, but due to complete overcast the

formation returned all bombs to the base.

A/C No. 43-4060 “Cover Girl” A/C No. 43-4009 “Double-O-Nine”

P Bastin, Melville R., 1Lt Banks, Herbert J., 1Lt

CP Burns, Robert J., 2Lt Woods, Richard J., 2Lt


B Spilko, Harold (NMI), 1Lt Huffman, William C., 1Lt

E Mercea, George (NMI), Sgt Beckhart, Maurice H., S/Sgt

R Gaydos, John P., T/Sgt Hubert, Leo G., T/Sgt

G May, Frederick J., Sgt Burke, William H., Jr., S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27506 “Rebel Devil” A/C No. 43-27492 “Reddie Teddie”

P Rice, Ernest C., 2Lt Magne, Henry J. “Joe”, 1Lt

CP Wallace, Edwin E., 2Lt Ramey, Gordon A. “Gordy”, 2Lt

N None None

B Gould, Joe W., 2Lt Fisher, Gerald E., 2Lt

E Scarberry, Harold W., Sgt Engels, Robert W., Sgt


S/Sgt

Pelak, Andrew (NMI), S/Sgt

G Mitchell, Rennie (NMI), S/Sgt Tarra, Frederick J., Sgt



Aloysius”

A/C No. 43-27636

P Swanson, Robert Harold “Swanee”, 1Lt Grimse, Ralph T., 2Lt

CP Robinson, Lester W., 2Lt Cunningham, Robert T., 2Lt

N None None

B Mesna, Leeland A. “Lee”, 2Lt Rosenbledt, James M., 1Lt

E Fisher, Theodore M., S/Sgt Baldridge, Grant W., S/Sgt

R Schnaars, George D., S/Sgt McFarland, John F., S/Sgt

G Richards, Charles M., S/Sgt Abbondanza, Anthony J., S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27718 A/C No. 43-4079 “Little David”

P Runyon, Leroy C., 2Lt Dean, Ivan E., 1Lt

CP Heitman, William F., 1Lt Brown, Grover C., Jr., 2Lt

N None None

B Melamed, Meyer G., 2Lt Spruill, Marvin L., 1Lt

E O’Neil, James R., Sgt Partee, Watson L., Sgt

R Cowart, Eugene C., S/Sgt Alpino, Joseph D., S/Sgt

G Flowers, Frank J., Sgt Fowler, Harold E., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27498 “Ave Maria” A/C No. 43-3522 “Hunky Dorey”


CP Willis, Richard L., 2Lt Hall, Earl W., 2Lt


B Vieser, Walter N., 2Lt Mulholland, Robert W., 2Lt

E Dubbs, Andrew C., Cpl Freeman, Millard C., Sgt

R Poulin, Gaston G., S/Sgt See, Russell K., S/Sgt

G Veid, Joseph (NMI), Sgt Connolly, Paul B., Sgt



448th



(448th


448th


Mission 299 (457): At 16:37 19 planes off to bomb Canneto RR/B. Due to complete

over-cast at primary and alternate the formation returned all bombs to base at 19:25

hours. No flak. Weather: Complete over-cast.

A/C No. 43-27805 “Desirable” A/C No. 43-27726

P Annear, Warren Raymond, 1Lt Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt

CP Holcombe, Dewey R., 2Lt McKay, Donald I., 2Lt


B Comfort, Edward P., 2Lt Shaw, Charles W., Sgt

E Rippel, Nat (NMI), S/Sgt Goldstein, George (NMI), S/Sgt

R Clark, Gwyn E., T/Sgt Wald, Douglas A., S/Sgt

G Holt, Charles M., S/Sgt Edwards, Clarence C., T/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27523 A/C No. 43-27791

P Verkruysse, Emile D., 1Lt Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt

CP Mitchell, Robert E., 2Lt Stevens, Ray B., 2Lt

N None None

B Kiska, George P., 2Lt Luckhaupt, Robert W., 2Lt

E Weyeneth, Carl H., S/Sgt Blasingame, Emory J., S/Sgt

R Bixler, Frederick F., S/Sgt Kielich, Henry J., T/Sgt

G Hersh, Bertram (NMI), Sgt Hutchinson, James (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None

A/C No. 43-27528 (ship did not take-off

due to engine trouble) (crew not listed) A/C No. 43-27720

P Amo, Leo W., 1Lt

CP Carrington, Charles C., 2Lt

N None None


E Roberts, Charles J., S/Sgt

R Blackard, James R. “Jim”, S/Sgt

G DeGeorge, Herman (NMI), S/Sgt

F None None


A/C No. 43-27481 A/C No. 43-27530 “Twin Engine

Sadie”

P Grady, John R., 2Lt McCabe, Norman Michael, 1Lt

CP Winstead, Hungh J., 2Lt Rosenau, Gustave D., 2Lt

N None None

B Zinkand, Willard T., 2Lt Mallin, Theodore (NMI), 2Lt

E Bell, Flavious J., S/Sgt Pineda, Nico M., Sgt

R Schaffner, Clarence Donovan, T/Sgt Hallman, Robert L., S/Sgt

G Carrick, Kenneth M., S/Sgt Irvine, Josef F., S/Sgt


A/C No. 43-27706 “Silver Belle” A/C No. 43-27538 “Down But Not

Out”

P Rogers, Henry (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Bard, John A., 2Lt

CP Tilton, Harvey S., 2Lt Riener, William F., 1Lt

N McKinley, Robert H., 2Lt None

B Martin, James M., Jr., 2Lt Young, Robert B., 2Lt

E Donaud, Earl J., S/Sgt Kershaw, Raymond T., S/Sgt

R Campbell, James R., S/Sgt Dilts, Robert E., T/Sgt

G Magyar, Steven J., Sgt Knauss, Charles F., S/Sgt




th AF):

In Italy, weather grounds medium bombers; fighter-bombers hit

several bridges in the W Po River Valley while fighters strafe airfields with good results;

the fighter-bombers also destroy around 50 railroad cars and damage numerous others.


445th

BS War Diary: There was no mission scheduled for today. Six ships practiced

assembly in the air, 3 ships did some formation flying, several transition flights were

made, a test hop was flown and several cross-country flights were made. Lt. Wagner

returned from Cairo today. The squadron personnel were paid today after noon chow.

Preparations are now under way to put on a stage show celebrating the second

anniversary of the activation of the group.

Wagner, Gerald W., 2Lt, pilot

446th

BS War Diary: No Missions. Lt. Jack Locke joins us as assistant S-2 officer.

Locke, Jacob (NMI) "Jack", 2Lt, intelligence

446th


“No mission today, poor weather. Cleaned up tent. Read ‘Chad Hama’ – good. Got

paid. Sacked, shaved & showered. Sqdn. had 2nd

Anniversary Party, - not bad.”

447th

BS War Diary: No mission was scheduled for today. The following enlisted men

have been reduced to the rank of private: S/Sgt. Harry M. Glass; Cpl. Richard N.

Helwig; Cpl. Arnold W. Vollbrecht; Sgt. Leonard B. Heiman. Private Henry M. Glass

has been promoted to the rank of corporal. The following enlisted men have been

promoted to the rank of Technical Sergeant, per SO. 165 Headquarters, 12th

AAF, dated

June 30, 1944: S/Sgt. Joseph D. Alpino; S/Sgt. Edward S. Korzeniowski; S/Sgt. Paul L.

Free; S/Sgt. Joseph J. Parisi; S/Sgt. William H. Pierce. The following enlisted men have

been promoted to the grade of Staff Sergeant, per SO 165 Headquarters, 12th

AAF, dated

June 30, 1944: Sgt. Michael A. Andryscak; Sgt. Robert W. Engels; Sgt. Everett H.

Clyne; Sgt. Clifford A. Rose; Sgt. Frederick J. Tarra. The following enlisted men have

been promoted to the grade of Sergeant per SO 165 Headquarters, 12th

AAF dated June

30, 1944: Cpl. Dominick Giaratana; Cpl. Thomas J. McKinney; Cpl. Cornelius J.

Sexton; Cpl. Jarrold S. Oransky; Cpl. Clyde Murphy, Jr.; Cpl. Cleo W. Simms; PFC

Arthur T. Shand; PFC. Harry B. Burns. A large percentage of the personnel of this

squadron have shown an interest in voting by State Absentee Ballot. Usual squadron

duties.

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

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

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

Giaratana, Dominick (NMI), Sgt, mess Glass, Henry M., Cpl, personnel


Glass, Harry Martin, Pvt, turret gunner Heiman, Leonard B., Pvt, transportation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vollbrecht, Arnold W., Pvt, engineering

448th


July 1944

HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944

STRENGTH (as of July 31, 1944) OFFICERS: 26 ENLISTED MEN: 57

July was a “middlin” month both as to number and importance of targets. Forty-

three missions were flown as compared to fifty-three of last month. The highlight of the

month was the execution of the Mallory-Plan---the plan devised by the Mediterranean

Allied Tactical Air Force whereby the two medium bombardment wings in this theater

were to destroy the 23 bridges along the Po Valley from Piacenza to the mouth of the

river. Four days was the limit imposed because of the defenses which were inevitable

and prohibitive after that time. Twenty-one of the 23 bridges were completely destroyed

in those four days and the 321st Bomb Group played an important role in this “bridge

busting” plan. The last two bridges were destroyed later in the month in spite of the

heavy, intense anti-aircraft fire thrown up by Jerry. Two of our planes were lost over the

target during the month and both were shot down at Verona on July 26th

. Every other

plane was holed in the formation on that date.

July was also the first month this year in which no direct army ground support

missions were flown. However, indications pointed to more such activity during the

month of August judging from rumors, reports and observations pouring into the Group

regarding probable invasion plans.

Something new has been added to the station complement here at our Corsican

airdrome when we found ourselves host to two night-fighter squadrons. That in itself is

nothing unusual but what was out of the ordinary was the fact that one of those squadrons

consisted of land-based Navy Hell-cats—the first that have ever operated in this area.

With the addition of a link-trainer our Group training program became accelerated

to a further degree. Also, with the many new Navy planes in the area, an aircraft

recognition course was instituted and attended by all combat crew members. This

training in addition to the numerous transition and bomb-run flights being made, as well

as the bombardier trainer going every day. As evidence of our improved bombing we can

point with a certain amount of pride to our average for the month which led the other

Groups in Win---78.19% against pin-point objectives.

July 1944 (continued)

THE RAID OF THE MONTH

July, 1944

This month the Group Intelligence Officer, Major Malcolm D. Haven, selects the

one raid that from photo coverage and interpretation, and relative importance, has bee

outstanding during the month. Once again the selector yields to perfect, 100% precision

bombing.

This month’s selection:

Borgoforte Rail Bridge

Attacked: 15 Jul 44

NUMBER OF PLANES OVER TARGET: 24

RESULTS: (First phase interpretation)

A heavy concentration of bombs fell across the North end of the bridge. However

later photos did not show any direct hits. Near hits were probably scored, damaging and

weakening the under-structure. Two elements from the second flight fell across the

bridge dissecting the bridge into three sections. Hits were probably scored from these

patterns.

FLAK: Formation received heavy, moderate, accurate flak from the Italian coast at

landfall and heavy, moderate, accurate flak from the target area. A total of 12 planes

were hit – one crew member injured.

SITUATION: The destruction of the Borgoforte Bridge was not an isolated target as far

as disruption of the Axis communication is concerned. During this period the 57th

Wing

(of which this Group is a member) and the 42nd

Wing (B-26’s) were actively engaged in

the Mallory Plan which was to knock out the 23 bridges along the Po River Valley. This

Group’s participation in the Plans’ fulfillment added materially in the strangulation of the

Hun communication system. We flew 12 separate missions against five of those bridges

and had an average bombing accuracy of 76% against generally stiff opposition.


HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH AIR FORCE

A. P. O. 650

GENERAL ORDERS) 18 July 1944.

:

NUMBER 95) CITATION OF UNIT

Under the provisions of Circular 333, War Department, 1943, and Circular 26,

North African Theater of Operations, 6 March 1944, the 321st Bombardment Group (M)

is cited for outstanding performance of duty in armed conflict with the enemy.

The 321st Bombardment Group (M) is cited for outstanding performance of duty

in action against the enemy in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations on 8 October

1943. When the Allied invasion of the Italian mainland and simultaneous operations in

the Aegean Sean dangerously exposed our extended supply lines to enemy air action

from Luftwaffe units stationed in the Balkans, the 321st Bombardment Group, then in

Africa, was ordered to occupy bases in southern Italy and immediately attack and

neutralize the hostile Balkan airfields. On 8 October 1943, a formation of forty-eight B-

25’s, refueled by hand from five-gallon cans and serviced only with such equipment as

could be transported by air from Africa, flew from Grottaglia, Italy, in a raid on the

heavily defended Eleusis Airdrome near Athens, Greece. As the formation approached

the target, a swarm of hostile fighters attacked, drawing off the escort and permitting

more than thirty enemy interceptors to engage the bombers unmolested. Distinguishing

themselves in the ensuing battle by extraordinary heroism and answering determination

in the face of desperate assaults by enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire so intense that

twenty-six B-25’s were damaged and two were shot down into the sea, the bomber

combat teams worked in perfect coordination to complete their mission. As the gunners

kept up a withering fire that destroyed eight enemy fighters and disabled four others, the

pilots resolutely maintained a compact and level formation, enabling their bombardiers to

cover the assigned areas with a devastating pattern of fragmentation bombs which

destroyed many dispersed aircraft and started a number of fires. During the critical days

which followed, despite almost insurmountable difficulties which kept comparable units

inoperative during a part of this period, the 321st Group continued uninterrupted and

extremely effective bombing operations against vital enemy objectives, reducing the

original Balkan strength of the German XIth

Air Force from 300 aircraft to 114, and

lending invaluable support to the morale of the Yugoslav Partisan resistance. The

gallantry, esprit de corps, and outstanding proficiency in combat displayed by the

personnel of the 321st Bombardment Group have reflected the highest credit upon

themselves and the Military Service of the United States.

By command of Brigadier General WEBSTER:

JOHN W. MONAHAN,

Colonel, A. C.,

Chief of Staff.


OFFICIAL:

WILLIAM W. DICK,

Colonel, A. G. D.,

Adjutant General.


S. P. NEPRASH,

Capt, Air Corps,

Ass’t S-2

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

HEADQUARTERS, TWELFTH AIR FORCE (Adv)

APO 650 US ARMY

31 July 1944.

335

SUBJECT: Commendation.

TO: Commanding General, 57th

Bomb Wing, APO 650, US Army.

1. The following message has been received from General Arnold: “The

maintaining of operations in support of ground operations against enemy installations by

all units of the Twelfth Air Force from 17 July to 26 July, inclusive, is most encouraging

and gratifying. The teamwork between the combat crews, maintenance crews and service

units is notable by the results attained. For the display of such splendid efforts please

convey my heartiest congratulations to all members of your Command.

2. The Commanding General desires to add his congratulations and appreciation

to all members of your command for their splendid efforts which are so worthy of this

fine commendation by your Chief.

By command of Major General CANNON:

EDWARD J. CULLETON,

Major, A. G. D.,

Ass’t. Adjutant General.

335 1st Ind. G/GRC/jw

HEADQUARTERS, 57th

BOMBARDMENT WING, APO 650, US ARMY, 3 August

1944.



Commanding Officer, 321st Bomb Group, APO 560, US Army.

Commanding Officer, 340th



For your information:


/s/ G. R. Crofton

/t/ G. R. CROFTON,

Lt Colonel, AGD,

Adjutant General.

A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:

S. P. NEPRASH,

Capt, Air Corps,

Ass’t S-2 Officer.

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

THE 321st EFFORT IN CONNECTION WITH THE BALKAN CAMPAIGN

A HISTORICAL SUMMARY

After the Italian capitulation and the Allied invasion of Italy in September, 1943,

The Balkan countries, particularly Greece, were watched closely for their development as

a center for German air bases. Because of their close proximity to our Adriatic shipping

lanes and to the Dodecanese Islands in possession of British troops, strong German Air

Force units in the Balkans would constitute an ominous threat to the Allied effort in the

Mediterranean area.

Air Intelligence Weekly Summary No. 45, Headquarters, Northwest African Air

Forces A-2 Section, reported in late September as follows: “Photo reconnaissance this

week showed activity on several airfields in the Balkans. Most of the aircraft present

were Italian although there were some German.” One week later an entirely different

picture appeared in summary number 46 of the same headquarters which showed that the

major portion of the German Air Force in the Mediterranean Theater had been shifted

from Northern Italy and Southern France to the Balkans. The Germans had transferred a

force of 300 planes.

As an immediate step toward meeting the threat of this formidable force of enemy

aircraft it was essential that Allied bombers be brought over to newly acquired bases in

Southern Italy to exert their full striking power against the German bases in the Balkans.

The 321st Bomb Group, along with other medium bomb groups, was given the orders to

proceed immediately from its base in Africa to a base in Southern Italy. And to be

prepared upon arrival at the new base to carry out attacks without delay on enemy

airdromes in the Balkans. The 321st bomb Group was the first to complete successfully

the transfer of its full striking power to the Italian mainland and on 4 October 1943, the

day after the planes reached their new base of Grottaglie Airdrome, began a series of

attacks on the enemy’s Balkan bases which dealt a severe blow to his airforce. From 4

October 1943 through 18 November 1943, German aircraft were destroyed on the ground

by the Group’s attacks and many of his airfields were kept in unserviceable condition.


These first attacks launched by the 321st served to reduce in great measure the offensive

activities of the German Air Force and the Group’s efforts, supplemented by heavy

bomber and other medium bomber attacks, put the enemy’s Balkan air force entirely on

the defensive by mid-November.

The primary objective of the 321st Bomb Group at the beginning of operations

from an Italian base on 4 October 1943 was to counter the offensive power of the German

Air Force in the Balkans but when this had been effectively accomplished, the group was

assigned to aid the Partisans fighting in Yugoslavia, Albania and Greece.

Up until this time all resistance by Partisans in these countries had been more on

the nature of sabotage and there had been few organized forces of resistance. Attempts

were being made constantly by Partisan leaders to secure more recruits and form strong

organizations which could effectively engage the German troops occupying their

countries in actual combat. The 321st was the first organized unit to take part in the

Partisan’s campaign for liberation and aside from the material aid given in destroying the

objectives it had been requested to attack by the Partisans, the missions carried out by the

group were of inestimable value in bringing added strength to the Partisan’s will to resist.

Reports from underground sources told of enormous increases in enlistments and of the

extraordinary stimulus to morale when our bombers were seen flying towards their

objectives.

Shortly afterwards the Partisans had formed strong armies and were openly

resisting the German Forces in armed conflict. In a large measure the air support

provided by the 321st Bomb Group was responsible for this successful organized uprising

which has tied up numerous German divisions in the Balkans. The total value of this

contribution to Allied Victory over the German Armies would be impossible to estimate.

The high point of this phase and one of the last blows which the 321st delivered on behalf

of the Allied cause in this direction before turning its destructive force on Italian targets

was its raid on Sofia Marshalling Yards. This mission more than any other focused the

attention of the United Nations on the fact that the Allied Military leaders were not losing

sight of the importance of the Balkans in their attack on the “Fortress of Europe” and

must have been viewed with more than passing interest by our Russian ally.

MALCOLM D. HAVEN,

Major, Air Corps,

INTELLIGENCE OFFICER.


7 July 1944

AIR INTELLIGENCE CONTACT UNIT

AAF REDISTRIBUTION STATION #1

SUPPLIMENT TO SPECIAL REPORT ON MORALE OF OUTGOING

COMBAT CREWS

1. The more interviews we obtained with outgoing combat crews on their attitude

toward the 30-day “vacation” plan at home and thence back to battle, the more it becomes

convincingly evident that either the program or the combat morale of American fliers

must go by the board.

2. Since the completion of the main report on this critically important morale

factor amongst American airmen, an additional 25 enlisted personnel were interviewed.

Their feelings were found to be, in anything, even more vigorously, and in some cases

bitterly opposed to the 30-day plan than those of any who had previously been

interrogated.

3. Interviewees were all crew members of heavy and medium bombers of the

Eighth and Ninth Air Forces. They were unanimous in the view 25 missions for heavies

and 40 missions for mediums should qualify combat crews to come home for at least six

months. These men asserted, with strong conviction, that they would be more than

willing to complete as many missions as they could possibly fly if the “pinch were on.”

But, they point out, there are now in England many more crews than there are planes.

Replacements are so plentiful, they allege, that they are becoming boresome and to

everybody else because there is nothing for them to do but “dry rot”.

4. The average number of missions flown by each heavy and medium bomber

crew per month is six, according to the most lately interviewed group. They said,

however that the “joker” in this deal was the fact those six missions might be flown in a

week or eight days. The pay-off was extreme physical and mental fatigue and the jack-

pot amounted to three weeks of “sweating it out.” There was total agreement that combat

crews should be allowed to finish a given and specific number of missions as rapidly as

their own individual physiques can stand the pace; then to return to the United States on a

regular rotation policy.

5. One of the chief complaints against the 30-day plan by this group was that it

was placed on a “take it or leave it basis”, sort of a back-side-to version of the “if they

haven’t got bread, let them eat cake” view. In the case of the medium bomber crews,

they were totally ignored in the matter and merely handed orders sending them home for

30 days. In the case of everybody, it was alleged, to refuse the 30-day plan, or ask to be

grounded because of it, meant latrine duty or worse.


6. Men wounded in action and subsequently grounded and assigned to the most

menial ground tasks should, in the opinion of all, be sent home and utilized as instructors,

or at least given a more dignified recognition for their services than digging outdoor

lavatories. Many of these men, it was said, are given no hope of returning now, in the

near or distant future or ever. They feel they are given a one-way ticket when they re-

embark for foreign duty.

7. Despite all the foregoing, there was a genuine desire and determination to

pursue the war to the bitter end if necessary, but there were characteristic reservations

concerning the rapidly becoming—wealthier home front’s desire to see an early

conclusion of the war. This view among all combat crews passing through this station

seems to have taken root while the men were visiting their homes and to have crystallized

upon arriving at Atlantic City in the midst of teeming thousands of well-heeled

vacationers. They remember that in some of their outfits, 75 per cent of the original

personnel have enjoyed the luxuries of a seaside resort for the last time.


445th

BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944

HEADQUARTERS 321st Bomb Gp. (M)

APO 650

5 August 1944

SUBJECT: Historical Records

TO : Command General, 57th

Wing, APO 650.

1. Outline History of the 445th

Squadron for the period July1st to July 31st.

a. Present Designation: 445th

Sq., 321st Group, 57

th Wing, 12

th Command.

b. Changes in organization.

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

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

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

3. 2nd

Lt. Kenneth E. Ireland appointed Acting Armament Officer to replace Lt.

Lowery who was transferred to the United States on DS.

c. Strength commissioned and enlisted.

1. Month of July1944.

(a) 443 at beginning.

(b) 5 net decrease.

(c) 438 at end

d. Stations.

1. Solenzara Air Field.

e. Movements.

1. None

f. Operations:

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

Missions.

g. Command Officers in important missions.

1. On July 2, the squadron commander participated in the missions which attacked

the fuel dump near Ravenna, Italy. Using an extra load of 100 lb. bombs for the

first time, excellent results were achieved in the target area. The squadron

commander also participated in an effective attack on a bridge near Sasso, Italy.

On July 13, he participated in an attack on the road and railroad bridge at

Ostiglia, Italy. Good coverage was reported on the target area and the mission

was officially credited with 72 per cent bombing accuracy.


h. Losses in action.

1. On July 7, Sergeant Lincoln W. Mark, engineer-gunner in the squadron, was

killed by flak on the attack on the Sasso railroad bridge, Italy

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

Cross: 1st Lt. Leon F. Hatcher (pilot), 1

st Lt. Frank P. Walsh (bombardier), 1

st Lt Daniel

(NMI) Galindo (bombardier), 2nd

Lt. Sheldon R. Groh (pilot), 2nd

Lt. Charles F. Spencer

(pilot), 2nd

Lt. Henry C. Thompson (pilot), Technical Sergeant James E. Kintly (radio-

gunner). The following officer received the Silver Star: 2nd

Lt. Gerald W. Wagner

(pilot). In addition, there were 61 awards of the Air Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster

awarded.

For the Commanding Officer:

JAMES O. JACKSON,

1st Lt., Air Corps,

Squadron Historian.


446th


446th

BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF

321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF

1 August 1944

446th

BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON NARATIVE HISTORY FOR JULY 1944

A. Original Unit

1. 446th

Bomb Sqdn (M), 321st Bomb Gp (M) AAF

2. Organized August 1, 1942

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

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

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

centers.

B. Strength, Commissioned and Enlisted:

1. 1 July 1944 90 Officers, 321 Enlisted Men

2. Net Increase 5 Officers 17 Enlisted Men

3. Net Decrease None None

4. 30 July1944 95 Officers, 338 Enlisted Men

D. Commanding Officer in important engagements

1. Engagements:

Ravenna, Italy Bogliasco, Italy

Aulla, Italy Ostiglia, Italy

Alessandria, Italy

2. Capt. Paul T. Cooper (pilot)

E. Losses in action: None

F. Former or present members of the Squadron who have distinguished themselves in

action:

1. The D.F.C. was awarded to:

1st Lt Allan T. Sampson (pilot)

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

2nd

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

2. Awards of Air Medals on following page:

G. Campaigns: Complete data in attached mission summaries.


2. Air Medals were awarded the following:

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

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

2nd

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

2nd

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

2nd

Lt Chester J. Trosky (pilot) Pfc Elmer A. Jacob (engineer-gunner)

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

2nd

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

2nd

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

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

1st Lt John (NMI) “Jack” Fitzgerald (pilot) S/Sgt John (NMI) Jupin (engineer-gunner)

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

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

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

2nd

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

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

2nd

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

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

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

2nd

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

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

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

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

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

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

S/Sgt Sanders S. Kaufman (gunner)


447th


447TH

BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M)

321ST

BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M)

APO 65

SUBJECT: Historical Records.

TO : Commanding General, 57th

Bombardment Wing.

Attention: Historian.

1. Outline History of the 447th

Bombardment Squadron for the period 1 July to 31 July

1944.

a. 447th

Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st bombardment Group (M).

(1) 447th

Bombardment Squadron (M), 321st Bombardment Group (M), 57

th

Bombardment Wing, 12

th Air Force.

(2) Columbia Army Air Base, Columbia, South Carolina.

(3) 23 June 1942

(4) G.O. 145, Hq. 11 AF, 23 June 1942

(5) Transferred from other units and Selective Service.

b. Changes in Organization.

(1) Changes in destination. No Change

(2) Echelons or units.

(a) Transferred

2 E/M transferred to 35th

Station Hospital

2 Officers transferred, Brooks Field, Texas.

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

States.

1 E/M transferred to Brooks Field, Texas

1 E/M transferred Hq, 321st Bombardment Group

1 Officer transferred Det. of Patients, 35th

Station Hospital.

(b) on TD or DS.

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

1 Officer; DS, Laredo, Texas.

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

4 Officers, DS; Foggia, Italy.

3 Officer, 4 E/M; DS, 12th

Air Force.

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

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

(c) No Change.

(3) No Change

(4) No Change

(5) No Change


c. Strength, Commission and enlisted.

(1) Month of July 1944.

(a) Beginning: 92 Officers; 341 Enlisted Men

(b) No Change or no increase.

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

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

d. Stations.

(1) Solenzara Air Field

(a) May 3, 1944

(b) Still at the same station.

e. Movement of units or echelons.

(1) No movements during July, 1944.

f. Campaign.

(1) Italian

(2) From July 1st to present.

g. Operations.

(1) Mediterranean (Corsica)

(2) Objective Bombing

(3) 24 missions, 208 sorties

(4) Results of the most important missions.

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

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

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

supplies and reinforcements for the German troops. Carasco Road Bridge,

this bridge was used as a key supply and communication line by the

German Forces.

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

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

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

rendering bridge impassible. Carasco Road Bridge, was a complete

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

Mission efficiency-100 %

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

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

4. All photographs showed excellent results on these missions.

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

drives, or launch and sustain counter attacks.

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

fighters during the entire month.

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


i. Losses in action

(1) Vado Viaduct, 6 July 1944

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

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

2nd

Lt. William H. Wigmore (pilot)

2nd

Lt. Edward J. Stanly (bombardier)

2nd

Lt. Harold H. Lindell (navigator)

2nd

Lt. James N. Watson (bombardier)

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

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

Ostiglia Road Bridge

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

2nd

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

2nd

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

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

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

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

2nd

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

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

(c) Missing. None

(d) Taken prisoner. None

j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action.

(1) The following number of men received, Air Medals, 12th

Air Force, General

Order # 107, 26 July 1944; total of 6; 34 men received the Air Medal, General Order #

107, 12th

Air Force, 26 July 1944, raid on Vallecorsa. 2 Men received the Air Medal,

G.O. # 104; 25 July 1944, 12th

A.F. 1Man received the First Cluster, G.O. 104, 12th

A.F.

1 Man received the D.F.C. G.O. # 103, 12th

A.F.; in a raid on Vado Viaduct, Italy. 1 man

received D.F.C. General Order # 91, 12th

A.F.; raid on Vallecorsa, Italy.

k. No pictures submitted.

2. Inclosed are War Diary, 447th

Bombardment Squadron, for the period 1 July to 31

July: Special Account for the month of July1944; Squadron Statistics for the month of

July1944.

For the Commanding Officer:

3 Incl: SALVATORE P. CASARELLA, Jr.,

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

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

Incl – 3 Squadron Statistics

Missions Flown: 24 Sorties Flown: 208

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

Planes lost: None Enemy Aircraft Destroyed: None

Enemy Aircraft Damaged (in air): None


448th

BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1944:

July 1 – 7 – 44: Squadron strength as of 1 July 1944, 101 Officers and 345 Enlisted

Men. No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period. Six missions

were flown during the month over Northern Italian Communication Lines. Lieutenant

Gilbert, Ordnance Officer promoted to First Lieutenant. Sergeants: Gilpatrick and

Mauder transferred to the U.S.A. Officers and Enlisted Men of the squadron began to go

to Rest Camps on the Isle of Capri, Rome, Naples and Catania. Several of the ground

personnel went to Rest Camp on the Island of Corsica but reported that the weather was

very cool and life very dull. Food continued to be good and a new projector added much

to the enjoyment of the local movies. Beer made its first appearance on the PX rations.

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

Mauder, Charles J., Sgt, gunner

July 8 – 15 – 44: Captain Farwell assigned and joined during this period. No Enlisted

Men assigned or joined during this period. Sergeants: Robertshaw, Everhart, Robert,

Carr and Hajny, Wolf and France transferred to the U.S.A. Lieutenants: Lyons, McRee,

VanRaam and PFC Hinton on DS to the U.S.A. for 30 days. Continuing the assault on

bridges in the Po Valley the Squadron flew seven missions during this period and scored

excellent results. Officers and Enlisted Men continued to depart and return from the

numerous rest camps. Several members of the squadron left for 10 days in Cairo and

vicinity. The period was exceptionally quiet as the routine work continued to occupy the

squadron personnel’s time. Excellent weather prevailed and everyone took full

advantage of the excellent swimming facilities on the island. Very few men visited the

surrounding towns on their day off as the best facilities were close at hand.

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

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

Hajny, Zdenek (NMI), Sgt, gunner Hinton, Zane R., PFC, engineer-gunner

Lyons, John B., 1Lt, pilot McRee, Malcolm B., 2Lt, bombardier

Robert, Maurice L., Sgt, gunner Robertshaw, David F., Sgt, gunner

VanRaam, Rudolph (NMI), 2Lt, pilot Wolf, Elmer A., Sgt, gunner

July 16 – 22 – 44: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period.

Lieutenant Blume transferred to the 9th

Combat Camera Unit. Sergeants: Coleman,

Dean, Thompson, Bennett, Chosta, Kepford, Luton, Neuman, Sharpsteen, Jackson, Rifkin

and Scheffmeyer transferred to the U.S.A. Lieutenants: Ovard and Shear promoted to

First Lieutenant during this period. Sergeant Penhale returned to the squadron after 30

days furlough in the U.S.A. Three missions were flown during the week as a layer of

Cumulus clouds hung over Northern Italy during most of the period. Night flying was

inaugurated and the roar of airplane engines brought memories of those nights long ago

in Columbia and Walterboro. During this time several Hell Cats manned by Navy crews

began operations from this field and the squadron had the opportunity of entertaining 28

Naval Enlisted Men.


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

Chosta, Louis (NMI), Sgt, gunner Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt, gunner

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

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

Neuman, Robert A., Sgt, gunner Ovard, Glen S., 1Lt, pilot

Penhale, Walter B., Sgt, radio-gunner Rifkin, Harry J., Sgt, transportation

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

Shear, Meyer (NMI), 1Lt, pilot Thompson, Arthur R., Jr., Sgt, gunner

July 23 – 31 – 44: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined until the last day of

the month when Sergeants: Hembrey, Morefield, Popovich and Corporal Berman were

assigned from the 57 Wing. The squadron strength 31 July 1944, 93 Officers and 321

Enlisted Men. As the month drew towards the end the squadron hoped to complete it

without loss but on July 26 the squadron suffered its worst disaster of its two years of

existence. While on a mission over Verona, Italy, one bombardier was killed two planes

shot down and one Pilot and gunner seriously wounded. The lost men were Lt.

Kukorowski, killed; Lt. Armstrong and Sgt. Crow seriously wounded. Lts. Brown,

Frasier, Maginn, Olson, Goff, Quartuccio and Sgts: Tracy, Corrigan, Mitchell, Sullivan,

Holtzendorf, Montoro and Benton were shot down over the target. The month drew to a

close without further incident. Men continued to enjoy the benefits of the several rest

camps. The squadron was well settled in its home where it had remained for the longest

period in its history, over three months.

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

Berman, Samuel (NMI), Cpl, gunner Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot

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

Frazier, Leland R., Lt, pilot Goff, Melvin Franklin, 2Lt, pilot

Hembrey, Jesse T., Sgt, cook Holtzendorf, Henry (NMI), T/Sgt, gunner

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

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

Morefield, James Carl, S/Sgt, gunner Olson, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot

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

Sullivan, James G., S/Sgt, gunner Tracy, William G., Sgt, engineer-gunner

As the squadron began its duties for the month of July everyone, realizing that

their stay on the island was to be of greater duration than they had ever experienced

before, began to make major improvements on their living quarters. Tents were built up

with the abundant lumber supply and in many cases floors were also laid. With the

beautiful weather continuing and clouds over Italy hampering operations the camp in

many respects took on the appearance of a summer resort. Swimming was a daily

pastime for all personnel and good food, well prepared left only the absence of feminine

companionship the sole fly in the ointment. Although heat was very noticeable during

the days the nights were cool and the older members sighed happily as they recalled the

Sirocco Winds of Souk el Arba, Africa.


The Fourth of July was observed not in the “Good Old Fashioned Way”, but by

showering bombs on enemy installations in Northern, Italy. In accordance with the

operational plans of the Strategic Command the 448th

did its part in cutting and smashing

railroad and road bridges over the Po River during the early part of the month. The

squadron scored four 100% missions during this period and received many

Commendations from Allied Headquarters on their excellent work.

In the entertainment field little occurred of note, however in the middle of the

month a new projector was secured which made the movies more enjoyable. Now only

the generator, lack of gasoline or malfunction of the operator caused breakdowns. Every

night found goodly representation of the 448th

attending the shows which for most part

were of very recent vintage. The Clubs continued to function with iced drinks being

served nightly, but the initial attraction waned as soon as the novelty wore off, however

several evenings were spent listening to the strains of the 845 Engineer’s Band. One

U.S.O. show visited the area during the month.

Early in the month there began a new policy in the squadron and all personnel

found themselves going to Rest Camps at Rome, Capri, Catania, Cairo and a mountain

resort on the Island of Corsica. Reports from all of these places were to the effect that

Rome was by far the best of the lot as it offered more entertainment and had been least

touched by the war. In all places the living facilities were excellent but with the

exception of Catania, Sicily, food was not as good as that prepared in the squadron’s own

kitchens. Transportation to these various places was accomplished by airplane. The

planes continued to make weekly visits to Catania in the search of fresh fruits, eggs and

vegetables, this in conjunction with the daily fresh meat ration provided excellent menu.

PX rations continued to improve and the long awaited ration of BEER appeared much to

the satisfaction of everyone. Cokes ceased to be included but candy was increase 4 or 6

bars per week.

Late in the month a squadron of “Hell Cats” joined the Group to work in

conjunction with Beaufighters on night patrol. Twenty-eight of the Navy Enlisted

personnel were assigned for rations and quarters.

The policy of rotation to the U.S.A. continued and two men of the Ground

Echelon were returned to the U.S.A. Several combat men also returned after completing

their tour of duty. The successes on the Russian and French Fronts continued to hearten

those left behind and many pools were organized as to the duration of the war. The most

optimistic chose September, while even the pessimism ceded that Germany would

surrender before Christmas. The nine o’clock news bulletin published by S-2 was

eagerly awaited each morning.


As the month drew towards its close it appeared that for the first time in many

months the 448th

would escape unscathed by casualties, but on July 26 this hope was

shattered when two planes failed to return and one Bombardier was killed and a Pilot and

Gunner were seriously wounded, while on a mission over Verona, Italy. Just before the

target while in an intense concentration of enemy antiaircraft fire Lieutenant Brown’s

plane was hit in the left engine and left the formation under control. He glided down for

a few thousand feet, then salvoed his bombs and for some unknown reason immediately

started into a spin from which he never recovered. The plane was seen to crash but no

chutes were observed at any time during the descent. Lieutenant Olson’s plane was also

hit by the same burst of flak and his propeller was knocked off. He too appeared to be

under control and started back towards the coast, when last observed he was headed

towards the sea slowly losing altitude but under complete control. A radio call believed

to be from Lieutenant Olson announced the he was trying to make the coast. No further

word has been received from either plane. Lieutenant Kukorowski, was killed when the

plane in which he was riding received a direct burst of flak in the nose and death was

instantaneous. Lieutenant Armstrong, who was the Flight Leader received a flak wound

in the leg which later proved to be serious but promised to heal without after effects.

Sergeant Crow had two fingers shot off on the same ship. The entire squadron was

greatly saddened by the loss of these men. Many awards were recommended during the

month and expectations were high that they would soon be received. Late in the month

news was received that the Group had been awarded a Presidential Citation for its

excellent work during the month of October 1944, over the Balkans.

Armstrong, Donald R., 1Lt, pilot Brown, Wyndham E., III, 2Lt, pilot

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

Olson, Orin E., 1Lt, pilot

An innovation which for the most part was not appreciated by a majority of the

squadron was set up in the squadron area. A large Public Address System effectively

removed the oft repeated excuse of not having heard the whistle for formation. Corporal

McCall initiated a morning sunshine hour to awaken all personnel but the many

comments received, soon cause to cease and desist. Colonel Smith even made a few

choice remarks on the subject. On the whole the month passed very quietly and except

for the missions flown 448th

seemed to be in one of the quiet backwaters of the main

stream of the war. However the capture of the Island of Elba early in the month and

regular visits by “Foto Freddie”, served to show the enemy had not completely forgotten

the existence of this strategic Island. With growing infrequency the call to take shelter in

“Fox Holes” came during the moonlit nights.

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