387TH
BOMBARDMENT GROUP (MEDIUM)
A
Chronology
of the 387th Bombardment Group (Medium)
387TH
BOMBARDMENT GROUP (MEDIUM)
A
Chronology
of the 387th Bombardment Group (Medium)
1 Dec 1942 Group and squadrons activated
2 Dec 1942
The 387th Bombardment Group (M), with its four member squadrons, the 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th, was activated at MacDill Field, Tampa, Florida December 1, 1942. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 4.
20 Dec 1942 Major David S. Blackwell becomes first Group commander
The next day personnel of the newly activated group began arriving. [¶] The original cadre came from the 21st Bombardment Group of MacDill Field. Later fillers to headquarters personnel were assigned from Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Third Bomber Command, Miami Beach, Florida, and Daniel Field, Georgia. The majority of the original members of the 556th squadron were recruited from the 313th Bombardment Squadron. Original personnel for the 557th came from the 314th, those of the 558th came from the 315th, and the 559th from the 398th. All those parent squadrons were members of the 21st Bombardment Group (M) stationed at MacDill. Others came from Barksdale Field, Louisiana, Anti-Submarine Company, Jacksonville, Florida, 344th Bombardment Group (M) Lakeland, Florida, and 309th Bombardment Group, Columbia, South Carolina. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 4.
19 Jan 1943 Carl B. Storrie becomes Group commander
On December 20 Major David S. Blackwell of Third Bomber Command was assigned as first commanding officer of the group. Throughout December and January additional personnel continued to arrive. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 4.
Jan 1943
On January 19, 1943 Colonel Carl B. Storrie was assigned from Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Third Bomber Command as group commander, relieving Major Blackwell, who remained as group executive until January 22, at which time he was transferred to the newly created 391st Bombardment Group (M). History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 4.
2 Feb 1943 "Hat in the Ring" session
The greater part of the personnel, who had been recruited from OTU and BTU organizations, began, for the first time, to feel that they were to become part of a real combat unit. During the first phase of training, group headquarters was located temporarily in a two-story barracks. The 556th, 557th and 559th squadrons were billeted in the casual camp area, rather aptly called "Boomtown." In the shacks the men could look through the roof and see the sky, and look down through the boards of the floor and see the sand. Some mornings in January were cold but, in true Army style, heat was furnished only on warm mornings. Chow for the field mess was lousy, but could be supplemented by meals at the PX and soda fountains. Officers ate at the swank officers' club, but rates were not exactly cheap for newly made second louies. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 5.
Back in the States, the new pilots coming into Storrie's Group were Marauder shy. There had been too many stories about the airplane. Storrie's first indoctrination procedure was to take them for a ride in his own plane, skimming the tree tops, flying under telephone wires, flying sometimes with the props clearing the ground by a matter of inches. Within a few weeks, the same kids were skimming the tree tops, flying under telephone wires within inches of the ground. When their wings brushed the shrubbery in the Florida countryside, they reported that they weren't really flying low--they just hit a low flying green parrot. With superb ground crews servicing the planes, they had gotten over the fear of engine failure. Now these same men swear by the Marauder, even as the Fortress crews say theirs is the only plane in the world.
The Marauder is a fast bomber; its crews are more like fighter pilots. "But then," says Carl Storrie, in his broad Texas accent, "I guess every pilot is a pursuit pilot at heart." One thing is certain--most of the men in Storrie's Group are.
Yank (28 Nov. 1943).
8 Feb 1943 Beginning of Second Phase training
The final details of the first phase were completed by February 2, when the entire group, at Colonel Storrie's summons, met at the base theater for his famous "Hat in the Ring session." The Colonel began the meeting by throwing his had "in the ring" in the name of the 387th, and called on all men to do their part. The answer was a unanimous affirmative. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 5.
This is Carl Storrie, our Group Commander. He was the body and soul of the 387th Bomb Group from January 1943 to VE day (May 7, 1945), even though he was transferred on November 14, 1943. He was the inspiration for both the enlisted man and the officer. The early contact with him was the so-called hat in the ring appearance. There were actually two hat in the ring meetingsthe first one February 2, 1943, when a meeting was called in the theatre. This was attended by approximately 3/4 of the 387th personnel. Another quarter of the total overall strength of the 387th had not yet reported for duty. They were called to a meeting in the fireproof machine room of the hangar. This group, about 400, including myself, had settled in to the area behind the large metal doors. When the time arrived for the meeting, the metal doors banged as if hit by a battering ram. This really focused our attention on the doors. We could not see Col. Storrie, but this hard-visored hat came sailing into the room. His first and only words were, My hat is in the ringis yours? He meant every word of it. He then proceeded to say that this Group was going to be the best and he expected everyone to believe it.
Colonel Storrie carried this same enthusiastic attitude in training and combat. He wouldnt expect you to do anything that he wouldnt do. He was a believer in everyone doing the job he was supposed to do. He was the boss, and friend, of enlisted and officer alike. If a person needed disciplining, he was the one to do it, but only after he was convinced that that course of action was required. It didnt make any difference whether you were a private or squadron commander. His enthusiastic attitude, work ethic, and inspiration were evident throughout our entire training and combat period. It seemed to me that he had instilled a loyalty among all, and they retained that hat in the ring attitude throughout our 2 ½ years.
Gayle Smith, former Operations Officer, during an after dinner presentation at the Orlando Reunion Banquet
9 Feb 43 Roster of Staff Officers filled
On February 8, 1943 the group moved into Hangar 4 at MacDill. There the operations, intelligence, engineering, ordnance, and armament sections were quickly set up and the six-week period of second phase training began. A strenuous flying schedule was initiated with four-hour periods each for mornings, afternoons and evenings. The bombing ranges at Venice, Osprey, Mullet Key and Avon Park were used for practice bombing missions, and selected areas in the Gulf of Mexico for gunnery practice. Intelligence briefings usually preceded all missions. Crews not engaged in flying attended ground school, which included lectures on air tactics, aircraft identification, first aid and nomenclature of guns and ammunition. The result of this strenuous schedule was a steady welding together of the various units so that they could move quickly and fight effectively.. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 5.
18 Mar 43 Colonel Stillman leaves to take command of 322nd
By February 9 the roster of group staff officers had been filled. These included Colonel Carl P. Storrie, commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Robert W. Stillman, group executive officer, Major Samuel L. Crosthwait, group adjudant, Captain John M. Campbell, group S-2, Major Thomas M. Seymour, group S-3, Captain Marvin M. Harvey, group S-1, Captain James L. Moffett, group surgeon, and First Lieutenant William F. Taulde, group chaplain. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 4-5.
23 Apr 43 Group moves to Drane Field
On March 18 Lieutenant Colonel Herbert M. Stillman, Group executive officer, was transferred from the 387th to take command of the 322nd and the air echelon of one squadron were in England, and Colonel Stillman flew to England to assume command. It was from there that he was to take off on the fatal mission to Ijmuiden, Holland on May 17, 1943. On that mission ten B-26's, led by Colonel Stillman and flying at low level, were shot down by the Germans. Colonel Stillman, fortunately, suffered only broken bones in the crash and, though taken prisoner, escaped alive. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 5-6.
5 May 43 Maj. Bykes joins Group as Executive Officer
By the end of the second week of April the group was nearing the end of second phase training. Since the third phase called for group operations by itself in cooperation with a service group, personnel of the 387th began packing technical and personnel equipment for their first move to Drane Field, near Lakeland, Florida. The move was accomplished on April 23, and in the end proved agreeable to all. At first the men missed the ornate and elaborate PX's and clubs of MacDill Field, but this loss was more than compensated for by the adoption of more comfortable and less formal uniforms and the knowledge that they were the only unit on the field. Working in the open and in tents after using the big hangars at MacDill gave them a feeling of real accomplishment, for they were operating under conditions similar to those in a combat theater. Shortly after the group arrived at Drane Field, the second phase of training was completed and the third began. Under Colonel Storrie's able direction the combat crews and ground personnel were becoming expert in their jobs, and accustomed to operations at any time or place.
During second phase training several pilots had become quite "hot" and were flying their planes rather low over the Florida terrain. One day Lieutenant Charles B. White, now Major White, came back with leaves and twigs caught underneath the fuselage, scratches and green stain from leaves under the wings. He told the crew chief to hurry and get the plane cleaned up and the scratches painted over. This the crew chief promptly accomplished. Soon Colonel Storrie came around the line to look over the planes and stopped critically before Lieutenant White's particular ship.
Sergeant, what happened to your ship here with these scratches on it?"
"My pilot hit a bird, sir," answered the crew chief, loyally lying.
"Well, what caused this green stain underneath the wings?"
"Why, he hit a parrot, sir."
The colonel closed his jaw tightly and walked away.
Before leaving Lakeland the group, because of its fine record of training during this period, received a personal commendation from Brigadier General Parker, commanding general of Third Bomber Command, stating that the training record of the 387th was the finest yet done by any medium bombardment group.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 6-7.
10 May 43 Air echelon moves from Lakeland to Godman Field
On May 5, Major Philip Bykes, of the 25th Wing of the Anti-Submarine Command, joined the group as executive officer, filling the vacancy left by the transfer of Lieutenant Colonel Stillman. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 7.
11 May 43 Ground echelon leaves Lakeland for Godman Field
Third phase training continued into May and then slowed down because of a shortage of gasoline. ... With the end of the third phase in sight, the group was ordered to Godman Field, Fort Knox, Kentucky to complete this stage and to join the Second Army maneuvers, then in progress. On, May 10, Colonel Storrie led the air echelon in a group mission from Lakeland to Godman Field. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 7.
14 May 1943 322nd BG makes first B-26 attacks over Europe
The ground echelon, under command of Major Crosthwait, left Lakeland on May 11th by train and rejoined the air echelon at Godman Field two days later. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 7.
17 May 1943 B-26s of 322nd BG slaughtered en route to Ijmuiden
12 B-26's are dispatched against the Velsen power station at Ijmuiden, The Netherlands; 11 hit the target at 1100 hours; 1 B-26 is damaged beyond repair when it crashes upon returning to base and 9 others are damaged; casualties are 1 KIA and 7 MIA. .... The attack at Ijmuiden is made at low level by the 322d Bombardment Group (Medium), the first US medium bomber group to become operational in the UK. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The three B-26 Groups slated for operations against European targets arrived in England soon after the Allied invasion of North Africa and were sent on to Tunisia. There they soon learned that low-level attacks were ineffective and costly. A switch to medium altitude was made, with formations of four to six a/c dropping on the lead a/c, equipped with a Norden bombsight. Losses were reduced, bombing accuracy improved and the groups effectively supported the fighting in Sicily and Italy from bases in Corsica and Sardinia. In the meantime more groups were arriving in England and were assigned to the Eighth Air Force, understandably pre-occupied with heavy bomber operations against strategic targets in Germany. The B-26 Wing's staff officers apparently ignored the lessons in the Pacific and Africa and chose the British Doctrine of small formations attacking vital targets at low level, where precise bombing was necessary to minimize civilian casualties in the occupied countries of France, Belgium and Holland.
The first such mission was assigned on 14 May 43. The target was a power generating station at Ijmuiden, Hollandsource of power for northern Holland. Twelve Marauders flew the mission; all were damaged, one man was killed and photo reconnaissance revealed no bombs hit the target.
Paul Priday (556th B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
11 B-26's of the 322d Bombardment Group (Medium) are dispatched on a low-level mission to bomb power stations at Haarlem and Ijmuiden, The Netherlands; 1 B-26 aborts, the other 10 are all shot down before they reach the target; casualties are 58 MIA. This mission prompts the Eighth Air Force to abandon low-level medium bomber attacks. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Three days later, over, the strenuous objections of the Group Commander, a second attack was ordered on the same target. Eleven a/c were launched and flew across the channel at 50' altitude to avoid German radar. Thirty-three miles from the Dutch coast, one a/c aborted with an electrical problem. The pilot increased altitude as he turned back and possibly alerted German radar. This incident was combined with a navigational error, which brought the formation over a heavy defended area before they even approached the target. Bombing results were negative, ten a/c were shot down and the only Marauder, which returned to England was the one, which aborted over the channel.
This mission resulted in a reevaluation of' the low-level tactics in which the crews were being trained. Retraining was initiated, both in England, and the Operational Training Units in the United States. Bombing was to be done from 10,000 to 15,000 feet with lead crews utilizing the Norden bomb sight and wing a/c dropping, when the lead a/c dropped. This required precise formations - six a/c in a flight, three flights in a box and two boxes in a group. (three boxes for a maximum effort.)
Paul Priday (556th B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
20 May 43 Simulated
attack on power plant at Soneca, Georgia
21 May 43 Air echelon alerted for overseas movement
During the Tennessee maneuvers of the early summer the missions flown by the B-26s of the 387th in close support of ground troops played a large part in assisting the attacking Blue Army by inflecting large losses on the defending Red Army. On May 20th during the visit of Third Air Force inspectors, a mission was flown from Godman Field to simulate an attack on a power plant at Soneca, Georgia, and the group was pronounced "ready for combat". History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 7-8.
23 May 43 Air echelon arrives at Selfridge Field to pick up new B-26s
The next day the air echelon was alerted for overseas movement.... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 8.
Thu, 10 Jun 43 Air echelon moves to Hunter Field; Ground echelon leaves for Camp Kilmer
...and by May 23rd all air echelon personnel had left Godman Field by train for Selfridge Field, Michigan. This separation of the air and ground units was to last until the reunion in England. There were rumors at the time that ground and air echelons were to be permanently separated, as in the case of the 344th Bombardment Group. No one wanted to believe those reports, because since December an efficient organization had been built and close friendships formed. Also, very few, after the months of strenuous training, had any desire to return to MacDill and begin training over again. The flight echelon arrived at Selfridge Field on May 23, 1943. There the crews found new B-26s and new personal equipment. For two weeks the crews were busy checking out the new ships, testing gas consumption, and becoming accustomed to the feel of the new combat models of the B-26 Marauder. Since only a minimum of ground personnel had come along, the crews had to take care of both technical work and administrative details. Pilots became adjutants, gunners, first sergeants and sergeant-majors, new roles for flying crews.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 8.
Fri, 11 Jun 43 Air echelon equipped for overseas service; ground echelon arrives at Camp Kilmer
On Friday [June 10 was actually a Thursday], June 10, the entire flight echelon prepared to take off from Selfridge to Hunter Field, Savannah, Georgia on the first leg of the journey to England. When thunderheads were reported over the mountains on the route to Savannah, there was some doubt concerning the time of take-off. All doubt was removed, however, about nine o'clock when Colonel Storrie, piloting Bat-Outa-Hell II, took off leading the 558th squadron. At intervals of one hour apart the other squadrons, the 556th, 559th and 557th, followed. Some planes did not leave at that time because modifications had not been completed. The weather from Selfridge to Savannah was nasty, and before all planes could arrive, the weather had closed in on Hunter Field. Consequently, all but two 557th planes had to land at other fields and did not arrive at Hunter Field until the next day. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 8-9.
The ground echelon remained at Godman Field, Fort Knox, Kentucky, until June 10, and in that time finished training and packing. On that day the band began to play, the big bass drum began to beat, and the ground personnel of the 387th followed it right out of Godman Field onto the train for Camp Kilmer, New Jersey.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 11.
Sat, 12 Jun 43
At Hunter the crews received all equipment necessary for overseas service, and further modifications on the planes were made. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 9.
After arriving at Camp Kilmer on the morning of Jun 11 the group put itself into the hand of the staging officials for final check of equipment, supplies, and general readiness. With the promise of passes to New York City as soon as the entire group was checked out, it took only two days to tie all loose ends together and get the stamp of approval. It was here that the distasteful but necessary procedure of mail censorship began. During the last eight days at Kilmer there were lectures and drilling during the day and passes to New Brunswick and New York City for half the men at night.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 11.
After leaving Godman Field, Kentucky, we went by train to Camp Kilmer, New Jersey and on June 23, 1943, we were loaded onto the Queen Mary with 20,000 soldiers more or less and headed for England. There were two meals a day and a two hour wait in line for each meal. I can still smell that mutton and see those little round slimy potatoes and the cold coffee. Stanley Folk (556th B.S.), quoted in Maurauder Thunder
Sun, 13 Jun 43 First elements of air echelon move to Langley Field, Va.
Tue, 15 Jun 43 - Air echelon departs for Presque Isle, Maine, but weather forces landing in N.H.
On Sunday Colonel Storrie again led the 558th on its trip to Langley Field. Others followed on Sunday and Monday, and by Monday night most planes were serviced and ready for the trip north. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 9.
Wed, 16 Jun 43 Air echelon resumes flight to Presque Isle
More bad weather between Langley Field and Presque Isle, Maine, forced the planes to land at Crenier Field, Manchester, New Hampshire; ... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 9.
Sat, 19 Jun 43 Air echelon flies to Goose Bay, Labrador, then to Bluie West 1, Greenland
...but on the morning of June 16 the entire group, except about six stragglers, took off for Presque Isle, which was the port of embarkation for planes going over the northern route. The stay, prolonged to three days at Presque Isle because of bad weather, gave the crews a chance to get their ships ready and to get thoroughly briefed on the difficulties of navigation over the north Atlantic. There could be no approximations; navigation had to be perfect. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 9.
On the afternoon of June 19 the squadrons took off at hour intervals for the trip to Goose Bay, Labrador. The trip proved a good orientation flight for the navigators, but was otherwise uneventful. The stay at Goose Bay was only long enough to allow for eating, refueling, a short nap and briefing. Flying to B W 1, Greenland, was by far the most hazardous part of the journey because most of the trip was made in a thick fog which limited visibility to a hundred yards. It also provided some beautiful sights, for when the planes were about fifty miles from land, the fog broke, and the crews first saw the icebergs drifting in the sea 9,000 feet below, resembling giant ice cream cones of multiple geometric designs. The landing was a difficult procedure requiring a great amount of skill. The approach is in one direction only and requires the landing of the plane on the water's edge where the landing strip, made of mesh, rose rapidly uphill to a height of 160 feet above sea level. The crunching of the wheels against the mesh was a welcome sound to all crews. Fortunately every one of "Kolonel Karl's Kombat Kids" safely touched soil on Greenland.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 9-10.
June 19 556th Bomber Squadron, 387th Bomb Group off for duty at Station X somewhere in England, from Bresque Isle, Maine. TABASCO forced to return to base, engine trouble.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sun, 20 Jun 43 Air echelon
leaves Bluie West 1 for Iceland
The weather at B W 1 was constantly closing in and lifting, but never becoming clear enough to permit a take-off. As a result, the various flights took off at intervals of from four to ten hours apart; ... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 10.
June 20 TABASCO off early in morning on first leg of overseas trip. First stop, Goose Bay, Labrador. Refueled and more engine work. Second stop, SW1, Greenland.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Mon, 21 Jun 43 Air echelon
arrives at Meck Field, Iceland
Tue, 22 Jun 43 Ground echelon ordered overseas.
... but by the afternoon of June 21 all planes except one were off and on their way to Iceland. The trip from Greenland to Iceland was the most beautiful stretch of the trip. The sun was bright, and at one time visibility was good for 152 nautical miles. No trouble was experience in attaining an altitude of 12,000 feet to get over the ice caps, and the scene of the planes at this height was a sight to remember. Iceland was visible forty-five minutes before the planes had arrived at the shoreline, and the landmarks on which the crews had been briefed in Greenland were so clearly visible that there was no mistaking the destination. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 10.
June 21 After overtaking rest of formation at SW1 off for Reykjavik, Iceland.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 23 Jun 43 Air echelon flies to England; ground echelon boards the Queen Mary.
On June 22 the final order for movement overseas came... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 11.
Thu, 24 Jun 43 Air echelon overnights at Aldermaston, Queen Mary leaves New York
On Iceland, again, there was a delay because of bad weather, but on June 23 the take-off for Prestwick was allowed. This trip, unlike the one from Greenland, was flown at an altitude of 1500 to 2000 feet, and the planes were constantly darting in and out of low flying clouds. After three hours of flying the rocky shore of Stornoway, Scotland, became visible. Landfall was made and permission given to proceed to Prestwick. Prestwick was reached about five in the afternoon, and the crews were fed doughnuts and chocolate by the Red Cross. After the planes had been refueled, the formation headed south and reached Aldermaston in England just at nightfall. The last planes came in with the help of landing lights. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 10.
...and the next day all were enroute to New York harbor. The trip consisted of a train ride to Hoboken and what all would swear was at least a five mile hike with full pack and baggage to the edge of the Hudson River. Then came the ferry trip across to the Queen Mary. With the group on this gigantic liner were what seemed like two-thirds of the combined Army and Navy, but was in reality, a contingent of about 14,000 troops.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 11-12.
June 23 Next step, Prestwick, Scotland, bad weather forcing us to stop at Stornoway, Scotland.
June 24
The night of the 24th spent in Prestwick, Scotland.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
[The night the air echelon actually spent at Prestwick was June 23.]
Fri, 25 Jun 43 Air echelon flies to Station 162
The following day the Queen pulled away from the dock and started down the Hudson, into New York Harbor, through the mine field, and out to sea. Most of the men had assumed, without saying so, that the trip would begin in the middle of the darkest night available, but, as usual, the Army had other ideas. The boat left the dock exactly at noon. To the accompaniment of whistles, bells, and fog horns the Queen Mary slipped slowly past the New York skyline out into the Atlantic. It was felt by all that the noise could be heard as far as Berlin. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 12.
June 25 Our seventh night en route spent in Aldermaston, England.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
[The night the air echelon actually spent in Aldermaston was June 24.]
Sun, 27 Jun 43
HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Heavy) arrives at Chipping Ongar, England from the US. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
After waiting at Aldermaston a day for Colonel Storrie, who had been forced to land at Stornoway, the planes took off on the afternoon of June 25 for Chipping Ongar. The trip was short, but it gave them their first glimpse of London, which they were to see many times thereafter. On seeing the city and the installations of their permanent base, the reaction of all the crew was "We'd like to stay here until we can return to the USA". The crossing had set two records. It was the fastest trip yet made by any group and the first group ever to cross without the loss of a single man. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 11-12.
On landing at Chipping Ongar the crews had found that the field was barely ready to receive them. The air echelon had arrived in such excellent time that the runways were only partially complete. When he learned that the 387th planes were at Prestwick, Lieutenant Colonel Charles Brown, commander of the 831st Engineer Battalion, had kept his men working far into the night of the two days preceding the planes' arrival in order to get the field ready for the landings. The hardworking engineers, who had spent eight months of rain and fog to get the field ready, admitted a feeling of satisfaction at the sight of sixty-five new B-26s dropping wheels on the field.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 14.
June 26 A tired and dirty group arrived at our new home after crossing the Atlantic without mishap, "Thanks" to Col. Storrie and his well-trained pilots.
Lt. Bartley (556) crashed his ship landing at the base, all escaped injury.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
[The day the air echelon actually arrived at Statiohn 162 was June 24.]
The airfield site--three miles from Ongar and eight miles from Chelmsford--was requisitioned in 1941, but it was not until August 19, 1942 that the 831st Engineer Battalion of the United States Army arrived to start construction. Much of the rubble used in the foundations came from the plentiful supply cleared from London bomb sites, but the airfield was still incomplete when the 387th Bomb Group arrived on June 26, 1943.
Under the command of Colonel Carl Storrie and equipped with B-26 Martin Marauders, the 387th formed a Wing in company with the 386th Bomb Group at Boxted, near Colchester (later at Great Dunmow), the 322nd Bomb Group at Andrews Field, near Braintree and the 323rd Bomb Group at Earls Colne.
Newspaper clipping (2 Nov. 1984).
[There is an inconsistency here: the group history has the group arriving on June 25.]
Tue, 28 Jun 43
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.On June 27, 1943, the day after the arrival of the air echelon at A-162, Major General Ira C. Eaker, commander of the Eighth Air Force, and Brigadier Generals Robert Candee and Francis M. Brady of the Eighth Air Support Command arrived at the field and addressed the crews in the base hanger. General Eaker complimented the group on its successful Atlantic crossing and its fine record as a medium bombardment group and outlined the job they were to do. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 15.
When the men of the 387th arrived, they were told that the nearest German fighter field was only twenty minutes flying time away--directly across the channel.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 17.
For the first two days the course was south, far enough for the paint to steam off the sides and far enough, too, for the men below docks to become thoroughly parboiled. All troops aboard had meanwhile been initiated into the ominous habit of wearing life preservers. From the very first the great number of soldiers on board gave the ship the look of a slaver. Personnel were divided into sections which changed quarters each afternoon. Those who had been on deck one night went below the next, and vice-versa. For the enlisted men and junior officers there was not much to choose between the pallets on deck and their stifling air of the hold. A dozen second lieutenants were jammed into a cabin originally built for two. First lieutenants, crowded eight into one of the same type cabins, fared a little better. The tradition of R H I P was carefully observed on up the line so that the single one-star general aboard basked alone in a single cabin.
Meals, served twice a day, were quite good as far as the officers were concerned; but to dignify the sorry stuff served to the enlisted men by the name meals would be a gross overstatement. Luckily, there was a PX on board; the men lived largely on a diet of candy
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 12-13.
June 27 to August 15 Spent in flight training and ground school.
Station 152, later to be known as Chipping Ongar is located 9 miles west of Chelmsford between the villages of Willingale, Fyfield, High Ongar and Chipping Ongar. London lies approximately 25 miles southwest of station 152.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 29 Jun 43
On the third day the course veered sharply north until weather conditions changed from torrid to frigid. During the first trip the usual rumors of torpedoes and subs made the rounds, but nothing sensational occurred. The Queen, attended constantly by a B-24 Liberator overhead, ploughed along imperturbably, zigzagging through a smooth sea. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 12-13.
Thu, 30 Jun 43
The first signs of land were the mountains of Northern Ireland which, on the morning of June 29, rose dimly out of the horizon off starboard. The bluish gray shadow of the crags outlined in the sunlight was the introductions to many more beauties of the older world. The big ship passed two strong convoys in military column, trailing barrage balloons behind them and escorted by destroyers. After turning south and proceeding down the Irish Sea, the Queen Mary, about dusk, made a horseshoe turn and headed northeast into the Firth of Clyde. In the last sunlight of a gorgeous cloudless day the soft light of a summer evening glanced across the hedgerows, rounded green hills, ripe wheat fields, thatched roof cottages and yellow haystacks to give all objects a warm golden sheen. The sight of a girl in a red dress, walking with her dog in the fields along the shore, added the finishing touch to a picturesque sight. Maybe the scene would be that beautiful any time; maybe it only looked that good to soldiers ending an ocean voyage. Finally the Queen Mary drew abreast of Gourock into the company of fifteen or more large ships, many ex-luxury liners, all loaded with soldiers. Almost immediately the men were transported to shore by lightera job that did not end until the next night.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 13-14.
Jul 43
After the men had been loaded on the trains, the trip to the field began. At the end of an all night trip the train pulled into Chelmsford, Essex where the men were put into trucks and taken on a thirty-minute ride to the next base. On arriving at airfield A-162 at Willingale, near Chipping Ongar, the ground echelons were welcomed by the flying crews, who spoke knowingly of left-hand driving, cycling, haystacking, "thruppiny bits," RAAFS, mild and bitters, and Piccadilly.
...
Although neither the runways nor the squadron areas were complete, the spirits of the men were high. After the ocean voyage ground and air crews alike were glad to be together again. Colonel Storrie expressed the feeling of the group when he said, "Where are the bombs? Let's go to war!" History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 14.
On June 30, 1943 we landed in Glasgow, Scotland and traveled by train to near Chipping Ongar, England. Stanley Folk, (556th B.S.), quoted in Maurauder Thunder
Fri, 16 Jul 43
During the period of fair weather in July the station was in the process of being completed, for the group had arrived several weeks ahead of time. Various officers and enlisted men attended training schools. In contrast to the training period, when the squadrons had operated with a good bit of independence, group headquarters took over a larger control. Group operations, group intelligence, group personnel and other sections in headquarters began drawing men from the squadron sections to help with their work. There was relatively little air activity because many modifications had to be made on the planes and because there was no gas until late in the month. Ground school was organized for air crews and toward the end of July several practice bombing missions and "doughnuts" north to the Wash were flown. All efforts were made to see that the crews were sufficiently shaken down and primed before the time came for operations. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 16.
As operations began, squadron commanders of the 387th were: 556th, Captain Walter J. Ives; 557th, Captain Charles R. Keller; 558th, Captain Joseph H. Richardson and 559th, Captain William T. Boren. These officers were to lead their men in laying the foundation of the long series of commendable and effective missions flown by the Group until the final defeat of Germany.
The group insignia, yellow slanted stripes on a black background, painted on the vertical stabilizers of the planes, was given the name "Tiger Stripe" by the men of the 387th. As time went by the Group became generally known as the "Tiger Stripe Marauder Group."
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 17-18.
Sat, 17 Jul 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission Number 1: 16 B-26B's are dispatched against the marshalling yard at Abbeville, France; 14 hit the target at 2000 hours; 10 aircraft are damaged; casualties are 2 WIA. With this mission, the VIII Air Support Command begins combat operations, having acquired the 322d, 323d, 386th, and 387th Bombardment Groups (Medium). [The 387th did not participate in this mission.] Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
VIII Air Support Command Mission Number 2: B-26's fly a diversion to the Cayeux, France area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Formal dedication of the field took place on July 17 with all units of the field taking part. A review of the various units was held with music by the 342nd Engineer's band. An aerial demonstration by thirty-six B-26s flying close formation followed. Brigadier General C. A. Moore, Chief Engineer Etimsa, then presented the field, on behalf of the Engineers, to Brigadier General Robert C. Candee of the Eighth Air Support Command. General Candee congratulated Lieutenant Colonel Brown and his men of the 831st Engineers, builders of the field, on the fast and capable work done. He concluded by saying, "Archimedes once said, "Give me a base on which to stand and a lever long enough and I can move the earth". You, General Moore, and your men have given us the base and Colonel Storrie is very eager to start moving the earth. A tour of the field was then made, followed by a luncheon with Brigadier General Moore, Lieutenant Colonel P. C. Brown and representing the British Army, General J. R. Nigan and Lieutenant Colonel E. A. K. Lake. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 15.
Mon, 26 Jul 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission Number 3: 18 B-26B's are dispatched against the coke ovens at Ghent, Belgium; 13 hit the target at 1458 hours; 6 aircraft are damaged. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 27 Jul 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission Number 4: 18 B-26B's are dispatched against the Saint-Omer/Longuenesse Airfield in France; 15 hit the target at 1112 hours; 4 aircraft are damaged. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 28 Jul 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission Number 5: 18 B-26B's are dispatched against Tricqueville Airfield, France; 17 hit the target at 1825 hours. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 29 Jul 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission Numbers 6 and 7: The primary targets are in Belgium and France, i.e.: 1. 18 B-26B's are dispatched against the coke ovens at Zeebrugge, Belgium; 17 hit the target at 1105 hours; 3 B-26's are damaged.
2. 18 B-26B's are dispatched against Tricqueville Airfield, France but the mission is recalled when the accompanying fighters do not join up.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 30 Jul 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 8 and 9: 2 airfields are the target: 1. 18 B-26B's are dispatched against Schipol Airfield at Amsterdam,The Netherlands; the mission is aborted due to a navigational error.
2. 21 B-26B's are dispatched against Ft. Rouge Airfield, France; 19 hit the target at 1828 hours; 8 B-26's are damaged.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 31 Jul 43 Mission 1: Diversion
VIII Air Support Command Mission Numbers 10A and 10B: 2 airfields are targetted: 1. 24 B-26B's are dispatched to the Woensdrecht Airfield, The Netherlands; 11 hit the target at 0657 hours; 1 B-26 is lost, 1 is damaged beyond repair and 5 are damaged; casualties are 7 WIA and 6 MIA.
2. 24 B-26B's are dispatched to the Courtrai/Wevelghem Airfield, France but the mission is recalled because the escorting fighters are fog bound on the ground.
In the 2 B-26 missions, the B-26 crews claim 6-5-1 Luftwaffe aircraft.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 2 Aug 43 Mission 2: Diversion
VIII Air Support Command Missions Number 11A, 11B, 11C and 11D: The targets are 4 airfields in France: 1. 21 B-26B's are dispatched against Merville Airfield; 20 hit the target at 1120 hours; 2 B-26's are damaged.
2. 21 B-26B's are dispatched against Poix/Nord Airfield; 19 hit the target at 1122 hours; 1 B-26 is lost and 5 ared damaged; casualties are 7 MIA.
3. 21 B-26B's are dispatched against Abbeville/Drucat Airfield and all hit the target at 1617 hours.
4. 21 B-26B's are dispatched against Tricqueville Airfield; 18 hit the target at 1623 ours; they claim 0-1-0 Luftwaffe aircraft; 5 B-26's are damaged.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Operations began modestly on July 31, 1943 when thirty-six aircraft, led by Colonel Storrie, made a diversionary sweep over the English Channel in support of other Eighth Air Force groups. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Wed, 4 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 12A and 12B: Two airfields in France are targetted. 1. 34 B-26's are dispatched to Merville Airfield; 31 hit the target at 0810 hours; 1 aircraft is damaged beyond repair and 15 are damaged.
2. 21 B-26's are dispatched to the St. Omer/Ft. Rouge Airfield; 18 hit the target at 0900 hours; 13 aircraft are damaged.
Total casualties for both missions are 6 WIA.
VIII Air Support Command Missions 13A and 13B: An attack Woensdrecht Airfield, The Netherlands is cancelled; Mission 13B is a diversion.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Again on August 2 Colonel Storrie led a similar [diversionary sweep] mission, which, like the first, was flown without incident. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Sun, 8 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 14: 36 B-26's are dispatched to shipyards at Le Trait, France; 33 hit the target at 1926 hours without loss or casualties. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Aug. 4 Diversion. [I'm not convinced this date is right.] A diversional raid aimed at the northern coast of France. For most of us it was our first sight of the French mainland. We were well covered by P47 fighters as our escort. As expected, we saw no enemy fighters or flak.
We flew F/O Dillionaires ship (QQQQ). As hoped, our crew was kept together. Lt. M.R. Campbell, Pontiac, Mich., Lt. B.J. Anderson, Butternut, Wis., Lt. J.P. Spurlock, Atlanta, Ga., S/Sgt. E.V. Burd, Califon, New Jersey, S/Sgt. H.W. Altizer, Henlawson, W.Va., T/Sgt. Burl Thompson, Sedan, Kansas. 36 Planes
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sun, 9 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 15: 36 B-26's are dispatched to Poix/Nord Airfield, France but the formation is turned back by weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 12 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 16A and 16B: 72 B-26's are dispatched to the St Omer/Ft Rouge Airfield in France; clouds prevent bombing and only 1 aircraft hits the target at 1904 hours; 11 aircraft are damaged and 6 men are WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 15 Aug 43 Mission 3: St Omer-Ft. Rouge Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 17 and 18: 71 B-26's are dispatched to the Poix/Nord Airfield in France; 34 hit the target at 1052 hours; 13 aircraft are damaged. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 16 Aug 43 Mission 4: Bernay-St. Martin Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 19A, 19B and 20: Three Luftwaffe airfields are targetted: 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched against St Omer/Ft Rouge Airfield in France; 31 hit the target at 0959 hours; 18 B-26's are damaged.
2. 36 B-26's are dispatched against Woensdrecht Airfield, The Netherlands; they turn back at the Dutch coast aborted the mission
3. 21 B-26's are dispatched against the marshalling yard at Abbeville, France; 19 hit the target at 1933 hours; 9 aircraft are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On August 15th, a 387th formation led by Colonel Storrie flew its first [bombing] mission as a unit against St. Omar/Ft. Rouge airfield, France. Results were good. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
August 15 Sortie Hot damn, the real thing. 36 ships to the Fort Rouge Drome at St. Omar, with 8 - 300 lb. bombs. Heavy flak at the coast, intense at target, all very accurate. Good evasive action probably saved the day for a lot of us. Took off at 0900, landed at 1115. Lt. Nielson in "Gravel Agitator" landed at an emergency airfield. 35 ships returned to base, several with flak scars, but none serious.
We flew "Stinky" in no. 33 position. M.R. [Manny Campbell] did a swell job of flying. No fighter opposition, good coverage by "Spits."
Results uncertain due to 6/10 cloud cover at target. Later showed "Not so hot."
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary, quoted in Shootin' In, Nov. 2001, p. 10.
On August 15, the 387BG would make its combat debut attacking the St. Omer/Ft. Rouge Airdrome. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 51 (footnote).
Early days at Chipping Ongar were taken up with fitting new equipment to the Marauders and in operational training, but on August 15, 1943, the Group flew its first mission, against Luftwaffe airfields in France. Newspaper clipping, 2 Nov 1984.
Tue, 17 Aug 43 Mission 5: Poix-Nord Airfield [Recalled-no escort]
VIII Air Support Command Missions 21, 22A and 22B: Airfields in France are targetted today; no casualties. 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Bernay St Martin Airfield; 31 hit the target at 1117 hours; 2 aircraft are damaged.
2. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Beaumont Le Roger Airfield; 29 hit the target at 1700 hours and 3 hit Conches Airfield at 1703 hours; 3 aircraft are damaged.
3. A diversion is flown by B-26's of the 323d Bombardment Group (Medium).
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
August 16 Sortie Our second mission was another 36 ship formation aimed at the airfield at Bernay, France. Took off at 1000, met our escorts of "Spits" and proceeded across channel.
We had both light and heavy flak, very meager and fairly accurate. Again we met no fighter opposition.
This time we really blew the hell out of things. Bombs hit all over the target, starting fires that sent columns of smoke 2000 feet in the air. Lt. "Tex" Allen accompanied us on this mission, riding as waist gunner. All ships returned to base with very little damage.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary, quoted in Shootin' In, Nov. 2001, p. 10.
Wed, 18 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 23 and 24: Two airfields in France are targetted. 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Bryas Sud Airfield; 29 hit the target at 1051 hours; 2 aircraft are damaged.
2. 72 B-26's are dispatched to Poix/Nord Airfield; 35 hit the target at 1552 hours; 20 aircraft are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 19 Aug 43 Mission 6: Poix-Nord Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 25A and 25B: Two Luftwaffe airfields are targetted: 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Lille/Vendeville Airfield in France; because of mechanical trouble with communications equipment and the bombsight in the lead plane, 22 aircraft bomb the Ypres/Vlamertinge Airfield in Belgium at 1016 hours; 23 aircraft are damaged; there are no casualties.
2. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Woensdrecht Airfield in the Netherlands; 32 hit the target at 1032 hours; 8 aircraft are damaged; there are no casualties.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 22 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 27A, 27B and 28: Three Luftwaffe airfields in France are targetted: 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Amiens/Glisy Airfield; all hit the target at 1129 hours; they claim 1-0-2 Luftwaffe aircraft; 1 B-26 is damaged beyond repair and 9 are damaged; casualties are 2 WIA.
2. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Poix/Nord Airfield; 35 hit the target at 1218 hours; 1 aircraft is damaged; there are no casualties.
3. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Bryas Sud Airfield but the target is obscured by cloud and the mission is aborted.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Aug. 19 Sortie Our third raid took us to the much-bombed field at Poix, France. Again 36 ships with the same bomb load took off at 1100, met our Spit escort at the coast and went into France. We received quite a surprise as we met neither flak or fighter opposition as this was to be one of the toughest field yet visited by us. Hits were well patterned throughout the dispersal areas.
We flew Lt. Andersons ship, Jisther. All ships returned to base at 1330 with no damage. ResultsGOOD
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary
Mon, 24 Aug 43 Mission 7: Diversion
VIII Air Support Command Missions 30A and 30B: Two Luftwaffe airfields in France are the targets: 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to the Beaumont-le-Roger Airfield; 35 hit the target at 2110 hours; they claim 3-0-0 Luftwaffe aircraft; 1 B-26 is lost and 8 are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA and 6 MIA.
2. 36 B-26's are dispatched to the Poix/Nord Airfield; they all return early when they are unable to contact the escort fighters, RAF Spitfires.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 25 Aug 43 Mission 8: Rouen power plant
VIII Air Support Command Missions 33A & 33B: B-26's fly 2 diversions for the B-17's. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
August 24 Diversion This day proved to be a disappointment to me, my birthday and we were scheduled as a spare ship on a more disappointing mission another diversionary raid. We followed the formation off the ground at 1715 and very shortly fell into no. 18 position. We headed for the coast of France then turned north just off the coastline hoping to draw fighters from a 17 formation striking at Paris. We met absolutely nothing although we were a little surprised and excited when plenty of Spits appeared as escorts after being told we would have none.
This was the first trip for TABASCO, our own ship. More pleased than ever with the ship.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary
Thu, 27 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 34A & 34B: Two locations in France are targetted: 1. 21 B-26's are dispatched to the power station at Rouen; all hit the target at 1832 hours; 2 aircraft are damaged.
2. 36 B-26's are dispatched to Tricqueville Airfield; 31 hit the target at 1834 hours; they claim 1-8-5 Luftwaffe aircraft; 2 B-26's are damaged.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 30 Aug 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 36A & 36B: Two missions are scheduled to targets in France: 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to the Poix Nord Airfield; 35 hit the target at 0826 hours; there are no losses or casualties.
2. 21 B-26's are dispatched to the Rouen Power Station but the mission is aborted because of bad weather and extremely heavy enemy fighter opposition.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 31 Aug 43 Mission 9: Lille-Vendeville Airfield [Lt. Anderson's plne shot down by flak]
VIII Air Support Command Mission 38: 36 B-26's are dispatched to an ammunition dump at Foret d'Eperlecques near Saint-Omer, France; 33 hit the target at 1859 hours; 14 aircraft are damaged; casualties are 3 WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 2 Sep 43 Mission 10: Lille-Nord Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 41 and 42: 216 B-26's are dispatched to Rouen and Mazingarbe power stations; Poix/Nord and Lille/Nord Airfields; and the Hesdin fuel dump; 104 hit the targets; 1 B-26 is lost and 13 damaged; casualties are 5 WIA and 6 MIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
These first missions, because the crews were "green" in combat and the weather was bad, necessitated long bomb runs, but only one crew was lost in August. Over Lille/Venderville the plane of Lieutenant E. L. Anderson and Lieutenant L. C. Stevenson was hit by a direct burst of flak, broke in two, and went down burning. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Eleven more missions followed in August. The Marauders were usually escorted by Spitfires, but on August 31 the first Chipping Ongar Marauder--named "King Bee" was lost to enemy action. Newspaper clipping, 2 Nov 1984.
Fri, 3 Sep 43 Mission 11: Lille-Nord Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 41 and 42: 216 B-26's are dispatched to 5 targets in France (36 per target); the missions to a power station at Rouen and Poix/Nord and Lille/Nord Airfields are aborted due to weather; 35 B-26's hit a power station at Mazingarbe and 69 hit a fuel dump at Hesden; 1 B-26 is lost and 13 damaged; casualties are 5 WIA and 6 MIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sept. 2 Sortie Briefed at 1500 for a dusk smash at an airdrome at Lille, France. Take off at 1730, 36 ship formation with Spit escort. We encountered no fighters but those damn Huns threw everything but the kitchen sink at us. We missed our landfall and entered over Dunkirk after meeting flak while still over the Channel. We failed to reach our target and returned to base with our bombs. Some fun putting those pins back in the bombs before landing. One ship lost a direct hit from flak.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sat, 4 Sep 43 Mission 12: Coutrai marshalling yard
VIII Air Support Command Mission 44: 36 B-26's are dispatched to the Beaumont le Roger Airfield and 31 hit the target at 1007 hours; 36 are dispatched to Beauvais/Tille Airfield and all hit the target at 0907 hours; and 69 are dispatched to the Lille/Nord Airfield and 31 hit the target at 0828 hours; 20 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 5 Sep 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 47: 144 B-26's are dispatched to 4 marshalling yards in France (36 B-26's to each target); 33 hit Courtrai marshalling yard at 1756 hours; 33 hit the Lille/Deliverance marshalling yard at 1756 hours; 34 hit the Hazebrouck marshalling yard at 1831 hours; and 23 hit the St Pol marshalling yard at 1833 hours; 22 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 3 WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Succeeding missions during August and September included attacks on marshalling yards at Courtrai, Serquiz, Rouen and Lille. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
The formation leader on each of the first twelve missions run by the 387th had been Colonel Carl R. Storrie, gallant and able group commander. Under his leadership the green flying crews had been initiated into combat, had learned to hold the course through flak-blotched skies, and had felt the exhilarating pleasure of shooting down German fighters. Now they were becoming experienced veterans, capable of carrying on the high traditions of the 387th under another leader.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 20.
Mon, 6 Sep 43 Mission 13: Rouen marshalling yard
VIII Air Support Command Mission 48: 3 marshalling yards are targeted. 72 B-26's are dispatched to 2 marshalling yards at Ghent, Belgium; 31 bomb one yard at 0827 hours; 32 bomb the second yard at 0831 hours; the 36B-26's dispatched to the marshalling yard at Courtrai, France are recalled due to weather; 38 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 4 WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 7 Sep 43 Mission 15: Lille marshalling yard
VIII Air Support Command Missions 50 and 51. 1. 144 B-26's are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Ghent, Belgium and Rouen, France; the Ghent mission is recalled when bad weather prevents the fighter escort from taking off; 66 hit Rouen at 0738 and 0739 hours; 3 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA.
2. 144 B-26's are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Amiens and Serqueux, France; 126 hit the targets at 1755 to 1757 hours; 3 B-26's are damaged.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Succeeding missions during August and September included attacks on marshalling yards at Courtrai, Serquiz, Rouen and Lille. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Sept. 6 Sortie Briefed at 0330 for a smash at the marshalling yards at Roen, France. We took off at 0630, met escort and the 386th, making a 72 ship formation. We had light to heavy flak over target. Col Storrie again led the formation. Results of the bombing were good, with hits all through the yards.
We flew Lt. Graus ship, "Los Lobos Grande", in the no. 34 position. Lt. A.W. "Willie" Wells went as co-pilot while Andy is recuperating. M. R. continued his good work at formation flying, he can't be beat.
This was the mission we had been looking for, No. 5, the Air Medal.
Burl Thompson, Diary, quoted in Shootin' In, Nov. 2000, p. 2.
Sept. 6 Sortie
For the second time today we were briefed for another smash at marshaling yards, this time at Serquex, France. Again we went with the 386th, another 72 ship formation. We took off at 1640 and as before met our "Spit" escort and the other Marauders at the coast. We proceeded into France along the same route used in the morning.
We encountered no flak and no fighters. Made a good run on the target with very good results.
This time we flew our own ship "Tabasco", again in Purple Heart corner with Lt. Wells as co-pilot. All ships returned to base, the crews tired but happy for two sorties.
Burl Thompson, Diary, quoted in Shootin' In, Nov. 2001, p. 10.
Wed, 8 Sep 43 Mission 16: Lille-Nord Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 52: Marshalling yards at Lille and St Pol are targetted; confusion at the rendezvous point causes one group and half of another to abort the mission; St Pol is hit by 81 aircraft at 0854-0858 hours; they claim 0-0-1 Luftwaffe aircraft; 2 B-26's are damaged; no casualties.
HQ Army Air Forces decides to transfer Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton, Commanding General, and his HQ staff from Africa to the United Kingdom to reform the Ninth Air Force in the European Theater of Operations by absorbing the VIII Air Support Command. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Succeeding missions during August and September included attacks on marshalling yards at Courtrai, Serquiz, Rouen and Lille. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Thu, 9 Sep 43 Mission 18: Boulogne coastal defenses
VIII Air Support Command Missions 53 and 54. 1. 71 B-26's are dispatched to Lille/Nord Airfield in France; 68 hit the target at 0922 hours; 3 B-26's are damaged; no casualties.
2. 72 B-26's are dispatched to Lille/Vendeville Airfield in France; 68 hit the target at 1011-1013 hours; 1 B-26 is lost, 1 is damaged beyond repair and 21 are damaged; casualties are 1 MIA.
3. 72 B-26's are dispatched to Boulogne coastal defenses; 68 hit the target at 1756-1818 hours; 26 B-26's are damaged.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On September 8 and 9 the group took part in a practice invasion of the French coast in the Boulogne/Calais area. Flying in inclement weather through clouds and haze, 387th crews bombed coastal defenses of Boulogne and Andante. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Sat, 11 Sep 43
On D-day for Operation STARKEY (a rehearsal for the invasion of France), the Eighth Air Force dispatches a record number of 330 heavy bombers against various targets in France: 1. 87 B-17's are dispatched to the industrial area at Paris; 20 hit the primary target at 0903 hours and 48 hit the secondary target, the Beaumont Suroise Airfield; they claim 16-2-9 Luftwaffe aircraft; 2 B-17's are lost and 21 damaged; casualties are 3 WIA and 21 MIA.
2. 63 B-17's are dispatched to Beauvais/Tille Airfield; 59 hit the target at 0816-0819 hours; 6 B-17's are damaged.
3. 37 B-17's are dispatched to Lille/Nord Airfield; all hit the target at 0830-0833 hours; 10 B-17's are damaged; casualties are 2 WIA.
4. 56 B-17's are dispatched to Lille/Vendeville Airfield; 52 hit the target at 0830-0840 hours; 7 B-17's are damaged.
5. 56 B-17's are dispatched to Vitry-en-Artois Airfield; 51 hit the target at 0837-0840; no losses or casualties.
6. 38 B-24's are dispatched to St Omer/Ft Rouge and St Omer/Longuenesse Airfield; 28 hit the target; 3 B-24's are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA.
7. 40 B-24's are dispatched to Abbeville/Drucat Airfield; 35 hit the target; no losses or casualties.
All missions except 7. above are escorted by 215 P-47's. They claim 1-0-0 Luftwaffe aircraft; 2 P-47's are lost; casualties are 1 MIA.
Operation STARKEY is a disappointment as the Luftwaffe refuses to commit fighter defenses on a large scale, thus preventing possible destruction of many of their aircraft, which Allied air forces hoped to accomplish.
VIII Air Support Command Mission 55: 217 B-26's are dispatched to the coastal defenses around Boulogne, France; 202 hit the targets at 0745-0915 hours; 3 B-26's are lost, 2 are damaged beyond repair and 24 damaged; casualties are 11 KIA, 8 WIA and 19 MIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On September 8 and 9 the group took part in a practice invasion of the French coast in the Boulogne/Calais area. Flying in inclement weather through clouds and haze, 387th crews bombed coastal defenses of Boulogne and Andante. Results of these early operations were, in spite of the handicaps of bad weather and lack of experience, generally good. They proved the effectiveness of medium bombardment in neutralizing enemy airfields and coastal defenses, as well as hindering the flow of supplies throughout France and Belgium.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
The 556th Bomb. Squadron furnished 15 A/C for the Boulogne mission - which was Lt. Brown's first. He was in Captain Ives flight when his aircraft [sn 41-31908] was shot down. On board #908 were:
KIA Pilot 2nd Lt. E. H. Brown Copilot 2nd Lt. W.S. Ogilvie B/N 2nd Lt. H. G. Olney ROG S/Sgt. A. T. Thompson EG S/Sgt. N. F. Reese AG S/Sgt. D. J. Leach Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 36.
Marauder # 911/FW-S, with 1st Lt. Thomas L. Alford at the controls, received extensive battle damage over the target. Lt. Alford nursed his stricken aircraft back to 162, but was forced to make a crash landing. The A/C was later salvaged. Two of his crew were wounded.
Copilot
B/NWIA
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
Winston W. Hunt
Michael G. Koury Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 37.
Sept. 9 This morning we were the second formation to be briefed. The weather was as thick as soup, we doubted a try at takeoff as visibility was less than 100 yds. Col. Storrie soon informed us it was to be an instrument takeoff. Rumors were hot that an invasion of the French coast had started, was further strengthened by the fact that our targets were gun emplacements on the coast. These were our first pinpoint targets and were located at Bolougne.
The takeoff was as planned and worse than most of us thought. One ship lost on takeoff. The bomb run was uneventful other than for the usual heavy flak. One ship was forced to ditch after leaving enemy coast, (Lt. Brown, 556). As we left the coast we saw a large invasion force about five miles from Bolougne. This later proved to be only a maneuver. Lt. Alford (556) made a nice belly landing at base. Lt. Hughes co-pilot. ResultsGood.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary..
Tue, 14 Sep 43 Mission: Lille-Nord Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 56: Two locations in France are targeted: 1. 20 B-26's are dispatched to the Rouen power station; 19 hit the secondary target, the shipyard at Le Trait at 1704 hours, when the primary target is obscured by clouds; 14 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 1 WIA.
2. 35 B-26's are dispatched to Beaumont le Roger Airfield; 32 hit the target at 1756 hours; 1 B-26 is damaged beyond repair; casualties are 4 KIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 15 Sep 43 Mission: Merville Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 57: 108 B-26's are dispatched to the Woenisdrecht Airfield in the Netherlands and Lille/Nord Airfield in France; they are recalled due to weather; 18 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 3 WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 16 Sep 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 58; 2 airfields in France are targeted: 1. 72 B-26's are dispatched to Lille/Nord Airfield but the mission is aborted due to weather.
2. 68 of 72 B-26's hit Merville Airfield at 1745 and 1748 hours; 27 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 2 WIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sept. 15 Sortie Briefing at 1400, this time for a smash at the Merville, France airdrome. Took off at 1610, joined the 386th at the coast. We entered France at Gravelines and proceeded to the target with moderate flak and no fighter opposition. Again we flew our own ship with Andy back as co-pilot. We flew in no. 28 spot with Lt. Grau as box leader, Maj. Boren as group leader and Maj. Ives as our element leader. Beautiful cover by escorting "Spits". All ships returned, some with slight damage from inaccurate, meager flak.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sat, 18 Sep 43 Mission: Beauvais-Tille Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 59: 67 of 72 B-26's hit the Beaumont le Roger Airfield at 1735 hours and Tricoueville Airfield in France at 1735 hours; 2 B-26's are damaged. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 19 Sep 43 Mission: Lille-Nord Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 61 and 62: 3 installations in France are targeted: 1. 25 of 72 B-26's hit the Beauvais/Tille Airfield; 12 B-26's are damaged.
2. 18 B-26's dispatched to the Rouen marshalling yard and 72 B-26's dispatched to the Beaumont le Roger Airfield are recalled because of failure to rendezvous with fighter escort and bad weather, respectively.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sept. 18 Sortie The airdrome at Beauvis-Tille listed as an important target for us. We met no fighters and very light flak. Results of the bombing uncertain due to .7 cloud over target. Later called FAIR. Flew TABASCO in no. 29 spot.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Tue, 21 Sep 43 Mission: Beauvais-Tille Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 63 and 64: 2 airfields in France are targeted: 1. 18 of 72 B-26's hit Lille/Nord Airfield at 1139 hours; clouds prevent the 2nd group for bombing; 10 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 4 WIA.
2. 72 B-26's dispatched to Merville airfield are recalled due to weather.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 22 Sep 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 65: 44 of 73 B-26's hit the Beauvais/Tille Airfield in France at 0937-0938 hours; bad weather causes 20+ to abort; they claim 1-0-0 Luftwaffe aircraft; 1 B-26 is lost, 1 is damaged beyond repair and 12 damaged; casualties are 2 KIA, 4 WIA and 7 MIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On September 21 Major William T. Boren's plane was shot down by accurate flak over Deauvai/Lille airdrome; but several months later Major Boren, with the help of the French "underground", escaped back to England. On this same mission Lieutenant Clinton Dersheid, navigator in Captain Charles White's plane, was killed by flak shrapnel. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 19.
VIII Air Support Command Mission 66: 2 airfields in France are targeted: 1. 72 B-26's are dispatched to Beauvais/Tille Airfield but abort due to bad weather.
2. 70 of 72 B-26's hit Evreux/Fauville Airfield at 1612 & 1614 hours; no losses or casualties.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 23 Sep 43 Mission:
Conches Airfield
Fri, 24 Sep 43 Mission: Evreaux-Fauville Airfield
Sept. 23 Sortie As usual, today called for the blasting of another air drome. This was to be the deepest penetration yet made by our outfit. The target was the Conches Airfield - 60 miles west of Paris. Capt. Don Scott led the group, Lt. Grau led our box, Maj. Ives our flight. The 322nd made up the 72 ship formation with us in the No. 29 spot again. The bombing on this mission was fair. After making a perfect bomb run we damn near missed the target. No. 10 for us, and an Oak Leaf Cluster for the Air Medal.
Burl Thompson, Diary, quoted in Shootin' In, Nov. 2001, p. 11.
Sat, 25 Sep 43 Mission: St. Omer-Longuenesse Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 69 & 70: 2 airfields in France are targeted. 1. 71 of 72 B-26's hit Evreux/Fauville Airfield at 1150 hours; they claim 0-1-0 Luftwaffe aircraft; 4 B-26's are damaged.
2. 66 of 72 B-26's hit Beauvais/Tille Airfield at 1602-1603 hours; they claim 1-0-0 Luftwaffe aircraft; 17 B-26's are damaged.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sept. 24 Sortie Continuing our blitz on enemy airfields and installations, we went to Evreux-Frauville, 40 mi. west of Paris. This was the deepest penetration yet attempted by our group and the second raid on this field in three days. Bombing results were very good, with hits well placed in both dispersal areas. On return trip we passed over Rouen (mistake no. 1) and caught a #*?& of a lot of flak. We missed our landfall (mistake no. 2) and caught the rest of Adolphs flak. Flak was intense and accurate over the target, with lots of light flak, the tracers making the sky look like the 4th of July in the U.S. This made No. 11 for us. In the afternoon "Andy" received the Purple Heart from the raid of Sept. 2. (386th & 387th, 10-300 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sun, 26 Sep 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 71: 68 of 72 B-26's hit St Omer/Longuenesse Airfield at 1717-1718 hours; 4 B-26's are damaged. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sept. 25 For the third straight day we hit at enemy airfields. This was our second raid on St. Omar fields. Maj. Ives led our group. We made landfall south of Bolougne and made a SW to NE run on the target, leaving France at Furness. The target was almost covered by clouds and results of bombing were not immediately known. Our crew went intact, including TABASCO. The plane was perfect after two missions in which she suffered partial loss of power. All ships returned to base. Cold as [?] (322nd & 387th, 6-500 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Mon, 27 Sep 43 Mission: Beauvais-Tille Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 72: 72 B-26's are dispatched to Conches Airfield in France; they are recalled due to weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sep - Oct 43
VIII Air Support Command Missions 73 & 74: 2 airfields in France are targeted. 1. 65 of 72 B-26's hit Beauvais/Tille airfield at 1044-1045 hours; they claim 4-6-4 Luftwaffe aircraft; 1 B-26 is damaged beyond repair and 23 damaged; casualties are 4 MIA.
2. 68 of 72 B-26's hit Conches Airfield at 1729 hours; 1 B-26 is lost and 4 damaged; casualties are 6 MIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
A U.S. MAURAUDER STATION, Oct. 3--Double Trouble is the name of a B26 at this station. On a recent raid over France it lived up to its name with a vengeance. All but knocked out of the sky by attacking enemy fighters and flak, it came back on one engine, with the other spurting flame, a situation perilous enough to give the most hardened pilot nightmares.
Its bombs had been dropped and Double Trouble was headed for England when German fighters came in, all guns blasting away. First the fuselage was hit, then the flaps, then the entire left nacelle and along with it one of the two engines.
"Those Jerries came in and shot hell out of us," was the way the 21-year old pilot, 1/Lt. Richard Ulvestaad, of River Forest, Ill., said. "I had just discovered the left engine had gone haywire when another 20mm shell knocked out the rudder controls."
Ulvestad feathered his left prop and looked out. Ten feet of flames were shooting out of the wounded engine. He saw flak ahead and had to take evasive action with one engine gone and rudder controls useless. He did the almost impossible, using the trim tabs, those little controls meant only for slight adjustments in handling the 35,000 pounds of Marauder.
His ship shuddered and he knew the B26 had been hit again. Then 2/Lt. A. K. Jorgensen, the bombardier, of San Francisco, began firing flares, signaling for escorting Spitfires to come in and cover the Marauder.
Help came. Eighteen Spits roared in. But the left engine still was shooting flames.
"That was our big worry," the pilot admitted. "We thought about bailing out, but all agreed to stay with the ship."
"All the way home we kept joking and singing a song we composed by ourselves," said 2/Lt. Gordon Hatt, co-pilot, of Patten, Me. "Our one unspoken thought was, 'Will the engine blow up?' None of us asked that question, but we all thought a lot about it.
John Stine, Stars and Stripes correspondent, "The B26 Double Trouble Gets into It One Engine, Aflame, Brings Marauder Home," Stars and Stripes (4 October 1943).
Fri, 1 Oct 43
Results of these early operations were, in spite of the handicaps of bad weather and lack of experience, generally good. They proved the effectiveness of medium bombardment in neutralizing enemy airfields and coastal defenses, as well as hindering the flow of supplies throughout France and Belgium. On subsequent attacks during September and October gunners of the "Tiger Stripe" Marauders were credited with shooting down or damaging several FW-190's. Their efforts prevented fighter formations from getting too close, and all losses during this period were sustained from flak, not from enemy fighters. Yet, the losses inflicted on the enemy could hardly compensate for the shooting down of several valuable crews.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 18.
Four more Marauders were lost in September, but overall losses of this aircraft were proportionately lighter than those suffered by the heavy Liberators and Fortresses. Their targets were Luftwaffe airfields, the railways network and V1 'buzz bomb' sites in the Pas de Calais area. Newspaper clipping (2 Nov 1984).
A report by the intelligence section of the Eighth Air Force shows that despite recent efforts of the Allies to destroy the German aircraft industry, fighter production has expanded greatly and enemy fighter strength on the Western Front has increased. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 2 Oct 43 Mission: St. Omer-Longuenesse Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 75: 72 B-26's are dispatched to the St Omer/Longuenesse Airfield in France; because of cloud cover, only 6 hit the target at 1715 hours; the remainder refrain from bombing because the target is in occupied territory; 12 B-26's are damaged; casualties are 1 KIA and 4 WIA. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 3 Oct 43 Woensdrecht Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Missions 76, 77 and 78: 1. 36 B-26's are dispatched to the Lille/Vendeveille Airfield in France but weather prevents their hitting the target.
2. 131 of 144 B-26's dispatched to Amsterdam/Schiphol (71 aircraft), Woensdrecht (34 aircraft) and Haamstede (26 aircraft) Airfields in the Netherlands hit their targets at 1120-1136 hours; 47 B-26's are damaged.
3. 72 B-26's are dispatched to Beauvais/Tille Airfield, France; 63 hit the target at 1724-1727 hours; 1 B-26 is lost and 27 damaged.
Total casualties for all missions are 5 WIA.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 4 Oct 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 79: 25 B-26's are dispatched to Beauvais/Nivilliers and Evreux/Fauville Airfield in France; they return to base without bombing. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 8 Oct 43
VIII Air Support Command Mission 80: 144 B-26's are dispatched to Lille/Vendeville and Chievres Airfields in France; the mission is abandoned due to thick haze and generally unsuitable weather; 4 B-26's are damaged. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 9 Oct 43 Mission: Woensdrecht Airfield
VIII Air Support Command Mission 81: 66 of 72 B-26's bomb the Woensdrecht Airfield in the Netherlands at 1516-1526 hours; 26 B-26's are damaged. This is the final Eighth Air Force B-26 operation; the B-26's will be transferred to the Ninth Air Force. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Oct. 9
Moving our aim farther north, this for our first time was the fighter drome at Woensdrecht, Holland. This proved to be the toughest target yet hit by our group. Poor visibility caused us to miss our landfall and as a result caught a hell of a lot of flak. We made a good bomb run in spite of intense flak. After the bombing we put on quite a show for the people of Holland, just flying around like a bunch of darn fools. Maj. Sykes led our group, Lt. Grau our box, following the 323rd, much to our sorrow. Lt. Grau finally led us out. We came close to returning on one engine, flak hit our oil return line. Bomb results good. (323rd & 387th, 10-300 lb.) Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sat, 16 Oct 43
In the United Kingdom, HQ Ninth Air Force is established at Sunninghill as a tactical Air Force with Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton as Commanding General. The 3d Bombardment Wing at Marks Hall is transferred from the VIII Air Support Command, Eighth Air Force to the IX Bomber Command commanded by Major General Frederick L Anderson. (HQ IX Bomber Command will not be established in England until Nov 43.) The four B-26 groups transferred are: 322d Bombardment Group (Medium) [449th, 450th, 451st and 452d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium)]
323d Bombardment Group (Medium) [453d, 454th, 455th and 456th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium)]
387th Bombardment Group (Medium) [556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium)]
388th Bombardment Group (Medium) [560th, 561st, 562d and 563d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium)]
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
In October of 1943 the Medium Bombers in the ETO were assigned to the Ninth Air Force which was organized as a Tactical Air Force, one specifically charged with providing support for the ground forces. Eventually, a total of eight B?26 groups were assigned to the Ninth Bomber Command. Paul Priday (556th B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Mon, 18 Oct 43 Mission: Evreaux-Fauville Airfield
Mon, 18 Oct 43 Mission: St. Omer-Longuenesse Airfield
Thu, 21 Oct 43 Mission: Evreaux-Fauxville Airfield
228 B-26's dispatched to bomb 4 airfields in France are recalled before attacking because of unfavorable weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Oct. 18 We were briefed for the drome at Evreux-Frauville. After penetrating about twenty miles inland the Spits turned us back due to poor visibility and possibly due to a poor formation. It was bad. We went deep enough to get credit for a sortie.
In the afternoon we were briefed for St. Omar again. The same formation, the same escort and the same position. This time we were turned back before making landfall. (72 planes, 6-500 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Fri, 22 Oct 43 Mission: Evreaux-Fauxville Airfield
Bad weather causes 72 B-26's sent to bomb Evreux/Fauville Airfield in France to abort the mission. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 24 Oct 43 - Mission: Beauvais-Nivillers Airfield
About 60 B-26's bomb Evreux/Fauville Airfield in France; 140+ others abort missions against other airfields because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
200 B-26's bomb airfields at Montdidier, Beauvais/Nivillers, and Saint-Andre-de-L'Eure, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
1st. Lt. Houston N. Bartley, and his copilot, 2nd Lt. Charles W. Dickson, managed to fly their battered B-26B back to England on single engine. Lt. Bartley made a crash-landing at the RAF airbase at Gosfield. His on board crew were:
KIA
WIA
WIAPilot
Copilot
Bom-Nav.
Eng-Gun.
Rad-Gun.
Arm-Gun.1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
S/Sgt.
T/Sgt.
Sgt.Houston N. Bartley
Charles W. Dickson
Cleo C. Terrio
Burns P. Gillespie
Lloyd H. Allen
Peter (NMI) Smiljanich0670489
0672043
0732914
11041464
15062904
17015999 Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 1.Oct. 24 Our target was the auxiliary landing field at Beauvais, known as Beauvais-Niviliers. We led the 386th, escorted by 11th Gp. R.A.F. Spits. The cover provided was perfect. The sky was full of Spits, P47s and Lightnings. The other group had other escorts. Bombing results were good and the weather was good over there. This was the biggest day of the war for the B26s and the 4000 lb. bomb load our largest, raised more than 100 enemy a/c for our escorts to take care of. We were the first to land as the formation broke up over the base due to weather. Lt. Bartley crashed at another field, killing Lt. Terrio. Our 15th op. (386th & 387th, 4-1000 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.),Diary.
Mon, 1 Nov 43
5 B-26's bomb Cherbourg/Maupertus Airfield in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 3 Nov 43 Mission: St. André de LEure Airfield
The Ninth Air Force comes under operational control of the Allied Expeditionary Air Force (AEAF) which is activated on this date to provide the tactical air force for the invasion of W Europe (Operation OVERLORD). Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 5 Nov 43 Mission: Mimoyecques V-1 site
71 B-26's bomb the airfield at Saint-Andre-de-L'Eure, France; 71 attack Triqueville Airfield, France; and 65 bomb Schiphol Airfield in the Netherlands. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On November 3 the Group achieved its best bombing results up to that date. With good visibility and little flak, the formation, led by Lieutenant Colonel Seymour and Lieutenant William Tuill, hit the airdrome at St. Andre de LFure with excellent results. The aiming point was a group of repair shops and living quarters. Of the forty-five buildings in the area thirty-six were destroyed and several more damaged by the concentrations of bombs that fell in perfect pattern. Four planes were damaged by flak. Results obtained on this mission gave them the confidence they needed in tackling Amsterdam Schipol in the afternoon. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 19-20.
The missions during November creating the greatest amount of interest among the crews were the attacks on Amsterdam Schipol airfield, over which a number of American bombers had been shot down. On November 3 Captain Joe M. Whitfield led the attack on this target. As expected, flak over the target was intense. Results were only fair to good, but the mission served a valuable purpose in giving the men confidence in their flying ability and in their planes. They had been through heavy flak, but they and the B-26s could take it.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 20.
Nov. 3 Another blast at enemy dromes, this time with darn good results. This was one of our deepest penetrations, approx. 75 mi. inland to the St. Andre drome. Spit escort as usual, and credit should be given for a wonderful job. The bombing was done in perfect weather with visibility unlimited. Great fires were started, presumably oil storage and ammunition dumps. The fires and smoke were visible a hundred miles away on the return trip, almost to the English coast. Flew TABASCO. (387th & 322nd, 4-1000 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Four Marauder Groups (the 322nd, 323rd, 386th and 387th) had been sent to the Amsterdam-Schipol target exactly a month after the October 3rd [1943] attack. As later set down by Roger A. Freeman, they met a murderous barrage that resembled a huge, black cumulonimbus cloud, so dense that to participants it was a wonder that only one bomber went down. Seventy-two Marauders participated in the attack against the Amsterdam-Schipol Airdrome on the November 3rd [1943] mission, each Group flying a box of 18 aircraft.
John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 86.
Sun, 7 Nov 43 Mission: Montdidier Airfield
150+ B-26's bomb construction works at Mimoyecques, France; poor visibility causes one group to bomb the area SW of the primary targets; bad weather causes numerous aborts. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Two noteworthy missions were flown in November against a new type targetthe NOBALL. These objectives consisted of rocket guns and pilotless aircraft installations in the Pas de Calais area of France. The installations had a two-fold handicap for the bombardiers: (1) because of their comparatively small area and expert camouflage, they were very difficult to spot from the air, especially if the weather was hazy; (2) because of the small area covered, they were extremely hard to hit. They required excellent pinpoint bombing. The first NOBALL target hit by the 387th was Vineyesques, France near Cape Gris Nes on November 5. The second was against Martinvast in the Cherbourg area on November 11. Results were fair to good. The NOBALLs offered a real challenge to pilot-navigator-bombardier crews in teamwork and coordination. Bombing accuracy steadily improved, and after the invasion forces had landed on the continent results could be evaluated. Mediums, again, had proved the effectiveness of pin-point bombing technique. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 19.
Nov. 5 This was our first try at softening up the invasion coast of France. We hope. Our target today was construction works in the Calais area. They were pinpoint targets and we had results classified as FAIR. Flak was weak to meager and inaccurate. All ships returned. (387th, 2-2000 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 10 Nov 43 Mission: Lille-Vendeville Airfield
200+ B-26's dispatched to attack airfields at Montdidier and Meulan-Les Mureaux, France are forced to abort the mission because of bad weather. The B-26's are escorted by 54 P-38's and 49 P-47's of the Eighth Air Force; 2 P-38's are lost. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
11 Nov 43 Mission: Martinvast V-1 site
Around 60 B-26's bomb Chievres airfield, Belgium. In France, bad weather causes the force sent to bomb Lille/Vendeville airfield to abandon their mission, though a few bombers manage to bomb other targets in the area; a force of 72 B-26's dispatched to attack Montdidier airfield suffers numerous aborts due to weather; 6 bombers manage to bomb the airfield believed to be the secondary target of Amiens/Glisy. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The 556th Bomb. Squadron Monthly Reports (MR) do not divulge what happened to "Gravel Agitator" on this date. It is believed that Captain William R. Brown crash landed at a RAF fighter base at Bradwell Bay in Essex. A/C #700/FW-O was eventually repaired and returned to the squadron to fly again, and add to its combat sorties. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 25.
13 Nov 43 Col. Storrie leaves Group
157 B-26's bomb military installations and targets of opportunity in the Cherbourg, France area, mainly at Martinvast. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Returning to base from the afternoon mission, 1st Lt. Eugene H. Neilson made a wheels down landing. Flak fragments had punctured the left landing wheel tire on Middleweight Champ, causing the aircraft to go off the end of the runway. It was later salvaged. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 40.
14 Nov 43 Col. Jack Caldwell assumes command
Early in November Colonel Storrie was called to another assignment in the States. Later it was learned that he was in the Pacific flying B-29 Superfortresses. At the end of the war he was in command of a B-29 wing, and had flown the last incendiary mission of the war over Japan. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 20.
19 Nov 43 Mission: Evreaux-Fauville Airfield
[Other sources give this date as Nov. 14 On November 8 Colonel Jack Caldwell succeeded Colonel Storrie as group commander. Colonel Caldwell, by his work in higher commands, had initiated the technique of medium altitude bombing for medium bombers. Now he was to demonstrate in actual combat the soundness of his theories.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 20.
23 Nov 43
100+ B-26's dispatched to attack airfields in France abort the mission when bad weather prevents rendezvous with the fighter escorts. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
26 Nov 43 Mission: Cambrai-Epinoy Airfield
In France, 83 B-26's bomb Berck-sur-Mer and Saint-Omer/Longuenesse airfields. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
29 Nov 43 Mission: Cambrai-Epinoy Airfield
In France, almost 140 B-26's attack Cambrai/Epinoy and Roye/Amy airfields and military construction in the town of Audinghen. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Nov. 26 Attempting to hit a drome in Belgium, we were unable to bomb due to weather. Part of the formation did bomb, so we received credit for an op. Results were nil, flak weak, and no enemy a/c. (387th, 6-500 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
In France, 53 B-26's bomb Chievres airfield; 71 B-26's sent to bomb Cambrai/Epinoy airfield abort the mission due to bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 1 Dec 43 Mission: Cambrai-Epinoy Airfield
Sat, 4 Dec 43 Mission: Chievres Airfield
175+ B-26's bomb airfields at Chievres, Belgium; and Cambrai/Epinoy, Lille/Yendeville, and Cambrai/Niergnies, France. 28 P-51's execute a sweep over NW France, marking the first Ninth Air Force fighter operation from the UK. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 5 Dec 43 Mission: Ligescourt-Bois de St. Saulve V-1 site
A Ninth Air Force directive establishes Operation CROSSBOW (operations against German missile launching sites) for the IX Bomber Command and provides a list of targets to be attacked immediately. 203 B-26's dispatched to attack the airfields at Chievres, Belgium and Lille/Vendeville, France must abort mission due to bad weather.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 10 Dec 43
52 B-26's bomb Ligescourt, Campagne-les-Hesdin, and Saint-Josse, France. 200 others are forced to abandon the mission because of heavy cloud cover over the targets, including V-weapon sites which the Ninth had scheduled to attack for the first time. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 13 Dec 43 Mission: Amsterdam-Schipol Airfield
20 German aircraft attack 4 Ninth Air Force airfields in the UK (Gosfield, Andrews Field, Earls Colne, and Great Dunmow), killing 8 and wounding 20+ men. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 15 Dec 43
Nearly 200 B-26's attack Schiphol Airfield in The Netherlands. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The return visit to this hot spot was made December 13 when a fifty-four ship formation, led by Lieutenant Colonel Charles R. Keller, obtained good results. Flak was again heavy and the majority of the ships were damaged, but the place wasnt so hot after that. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 20.
Fri, 15 Dec 43
The Ninth Air Force comes under operational control of the AEAF. A new directive for tactical bomber operations lists reduction of enemy fighter forces as the basic objective. A Ninth Air Force planning staff, composed of officers who have had service with the Chief of Staff, Supreme Allied Commander (COSSAC), is set up in London. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
16 Dec 43
The Ninth Air Force planning group joins the 21 Army Group, AEAF, and the RAF's Second Tactical Air Force in preparation of the air section of the initial joint plan (Operation NEPTUNE) for Operation OVERLORD (the invasion of Normandy). This begins planning which later results in a massive Ninth Air Force plan for moving the Ninth into battle on the continent of Europe. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On December 16, 1943, it was across the Irish Sea to Liverpool, by train to London and on to Chelmsford and Chipping Ongar and the 556th Bomb Squadron, 387th Bomb Group. My first few nights were spent with the Communications personnel and other ground pounders, until I was assigned to Hut 14 up on the hill. Imagine my surprise when I entered that hut and there was Gwim Hughes, who entered cadets with me, crossed paths at Avon Park and now in the same hut in England. Some of the men of Hut 14, and men they were, included Bob Jones, Swede Abrahmson, Ace Clark, Joe Nestor, Bill Boggis, Captain Neilson, Captain Jim Anderson, Jimmy DeLong, Gwim Hughes and a fellow I will remember for a lifetime, Mike Koury, whom we lost on a mission to La Glacerie on the Normandy peninsula. I was the replacement for Carl Cooper on Captain Robert Jones crew and flew several missions with them until the crew was returned to the States having completed their tour. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Mon, 20 Dec 43 Mission: Le Meilard-Bonniers V-1
site
Tue, 21 Dec 43 Mission: Berk-sur-Mer Airfield
35 B-26's attack V-weapon sites in N France; 150+ others abort because of weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On December 20 the Ninth Bomber Command was assigned the destruction of NOBALL targets as their primary function, and the majority of the targets attacked during those months were NOBALL. Even when the weather was good enough to allow a take-off, the visibility over the target generally prevented the bombardiers from getting the good results of which they were capable. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 20-21.
On December 20 the officers of the 556th squadron took over guard duty so that all of their enlisted men could attend a grand soiree that lasted most of that night.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 21.
84 B-26's bomb V-weapon sites and other targets in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Construction works in the Calais area. Some of these missions we met heavy and
intense flak. Some attacks were made by
enemy fighters with no results. Results of
bombing varied from GOOD to NIL. The
complete crew made these raids in our own
ship, TABASCO. These targets were
usually hit by squadrons of 18 planes.-- Extremely rough Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Fri, 24 Dec 43 Mission: Cormette V-1 site
210 B-26's sent to bomb special targets in France are recalled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 30 Dec 43 Cocove V-1 site
60+ B-26's attack NOBALL (V-missile sites) targets in Pas de Calais area of France. 30+ B-26's abort due to bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 31 Dec 43 Cormette V-1 site
In France, about 100 B-26's bomb Saint-Omer Airfield and V-weapon sites on the French N coast. About 100 others abort missions because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
My first mission was flown on December 30, 1943 against a NOBALL site in Corcove, France, and was the first of some twenty-five missions against the rocket sites over the next several months. The sites in the Pas de Calais area were heavily defended by anti-aircraft guns and while we did not incur fighters, we sure saw the black clouds of flak. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Around 200 B-26's bomb V-weapon sites in the French coastal area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Dec 43 - Jan 44
Jan 44
The weather continued bad through December and January, necessitating the grounding of aircraft all too often. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 20.
Since comparatively few missions were being run, it became possible for the men to enjoy the recreational facilities of the base. Day rooms had been set up in the different squadrons and beer made available. A good officers club had been established in a large Nissen hut, and the enlisted men had the Aero Club available for doughnuts and coffee and for dances. Usually there were two large huts available for movies. The parties and dances were a most welcome change from the dreariness of the weather. Both officers and enlisted men, in the presence of American nurses and English girls, became party conscious.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 21.
Sat, 1 Jan 44 Capt. Glenn Grau succeeds Maj. Walter Ives as 556th Squadron Commander
I was given leave in early January and I elected to go back to North Ireland to see my old friends. When I arrived there, the whole group were being transferred to the combat groups down in England. Thus began an adventure I do not think was duplicated by anyone. I was literally smuggled aboard the troop train and stayed with the troops all the way from North Ireland to Great Sailing, England. We landed there about midnight and the troops were shuttled off to the base for further assignment. Of course I had no orders and was left stranded in the railroad station. I asked the station man if there was a train to London I could catch and was informed that there were no connections at least until the day following. He offered and I accepted that if he could flag down a yard engine, I could ride in the cab to Bishops Stortford and catch a train there. I honestly believe I am unique in that I, an Army Air Force Officer, rode in the cab of a yard engine on the British Railroad System. It was a joyful experience. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Tue, 4 Jan 44 Mission: Eclimeaux V-1 site
On January 1, 1944 Captain Glenn Grau had replaced Major Walter J. Ives as commander of the 556th. Major Ives went to a new assignment at Ninth Bomber Command. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 21.
Captain Glenn Grau succeeded Major Walter J. Ives as C.O. of the 556th Bomb. Squadron in December, 1943. Lt. Col Grau returned to the Z.I. in February, 1945. The quiet, soft spoken Grau was an adept pilot and an admired leader, popular with everyone who served under him. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 3.
258 B-26's bomb NOBALL targets (V-weapons sites) in France. Weather makes bombing difficult, and results range from unknown to good. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 7 Jan 44 Mission: La Glacerie coastal defenses
35 B-26's bomb the Cherbourg/Maupertus Airfield. Bad weather restricts further operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 13 Jan 44
193 B-26's bomb NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 14 Jan 44 Mission: Linghem V-1 site
Sun, 16 Jan 44
Fri, 21 Jan 44
General Dwight D Eisenhower assumes duties of Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force (AEF). Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 23 Jan 44 Mission: Le Grismont V-1 site
119 B-26's bomb V-weapon sites in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 24 Jan 44 Mission: Maison Ponthieu V-1 site
Nearly 200 B-26's bomb V-weapon sites in the French coastal area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 25 Jan 44 Misson: Bois de Croquy V-1 site
175+ B-26's attack V-weapon sites in the coastal area of France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 26 Jan 44
Nearly 150 B-26's, airborne to bomb V-weapon sites in France, are forced to abandon the missions because of heavy clouds. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 29 Jan 44 Mission: Beaulieu V-1 site
144 B-26's scheduled to bomb V-weapon sites in France are recalled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Jan or Feb 44
80+ B-26's bomb V-weapon sites in coastal France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Feb 44
The missions most remembered for aircraft losses were the La Glacerie, Montdidier, and a mission in the Nieuport area, where one airplane was hit in the engine area and pulled up sharply, broke in half around the bomb bay and then fluttered to earth. I cannot recall seeing any chutes but I believe some of the crew actually did get out based on stories later on. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Wed, 2 Feb 44
Early in February there was a notable increase in the number of neckties being worn about the base. The arrival of four flight nurses, for the purpose of learning procedure in handling injured crew members, was probably just a mere coincidence. Four are O.K., said newly promoted Major William Engler, group S-2, but forty would be better. February, March and April brought with them improved flying weather and a corresponding increase in operational sorties. Forty of the fifty-two targets hit during this period were the now familiar NOBALLs. A new procedure, whereby the Group was given secondary targets in case the primary could not be hit, produced some excellent results. The destruction of an oil storage plant on the Seine on February 9 was one result of this new adopted policy. Losses on these missions, though few, were costly.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 21-22.
Thu, 3 Feb 44 Mission: La Longueville V-1 site
36 B-26s attack Triquevill Airfield, France. Eighth Air Force escorts are 34 P-38s and 44 P-47s. No losses. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 5 Feb 44 Mission: Bois Rempre V-1 site
52 B-26s bomb V-weapon sites on the W coast of France. Weather causes
100+ other aircraft to abandon the mission. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 6 Feb 44
Around 180 B-26s attack 6 V-weapon sites in N France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Around 120 B-26s bomb V-weapon sites, airfields, and a factory, all in France; principal targets bombed are at Rosieres-en-Santerre, Amiens/Glisy, Cormeilles-en-Vexin, and Grandvilliers. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 8 Feb 44 Mission: Losterbarne-Ardes V-1
site
Tue, 8 Feb 44 Mission: Cambrai-Neirgnies Airfield
Wed, 9 Feb 44 Mission: Belleville-en-Caux V-1 site
HQ Ninth Air Force extends IX Bomber Command's choice of targets considerably, although first priority for Operation POINTBLANK missions [the Combined Bomber Offensive (CBO) of US and RAF air forces against the Luftwaffe and German aircraft industry] and next priority for Operation CROSSBOW (code name for operations against German V-weapon sites) targets is maintained. In a morning raid, nearly 200 B-26s attack V-weapon sites and targets of opportunity in NW France. In an afternoon raid, 100+ B-26s bomb V-weapon sites and military instsllations in the same general area, most of the B-26s attacking Breck-sur-Mer. This is the IX Bomber Command's first 2-mission day.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Feb. 8 This was our first try at an enemy airfield for some time. We were unable to bomb the Cambrai drome so returned to the coast and bombed at the field there, missing the field with our 120 lb. frag bombs, but plastering the town of Bercksmer, starting fires and blowing up the gas works. This made 30 raids for four of the crew, 33 for M.R. and J.P.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Thu, 10 Feb 44 Mission: Beauvais-Tille Airfield
133 B-26s bomb V-weapon sites in coastal France, marshalling yards at Tergnier, France and targets of opportunity in the area. This marks the first of the IX Bomber Command raids on marshalling yards. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 11 Feb 44 Mission: Amiens marshalling yard
114 B-26s attack V-weapon sites in coastal France, airfields at Poix and Beauvais/Tille, a bridge at Le Crotoy, and a coastal battery N of the Conch River. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 13 Feb 44 Mission: Hambures V-1 site
Most of the 139 B-26s dispatched to attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in N France are recalled because of bad weather; 35 manage to bomb the marshalling yard at Amiens. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 15 Feb 44 Mission: La Glacerie V-1 site
182 B-26s attack V-weapon sites in the coastal area of France; 16 others bomb secondary targets in the area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Feb. 13 Calais area. Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
194 B-26s bomb V-weapon sites, Cherbourg/Maupertus Airfield and targets of opportunity during a morning mission. 122 B-26s again bomb V-weapon construction sites in the coastal area of N France during the afternoon. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On February 15 Shady Lady, piloted by Lieutenant T. J. Alford, was shot down over Cherbourg on the way home from a successful mission to La Glacerie, France. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 22.
Pilot
Co-pilot
Bom/Nav
ROG
EG
AG
1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
1st Lt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.MIA
Thomas L. Alford
Winston W. Hunt
Michael G. Koury
Robert M. Authur
Clyde M. Lawrence
Clarence E. Dalrymple Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 8.
Feb. 13 Calais area. Feb. 15 Cherbourg (rough) Lt. Alford.
Feb 15 Calais area.
These missions were a continuance of the attacks against the "secret targets" in France. The Cherbourg mission was very rough heavy, intense flak, very accurate. Brought Shady Lady (Lt. Alford) down over the target. Bomb results were very good.
The afternoon mission in the Calais area was the milk run of the day. No flak, no fighters and perfect weather. Again the bombing results were very good.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sun, 20 Feb 44 Mission: Eindhoven Airfield
Working feverishly to get the Marauders on target in bad weather, on February 16th [1944] the 1st Pathfinder Squadron (M) Provisional was activated through the assignment of highly experienced aircrews from each of the then five Marauder Groups in England, the 322nd, 323rd, 386th, 387th and 391st. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 159.
The B-26 Groups of the IX Bomber Command were required to furnish aircraft to the newly formed 1st (Provisional) Pathfinder Squadron at Andrew Field, in Great Saling, Essex. This squadron was comprised of elite airmen trained to lead Group size formations on "blanket type" bombing missions against cloud covered targets. "Dubissary" was sent to the 1st PPF Squadron in February. The unique operations of this specially trained squadron commenced on February 21, 1944. Pathfinder led missions greatly increased the operations of the IX Bomber Command, whose prior targets were limited by visibility. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 4.
Mon, 21 Feb 44 Mission: Soesterberg Airfield
The Eighth Air Force begins "Big Week," attacks on German aircraft plants and airfields. For the first time, over 1,000 bombers are dispatched; 21 bombers and 4 fighters are lost hitting 3 areas in Germany...
...
35 B-26s bomb Haamstede Airfield, The Netherlands, as a target of opportunity, after about 100 B-26s abort attacks on other airfields because of weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 22 Feb 44 Mission: Soesterberg Airfield
18 B-26s bomb Coxyde Airfield, Belgium; weather causes almost 190 aborts. The Ninth Air Force's Pathfinder Squadron (provisionally activated on 13 Feb) takes part in this operation, its first venture into combat. 185 aircraft scheduled to attack other airfields in the Netherlands and France in the afternoon are recalled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Feb. 21 This was our first briefing for a drome in some time. A long trip to the Gilse-Regen field in Holland to be made in bad weather. In getting through the overcast we lost so much time we had to be content with a diversion for the day.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Thu, 24 Feb 44 Mission: Leeuwarden Airfield
66 B-26s bomb Gilze-Rijen Airfield, The Netherlands; bad weather causes 100+ others to abort. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
180 B-26s attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets and Rosieres-en-Santerre, France. Bad weather makes bombing difficult and causes 34 other B-26s to abort. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Feb. 24 The longest trip yet attempted by B-26s, 250 mi. north to the Leeuwarden drome on the northern tip of Holland. The weather was perfect and the bombing better. Great fires were started, visible 100 mi. away on our return trip. Our group met no flak. The 322nd received light, inaccurate flak but seemed to have knocked out the guns before we arrived. (322nd & 387th, 30-100 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Feb. 24
The afternoon mission was another on the "secret targets", now called "rocket guns" by the press, on the French coast. The weather was still good and we did a FAIR job on the target.
I flew both missions today with Lt. Debolt in 866, Miss Satan 2.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
On February 24, 1944 we flew to Leeuwarden, Holland and bombed the airfield, and as we turned back towards England I could see high above us the heavies of the Eighth Air Force on their way to Berlin. I recall a Stars and Stripes article in which our efforts were compared to being the blocking backs taking out the opposition so the heavies would not incur fighters early in their mission. The con trails in the sky above us was a most majestic sight and for me was a picture of our air power. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Fri, 25 Feb 44 Mission: Venlo Airfield
Fri, 25 Feb 44 Mission: La Longueville V-1 site
Mon, 28 Feb 44 Mission: Ray-sur-Authie V-1 site
191 B-26s bomb Venlo, Saint-Trond, and Cambrai/Epinoy Airfields, France in a morning raid as a diversion in support of the VIII Bomber Command heavy bombers over Germany; 36 abort, mainly because of a navigational error; 164 B-26s dispatched against military targets in France during the afternoon are recalled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Toward the end of February targets for the mediums were temporarily changed to German airdromes in order to divert the swarms of enemy fighters from the Eighth Air Force Heavies then in the process of destroying German airplane factories. Carrying one hundred pound demolition bombs, the formations destroyed enemy aircraft, hangers and ammunition stores. The Nazi airfield at Venlo, Holland was attacked on February 25 in extremely bad weather. Major Richardson, commanding officer of the 558th, led the second box to the target, and Captain Corburn, his bombardier, scored a direct hit on the aiming point. Attacked by over twenty Me-109s after leaving the Dutch coast on their way home, four of our planes were shot down. The pilots of these aircraft were Major Richardson, Lieutenant J. H. Falls, Lieutenant R. H. Jansing and Lieutenant J. H. Steinback. Enemy fighter losses (confirmed) were two destroyed, one probable and three damaged. Major Richardson was succeeded by Captain Robert H. Keller as commanding officer of the 558th. About this time another change in squadron commanders took place, with Captain Joe Whitfield replacing Lieutenant Colonel Charles R. Keller as head man of the 557th. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 22.
This was our first opportunity to see the so-called "Third Reich". The Venlo drome was located 1 mi. west of the German border. After leaving the target, we circled over Germany in turning back. We were the first B-26s to fly over Germany. Weather was poor over England and the North Sea but cleared over Holland. FW190s attacked us after we left the coast, knocking down four 558th ships. Maj. Richardson and Lts. Falls, Jansig, and Steinback. R.A.F. Mustangs and Typhoons escorted us for the first time. We received considerable English flak both times we crossed the coast. In the PM we made two unsuccessful tries (due to weather) at Calais targets. (323rd & 387th, 10-250 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Feb. 25 On February 25, we flew to Venlo Air Field which was the longest mission to date and took us to the edge of Germany. The mission of mediums to drive the fighters back into Germany must have been successful because we saw few fighters on the missions I flew.
Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
The next day [February 25, 1944] the Group went out with the 387th Group to attack another "Big Week" target, this time the Venlo airdrome in the Netherlands. Led by Maj. Roy B. Pratt, the 54 Marauders plastered the airfield destroying seven enemy aircraft on the ground and damaging many more. In addition, ground defense positions, runways, taxi strips, road junctions, refueling loops and dispersal areas were hit.22 On the turn out, some of the 323rd Group's Marauders made their first penetration of German air space.23 22The attack on the Venlo Airdrome was such an outstanding raid that the 323BG Historian recorded it as "the best raid we've yet made." This claim was subsequently supported by German documents that indicted that the airdrome was devastated.
23"Inbound and outbound, there was a low overcast and we could see the German fighters popping out of it but the RAF escort, Polish flyers, I believe, quickly moved to the attack. Notwithstanding, on the way out, the 387th Group lost four aircraft to the Luftwaffe attack." (Postwar comments of Roy B. Pratt.)
John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 147.
Probably the largest aircraft ever to land at Chipping Ongar was a B-24 Liberator from Seething in Norfolk which sought refuge and made a crash landing on February 25, 1944, on returning from operations. Newspaper clipping (2 Nov 1984).
Tue, 29 Feb 44 Mission: Behen V-1 site
180 B-26s attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets and Rosieres-en-Santerre, France. Bad weather makes bombing difficult and causes 34 other B-26s to abort. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Calais
(Mar. 2 with Pathfinder) Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
19 B-26s bomb a coastal gun position and nearby Breck-sur-Mer Airfield, France. 216 B-26s abort a mission against 8 V-weapon sites in France because of total cloud cover over the targets. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Calais
(Mar. 2 with Pathfinder) Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Thu, 2 Mar 44 Mission: Linghem V-1 site
Returning from one mission, we let down through the overcast and with me being the seeing eye dog in the nose we dropped very cautiously to an altitude of about 800 feet before I spotted a breakthrough. We had let down so gradually we had flown off the north edge of the map, so we did a 180 degree turn and headed south until we saw the barrage balloons at Chelmsford which should have been down. We turned in and landed at our home base, the only aircraft to do soall others had been diverted north to other bases. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
In France, 353 B-26s attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets, Tergnier, and Amiens/Glisy and Rosieres-en-Santerre Airfields in morning and afternoon missions. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Calais
(Mar. 2 with Pathfinder)Mar. 2
The Amiens marshalling yards made the second mission of the day. Weather made the bombing difficult, but we bombed the target, already burning like [----] from the 323rds good work. We made a 360° turn directly over the town of Amiens but caught only light inaccurate flak. The temperature was the coldest we had experienced.
(For the past month and time to come the groups have ceased to operate as full groups.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
As D-Day approached, activity at Willingale intensified and during bad weather and thick cloud, they were led by a specially equipped Pathfinder unit operating from Andrew Field, Braintree. It was equipped with the "Gee" navigational device used by the Royal Air Force during night bombing operations. Newspaper clipping (2 Nov 1984).
Fri, 3 Mar 44 Mission: Montdidier Airfield
In France, 218 B-26s bomb airfields at Laon/Couvron, Beauvais/Tille, Rosieres-en-Santerre, Roye/Amy and Montdidier, and military installations at Juvincourt-et-Damary and Berneval-le-Grand. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mar. 3 This drome at Montdidier, France was one of Jerrys more popular JU88 bases in France. Supposedly some 30 planes were based on this field. This was our secondary target, but through some error in navigation we reached here first and plastered this field with 100-pounders, frags, incendiaries, etc. This mission, made without loss, was made in even colder weather than the previous day. We damn near froze.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sat, 4 Mar 44 Mission: Malines V-1 site
Sun, 5 Mar 44 Mission: Ray-sur-Authie V-1 site
In France, 251 B-26s and 21 A-20s scheduled to bomb Malines marshalling yard and Bernay Saint Martin Airfield abort the mission because of heavy cloud cover over the targets. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mar. 4 Maline marshalling yards. Weather returned us.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Mon, 6 Mar 1944 Mission: Bois des Huit Rues V-1 site
217 B-26s attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in the Saint-Omer-Abbeville, France area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mar. 5 Calais.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Tue, 7 Mar 1944 Aulnoye V-1 site
In France, 260 B-26s bomb NOBALL (V-weapon) targets, Hirson marshalling yard, and Beauvais/Tille, Airfield; heavy clouds cause 50+ B-26s and A-20s to abort missions. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mar. 6 Calais (Pathfinder)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 8 Mar 44 - Mission: Soesterberg Airfield
In France, 112 B-26s and 18 A-20s attack V-weapon sites on the Channel coast, military installations near Criel-sur-Mer and Greny, and targets of opportunity in the area; bad weather causes the recall of 150+ B-26s before they attack targets. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mar. 7 Avesnes marshalling yards.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
In the Netherlands, 225+ B-26s attack Volkel Airfield once and Soesterberg Airfield twice in morning and afternoon missions. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
After the difficult pin-point no-balls much larger targets, such as the marshalling yards at Creil and Chievres and the Soesterbert airfield, seemed easy to hit. Results on all these were excellent. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 22.
1st Lt. Edward Sargent's crew on board "DOUBLE TROUBLE" were not as fortunate. They were listed as KIA when their Marauder plunged to earth and crashed.
...
The entire crew [of Double Trouble] perished after mid-air collision with "Itsy Bitsy" during formation assembly.
Piilot
Copilot
Bom-Nav
ROG
EG
AG
1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
1st Lt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt/KIA
Edward D. Sargent
Donald L. Ogden
Alexander Levi (557th Bomb. Sq.)
Robert A. Nordlohne
Joseph E. Somoski
Harry Bear Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, pp. 7, 9.Mar. 8 Soesterberg (attempt)
Mar. 8
Soesterberg.
After messing up good and proper on our first try, we went back in the afternoon and really plastered this field. This raid was timed to aid the heavies on their return from "Big B". Nice warm fires were started in the dispersal areas, hangars, and some planes parked on the ground. Lt. Sargent, Lt. Ogden, "Doc" Nordhlone, Joe Simonski and Harry Bear were lost after takeoff in a two-plane crash over the field, in Double-Trouble and Itsy-Bitsy.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Another day, while we were at Station 162, the planes were taking off and circling over the field to get into formation for their flight across the channel. One plane came up under another plane and collided with it. We had just returned from the flight line and heard this terrible noise. As I looked up, here comes this plane with engines running wide open, headed right for the buildings of the 556th area, with the co-pilots head and arm outside the window waving. Bang! The plane hit the bank of a farm pond, right back of an English farm home, 1/2 mile south of the runway. The fire from the plane was sky high and the 50 caliber machine gun shells started going off. Fortunately, they had salvoed their bombs before coming down. When we got over there, the woman from the house was carrying a dead duck around saying, Bloody Yanks! Bloody Yanks! The medics came out with sheets, but there wasnt much left.
Stanley Folk (556th B.S.), quoted in Maurauder Thunder
The fact that the crew of Double Trouble was able to salvo their bombs in the countryside prior to the crash limited the damage at the crash site. When bombs were salvoed they were dropped with safety wires intact and the detonators were not armed. Paul Priday (556th B.S.)
Art Newett and his pilot, Jess Watson shared the same quonset hut as Ed Sargent and Don Ogden, who were the Pilot and Co-pilot of "Double Trouble" on that fateful day. Art writes, ""Don Ogden was my best friend and the day we returned from the mission and found that Headquarters had moved all of their belongings out of the hut, because they had been killed, was the saddest experience I think I ever had." Marauder Thunder, March 2000
Mon, 13 Mar 1944 Mission: Lottinghen-Les Grands Bois V-1 site
61 B-26s bomb V-weapon sites in N France; 53 abort because of weather and navigational difficulties. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
40 B-26s attack a V-weapon site at Lottinghen/Les Grands Bois, France; 37 abort due to bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 15 Mar 1944
Fri, 17 Mar 1944
A directive states that the Ninth Air Force is released from first priority commitment to assist the Eighth Air Force. ... Ninth Air Force Advanced HQ assumes the function of target selection and mission planning for the IX Bomber Command. AEAF HQ has the authority to indicate percentage of effect to be expended on each type of target on a long-term basis. In France, 118 B-26s attack marshalling yards at Aulnoye and Haine-Saint-Pierre and Chievres Airfield; during the afternoon, 10 B-26s using "Oboe" to test its accuracy, bomb Coxyde Airfield with poor results...
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
70 B-26s bomb the marshalling yard at Criel-sur-Mer, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 18 Mar 1944 Mission: Croisette V-1 site
Sun, 19 Mar 1944 Mission: Foret Nationale de
Tourhem V-1 site
In France, 152 B-26s and 65 A-20s attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in the Saint-Omer area during morning and afternoon missions; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 20 Mar 1944 Mission: Criel marshalling yard
In France, 200+ B-26s and A-20s bomb 4 NOBALL (V-weapon) targets and Creil marshalling yard; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
After the difficult pin-point no-balls much larger targets, such as the marshalling yards at Creil and Chievres and the Soesterbert airfield, seemed easy to hit. Results on all these were excellent. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 22.
On March 20 Colonel Jack Caldwell, able and gallant group commander of the 387th, received a signal honor in the award of the Legion of Merit for developing strategy for use of medium bombardment aircraft in this theater and in training crews in new flying tactics.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 23.
Mar. 20 Criel marshalling yards.
This was the morning we had been waiting for-our chance to lead the groups on a raid. Manny did a beautiful job of leading and was highly complimented on his work. Lt. Boggis failed to locate the target after turning on the bomb run. He had seen it all the time we were circling for the bomb run but lost sight after turning toward the target. Bill was certainly a sick boy over his error and assumed all responsibility as Lt. McCabe had taken us directly to the target as briefed. This error made our formation of 18 ships the only ones failing to drop the bombs on the target. Manny did a masterful job at evasive action, causing many to think the Old Master (Capt. Grau) was leading as scheduled. We flew Capt. Sanders ship, Hangover Hut, with Lt. McCabe as navigator, and Lt. Boggis in place of our ailing J.P. Spurlock. This was M.R.s 50th op., the first pilot to reach that number.
We all started a 14-day leave that evening. (First again) (387th & 323rd, 6-500 lb. and 2-600 lb.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Readying for D-Day, on March 20th [1944] a major mobility exercise was undertaken by the Ninth Air Force's medium and light bomber units. Keyed to the theme of "Keep Mobile," the 323rd Group moved its aircraft, personnel and equipment to Great Dunnow, the home base of the 386th Bomb Group.4
4The total "Keep Mobile" exercise involved the 323BG and 386BG switching bases (Earls Colne and Great Dunnow), the 322BG and 387BG (Andrews and Chipping Onger), the 391B and 344 BG (Matching and Standsted), the 394BG and 416BG (Bereham and Wetherfeld), the 397BG (PCS Gosfeld to Rivenhall), the 410BG (PCS Birch to Gosfeld) and the 409BG (Walsen to Birch & return). John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 153.
Tue, 21 Mar 1944
Thu, 23 Mar 1944 Mission: Haine St. Pierre marshalling yard
All B-26s dispatched to bomb NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in France are recalled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 25 Mar 1944
220 B-26s on a morning mission bomb Creil marshalling yard and airfields at Beaumont-le-Roger and Beauvais/Tille; in an afternoon raid, 146 bomb Haine-Saint-Pierre marshalling yard. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 26 Mar 1944 Ijmuiden E-boat pens
140+ B-26s attack the Hirson, France marshalling yard. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 27 Mar 1944
338 B-26s and 35 A-20s attack the Ijmuiden, The Netherlands torpedo-boat pens. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Another change in targets was the raid on the E-boat pens at Ijmuiden, Holland on March 28. On this mission Top Sarge, the lead ship piloted by Captain Glenn Grau, had one engine knocked out, the electrical system damaged and the observer killed. In spite of this great handicap four 1000 pound bombs were laid inside the pens. After the bombs had been dropped it appeared an impossibility to get the ship back. By skillful flying Captain Grau nursed his one engine along, carefully hoarding his altitude, and limped back across the channel and crash-landed in England. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 22-23.
...the ship [Top Sarge] was severely hit by flak at the target killing 2nd Lt. Earl J. Dillionaire, [pilot acting as] formation observer, and S/Sgt. Peter (NMI) Ogilvie, tail gunner. The plane was severely damaged, etc., etc., Only by the most skillful pilotage and heroic crew teamwork was the ship brought back over the long water course to England where it was crashed landed on an airfield just off the coast. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 27.
...a flak blast killed the right engine of the Marauder, "Top Sarge," knocked out the electrical control system, shot out the aileron and rudder controls, blew off the right engine nacelle, and tore five feet off the right wing, including the right wing flap. Two members of the nine man crew were killed. The plane shuddered, then resumed on an even keel. Captain Glenn Grau (Major within a few days) of Brookville, Ohio, the pilot, managed to get it headed home with the meager controls he had left at his command. Over the North Sea, 2nd Lt. Richard Abrams of Bellingham, Washington, the copilot, walked to the rear of the plane to see whether the rudder controls could be patched. Pounding twisted metal with his bare hands, he managed to effect a splice at the rudder control break. Another Marauder drew alongside the crippled ship. "Top Sarge" had no radio to talk with, so the bombardier of the other aircraft penciled a warning on the side of his Plexiglas nose: "Don't lower your landing gear or flaps." Captain Grau made a perfect crash landing at the RAF base in Leiston, Suffolk, England.
Devon Francis, Flak Bait
Apr 44
18 B-26s attack V-weapon sites in N France; 35 others abort due primarily to failure of blind-bombing equipment. The onset of bad weather makes this the last B-26 mission until 8 Apr. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 3 Apr 1944
With only fifteen operational days during April the Group achieved excellent bombing results. Targets included NOBALLs, marshalling yards and, for the first time since September, a number of coastal defenses. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 23.
Many thoughts came to mind as I wrote this articlethe quadruple Scotch and Coke (our standard drink), the tea-dances at the Officers Club, the most dangerous weapon we owned, our bicycle, Bill Boggis managed to get a motorized bike for a while, six by six foxhole somebody dug, the night the Luftwaffe declared B-26 bases as their targets, watching the spotlights over London knocking down JU-88s, the Buzz Bombs flying over the base into London, the flak from the Chelmsford battery, the flak we caught at leaving Clacton-on-Sea from ATS girl training crews, the North Sea search for downed RAF bomber crews, Shootin In to London on leave, Piccadilly Commandos, having an Ike jacked tailored on Bond Street, the combat blue background to our wings, Air Medals with ridiculous amounts of clusters, Spitfire escort flown by the Canadians, the once-a-week egg, the Mars bar on each mission, the 30 second interval takeoffs on fog enshrouded runways, popping out on top with B-26s all over the sky. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Two target areas that were loaded with anti-aircraft guns were Calais and Boulognethe normal guns were the 88s but also the heavier 105s were there. I cannot remember exactly when, but I believe it was late March. I flew on a special mission with two other aircraft to the Calais area in which we flew at an altitude above and ahead of the group and across the line of flight dispersing chaff which was used to confuse the enemy radar and their ack-ack firing. It seems we made about three different passes before returning to base. I cannot be sure, but I believe this was the first time the countermeasure of chaff, tinfoil or other metallic strips were used. I never heard of any report on the actual success of the mission, but having heard of later use of chaff, it must have worked. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
On my thirty-third mission in April, 1944 to the Pas de Calais area against a NOBALL target, I was hit by flak coming in through the plexi-glass nose. Fortunately, I had a flak vest on and incurred no injury. I still have the piece of flak in my souvenirs. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
The bloodiest mission I took part in occurred with Captain Neilson as pilot and Jimmy DeLong a co-pilot. On a bright sunny morning we took our place in line and at the proper time took off down the runway and lifted into the air only to be met by a flock of birds (I believe they were called King birds). We had birds all through the airplane, the plastic nose was smashed, DeLong had a lap full of birds, I had a bird clear back in the navigation compartment. Captain Neilson successfully landed the aircraft and after we looked at the extensive damage, nose broke, leading edges dented, birds in the engine nacelles and blood and guts all over, Jimmy had but one commentI wish I had a color film camera! The bloodiest mission was a non-mission. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
We flew some missions where we rendezvous with a Pathfinder and followed them in to a blind target and dropped our bombs on their blue pickle. Some time in April or May I began flying missions as the G Box operator. I cannot recall how I got into this position, but it was fascinating, kind of like Buck Rogers stuffdropping bombs based on the feedback on a tube. On one mission we dropped using the G equipmentnot too successfulbut we did not incur any flak either which certainly had its merits. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Sat, 8 Apr 1944
Because of a combat crew shortage which has caused abolition of the 50-mission limit tour of duty and resulted in fatigue and morale problems, IX Bomber Command establishes a new operational leave policy. Maximum leaves for bomber crews are set at 1 week between the 25th and 30th missions and 2 weeks between the 40th and 50th missions. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
In Belgium, 198 B-26s attack Hasselt marshalling yard and hit Coxyde Airfield; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 10 Apr 1944 Mission: Le Havre coastal defenses
Mon, 10 Apr 1944 Mission: Namur Airfield [and/or
marshalling yard?]
Tue, 11 Apr 1944 Mission: Bonnieres V-1 site
258 B-26s and 41 A-20s, including 12 aircraft dropping Window, attack coastal batteries at Le Harve/Le Grand Hameau, France and military installation nearby. In Belgium during the afternoon 267 B-26s and A-20s bomb the marshalling yard, airfield, coastal defenses, and NOBALL targets at Charleroi/Montignies, Namur, Coxyde, Nieuport and other points on the N coast of W Europe. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Targets included...and, for the first time since September, a number of coastal defenses. The first of these occurred on April 10 when Colonel Caldwell led a thirty-six ship formation over Le Havre. The bombardiers had not lost their accuracy, for all strikes were seen to hit the target area, and one scored a direct hit on a gun emplacement. The same afternoon Lieutenant Colonel Seymour led the attack on the Namur marshalling yards. Following a formation of window ships, the 387th Marauders dropped incendiaries which started numerous fires. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 23.
April 10 These guns, estimated to be 285 to 300 mm, were in the heavily defended port of LeHavre. [It was] the most perfect job of bombing we had done. We wont have to go back to that damn place. My clos-\est shave came when a piece of flak went completely through my turret dome, missing my head by about six inches. M.R. said I was good for 48 more. BULL*ONEY. (All groups, 4-1000 lb. Specials.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
In Belgium, 229 B-26s and 36 A-20s, including 3 dropping Window, attack Charleroi/Montignies, military installations on the coast, and Chievres Airfield. 90+ P-47s dive-bomb a military installation and Gael Airfield, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
April 11 A "noball" in the Calais area was one of our most flaky missions. Did a good job of bombing but lost one ship. (Lt. Pratt) Our base closed in and we set down at a "Fort" base near Norwich, home of the famous 96th Bomb Group. Enjoyed our visit and left for home in the afternoon.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 12 Apr 1944 Mission: Dunkerque coastal defenses
Wed, 13 Apr 1944 Mission: Namur marshalling yard
231 B-26s and 20 A-20s attack railroad, shore batteries, radar installations, airfields, and V-weapon sites at Dunkirk and Courtrai/Wevelghem, France; Coxyde/Furnes, De Pannes-Bains, Saint Ghislain and Ostend, Belgium; and points along the coast. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The joy the crews felt after the two highly successful missions of the 10th was short-lived. Two days later, leading a formation over coastal defenses near Dunkerque, Colonel Caldwell and his crew were shot down by enemy flak. Included in the crew were Major Williams and Captain Moffit. Colonel Caldwell was succeeded as commanding officer by Lieutenant Colonel Thomas H. Seymour, who had been with the 387th since MacDill Field. Formation leaders on succeeding missions during April were Major Grau, Major William Brown and Captain R. W. Keller. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 23.
April 12 Our group CO, Col. Caldwell, with Lt. "Dick" Moffitt, was lost in the Channel while after coastal guns in Dunkirk proper. Lt. Col. Thomas M. Seymour became Group Commander.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
121 B-26s and 37 A-20s attack a marshalling yard, coastal batteries, airfields and V-weapon sites at Namur, Chievres and Nieuport, Belgium; Le Havre, France; and along the N coast of France in general; nearly 175 other aircraft abort missions mainly because of weather; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On April 13, 1944, Colonel Jack Caldwell took over for the remaining three months of the Marauders stay at Chipping Ongar. Newspaper clipping (2 Nov. 1984).
Tue, 18 Apr 1944 Mission: Charleroi-St. Martin
Airfield [or marshalling yard?]
Wed, 19 Apr 44 Mission: Dieppe coastal defenses
121 B-26s and 37 A-20s attack a marshalling yard, coastal batteries, airfields and V-weapon sites at Namur, Chievres and Nieuport, Belgium; Le Havre, France; and along the N coast of France in general; nearly 175 other aircraft abort missions mainly because of weather; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
During this period the often discussed mobility move took place. To keep all units from feeling too settled, Major General Lewis Brereton, Ninth Air Force Commander, had given his command the motto, Keep Mobile. During the course of the day of April 18 a truck convoy made a practice move to Borchan and the Group ground echelon marched to Blackmore. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 23-24.
April 18 The Namur, Belgium marshalling yards was the beginning of a drive to put out of commission the rail facilities in the occupied countries along the invasion (?) coast. After almost three full months of hammering at the Calais pinpoint targets, these targets now seemed easy to hit with damaging results. We bombed this target through the edge of a cloud, but results were very good.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Thu, 20 Apr 44 Mission: Bois Cocqueral Airfield
350+ B-26s and A-20s bomb marshalling yards, city areas, and targets of opportunity at Gunzburg, Ulm, Neu Ulm, Donauworth, and Schelklingen, Germany; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
During the latter part of the month the Group, in addition to its attacks on marshalling yards, NOBALLs and airfields, did valuable work in helping reduce Nazi coastal defenses in Normandy. These attacks were part of the over-all plan of softening up German fortifications on the French coast before the invasion of the continent. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
April 19 Another Belgium marshalling yard caught our bombs this time. As weather improves we are going deeper and more often against those targets that the Germans depend upon in supplying those areas along the coast. The Maline yards were an important target, being used to furnish western Belgium and Holland with transportation. We stopped that completely, for the time being, at least.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Fri, 21 Apr 44 Mission: Zudausques V-1 site
In France, almost 400 B-26s and A-20s attack gun positions at Etaples, Bazinghen, Villerville, Gravelines and Fecamp, the airfield at Poix, and V-weapon sites and targets of opportunity in the Pas de Calais area; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
In France, 236 B-26s and 34 A-20s attack gun positions, coastal defenses and V-weapons sites at Etaples, at Berck-sur-Mer, near Doullens, and in the Saint-Omer, Abbeville, and Amiens area; 4 B-26s are lost; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
April 21-22 Two more trys at the "rocket" installations in the Pas de Calais area.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sat, 22 Apr 44 Mission: Wisques V-1 site
Sat, 22 Apr 44 Mission: Bois des Huit Rues V-1 site
Sun, 23 Apr 44 Mission: Benerville coastal defenses
400+ B-26s and about 90 A-20s fly two missions against V-weapon sites in the area of Saint-Omer and Hesdin, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On the social side the various squadrons staged several enjoyable parties. Accommodations at the field were improved, and the presence of English girls and American nurses continued to be a welcome change. A decided uplift in the morale of the combat crews at this time was felt by the return to the United States of several veteran combat teams for well-deserved rests. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
April 21-22 Two more trys at the "rocket" installations in the Pas de Calais area.
We landed at our base about 1200 on the 22nd of April and then heard rumors that two crews from our squadron were being returned to the States for thirty days. The rumors persisted, finally settling on Lt. Jones crew and ours. At 1500 hours that evening, Lt. Col. Seymour and Lt. Col. Crosswaite broke the good news and also gave us our travelling orders. A happy bunch.
Home to Chipping Ongar
Left home on June 10th, starting the long return trip to the E.T.O. Spent the first night with the Dyers in Topeka and reported to the base on the 11th. After a two-day train ride, reported back in Atlantic City for the transportation to our outfit. After three days in A.C. we go by train to Camp Kilmer, N.J. to sweat out the boat. These two weeks were the ones we had hoped to miss, K.P. gas chamber. In fact, we had one 47534 of a time before we finally left for the boat on the 1st of July.
The return trip to the E.T.O. was made on the Queen Mary. Like the previous crossing, this voyage was uneventful except a couple days of rough weather. The 81st Infantry Division really suffered and heaved. We docked in Glasgow, Scotland at the Gourock docks entrained for Stone, England after two nights in Stone. We arrived at our station on July 8, completing the ten week, 10,000 mile trip and 30 days at home.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Mon, 24 Apr 44 Mission: Beauvoir V-1 site
307 B-26s and 57 A-20s attack NOBALL (V-weapon) targets, gun positions and marshalling yards in the Pas de Calais, France area and in an adjacent area of Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
38 B-26s dispatched against targets in France are recalled because of bad weather. 32 P-47s dive-bomb the Louvain, Belgium marshalling yard with good results. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 25 Apr 44 Mission: Beauvoir V-1 site
Wed, 26 Apr 44 Preinvasion maneuvers in Devonshire
40 B-26s and 69 A-20s bomb V-weapon sites in the coastal area of France and gun positions at Le Treport, Vareneville-sur-Mer, Fontenay-sur-Mer/Crisbec, Ault, Fecamp, Houlgate and Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 27 Apr 44 Mission: Wimeaux V-1 site
The Ninth Air Force Tactical Air Plan for Operation NEPTUNE (actual operations within Operation OVERLORD; used for security reasons on OVERLORD planning documents bearing place names and dates) is published, 10 days after receiving formal Allied Expeditionary Air Force (AEAF) directive ordering such a plan. Around 125 B-26s attack Plattling landing ground, Germany.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On April 26, 28 and 29, 387th Marauders assisted in pre-invasion maneuvers staged by allied army and naval forces in Devonshire. Tension and anticipation of the coming invasion of the continent filled the air, pervaded the Group and increased each day. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
Fri, 28 Apr 44 Preinvasion maneuvers in Devonshire
About 450 B-26s and A-20s and 275+ P-47 and P-51 dive bombers attack gun emplacements, marshalling yards, coastal batteries, airfields and several military installations in France and Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 29 Apr 44 Preinvasion maneuvers in Devonshire
18 B-26s bomb the airfield at Cormeilles-en-Vexin, France as a secondary target. Nearly 250 B-26s dispatched to bomb marshalling yards are recalled because of heavy cloud cover over the targets. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On April 26, 28 and 29, 387th Marauders assisted in pre-invasion maneuvers staged by allied army and naval forces in Devonshire. Tension and anticipation of the coming invasion of the continent filled the air, pervaded the Group and increased each day. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
Sun, 30 Apr 44 Mission: Bois d'Enfer V-1 site
217 B-26s dispatched to bomb marshalling yards in France abort the mission because of heavy cloud cover over the target area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On April 26, 28 and 29, 387th Marauders assisted in pre-invasion maneuvers staged by allied army and naval forces in Devonshire. Tension and anticipation of the coming invasion of the continent filled the air, pervaded the Group and increased each day. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
300+ B-26s and A-20s attack V-weapon construction works and marshalling yards in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 1 May 44 Mission: Monceaux-sur-Sambre marshalling
yard
Mon, 1 May 44 Mission: Louvain marshalling yard
Tue, 2 May 44
450 B-26s and A-20s attack numerous marshalling yards and industrial
targets in France and Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Two missions were flown on May 1. In the morning thirty-six aircraft bombed Louvain marshalling yards with excellent results. In the afternoon the same number, carrying 1,000 pound bombs as on the Louvain mission, hit the locomotive sheds, choke points and rail lines at Monceau in northern France. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
Thu, 4 May 44
250+ B-26s and A-20s bomb marshalling yards at Busigny, Valenciennes and Blanc-Misseron, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
During the next week, since bad weather prevented flying missions, several formations of planes flew training missions in conjunction with ground troop maneuvers on the south coast. In addition to the maneuver missions all crews practiced new formation bombing by fours and sixes instead of the standard eighteen-ship box. This change was tried in an effort to increase the probability of hits on the targets. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 24.
Sat, 6 May 44
In France, 170+ B-26s and 36 A-20s bomb gun emplacements and other military targets at Etretat/Sainte-Marie-Au-Bosc, Etaples, Le Treport, Ault, Fecamp and Ouistreham. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 8 May 44
75 B-26s and A-20s dispatched to attack coastal defenses abort the mission because of weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 9 May 44
About 450 B-26s and A-20s bomb marshalling yards, coastal defenses, bridges, airfields and V-weapons sites in France and Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
10 May 44 Mission: Criel marshalling yards
40+ B-26s attack marshalling yards, railway batteries, coastal defense batteries, bridges, and NOBALL sites in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 11 May 44 Mission: Hardelot coastal defenses
About 300 B-26s attack marshalling yards, airfields, and NOBALL targets in France and Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The Group went back on operations on May 10 with a morning mission of thirty-nine aircraft to remove the railroad bridge at Oissel, just south of Rouen. Two weeks practice proved its worth when the formation, flying and bombing by fours, left the bridge definitely severed and the rail lines to the north out. The crews on this attack were given special commendation by Major General Samuel E. Anderson for the excellent job. In the afternoon, bombing in flights of sixes, the formation dropped 500 pounders on closely parked goods wagons, locomotive sheds, warehouses and engine sheds at Creil. One flight, unable to get into position for the run on the primary target, bombed Boix airfield, the secondary target, with excellent results. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 24-25.
The talk of an invasion was constant and our targets began to take on a different tone, going to marshalling yards and bridges, and coastal defenses. I flew on missions to marshalling yards at Criel, Malines, Namur, Cambrai, ... Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
[I'm not sure this is the right bridge; Oissel is south of Rouen]
The bridges were exciting targets in that the results were evident, that is spans down in the river and the bridge broken. I remember most vividly a mission in the Brussels area, where Bill Boggis was the bombardier and we laid a string of bombs on the center span of the bridge and the follow on flights took out the approaches since the center was in the water. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Fri, 12 May 44 Mission: La Parnelle coastal defenses
330+ B-26s attack airfields at Beaumont-le-Roger and Cormeilles-en-Vexin and marshalling yard at Mezieres/Charleville, France and Aerschot, Belgium. Bad visibility and failure to rendezvous with fighters cause 100+ aborts. This is start of Ninth Air Force's participation in AAF pre-invasion offensive against airfields. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
From May 11th until the 25th the chief targets were coastal gun positions at Ft. Mardick, Quisterham, Benerville and Barfleur. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Sat, 13 May Mission: Fort Mardick coastal defenses
450+ B-26s attack coastal defenses, airfields, bridges, railroads and railroad guns, and V-weapon sites in France and Belgium; thick haze impedes visibility and causes many aborts. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On the 12th of May, gun positions at Barfleur-La Parnelle on the Cherbourg peninsula were attacked with good results. Our flights were led by Captain Sanders and Lts. Clark and Harrison. On this mission the ship in which Lts. P.R. Hanna served as copilot and Lt. H.J. Halnon as bombardier, became unstable and they baled out over the Cherbourg peninsula. The ship was brought back to England by Lt. E. G. Bond and the four remaining members of the crew baled out over southern England and returned uninjured to the base the next day. Monthly Report, 556th Bombardment Squadron, Medium, May 1944.
The B-26B [42-96190] crashed on the Isle of Wight, offshore, and south of Southamption, England. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 49.
Mon, 15 May 44 Mission: Douai marshalling yard
300+ B-26s and A-20s bomb airfields, coastal defenses, railway battery and V-weapon sites in France and Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 19 May 44 Mission: Somain marshalling yard
In France, 45 A-20s and B-26s bomb airfields at Creil and Evreux/Fauville and Somain marshalling yard; 300+ others are forced to abandon missions because of thick clouds. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 20 May 44 Mission: Benerville coastal defenses
In France, about 290 B-26s and A-20s bomb coastal defenses, port area, railway battery, and NOBALL (V-weapon) targets; 125+ others fail to bomb because of extremely thick haze Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 21 May 44
Around 450 B-26s attack airfields, coastal defenses, and V-weapon site in France; about 250 aborts are caused mainly by bad cloud conditions and failure to rendezvous with fighters. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 22 May 44
In France 50 B-26s bomb airfields at Abbeville/Drucat; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 23 May 44
Around 330 B-26s and A-20s bomb airfields and other targets in the Cherbourg, Calais, and Paris areas of France ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 24 May 44 Mission: La Parnelle-Barfleur coastal defenses
In France, 15 B-26s bomb the airfield at Beaumont-le-Roger in a predawn attack; during the afternoon 58 B-26s bomb coastal batteries at Etretat/Sainte-Marie-Au-Bosc, Maisy and Mont Fleury; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 25 May 44 Mission: Liege-Val Benoit railroad bridge
In France, 450+ B-26s attack airfields, coastal defenses and V-weapon sites; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 26 May 44 Mission: Chartres Airfield
225+ B-26s attack bridges near Liege, Belgium and airfields at Lille/Nord and Monchy-Breton, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On May 25 the crews attacking the Liege/Val Benoit bridge did a beautiful job of cutting both spans and the ramps,... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Sat, 27 May 1944 Mission: La Manoir railroad bridge
In France, nearly 400 B-26s and A-20s attack airfields at Beaumont-sur-Oise and Chartres and bridges at Vernon and Poissy; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
but the next day the Group had to retire temporarily into the doghouse when one flight of six, after the other flights had hit the Chartres Airfield, dropped in gross error and almost hit the famed Chartres cathedral. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Sun, 28 May 44 Mission: Liege-Renory bridge
About 590 B-26s attack railroad, bridges, and marshalling yards in France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Next day, making a good comeback to atone for this error, the flights showed excellent results on the railroad bridges at Le Manoir and Orival. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Mon, 29 May 44 Mission: Conflans railroad bridge
600+ B-26s and A-20s bomb marshalling and naval yards, railway bridges and V-weapon sites in France and Belgium; 8 aircraft are lost. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
With the help of a short spell of good weather, the good work was continued on the bridges at Liege/Renory, Conflans and Maisone Lafitte. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Tue, 30 May 1944
450+ B-26s and A-20s bomb airfields, marshalling yards, railroad bridges, coastal battery and NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in France and Belgium. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The Conflans mission was costly in the loss of Captain E. C. Harmon and his crew. Captain Harmon had been one of the first pilots to join the Group at MacDill. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Wed, 31 May 1944 Mission: Bennecourt highway bridge
Loading of assault forces for Operation OVERLORD (invasion of Normandy) begins.
...
In France, 320+ B-26s attack airfields at Denain/Prouvy and Mantes/Limay, and highway bridges at Meulan and Rouen. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
May 44
About 200 B-26s bomb lock and highway bridges at Bennecourt, Courcelles-sur-Seine and Rouen, France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 1 Jun 44
Among the awards coming through during May were the Silver Star for Major Joseph Richardson and Bronze Stars of Technical Sergeants L.P. White and Hendrickson, whose ships, Lady Irene and Secksma Sheen, respectively, had flown fifty missions without aborting. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Fri, 2 Jun 44 Mission: Epreville field battery
In France, around 100 B-26s bomb airfields and coastal defense batteries from the Belgian border to the Cherbourg Peninsula. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
A special conference for ground liaison officers is held by 21 Army Group officers who present a detailed exposition of the plan for the landings in Normandy. In France, about 350 B-26s and A-20s bomb NOBALL (V-weapon) targets and coastal defense batteries along the English Channel coast; P-38s and P-47s dive-bomb targets in the area, including V-weapon sites, fuel dump, railroad junctions and bridges.
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
As rumors of the approaching invasion increased, the 387th and other medium groups were kept busy knocking out coastal guns along the channel coast. On June 2nd, thirty-seven planes bombed Epreville. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Sat, 3 Jun 44 Mission: Etaples-Camiers coastal
defenses
250+ B-26s and A-20s bomb airfields, highway bridges, and coastal defense batteries in N France; 400+ P-38s and P-47s dive-bomb targets in NW Europe. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The next day six flights of sixes hit the Etaples/Camiers coastal defense positions and scored direct hits on several gun positions and command posts. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
Sun, 4 Jun 44 Mission: Calais-March field battery
Mon, 5 Jun 44
In France, 300+ B-26s and A-20s bomb highway bridge and coastal batteries; almost 200 P-47s and P-51s dive-bomb bridges, railroad junction, rolling stock and targets of opportunity. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Flak was heavy during the attack June 4th on the Calais/March coastal defense guns. The next mission was on D-Day. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 25.
A day or two earlier, I had been in London on leave to go to Torquay, England. I had flown 64 missions and was getting a long awaited rest. While I was stopped at the Kensington Street Station to board the train for Torquay two MPs stopped me saying, Lieutenant, may we see your orders, please? As I showed them to him, he took out a list asking, Are you with the 387th Bomb Group? When I answered affirmatively, he said, Well, youre to report back to base immediately. I returned to the base at Chelmsford and it was the night of June 5th. As I pedaled my bike around the base I rode out to the hard stands where our ships were parked. A group of men were on top of the ships painting black and white stripes around the wings and fuselage. When I questioned our crew chief, he said, I dont know, but we have to have all aircraft ready by tomorrow morning. Al Cory, quoted in Shootin In, Nov. 1995, p. 6.
No word of invasion stripes was heard until the afternoon before D-Day. I was called to a meeting at group engineering about two oclock in the afternoon and told all planes were to be painted before morning. I had not been issued any paint, nor brushes, nor sketches of where and how many stripes were to be painted. We were quickly assured pain and brushes were on hand and could be picked up at any time. It took all the people we could find well into the night to get the painting done. Some of it did not look too hot but all planes were painted by morning. It must have been quite a site to those on the beaches and to the German airmen to suddenly find ever Allied plane painted with black and white stripes. The reason was obvious. How better could you mark all Allied planes for quick and easy identification. I am sure when you are one of those on the ground you shoot first and look for plane identification later unless identification is instantly made. Alonzo Richardson, Engineering Officer, 352 BS, 451 BG; quoted in Maurauder Thunder.
The use of invasion stripes was motivated by a tragedy that had taken place in the invasion of Sicily, in Operations Husky 1 and 2, July 9-12, 1943. During these night operations, troop carrier planes were mistaken for enemy planes, and some 23 planes of the 52nd Troop Carrier Wing, some still with paratroopers aboard, were accidentally shot down by American Navy and Army units. Hence all Allied planes, troop carrier, fighters, and bombers, bore black and white invasion stripes for the invasion of France and subsequent missions. The stripes also let the forces on the ground know that they didn't have to take cover. The high security was not only to disguise the invasion date but to prevent the Germans from confusing the issue by painting similar stripes on their own planes.
Tue, 6 Jun 44 Mission: Madelaine coastal defenses
In France, 100+ B-26s bomb coastal defense batteries; 100+ P-47s dive-bomb targets in the same area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 7 Jun 44 Mission: Rennes bridge & junction
800+ A-20s and B-26s bomb coastal defense batteries, rail and road junctions and bridges, and marshalling yards in support of the invasion; 2,000+ fighters fly sweeps, escort for B-26s and C-47s, ground support, and dive-bombing missions over W France. During the preceding night and during the day over 1,400 C-47s, C-53's, and gliders deliver glider troops and paratroops, including 3 full airborne divisions, which are to secure beach exits to facilitate inland movement of seaborne assault troops. A total of about 30 aircraft are lost. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Beginning with D-Day, the targets hit by the Group changed from medium range strategic targets, such as marshalling yards and airfields, to short-range tactical targets. Although there were missions in marshalling yards and the NOBALLs, which had begun firing pilotless aircraft towards London, the majority of the targets were road junctions, rail lines and fuel and ammunitions storage dumps. During the Normandy campaign the Group, besides doing good bombing, received several commendations for efficient, accurate and speedy reporting of observations by combat crews. It is estimated that during the first two weeks of the invasion the 387th observation reports resulted in the location and destruction of one German division headquarters, three supply dumps and a number of tanks and other vehicles. D-Day, June 6, 1944, the 387th participated in the Ninth Bomber Command assignment of attacking the east coast beaches of the Cherbourg peninsula. The Groups specific targets were three strong points on the beach in the vicinity of Les Dunes de Varreville. The mission came in at 0100 hours and briefing was held at 0230 hours under the direction of Major William B. Engler, Captain Karl G. Peterson and Captain Sam H. Monk, who had assembled H-Hour and D-Day data. The formation leader was Captain Joe Whitfield. Orders were to keep the bombs within a short distance of the coast, because paratroopers were to land just beyond the beaches. The mission was a success. Bombs fell about 800 feet west of the center of target, possibly damaging a north-south road, and none fell too far inland from the beach.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 26-27.
In June, 1944, I had already flown fifty-five missions over Europe with enough harrowing experiences to last me a lifetime. Most of our missions were flown between eight and thirteen thousand feet. This was ideal for the enemy to use heavy flak against us, since we needed to stay below oxygen-breathing level, and also because our Norden bombsight was very good at that altitude. On June 6, we woke at 0130. We knew that this was the day; this was the hour we had been waiting for. Weeks before, we had been bombing bridges and rail yards, cutting off all travel to the coast that we could.
Keeping track of the time on our watches, we began to get everything set. Boy, it's dark and rainy. We're not accustomed to this at all; we've done only daylight missions. Time to fire the engines. Clear on the right engine. The big Pratt Whitney 2800 sputters and coughs and belches out smoke with fire from the exhaust, but she's running. The left follows. The taxi out is maddening. Thirty-six ships. Who to follow, and when to follow? The take-off will be just as bad.
We have a climb pattern, but no time for practice. It's got to be perfect the first time. Throttles wide open, and off we go. All planes are using landing lights while climbing, hoping it will help avoid collisions. But the lights flashing everywhere is weird, and confusing, and makes it difficult to fly the airplane. A cold sweat broke out on me, and it seemed we climbed forever, trying to stay in the rendezvous area. The engines sounded good, thank goodness.
Even with fifty missions under my belt, my hands were wet, and I felt drained of energy. How were we going to see the target in this stuff? It got light above, and we broke out, running through the tops of a few clouds. At eight thousand feet, how sweet it is. I looked all around the sky. Where was the rest of the group? We took up a course when we spotted a B-26 group ahead of us. The plane tails told us it wasn't ours. Ours sported a series of orange-and-black slanting stripes on the top of the vertical stabilizer. We were known as the Tiger Stripe group. There was nothing to do but pull in with them and continue on. The sky was full of planes, and below, the water was covered with surface vessels. We expected to see German fighters as we neared the coast, but didn't.
As we approached the target, the bomb-bay doors opened and "Bombs away!" There was light flak coming up, and the bombadier said we got a good hit. Out over the French countryside, scattered everywhere, were parachutes and pieces of huge crashed gliders. I don't believe I saw an undamaged one. I had this sick feeling that things were not going well.
We made a sweeping turn back to the coast and the formation tightened, and I could see aircraft everywhere approaching the coast. We flew back over the sea full of vessels and made landfall over the white cliffs at Beachy Head, and then around the London balloons to our base. We made another flight later in the day.
James DeLong
As the low flying Marauders approached Utah Beach, the sky brightened and the air crews saw a sight unique in world history--Lt William Moriarty, a B-26 pilot said, "As we approached the coast we could see ships shelling the beach. One destroyer, half sunk, was still firing from the floating end. The beach was a bedlam of exploding bombs and shells." Lt. A. H. Corry remembered that "The water was just full of boats, like bunches of ants crawling around down there. I imagined all those young men huddled in the landing craft, doubtless scared to death. I could see what they were heading into and I prayed for all those brave young men. I thought, man I'm up here looking down at this stuff and they're out there waiting to get on that beach." Stephen Ambrose in "The Victors," p 99.
D-Day was of course special and once again I flew the G Box and while I am not sure, I believe we were in the lead plane since only lead planes had G equipment. The weather was atrocious and we went through layers of clouds, and attempted to rendezvous at altitude, but it was impossible. The G equipment worked extremely well in this area and I could verify our position constantly. In the end we dropped to an altitude of about two thousand feet or less and proceeded across the channel. I remember seeing the twenty millimeter fire off Point Balfourit was certainly different than the 88smore like firecrackers. We made our run across the beach and then on across the peninsula, out past the Gurnsey Islands and home to England. I participated, but my view of the invasion was limited by my duty to the G box. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Stephen Ambrose, D-Day. It was in a B-26 that Blair and his crewmates flew over Normandy on D-day, June 6, 1944. "The weather was terrible," Blair said, reminiscing about one of the most famous battles in U.S. military history. "It just wasn't good flying weather."
It wasn't.
Stationed 30 miles northeast of London in a small village called Willing Gail, the Wham Bam crew left at first light that day, flew into the overcast and got separated from the rest of their group. They latched onto another B-26 group, however, part of thousands of aircraft in the sky for the invasion. After they crossed over the channel they went down to 5,000 feet, dropping their bombs onto the beach. Blair said some planes went down, but not the Wham Bam, which flew two missions that day.
Sandi Martin, News Chief, "'Wham Bam' crew meets again," Polk Online.com (Polk County, Florida, 2001).
Thu, 8 Jun 44 Mission: Pontaubault railroad junction
600+ B-26s hit bridges, junctions, trestles, coastal and field batteries, and marshalling yards in France in support of the invasion; 1,100+ fighters support ground troops by dive bombing and strafing, escort B-26s and C-47s, and make sweeps throughout the battle area as Bayeux is liberated and the Bayeux-Caen road is cut; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On June 7th it was learned that the 17th German Panzer Division was moving north to the invasion beachhead. The report called for a mission to deny this route to the Germans. Because of bad weather the formation attempting to bomb the rail junction at Rennes was not successful, but it did get good results on a railroad west of Vire and on a choke point of vehicles near St. Lo. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 27.
...but the one that stands out was the raid on Rennes in June following the invasion. We left the marshalling yard in bright red flames and I remember talking to Carl Cooper afterward, he was the lead bombardier, and while that was an extremely short bomb run through heavy flak, Carl had used the Norden sight and done a magnificent job of blistering the heart of the yard. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
The B-26 Marauders, two-engine bombers, continued their all-out assault on choke points in the German transportation system, principally bridges and highway junctions. Lt. James Delong was a Marauder pilot who had flown in low and hard on D-Day over Utah Beach. On June 7, it was a bridge at Rennes, on the Seine. On the 8th, a railroad junction near Avranches. These were defended sites. "We were being met with plenty of flak from enemy 88s," Delong recalled. "That Whomp! Whomp! sound just outside with black smoke puffs filling the air was still scary as hell, damaging and deadly." But there were no Luftwaffe fighters, partly because the B-26s flew tight formations and stayed low, discouraging fighter attacks, but more because most German pilots were on the far side of the Rhine River, trying to defend the homeland from the Allied four-engine bombers, and the Luftwaffe was chronically short on fuel.
Almost exactly four years earlier, following the RAF withdrawal from the Battle of France, the Luftwaffe had ruled the skies over Normandy and all Europe. Field Marshall Hermann Goering's air fleet struck terror in the hearts of its enemies. But in June 1944 it was not even a minor factor in the battle. ...
In Normandy in June 1944, German soldiers learned to always look up for danger. GIs seldom had to look up. So total was this dominance that the Germans became experts in camouflage to make themselves invisible from the sky, while the GIs laid out colored panels and otherwise did all they could to make themselves plainly visible from the sky. They wanted any airplane up there to know that they were Americans, because they knew without having to look that the plane they heard was American.
Stephen E. Ambrose, Citizen Soldiers, pp. 48-49.
Sat, 10 Jun 44 Mission: St. Lo troop concentrations
Around 400 B-26s attack rail and road bridges and junctions, rail sidings, marshalling yards, town areas, fuel storage tanks, ammunition dumps, troop concentration and strong points in the Calais, France area. Around 1,300 fighter sorties provide support to B-26s and high cover over the assault area, and bomb and strafe bridges, marshalling yards, gun batteries, rail facilities, vehicles, towns, and troop concentrations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The next morning a highly successful mission was flown against the railroad junction at Pontaubault. The best strike was made by Lieutenant Donald Tall, bombardier in Captain Robert H. Wills flight, whose bombs hit the target perfectly. The afternoon mission proved to be one of the roughest and most remarkable ever flown by the Group. Captain Rollin D. Childress was to lead eighteen aircraft to a fuel dump in the Forêt de Grimbosq, south of Caen. At the takeoff at 1958 hours the ceiling was 900 feet. The formation assembled without difficulty, but on going up through the solid overcast it became widely dispersed. Eleven of the planes returned to the base; one crash-landed at Gravesend and one, piloted by First Lieutenant Raymond V. Morin, crashed while attempting to land at Briston in ceiling zero weather. Captain Childress gathered three aircraft with his own and continued on, sometimes at deck level in quarter of a mile visibility. He managed to find the target and his bombardier, First Lieutenant Wilson J. Cushing, bombed it with great accuracy from 6,000 feet. As the formation of four turned off the target, moderate extremely accurate flak shot down the fourth airplane piloted by Captain Charles D. Schober. The airplane exploded in min-air and no parachutes were observed. Included in Captain Schobers crew was Captain John D. Koot, group weather officer. The remaining three aircraft, proceeding homeward, braved the horrible weather conditions over England and landed at the base at 2230 hours. Captain Childress was congratulated on his tenacity and perseverance by Colonel Willard Lewis, commander of the 98th Combat Wing, and by group commander Lieutenant Colonel Thomas H. Seymour. He was also awarded the Silver Star. The effectiveness of the bombing was attended to by a congratulatory telegram from the ground forces which stated that the important fuel dump, the immediate supply for an entire panzer division, was destroyed.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 27-28.
This mission began at 1958 hrs, with a ceiling of 900 ft. The formation became widely seperated during their ascent thru the solid overcast. Fourteen, of the eighteen ship formation, aborted. Twenty-two year old Lt. Jerald Fisher became lost trying to find the formation. He saw the RAF fighter strip at Gravesend, and landed on the short steel-mesh strip. His nose tire was punctured, collapsing the nose gear, causing "Black Fury" to tear up 50 feet of the strip as it came to a rest in a field. Cpl. Elton A. Armstrong, 556th Armament Section, who had volunteered to replace the hung over EG on Fisher's crew, was impressed that Lt. Fisher missed "...all those barrage ballons" during their perilous landing. Fisher replied, "What barrage ballons?!!" ... forty years latter. "Black Fury" was salvaged for parts. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 31.
Two days after the invasion of Normandy the crew got into a sticky situation, with bad weather again playing a role. The crew flew into the overcast and planes in the formation began dropping out of the sky. The Wham Bam joined up with four other planes -- they were all supposed to be recalled but the radio message didn't go through. The planes dropped their bombs on a fuel depot and wiped it out, but enemy fire took down the plane in the no. 4 position. Sandi Martin, News Chief, "'Wham Bam' crew meets again," Polk Online.com (Polk County, Florida, 2001).
Sun, 11 Jun 44 Mission: Pontaubault railroad bridge
In France, 500+ B-26s and A-20s bomb targets in the assault area including military concentrations, road and rail bridges and junctions, artillery batteries, marshalling yards and town areas; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
During the remainder of the Normandy campaign two missions a day were flown whenever the weather promised a fifty-fifty chance of success. ...the chief targets were road junctions, railroads, gun positions and NOBALLs. Results were good and the attacks did their part in preparing for the Allied breakthroughs at Falaise and St. Lo. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 28.
Mon, 12 Jun 44 Mission: Vire road junction
In France, 129 B-26s and A-20s bomb rail and road bridges and intersections, rail lines, oil tanks, artillery and town areas, in morning operations; bad weather prevents afternoon operations; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Bridges at Paontaubalt, St. Lo and Ambrieres were hit... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 28.
Tue, 13 Jun 44 Mission: Domfront fuel dump
In France, 509 B-26s and A-20s bomb marshalling yards, road and rail junctions, bridges, artillery, town areas, troop concentrations and various targets of opportunity; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 14 Jun 44 Mission: Falaise road junction
The first V-1 "buzz bomb" lands in S England; more land during the night of 13/14 Jun, and throughout the rest of the month.
. . .
In France, 397 B-26s and A-20s bomb rail and road junctions, marshalling yards and fuel dumps in the assault areas; aircraft of 9 fighter groups escort the bombers and attack bridges, marshalling yards, troop areas, rail and road traffic, gun emplacements, ammunition dumps and other targets. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 15 Jun 44 Mission: Villers Bocage defended village
500+ B-26s and A-20s attack rail communications SW of Paris and highway communications centers S of the beachhead area; junctions, bridges, marshalling yards, gun emplacements and various defensive strongpoints are included; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 16 Jun 44
550+ B-26s and A-20s direct main attacks against fuel and ammunition dumps, rail and highway communications, and armored division HQ S of the bridgehead on the Douve River; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 17 Jun 44
In France, bad weather prevents bomber operations; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 18 Jun 44 Mission: Rennes marshalling yard
In France, 265 B-26s attack fuel dumps, a bridge and a railway line S of the battle area; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
In France, about 130 A-20s and B-26s bomb fuel dumps at Foret d'Andaine and Conches and marshalling yards at Rennes and Meudon during the morning and NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in the afternoon; fighters, in addition to escort duty, continue strafing and bombing rail lines, troop concentrations, and highway traffic on the Cherbourg Peninsula; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 20 Jun 44 Mission: Lambus (Lanbue?) V-1
site
Wed, 21 Jun 44 Mission: Zudausques V-1 site
In France, about 370 B-26s and A-20s bomb 9 V-weapon sites and a coastal defense battery at Houlgate; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 22 Jun 44 Mission: Cherbourg tank trap
250+ B-26s and A-20s bomb 13 V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais area of France. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 23 Jun 44 Mission: Remainsil V-1 site
In France, around 600 B-26s and A-20s and 1,200+ fighters fly missions during the day; the main effort consists of an attack on the tip of the Cherbourg Peninsula in support of the US VII Corps assault on the port of Cherbourg; beginning 1 hour before the ground attack and continuing until the attack begins. Fighters and fighter-bombers pound the whole area S of the city from low level; as the ground assault begins, B-26s and A-20s strike a series of strongpoints selected by the US First Army, forming a 55-minute aerial barrage moving N in advance of ground forces; later in the day B-26s attack marshalling yards, fuel dumps and a German HQ; fighter-bombers fly armed reconnaissance over various railroads and bomb rail facilities, trains, road traffic and gun emplacements; 25 fighter-bombers are lost during the day's operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 24 Jun 44
Bad weather prevents A-20 and B-26 missions during the morning; in the afternoon 175+ B-26s and A-20s bomb 7 V-weapon sites in France Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 25 Jun 44 Mission: Foret de Senoches fuel dump
430+ B-26s and A-20s attack targets in France, including 4 gun positions, 3 V-weapon sites, 3 fuel dumps, 2 marshalling yards, and a railroad bridge; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 26 Jun 44
In France, 400+ B-26s and A-20s hit fuel dumps at Foret d'Andaine, Foret d'Ecouves, and Senonches, and rail bridges at Cherisy, Chartres, Oiseme and Epernon; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
1st Lt. Sam Ayers was at the controls when "Los Lobos Grande" was hit by enemy Flak over the target. Lt. Ayers was forced to break formation, but by his skillful flying brought his aircraft back to England, where he made a crash landing at an RAF base located at Ford, in Sussex. The B-26B was salvaged for parts.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 2.
Tue, 27 Jun 44
In France, weather cancels all operations save a few fighter sorties which result in claims against a few military vehicles and 3 aircraft as US ground forces capture Cherbourg; 3 US fighters are lost. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 28 Jun 44
In France, bad weather precludes bomber operations; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 29 Jun 44 Laye-Le Belles Martin (?) defended area
... bad weather cancels bomber and fighter operations from the UK; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 30 Jun 44 Mission: Foret de Conches fuel dump
In France, almost 200 B-26s and A-20s bomb gun batteries on Cap de la Hague, bridges and rail lines in the Rennes-Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcourt-Vitre areas, and rail bridge at Oissel; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 1 Jul 44
In France, 125+ B-26s and A-20s, using blind-bombing methods in bad weather, bomb fuel dumps and road junctions at Conde-sur-Vire, Foret de Conches, Conde-sur-Noireau, and Thury-Harcourt; around 250 others are forced to abort due to weather; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 2 Jul 44
In France, weather prevents operations by IX Bomber Command; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 4 Jul 44
In France, all IX Bomber Command missions are cancelled due to bad weather; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 5 Jul 44 Mission: Caen Bridges
In France bad weather curtails bomber operations, but 95 B-26s and A-20s bomb a rail bridge at Oissel and strongly defended positions N of Anneville-sur-Mer, using the Pathfinder technique; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 6 Jul 44 Mission: Cloyes railroad/highway bridge
In France, about 180 B-26s and A-20s bomb bridges at Caen and also sidings, tracks, and rolling stock; in the afternoon 4 NOBALL (V-weapon) HQ are hit; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Following D-Day, we flew in support of Montgomery at Caen and I can recall the heavy flak we encountered. I would call it as bad as anywhere previouslylike Calais, Boulogne and Cherbourg. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Fri, 7 Jul 44 Mission: Chartres troop concentration & mechanized armor
In France during the morning around 500 B-26s and A-20s bomb bridges and rail lines at 8 locations; in the afternoon 5 targets are attacked, including bridges, fuel dumps, railroad tracks, and a V-weapon location; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The two most spectacular of these missions were the bombing of a buzz-bomb headquarters at Doullens Citadel on July 6 with good results and ... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 28.
Sat, 8 Jul 44 Mission: Mantes Gassicourt railroad bridge
In France, 100+ A-20s and B-26s bomb rail bridge near Tours, and targets of opportunity in the Lisieux and Beuzeville areas; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 9 Jul 44 Mission: Mantes Gassicourt railroad bridge
In France, about 280 A-20s and B-26s bomb V-weapon HQ at Chateau-de-Ribeaucourt, numerous strongpoints in the Caen battle area, rail bridges at Mantes-La-Jolie, Saumur, Nogent-le-Roi, and Caen and (late in evening) fuel dumps in Rennes and a bridge at Nantes; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 11 Jul 44
In France, of 250+ B-26s and A-20s dispatched, about 60 bomb targets; bad weather prevents others from bombing; targets hit are a rail bridge, crossing, overpass and a highway bridge at Ablis, Orleans, Vendome, and Montfort-sur-Risle; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 12 Jul 44 Nantes railroad bridge
In France, A-20s and B-26s strike fuel dumps at Foret d'Andaine, Chateau-de-Tertu, Flers, and Foret d'Ecouves; NOBALL (V-weapon) sites at Chateau d'Helicourt and Chateau d'Ansenne; and a rail bridge at Bourth; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 13 Jul 44
In France, 300+ A-20s and B-26s fly morning and afternoon missions against fuel dumps at Foret d'Andaine and Foret d'Ecouves, military concentrations at Foret de Cinglais, rail bridges at Merey, Cinq Mars-la-Pile, Saumur, Nantes, and Nogent-le-Roi, and other rail and road targets; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 14 Jul 44 Mission: Merey railroad bridge
In France, bad weather prevents bomber operations ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 15 Jul 44
In France, weather again curtails operations; 62 B-26s and A-20s, using Oboe, bomb a railway embankment at Bourth and rail bridge at Merey; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 16 Jul 44 Mission: Foret de la Guerche fuel dump
In France, weather cancels most operations but 4 B-26s (92 others abort) hit the L'Aigle rail bridge during the afternoon; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On July 15, 1944, a total of 209 newly-graduated Pilots were dispersed among 9AF medium bomber and transport units. (8AF Replacement Depot, Special Order No. 197, July 15, 1944). The largest group of these new Pilots went to the 323rd BG. The distribution to other Marauder units was: 387BG-12, 397BG-6, 344BG-1, and 394BG-1. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 244 (fn. 7).
Mon, 17 Jul 44
In France, about 375 B-26s and A-20s, during morning and evening operations, bomb strongpoints in the Saint-Lo area, bridges in the frontline area, and bridges and a fuel dump SE of Rennes; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
July 16 No. 55 Window ship for the formation, (387th) dropping frags on German troops in the St. Lo sector. Dropped bombs via pathfinder via 10/10 cloud. No flak. No fighters. Flew ship 912 (Damfino)our first "op" since returning from the states. McFee flew as engineer.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
I flew fifteen missions after D-Day, the last being my seventieth on July 16, 1944 in support of our troops at St. Lo, France. On that mission, which was a milk run, the crew led by Captain Toler consisted of all the crew-members with orders to return to the Statesneedless to say we were very concerned for our safety. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
Tue, 18 Jul 1944 Advance unit moves to Stoney Cross
With operations limited by weather in France, 69 B-26s hit fuel dumps at Rennes ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On July 17, the Group had an unfortunate experience in the loss of Colonel Thomas M. Seymour, commanding officer, in an airplane accident. His place was taken by Colonel Grover C. Brown, who left the positions as Chief of Staff of the 98th Combat Wing (M) to take command of the Group. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 28.
Wed, 19 Jul 44 Mission: Tours railroad bridge
In France, 400+ B-26s and A-20s hit various military targets in support of the ground forces in the Caen area, and later in the day bomb rail and highway bridges beyond the frontlines; ... and HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Medium) moves from Chipping Ongar to Stony Cross. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
...and the attack on the fortified area south of Caen on July 18. The carpet-bombing mission, a consolidated effort of American and RAF bombers, was a prelude to the great push by the British under General Montgomery. Carrying 260-pound fragmentation bombs, the 387th formation, led by Major Robert Keller, took part in the attack that wiped out a whole German division. Lieutenant Robert S. Weyell and his crew were lost on this mission.
...
During the campaign in Normandy, as a result of the retreat of the German from the coastal areas, targets for the mediums were getting farther away so that missions were becoming too long for effective tactical support. The 98th Combat Wing had been ordered to move to the south of England. On July 18, the advance echelon of the 387th moved from Station 162 to Station 452, located at Stoney Cross, Hants,... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 28.
July 18 No. 56 We led the second box of 18 ships dropping frags on German troops in support of the British and Canadian troops attempting to break through the Orne River defenses. We were a small part of the greatest air armada ever massed in direct support of ground troops. In less than four hours seven thousand planes dropped eight thousand tons of bombs. Gen. Monty later said, "After an enormous air and artillery bombardment, our troops crossed the River Orne and moved forward. The days progress was very satisfactory." Bomb load: 16-260 lb. frags.
(later) The terrific air bombardment by itself completely destroyed one Nazi division. S-2 reports the division marked off the list. Encountered heavy flak.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
On the 18th of July, at the same time the 387th moved from Chipping Ongar, I left for the Repl Depot at Stone, England. then proceeded to Liverpool, boarded the USS West Point (in civilian life, the S. S. America) and sailed to the U. S. unescorted, taking 5 days, landing in Boston harbor. Bill Butler (556th B.S.), Reflections of a Replacement Navigator.
In France, during the afternoon 262 B-26s and A-20s bomb bridges on the Loire and Seine Rivers and a fuel dump at Bruz; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
NOTE: The mission referred to here was actually flown on the 19th. The last mission from Chipping Ongar was the attack on the railroad bridge spanning the
Loire at Tours on July 18. Results were excellent. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. ??.
Thu, 20 Jul 44
Fri, 21 Jul 44
In France, weather forbids morning operations; in the afternoon 62 A-20s and B-26s strike the Senonches fuel dump and Chaulnes marshalling yard;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 22 Jul 44 Mission:
In France, weather prevents all combat operations except for 1 fighter group ...; and the 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), move from Chipping Ongar to Stony Cross with B-26s. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
...and on July 21 the rear echelon followed. The move was accomplished with a minimum of effort and no loss of operational efficiency. A whole year on one field had been a long time. Pleasant associations of Chelmsford and the surrounding country remained, and several men, including Captain Allen Sherman, had married English girls. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 28-29.
Sun, 23 Jul 44 Mission: Serquigny railroad bridge
In France, weather prevents all combat operations except for 1 fighter group ...; and the 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), move from Chipping Ongar to Stony Cross with B-26s. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
July 22 No. 57 A pathfinder smash at a railroad bridge at Lisieux, southeast of LeHavre. Bad weather at takeoff, worse on the return and 10/10 cloud at target. Led the high flight in 686 on her 107th mission. As yet she has never aborted with us. Bomb load 4-1000 lb. (Bridge smashed)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.),Diary.
Mon, 24 Jul 44 Mission: Livarot Airfield
In France, 330+ A-20s and B-26s bomb rail bridges along the Argentan-Paris and Lisieux-Bernay-Evreux railroads, and hit fuel dumps at Foret de Conches;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
July 23 Sweat out the nose wheel on 811 for the days entertainment.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Tue, 25 Jul 44 Mission: St. Lo troop concentration
In France, 11 groups of bombers scheduled to participate in Operation COBRA have missions cancelled due to weather; 5 groups of B-26s hit rail bridges and 5 groups of B-26s and A-20s strike 3 fuel and ammunition dumps;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 26 Jul 44 Mission: Marigny troop concentration
In France during the morning 11 B-26 and A-20 groups attack tactical targets in the vicinity of Saint-Lo in support of the US First Army; in the afternoon 4 groups bomb bridges on the Seine and Loire Rivers; 42 B-26s, repeating errors of the previous day, short-bomb behind US lines and casualties again are concentrated in the 30th Infantry Division; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The bad weather of late July hindered both air and ground forces. The lull was used well by General Bradley to build up supplies and make plans for his brilliant breakthrough at St. Lo. On July 25, after waiting five days for favorable weather, a formation of 387th planes took off for the St. Lo sector and put all its bombs in the assigned area. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 30.
July 25 No. 58 Dropped frags on the St. Lo sector in support of the American drive. Our good coverage of the target area and the boys moved forward. We led 2nd box, flying ship 835 (My Ideal S.O.B.)
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Thu, 27 Jul 44 Mission:
.In France, weather forces the recall of several groups of B-26s and A-20s, assigned to support the US First Army, but about 160 aircraft manage to bomb a fuel dump at Senonches with good results; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 28 Jul 44 Mission: Bourth railroad embankment
In France, bad weather causes the recall of B-26s and A-20s sent to bomb Loire and Seine River bridges;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
July 27 No. 59 Another pathfinder smash at a railroad bridge and fill east of Leidier. We led the group in 835 again. Willie made a forced landing in Normandy for gasoline, was strafed by FW-190s and shelled by guns, all in two hours. Bomb Load 8-500 lb.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sat, 29 Jul 44
In France, the IX Bomber Command operates in support of the US First Army, bombing rail bridges, supply dumps and ammunition dumps in the Foret de Conches, Dreux, and Le Mans areas;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
As the American Armies raced across France, units of the Ninth Air Division were hitting fuel dumps, bridges and defended areas. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 30.
Sun, 30 Jul 44 Mission: Caumont troop concentrations
In France, bad weather cancels all IX Bomber Command missions;;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 31 Jul 44
In France, 450+ A-20s and B-26s bomb defenses in the Chaumont area in support of the US First Army;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
July 30 No. 60 Pathfinder smash at bypassed German troops in the Caumont area, also to assist in the launching of another American drive. Again we flew 835 as lead ship for the second box. Box leading seems to be our job now. We all like it. The missions since our return are really milk runs in comparison to the work before our leave and D-Day. For the 5th out of 6 times we received no flak. Bomb load 16-260 lb. frags.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Tue, 1 Aug 44 Mission: Maintenon railroad bridge
In France, around 500 A-20s and B-26s attack bridges on the Seine, Loire, Mayenne, and Ruisseau la Forge Rivers and a fuel dump at Foret de la Guerche;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 2 Aug 44
In France, the XIX Tactical Air Command becomes operational in conjunction with the US Third Army; the Ninth's fighter and fighter-bomber groups (Ninth Air Force refers to them collectively as fighter-bomber groups) are divided between the IX and XIX Tactical Air Commands; about 250 B-26s and A-20s bomb rail bridges at Mezieres-sur-Seine, Maintenon, Les Ponts-de-Ce, Chartres, Cinq Mars-la-Pile, Bouchmaine, Nogent-sur-Loir, and Bourth; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 3 Aug 44
In France, the IX Bomber Command halts bombing of bridges, fuel dumps, and similar targets in Brittany except on the request of the 12th Army Group, as the US Third Army wants the use of bridges access to all fuel they may find in their advance across France; around 300 A-20s and B-26s attack bridges at Mezieres-sur-Seine, Mainvillers, Cinq Mars-la-Pile, Nantes, and Lisle, and ammunition dumps at Caudebec-les-Elbeuf and Le Lude;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 4 Aug 44 Mission: Briollay railroad bridge
In France, 180+ A-20s and B-26s bomb rail bridges, overpasses, and junctions at Mantes-la-Jolie, Chartres, La Chenaie and Merey, fuel dump at Maintenon, and alternate rail targets in N France;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 5 Aug 44 Mission: Briollay railroad bridge
In France, 62 A-20s and B-26s bomb rail bridges at Oissel, Epernon, and Saint-Remy-sur-Avre and an ammunition dump and bivouac area in Foret de Sille;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Aug. 4 No. 61 August 4, 1943 our first operation a diversion. Aug. 4, 1944 target railroad bridge at Honfleur. Weather was bad over target, and after four runs on the target, still unable to bomb. We started for home. The lead ship erred slightly in navigation causing us to get the hell shot out of us. Maj. Grau in the No. 1 spot, us in the No. 4 spot, both had to land in Normandy. We got our left engine shot out, and the hydraulic system was causing our right engine to heat up. Unable to get our landing gear down, we belly-landed at B-8 a Canadian airstrip. Andy was injured in the landing, M.R. was hit by flaknot serious. Lt. Morson seriously injured by flak and died at 8:00 AM, Aug. 5. Everyone [else] was bruised but not hurt. The ship was a washout but Manny did a beautiful job of landing with one engine out. The next day we went to B-14 and were brought home by Avro Anson. Andy is still in 20th Gen. Hospital at Bayeux (2 days later).
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
The B-26C, #612/FW-R, had its hydraulics shot out while attempting to bomb the bridge across the Aure River at Saint Remi. (The target was obscurred by cloud coverage, and the mission was abandoned. Major Glenn F. Grau, and his crew, made an emergency landing at a short P.S.P.* fighter strip in Normandy. Grau said of his landing and #612, "having no hydraulics, [I] pretty much turned it into junk." He added that he did not have any recollection of any neme being painted on #612/FW-R. Grau mentioned to the late Bob Allen that he intended to name this plane "Los Lobos Grande II."
Major Grau's crew:
Pilot
Copilot
Bom.
Nav.
Gee
ROG
EG
AGMaj.
1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.Glenn F. Grau
Francis D. Scurr
Robert M. Sherman
Charles A. Martyn
Lloyd E. Frazer
Henry A. Havens0731567
0742364
0797087
15071529
15072987
39012545*P.S.P = pierced steel plank
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 53.
Flight commander Captain Mansel R. Campbell was at the controls of "Mah Ideel," when clouds obscured the target forcing the formation to abandon its efforts to take out the bridge across the Aure River at St. Mimi. The squadron had twelve ships in the formation. Captain Campbell's B-26C was one of the three that received flak damage; forcing him to make an emergency landing at one of the fighter strips in Normandy, France. 2nd Lt. Robert B. Morson, hoping to add the OLC to his newly earned Air Medal, died as a result of the crash landing. Lt. Morson was the crew's acting navigator. The other crew members escaped serious injuries. The Campbell crew:
KIA
Pilot
Copilot
Bomb.
Nav.
GEE
ROG
EG
AGCapt.
1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
1st Lt.T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.Mansel R. Campbell
Burton J. Anderson
James P. Spurlock
Robert B. MorsonBurl W. Thompson
Edward V. Burd
Harley W. Altizer0735522
0742267
0666723
37202170
32276627
35433617It was an oddity of war, that one this date two of the squadron's B-26C's were forced to make emergency landings in France due to Flak damage. This fact, in itself, was not unusual during those days, but on this particular mission, both pilots of the downed Marauders were very instrumental in forging the history of the 556th Bomb. Squadron. Major (Lt. Col. two months later) Glenn Grau, the squadron C.O., was flying B-26C #612/FW-R (see page 53) . In February, 1945 after Grau returned to the States, Major "Manny" Campbell became the squadron Commanding Officer.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 57.
Sun, 6 Aug 44 Mission: Blois-Bois de Blois Airfield
In France, 300+ A-20s and B-26s bomb Saint-Malo harbor and Foret de Sille fuel dump during the night of 4/5 Aug, and during the day, rail bridges at 6 cities in N and W France, and marshalling yard at Compiegne; Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 7 Aug 44
In France, A-20s and B-26s hit bridges, fuel and ammunition dumps, and a locomotive depot at Beauvais, Beaumont-sur-Sarthe, Courtalain, Foret de Perseigne, and Blois;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Shortly after 1st. Lt. James H. Brantley began his taxi roll, his flight engineer attempted to load the plane's Very pistol, located overhead and directly behind the copilot's head. While inserting the recognition coded flare cartridge into the Very pistol, the flare accidentally discharged into the pilot's cockpit. The fireball from the live flare ricocheted wildly about causing much confusion in the smoked filled compartment. The flare's fireball apparently came to rest on Lt. Brantley, causing severe burns to the pilot's leg. In his great anxiety to escape his ordeal, Lt. Brantley exited the B-26B by opening his overhead plexiglas hatch. The aircraft continued to taxi out of control, causing Brantley to slip from atop the plane, into the rotating propeller, killing him instantly. Lt. Loren Hinton, a veteran combat pilot in the squadron, was acting as instructor and co-pilot during Lt. Brantley's first mission. Lt. Hinton cut the engines switches, but could not bring the rolling aircraft to a stop because the brake pedals were located on the pilot's left side position. The rest of the crew escaped the coasting B-26 by exiting via the bomb-bay and the waist gun windows. They escaped with minor injuries. "Jisther" finally came to a stop after running into the front of a nearby squadron hangar.
The B-26B was salvaged for parts.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 6.
Tue, 8 Aug 44
Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton relinquishes command of the Ninth Air Force to become Commanding General First Allied Airborne Army. In France, 380+ A-20s and B-26s bomb bridges at Nogent-sur-Seine and Neuvy-sur-Loire;
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 9 Aug 44
Lieutenant General Hoyt S Vandenberg assumes command of the Ninth Air Force. In France, 406 B-26s and A-20s bomb a rail embankment and bridges at 8 locations in N and W France, attack radar installations between Argentan and Alencon, and give tactical support to ground forces near Saint-Malo;...
Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 10 Aug 44
In France, close to 400 B-26s and A-20s attack an ammunition dump in Foret de Blois, shipping at Brest, and other targets, including rail bridges at 10 locations in N and W France;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 11 Aug 44 Mission: Brest-Lorient-St. Nazaire (leaflets)
In France, almost 200 B-26s and A-20s bomb rail bridges and embankments in wide areas around Pariis;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 12 Aug 44 Mission: Corbeil railroad siding
In France, A-20s and B-26s attack bridges at Montrichard, Oissel, Fismes, and Creil/Saint-Maximin, gun defenses at Ile de Cezembre and Saint-Malo, and an ammunition dump at Foret de Roumare;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Interesting secondary missions were the dropping of propaganda leaflets on the Brest peninsula to warn the Germans holding out there to surrender. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 30.
In France, A-20s and B-26s attack Oissel rail bridge, Corbeil-Essonnes refueling siding, and numerous points along highways in the Argentan area with the aim of bottling up enemy troops;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The formation did not drop their bombs on the target at Corbeil, France because of overcast. Upon turning to return to bse, "Roughernacob", with Lt. Moriarty at the controls, received damage to their fuel system from the light Flak put up over the target area. His left engine started to cut out as he neared the English Channel, forcing him to feathered it, and seek an emergency landing site. He made a 'wheels-down' landing in a farmer's field, short of the USAAF P-47 fighter strip at (A-13) Tour-en-Bessin, France. The landing gear subsequently sheared off when the bomber came to the end of the field and went through a hedge row. The crew escaped unharmed. The on-board crew were:
Pilot
Copilot
B/N
ROG
EG
AG1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.William Moriarty
Jess Wilkes
Clarence Bergland
Doyle Gantt
Kenneth Schell
Charles Salas Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 23.
Aug. 12 No. 62 Weather and a shortage of "petrol" forced us to salvo our bombs after failing to locate the Corbeil marshalling yards in the southeast section of Paris. We again led the group with Lt. Agner as co-pilot, Gehrke as engineer, Sloane as Gee, McCabe as navigator.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
August 12, 1944. (A-13) USAAF Fighter Base near Tour-en-Bessin, France. -- 1st Lieutenant Bill Moriarty landed his flak damaged B-26 in an open field near this fighter base. His aircraft still retained its full bomb load due to the overcast over the intended target of the formation; the railroad siding at Corbeil, France. Lt. Moriarty was at the controls of the B-26B Marauder named "Roughernacob" over Corbeil, when his bomber was struck by Flak that pierced his Marauder's fuel lines. The rapid loss of fuel forced Lt. Moriarty and his copilot, Lt. Jess Wilkes, to feather their left engine and call Emergency Control for a suitable airfield to make an emergency landing.
Lt. Moriarty describes his crew's tingling experience, "The weather was fairly good and the flight to Corbeil was uneventful. The overcast over our target prevented us from dropping our bombs. As we turned to leavewe encountered some light Flak, but at the time, we didn't believe we were hit."
"We must have received damage to our fuel system. Shortly before we headed out across the English Channel, we noticed that our fuel guages suddenly showed we were almost empty. We must have been losing fuel rapidly. I broke away from the formation and had Jess call emergency Flying Control for a heading to the nearest field suitable for a B-26 to land; which they supplied."
"As we turned and headed for the designated field, our left engine began to cut out...and come back in. We decided to feather it, and trimmed our plane for single engine operation. We were losing altitude because we still had our full payload of bombs. We were over friendly territory, so we did not salvo to lighten the ship. About this time, our right engine began to miss for lack of fuel--when we trimmed for single engine, it was necessary for both Jess and I to be at the controls when the engine would cut out.:
Moriarty continues, "I spotted a fighter field ahead and to the left, and thought that we could make it. The big mistake I made was in not getting Whitey, our bombardier, out of the nose compartment earlier. Now this was impossible since Jess had to man the controls with me."
"As we turned toward the fighter strip, I knew we would not make it. We were about forty-five degrees to the runway, when I saw this farm field and without hesitation, called Jess to put the landing gear down. I've thought about it many times and to this day I don't know what, or who told me to do that."
"We landed in that small field. At the far end of this field was a hedge row, and as we went through it, all three of our landing gears were sheared off. We bellied to a stop in the next field. Jess and I went through the top hatches, then ran to the nose to check on Whitey. The plastic nose section was broken off and he was gone! We thought that possibly he had been thrown clear, but when we turned around there was Whitey running like hell across the field! He hurried to the rear of the plane to check on Schell, Gantt and Salas, but they were gone... Like our bombardier, they were running from the wreckage, and needless to add, Jess and I took off too."
"We were very fortunate we did not have any injuries. Thinking back, having the gear down probably saved our lives. It definitely saved Whitey's life."
"Roughernacob" was put down on the edge of Allied Landing Strip number A-13. The P-47 pilots, and personnel of the fighter squadron, treated the B-26 crew "royally" during the few days of their stay. When transportation was arranged, Lt. Moriarty, and his crew, were taken back across the English Channel to their home base at Stoney Cross, outside South Hampton...carrying their Norden bombsight. The crew members were:
1st Lt. William Moriarty
2nd Lt. Jess Wilkes
2nd Lt. Clarence "Whitey" Bergland
T/Sgt. Doyle "Honorable" Gantt
S/Sgt. Kenneth "Skip" Schell
S/Sgt. Charles "Chuck" SalasPilot
Copilot
Bombardier
Radioman
Flight Engineer
Armament Bill Moriarty (556th), "Tall Tiger Tales," Yea Botz, Vol. XIX, No. 1 (Dec 1987).
Mon, 14 Aug 44
In France, around 575 B-26s and A-20s with fighter escort bomb fuel storage at Les Buissons, points along highways around Lisieux and SE to Rugles with the aim of containing the enemy in the Falaise pocket, railroad targets at Peronne, Doullens, and Corbeil-Essonnes;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 15 Aug 44 Mission: Auvers-sur-Oise railroad bridge
In France, A-20s and B-26s with fighter escort hit several highway and rail bridges, junctions and sidings mostly beyond the battlelines to delay and complicate the German retreat;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 16 Aug 44 Mission: Anizy le Chateau
In France, 330+ A-20s and B-26s with fighter escort bomb Marseille-
en-Beauvaisis and Foret de Chantilly ammunition and fuel dumps, rail bridges
at Auvers-sur-Oise and L'Isle-Adam, Serqueux marshalling yard, and coastal
defense at Saint- Malo;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Early in August the 387th was assigned the destruction of a RRY bridge at Auvres-Sur-Olze, north of Paris. The mission was successful, but flak damaged several of the planes. Lady Irene had been so badly hit that she could not be landed. Over the field the pilot, Lieutenant Don Morris, ordered his crew to bail out. After he had seen his crew safely on their way down, Lieutenant Morris, an enthusiastic amateur photographer, decided to try to get some pictures of the proceedings. After trimming the ship, he crawled back to the navigators compartment, found the camera, and after dropping from the nose wheel well, took pictures of the other parachutes and the plane when it crashed. Under the expert care of Technical Sergeant Dan P. White, Lady Irene had flown a total of 116 missions, the last 99 without aborting. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 30.
Thu, 17 Aug 44 Beaumont railroad bridge
In France, about 130 B-26s and A-20s, with fighter escort, hit a Foret de Roumare ammunition dump and rail bridges at Pont-Audemer, Thibouville, Brionne, Nassandres, and Le Bourg;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Aug. 16 No. 63 Pont Audemer a pathfinder smash at one of three bridges using 2000 lb. bombs. Weather was clear and flak was meager but accurate as -----.
Lt. McClungs radioman badly wounded in legs, forced to land in Normandy. Our right engine [was] badly shot up. We really sweat out the return trip across the Channel, expecting the worst at any time. Bomb load 2-2000 lb.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Fri, 18 Aug 44
In France, 400+ A-20s and B-26s bomb road bridges at Montfort-sur-Risle, Pont-Audemer, Nassandres, Beaumont-le-Roger, Le Bourg, Brionne, and Beaumontel, and a rail bridge at La Ferriere-sur-Risle;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 19 Aug 44
In France, nearly 100 B-26s and A-20s strike a fuel dump, ammunition dump, rail and road overpass, rail embankment, and junction beyond the battleline to disorganize retreating German forces;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 20 Aug 44
No IX Bomber Command operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 21 Aug 44
In France, 61 B-26s bomb troop and equipment concentrations waiting at Foret de la Lande to be ferried across the Seine River;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 22 Aug 44 HQ moves to Maupertus
Bad weather grounds all bombers and fighters;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 23 Aug 44
IX Bomber Command operations are cancelled because of weather.
...
HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Medium) moves from Stony Cross, England to Maupertus;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
By this time it was apparent that at least some medium groups must move to the continent in order to support effectively the swiftly moving ground troops. After several weeks of packing the reconnaissance and advance parties went across the Channel from Stoney Cross to Station A-15 at Maupertus, in Normandy. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 30-31.
Thu, 24 Aug 44
In France, 4 B-26s drop leaflets in the Lisieux-Bernay area... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 25 Aug 44
In France, weather cancels a IX Bomber Command mission against 4 fuel dumps N of the Seine River;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The next afternoon, we climbed on board a B-17 which had been converted into a transport by the construction of unpainted wooden benches in the bomb bay. We were flown to the field in southern England near Stoney Cross where the 387th Bomb Group was based at that time. Our crew was assigned to the 558th Bomb Squadron, one of four such tactical squadrons attached to the 387th. We were soon informed that our days at Stoney Cross were numbered. An advanced party was in France at that time, preparing a field near Cherbourg for our arrival.
Robin Priday (556 B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Sat, 26 Aug 44 Mission: St. Gobain fuel dump
Paris falls to the Allies. In France, about 240 A-20s and B-26s attack various enemy strongholds in and around Brest supporting the ground forces' attempt to capture Brest harbor;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 27 Aug 44 Flight echelon moves to Maupertus
In France, IX Bomber Command, with fighter escort, strikes fuel dumps at Saint-Gobain, Fournival/Bois-de-Mont, and Compiegne/Clairoix, and troop and equipment concentrations at Rouen; fighters fly ground forces and assault area cover, and armed reconnaissance in the Rouen, Dijon, Chatillon-sur-Seine and S Loire areas;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Prior to the move, our pilot and the other crew members flew one or two combat missions over France with a veteran pilot. No such orientation flight was provided for co-pilots. Robin Priday (556 B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Mon, 28 Aug 44 Mission: Querieu - various targets
In France, the IX Bomber Command attacks troop concentrations in the Rouen area, Rouen bridge, Boulogne-sur-Mer/Boursin navigational beam station, and Bucy-les-Pierrepont and Foret de Samoussy fuel dumps;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The flight echelon flew over [from Stoney Cross to Maupertus] on August 27,... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
My first view of the continent came later in the week when the flying elements of the Group took off from Stony Cross, formed up, flew across the channel and landed at our new base. The field at Cherbourg had been a Luftwaffe fighter base and American Army engineers had made it suitable for heavier aircraft by laying a steel mat runway over the grass. As we were moving in, a P-61 "Black Widow" night fighter unit was in the process of moving out. We were billeted in prefabricated, wooden barracks which had been erected by the Germans and subsequently well ventilated by allied air attacks prior to the invasion. Even so, our quarters were reasonably comfortable. The area in and around the base had obviously been the scene of recent ground fighting. Trenches, barbed wire, tank barriers and pillboxes were much in evidence as well as crates of German hand grenades and mortar shells. The edges of the roads were marked with many "Achtung Minen" signs. A burned out American Sherman tank sat close to our barracks and the charred remains of two of the occupants were clearly visible through the forward hatches. It was definitely hedgerow country and one had to be impressed with the difficulties our ground forces had experienced in that region.
Robin Priday (556 B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Tue, 29 Aug 44
In France, B-26s and A-20s escorted by fighters bomb fuel dumps at Doullens, Barisis-aux-Bois, an ammunition dump at Querrieu, an ammunition and fuel dump at Compiegne/Foret de Laigue, and an alcohol distillery and fuel storage depot at Hamm;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
...and the next day flew its first mission from French soil, and attacked an ammunition dump at Querrieu, near Amiens. Enormous explosions and fires were seen after the attack. Lieutenant M. A. Jordan and his crew were missing after the plane had been hit by flak. Pilot Jordan and togglier Powell were POWs, Co-pilot Earl J. Seagars was an evadee and the three other crew members were killed in the plane crash. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Aug. 28 No. 64 A fuel and ammunition dump north of Amiens was our first mission flown for our new base at Cherbourg, France. Flak was rough. the 558th lost Lt. Jordan. We made it OK in 857 Shootin In. Maj. Grau again caught most of the flak, causing them to "sweat" the return.Bombing results were good, causing explosions on a large scale. Bomb load 8-500 lb.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 30 Aug 44
In France, bad weather allows only minimum bomber and fighter operations; B-26s attack 1 fuel dump while a few fighters fly sweeps over NW France;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The rear echelon departed [Stoney Cross for Maupertus] August 29... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Thu, 31 Aug 44
In France, about 75 A-20s and B-26s bomb a fuel dump near Arques-la-Bataille, Rouxmesnil-Bouteilles, and gun positions around Ile de Cezembre;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 1 Sep 44
In France, 99 B-26s and A-20s bomb an ammunition dump at Foret d'Arques and gun positions at Ile de Cezembre;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 2 Sep 44
In France, B-26s attack fortifications in the Brest area which artillery
fire had been unable to reduce;...and the 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 387th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Stony Cross, England to Maupertuis with B-26s. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
...and arrived September 1, personnel were brought across the channel by LCIs and vehicles by LCTs. Landing at Utah Beach, rear echelon personnel marched eight miles to a bivouac area, from which place they were taken by truck to A-15. The base was more comfortable than expected. Enough houses were found to shelter part of the men, tents were set up for the others and after a day or two the Group proceeded with its duties. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Sun, 3 Sep 44
In France, weather grounds the bombers;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 4 Sep 44
In France, B-26s and A-20s supporting ground troops pound strongpoints and bridges in the Brest area;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 5 Sep 44 Mission: Brest strong points
In France, weather prevents bomber activity;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 6 Sep 44 Mission: Brest strong points
In France, 300+ B-26s and A-20s bomb strongpoints in the Brest area and a coastal battery at Pointe du Grand Gouin,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The stay at Maupertus was of short duration. Within a few days after the 387th had set up on the continent the B-26s could barely reach the Germans ahead of General Pattons Third Army. Since the drive from southern France either had its own air cover or was so swift that it needed none, the only targets still available in early September were the garrisons at Brest, St. Nazaire, Lorient and other coastal cities. The strong points at Brest received most attention and were attacked September 5 and 6. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Our first missions from Cherbourg were flown in support of the American assault on the port city of Brest. By this time, it was early September of 1944. Takeoffs from the steel mat runway were exciting. Due to frequent rains, the sod under the mat was soft and the B-26's often didn't accelerate as rapidly as they normally would. Aircraft taking off toward the coast would sometimes dip down over Cherbourg Harbor to pick up additional airspeed prior to joining up in formation. To the ground observer, a flight of B-26's would simply drop out of sight for a minute or two before reappearing several miles from the field.
Robin Priday (556 B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Boogy Buggy was the B-26 that introduced me--and our crew--to aerial warfare. I recall sitting in the tail gun position on the morning mission to Brest, on September 5, 1944. We encountered light 40 mm ground fire as we neared the target, but nothing significant as I learned later. My thoughts at the time were rather rash, I must admit; "Hell," I remember thinking, "this is a piece of cake." We flew as a wingman; Lieutenant Henry C. Minkler was Neff's "combat guide" in the right seat. There were other missions, more fearsome of course, but that first mission, and my thoughts of it at the time, still linger.
William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 35.
Thu, 7 Sep 44
In France, B-26s and A-20s hit Brest area strongpoints, a coastal battery at Pointe du Grand Gouin, defenses at Saint-Pierre-Quilbignon, and a Brest area bridge;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The strong points at Brest received most attention and were attacked September 5 and 6. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Sept. 6 No. 65 An easy run over the stubborn German garrison at Brest. We were a small part of the large bombardment carried out against this point for several days in an attempt to force the surrender of Brest.
No flak, no fighters. Our tough luck spell seems to be broken. Flew 857. Bomb load 4-1000 lb.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Fri, 8 Sep 44
In France, bad weather grounds the bombers;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 9 Sep 44
In France, weather prevents bomber missions;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 10 Sep 44 Mission: Foret de Haye troop concentration
B-26s fly a leaflet mission to coastal France and Belgium.. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 11 Sep 44
In France, about 340 B-26s and A-20s hit strongpoints and ammunition stores in the Foret de Haye, Custines rail bridge, and a road bridge over the Mosel River; escorting fighters provide general air cover in the Metz-Nancy area,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The advancing Third Army called for help, and on September 10 and 12 missions to Gehternach and Foret de Haye were briefed and flown. Results achieved by Lieutenant Colonel R. S. Stewart and Captain E. Stanton, group bombardier, were excellent. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Sept. 10 No. 66 A long haul to Nancy on the German border east of Paris. This was the longest haul we have yet madefour hours and twenty minutes, 732 mi. Bombed a strongpoint of German defenses in the woods just west of Nancy. Again we flew 857 as leader of the group. We passed to the south of Paris going out and directly over while returning. A good view of the Eiffel Tower and the city. Seems darn funny to fly over France for 732 miles and see no flak--what a difference three months can make! Bomb load 28-100 lb. H.E.s
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Tue, 12 Sep 44 Mission: Brest area pillboxes
In France, 358 B-26s and A-20s, escorted by fighters, in support of the US Third Army, hit gun positions and strongpoints in the Metz area;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 13 Sep 44
In Germany, B-26s and A-20s hit Westwall fortifications, Sankt Wendel station, where an armored division and important technicians are to entrain, and fortifications around Nancy, France;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The advancing Third Army called for help, and on September 10 and 12 missions to Gehternach and Foret de Haye were briefed and flown. Results achieved by Lieutenant Colonel R. S. Stewart and Captain E. Stanton, group bombardier, were excellent.
...
On September 12, the reconnaissance party left A-15 for airstrip A-39 at Chateaudun,... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Thu, 14 Sep 44
B-26s fly a leaflet mission to coastal N France and Belgium;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 15 Sep 44 Advance party leaves for Chateaudun
...about 140 B-26s and A-20s bomb gun emplacements and strongpoints in the Brest area;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 16 Sep 44 Mission: Metz strong points
In France, bad weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
and three days later were followed by the advance party. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 31.
Sun, 17 Sep 44
In the Netherlands, 150+ B-26s and A-20s, escorted by fighters, attack the Bath dike and Arnemuiden road and rail embankment. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 18 Sep 44 Group moves to Chateaudun
No combat bomber missions are flown; weather permits 1 leaflet mission. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 19 Sep 44
Weather cancels all bomber activity;...; HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Medium) and the 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) move from Maupertuis to Chateaudun with B-26s;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On arrival at A-39 the 387th found visible evidence of the accuracy of the Big Brothers, the B-17s of the Eighth Air Force. As a result of earlier raids by the American heavies and RAFs, parts of the field and most of the installations were complete shambles. Nearly all building and hangars were demolished and both runways were well peppered. On personal investigation the men found Chateaudun a neat town with several wine shops and a good theater that was soon used for American movies. A private bathhouse was leased by the Group and provided the luxury of hot showers. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. 31-32.
After a few weeks, the fast moving ground forces had pushed beyond our effective range and a move to a field near Chateaudun was necessary. It had been a well established base with two intersecting concrete runways, taxiways and large reinforced concrete hangers which had been badly damaged by Allied bombing. The runways and taxiways had been repaired but the buildings had not. Tents and stoves were issued and the 556th established camp on a low hill, overlooking the Base. We erected our tents in the scattered, random pattern which was supposed to minimize the effects of any one strafing pass by enemy aircraft. The mess-tent and headquarters tents were located within the edge of a picturesque grove of pine trees. Flying weather was not consistently good during our time at Chateaudun and several missions were turned back by towering cloud formations between the Base and the target. Some of the more industrious air crew members utilized their free time to build furniture for their tents, collect firewood etc. An adjacent German bomb dump offered a supply of excellent building material. Each bomb was encased in a well-made wooden crate. It was an impressive sight to see these high explosives being lifted out of their crates and carelessly tossed on a pile of other bombs. We naturally assumed that all bombs were like our own and would not explode unless armed with a fuse.
Paul Priday (556 B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Wed, 20 Sep 44
In Germany, B-26s hit marshalling yards in the Duren area to prevent reinforcements from reaching the Aachen area by rail; ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 21 Sep 44 Mission: Ehrang marshalling yard
In Germany, about 40 B-26s hit the marshalling yard at Trier and defensive positions at Herbach to complicate rail transportation and aid in the Allied ground attack on Aachen;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 22 Sep 44
In Germany, 79 B-26s and A-20s bomb marshalling yards at Gerolstein, Pronsfeld, and Ebrang; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The 387th BG had just moved to its new forward base at A-39. Although heavily bombed by the Allied air forces, and sabotaged by the recently departed Germans, its concrete runways--freshly repaired--were a big improvement over the steel-mesh (a.k.a. P.S.P., pierced steel plank) strip at A-15. Robert Pitt II informed me that "Circle Jerk" cracked up when it struck an oil drum that was on the runway, during a practice night landing. Bob was pinned in the wreckage of "Circle Jerk, and was extricated by S/Sgt. Henry "Lucky" Mayre, the crew' EG, just before the plane burst into flames. The other crew members escaped unhurt.
This was the first of three plane crashes that this crew endured while members of the 556th Bomb. Squadron. On board "Circle Jerk" were:
Pilot
Copilot
Bom.-Nav.
Eng.-Gun.
Rad.-Gun.
Arm.-Gun.1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.Verne H. Thompson
William "Red" Sherman
Russel H. Trapper
Henry L. Mayre
Robert H. Pitt II
Robert A. LeipseO-699476 O-741113
37623800
36523886 Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 46.
Sat, 23 Sep 44
No bomber missions are flown. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 24 Sep 44
B-26s and A-20s sent against targets in W Germany are recalled due to weather;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 25 Sep 44
Weather grounds the bombers. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 26 Sep 44
No bomber missions are flown. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 27 Sep 44 Mission: Foret de Parroy - various targets
No bomber missions are flown. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 28 Sep 44 Mission: Foret de Parroy - various targets
In France, nearly 300 B-26s and A-20s abort missions due to weather; 8 manage to bomb a target at Foret de Parroy. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 29 Sep 44 Mission: Euskirchen marshalling yard
In France, bombers hit the defended area of Foret de Parroy; fighters escort bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
While landing in the rain after an afternoon training hop Lt. Thompson's aircraft, #268/FW-H, drifted, or slid, off the right side of the runway. The aircraft's right main gear collapsed after becoming mired in the mud. The fuselage of the B-26 broke in three places as a result of the crash. Miraculously, the crew sustained only minor injuries. This was the second landing mishap for this cew within a two month period. On board #268/FW-H were:
Pilot
Copilot
B/N
ROG
EG
AG1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.Verne V. Thompson
Wm. R. Sherman
Russel H. Trapper
Robert H. Pitt II
Henry R. Mayre
Robert A. LeipseO-699476 O-741113
3762380036523886
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 50.
Sat, 30 Sep 44
In Germany, 400+ B-26s and A-20s hit marshalling yards and rail sidings at Prum, Euskirchen, and Bingen, dragon's teeth antitank defenses near Webenheim, and marshalling yards, rail sidings, warehouses and barracks at Julich and Bitburg;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 1 Oct 44
14 B-26s bomb the Arnhem, the Netherlands road bridge with poor results;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 2 Oct 44 Mission: Herbach defense area
In France...weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 3 Oct 44 Mission: Duren ammunition dump
...in Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division strikes the industrial area of Ubach and defended positions at Herbach;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Oct. 2 No. 67 After an "unasked for" rest of three weeks we led the group in the mission to open the drive through the Seigfried Line in the Aachen area (south). We were the first ship to bomb with "bombs away" at 090045 to open the bombardment by over 500 planes. This was preceded by an artillery barrage directed against flak strongpoints. Lt. Fisher was forced to land 310 in Belgium after Dobbins, Braunsweiger, Patterson, and Fulgrum had hit the silk. We received no flak in our flightall others did. Bomb load 16-250 lb. H.E.s.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Wed, 4 Oct 44
220+ B-26s and A-20s sent to bomb targets at Durena and Aldenhoven, Germany, and Arnhem, the Netherlands are recalled because of weather;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 5 Oct 44 Mission: Duren ammunition dump
Bombers drop leaflets in the Metz and Saint-Die, France and Saarburg, Germany areas;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 6 Oct 44 Mission: Duren ammunition dump
330+ B-26s and A-20s dispatched against targets in Arnhem, the Netherlands and Aldenhoven and Duren, Germany are recalled;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 7 Oct 44 Mission: Bullay railroad bridge
300+ B-26s and A-20s hit marshalling yards, barracks, and ammunition dump at Hengelo, the Netherlands and Duren, Germany and bridges at Arnhem, the Netherlands and Aldenhoven, Germany;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 8 Oct 44 Mission: Erkelenz railroad bridge & troop concentration
HQ Ninth AF cancels previous instructions against bombing bridges and opens to attack all bridges on the US front, except those over the Rhine River. 300+ B-26s and A-20s strike bridges at Arnhem, the Netherlands and in Germany, bridges at Bullay and Dillingen, a supply depot at Euskirchen, and marshalling yard and warehouse at Hengelo and Trier; fighters fly bomber escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 9 Oct 44
A revision and elaboration (from 28 Sep-8 Oct) of the Ninth AF interdiction program against railroads connected with the Rhine River results in the issuance of a new interdiction program; it includes rail lines further to the E and requires attacks by all 4 Tactical Air Commands of the Ninth AF, plus aid from the British Second Tactical AF. 300+ B-26s and A-20s, with fighter escort, hit strongpoints and bridges over wide areas of E France and W Germany;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 10 Oct 44 Mission: Bullay railroad bridge
HQ Ninth AF gives the Tactical Air Commands an initial attack list of 10 bridges on the US front; other lists follow. 30 9th Bombardment Division aircraft attack a rail bridge at Euskirchen, Germany; fighters provide escort... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 11 Oct 44 Camp de Bitche installations
Weather cancels daytime bomber and fighter operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 12 Oct 44 Camp de Bitche & Rohrbach
In France, 99 B-26s and A-20s, with fighter escort, sent to bomb the Camp-de-Bitche military camp are recalled when Pathfinder equipment malfunctions and weather prevents visual bombing. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 13 Oct 44
Almost 250 B-26s and A-20s bomb Camp-de-Bitche, France military camp, rail bridges at Grevenbroich and Ahrweiler, Germany, city areas of Langerwehe and Aldenhoven, Germany, and Venraij, the Netherlands, and various targets of opportunity;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 14 Oct 44 Mission: Trier-Pfazel railroad bridge
9th Bombardment Division bombers hit bridges at Saarlouis, France, Roermond and Venlo, the Netherlands, and Euskirchen and Mayen, Germany, plus several targets of opportunity. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 15 Oct 44
Bad weather grounds the A-20s and B-26s; fighters escort a leaflet mission... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Oct. 14 No. 68 Unsuccessful due to weather over targettried at railroad bridge in the outskirts of Trier. Flak was moderate and accurate, but mostly against 2ndbox. Flew 186 Los Lobos Grande.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Mon, 16 Oct 44
Weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 17 Oct 44
All operations are cancelled due to weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 18 Oct 44
All Rhine River rail and road bridges are cleared for attack; 2 days later Advance HQ prescribes bridges as having priority on the target list second only to rail lines. In Germany, 35 B-26s hit rail bridge at Euskirchen; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 19 Oct 44
Weather prevents operations of all commands (including the 9th Bombardment Division)... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 20 Oct 44 Mission: Moerdijk railroad bridge
Weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 21 Oct 44
In the Netherlands, the 9th Bombardment Division hits the Geertruidenberg/Parenboom and Moerdijke rail bridges; attacks on other targets are aborted because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Lt. Chapman experienced flight problems and was forced to land "S.S.F.F." at an abandoned fighter strip. Before it was possible to fly the B-26C back to A-71 ten weeks later, the Marauder had both its engines replaced, as well as a new nose-wheel landing gear. S/Sgt. Frank Fetzer, the Crew Chief, describes its return: "Lt. (Maurice) Fleischer and I went after #719 at the fighter base. I still think a test pilot would have thought plenty before attempting to fly it out. Fleisher, a copilot, and I walked around looking at all the (repaired) damage when out of the blue he asked, 'Do you think we'll make it? I thought, 'Holy Cats! If he don't know, then what the hell am I doing here?' Instead, I replied, 'We'll have to jump it.' The twisted hanger at the end of our take off strip looked to me at about 40 rods (600 feet), so we got back as far as possible. We agreed he'd hold the controls, and I would rev it up. The nose wheel came up, and he let it go! He was to give me the signal to raise the landing gear, but I decided we were close enough and it was Tine. I JERKED IT UP ON MY OWN! For a second it felt like the plane was deciding whether to rise, or to fall..but off we flew....into the wild blue yonder. I often wondered how they chose Fleisher and I?" Fetzer also listed the various interpretations of the name: "S.S.F.F." (1)- "Started Second, Finished First," (2)-Started Slipped, Farted & Fell," (3)- Staff Sergeant Frank Fetzer," and last, (4)- "Started Sucking, Finished F------." His number (2) version was the widely accepted one.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 56.
Sun, 22 Oct 44
Bad weather grounds the bombers. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 23 Oct 44
Weather forbids bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 24 Oct 44
Weather prevents all commands, including the 9th Bombardment Division, from flight operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 25 Oct 44
In France, bad weather cancels all operations except fighter patrols... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Manny made Ops officer Oct. 24. Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Thu, 26 Oct 44
9th Bombardment Division's missions are cancelled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 27 Oct 44
No bomber operations as bad weather prevails;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 28 Oct 44
Adverse weather prevents all operations except patrols by XIX Tactical Air Command and supply dropping missions... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 29 Oct 44
In Germany, 45 B-26s bomb rail bridges at Sinzig, Kempenich, and Ahrweiler, and airfield at Euskirchen; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 30 Oct 44 Moerdijk railroad bridge
About 170 B-26s and A-20s bomb rail bridges at Mayen, Konz-Karthaus, and Euskirchen, Germany and Ellern and Moerdijke, the Netherlands; fighters fly escort to bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 31 Oct 44
B-26s are recalled from a mission (mainly against bridges) because of bad weather;.... In France, HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Medium) moves from Chateaudun to Clastres. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 1 Nov 44
Weather forbids bomber operations and limits fighters;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 2 Nov 44
Weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 3 Nov 44
In Germany, 147 bombers of the 9th Bombardment Division, with fighter escort, attack rail bridges at Mayen, Euskirchen, Bullay, Konz-Karthaus, and Trier. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 4 Nov 44 Mission: Eschweiller gun positions
In Germany, 140+ B-26s and A-20s hit a rail overpass at Kaiserslautern, and rail bridges at Neuwied-Irlich, Bad Munster am Stein, Morscheid and Konz-Karthaus;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Moved to Saint Quentin Nov. 3, 1944. Nov. 3 to Dec. 15
Very little flying, only enough to get my flying pay. All of these flights were either "ferrying hops" or transition with Manny or B.J.
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sun, 5 Nov 44 Homburg railroad bridge
In Germany, 218 B-26s and A-20s hit the Trier ordnance depot, Baumholder, and Eschweiler gun positions;... In France, the 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 387th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Chateaudun to Clastres with B-26s. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
[NEED TO DECIDE HOW MUCH TO INCLUDE]
Robin Priday (556th B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
160 B-26s and A-20s strike ammunition, ordnance, and supply depots at Hamburg, Germany; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 6 Nov 44
Tue, 7 Nov 44
Weather grounds the 9th Bombardment Division;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 8 Nov 44
No bomber operations because of unfavorable weather;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 9 Nov 44 Dieuze troop concentration
Weather cancels operations against military depots and troop concentrations in Germany, and fortified positions in France; a mission against rail bridges in Germany is recalled due to weather;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 10 Nov 44
74 planes of the 9th Bombardment Division attack road junctions, barracks, ordnance arsenals, artillery camps, military storage depot, and other targets in the Dieuze and Faulquemont, France and Landau and Sankt Wendel, Germany areas;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 11 Nov 44
150+ bombers dispatched against an ordnance arsenal and camp area are recalled due to weather; 7 others drop leaflets;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 12 Nov 44
In Germany, 190 B-26s and A-20s hit strongpoints at Putzlohn and rail bridges at Sinzig, Euskirchen, Ahrweiler, and Mayen;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 13 Nov 44
Weather prevents operations by the 9th Bombardment Division;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 14 Nov 44
Weather prevents all operations except for night patrol and weather reconnaissance... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 15 Nov 44
Weather prevents all operations except a few fighter patrols and reconnaissance flights. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 16 Nov 44 Luchen troop concentrations
Weather prevents bomber operations... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 17 Nov 44 Mission: Weisweiller defended area
In Germany, 80 9th Bombardment Division bombers hit defended areas and strongpoints at Echtz, Luchem, and Eschweiler;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 18 Nov 44 Mission: Weisweiller defended area
30 bombers of the 9th Bombardment Division hit Haguenau, France; weather prevents 100+ bombers from attacking targets; fighters escort bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Frank Fetzer, a former Crew Chief, relates that while taking off, one of the aircraft's engines missed, and on relanding the nose gear on "Short Snorter" gave out. The Marauder ended up in an old bomb crater at the end of the runway. The on board crew escaped injuries. The B-26B was salvaged for parts. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 35.
Sun, 19 Nov 44 Mission: Merzig strong point
340+ bombers of the 9th Bombardment Division strike barracks areas, rail bridges, rail facilities, strongpoints, and defended positions at 13 locations in Germany; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 20 Nov 44
450+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb storage depots, bridge, junction, ordnance depots, and defended positions in or near 10 German towns and cities; fighters escort the bombers, ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 21 Nov 44 Mission: Birgel defended area
Bad weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 22 Nov 44
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits rail bridges and defended areas at several points including Bergstein, Echtz, Sinzig, Neuwied, and Derichsweiler; fighters escort the B-26s... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 23 Nov 44
Bomber operations are cancelled due to bad weather;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 24 Nov 44
Unfavorable weather cancels all flights. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 25 Nov 44 Mission: Kaiserslautern ammunition dump
Weather cancels all operations except for 3 XIX Tactical Air Command (Provisional) fighters... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 26 Nov 44
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits an ordnance arsenal at Landau, road junctions, and an ammunition dump at Neustadt and Kaiserslautern; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 27 Nov 44
In Germany, 173 B-26s and A-20s bomb supply, storage, stores, and ordnance depots at Gaulsheim, Bergzabern, Giessen, Reichenbach, and Homburg/Saar;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 28 Nov 44
Weather forbids bomber missions;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 29 Nov 44 Mission: Limburg ordnance depot
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits the defended villages of Birgel and Merken, a rail bridge at Sinzig, and a Billiger Forest ammunition dump; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 30 Nov 44 Mission: Pirmasens railroad tunnel
In Germany, 301 B-26s and A-20s hit defended areas, barracks, and military depots at Wittlich, Mariaweiler, Pier, Eisdorf, Limburg, Rastatt, and Landau; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Nov 44
In Germany, 288 B-26s and A-20s attack the defended villages of Vettweiss, Stockheim, Erp, and Pirmasens, an armored vehicle repair center at Gemund, a rail tunnel, a military camp at Malsbenden, and a marshalling yard at Zweibrucken; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 1 Dec 44 Mission: Saarlautern defended area
[Queen of the Gremlins] crashed during take off and burned, while on a night training flight. The monthly report lists two airmen killed on an operational training flight during November. They were
1st Lt.
S/Sgt.Floyd E. Farr
Leland Champion Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 33.
Sat, 2 Dec 44 Mission: Saarlautern defended area
In Germany, 134 B-26s and A-20s strike defended areas at Fraulautern, Ensdorf, and Saarlautern;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 3 Dec 44
In Germany, 210 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb areas of Saarlautern, Ensdorf, and Fraulautern; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 4 Dec 44
Weather cancels bomber operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 5 Dec 44 Mission: Reken road junction
Weather prevents bomber operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 6 Dec 44 Mission: Dulmen fuel dump
In Germany, 172 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s attack a marshalling yard, road junction, fuel storage dump, defended positions, and rail bridge at 8 locations; fighters escort 9th Bombardment Division aircraft,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 7 Dec 44
In Germany, 154 A-20s and B-26s bomb the defended areas of Munstereifel, Erkelenz, Nideggen, and Daun; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 8 Dec 44
All missions except a few fighter patrols are cancelled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 9 Dec 44 Mission: Ahrweiller-Lebach defended area
In Germany, 29 A-26s hit the Sinzig rail bridge;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 10 Dec 44
In Germany, 254 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb defended villages, storage depots, barracks area, and marshalling yard in W Germany; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On December 9, the group had its first taste of American bombs in an accident after the Dulman Supply Dept. mission. Since no bombs had been dropped because of bad weather, each plane was returning with sixteen 250 pound demolition bombs aboard. In the haze and dusk the ship, flown by Lieutenant J. T. Allman, 559th pilot, became caught in the "prop wash" and crashed into the field about sixty yards from the end of the runway. The gas tanks caught fire and exploded and fourteen of the sixteen bombs detonated. In all twenty officers and enlisted men were killed and several others injured. The 559th squadron lost its commanding officer, Major Robert E. Murphy, and its assistant communications officer, Lieutenant Mac I. Fruch. Among the casualties were Captain Watters, Squadron surgeon of the 556th and holder of the Soldier's Medal for other rescue work; and Sergeant J. F. Boch, also of the medics. Others killed were chiefly medical and fire-fighting personnel engaged in attemping to extinguish the fire and rescue the crew, who were still alive after the crash. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. 4.
I joined the 558th Bomb Squadron at Chipping Ongar, England, in January 1944 as a pilot with a replacement crew and remained a member of that Squadron until November, 1944. I had completed 65 missions at that time and anticipated flying more. However, Colonel Grover C. Brown, the 387th Bomb Group Commander, transferred me to Group Headquarters as the Group Training Officer in November. I was given the additional duty of Group Flying Safety Officer. Lt. Col. Gayle Smith, whom we all know and love, was my immediate boss. On the morning of December 9, 1944, the 387th Bomb Group was located at an air base, A-71, near St. Quentin, France. I, as an experienced B-26 pilot, was assigned to duty in the control tower that morning. My function there was to assist flight crews who encountered mechanical difficulties that might be corrected from the cockpit prior to landing.
The morning mission had taken off as scheduled. Each aircraft was loaded with 250 pound demolition bombs. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft were recalled to conduct a higher priority mission. This was not unusual in those days, because we were supporting ground forces.
It was a clear and cold winter day with the thermometer below the freezing level. One of our newly assigned pilots was on his final approach. Apparently his airspeed had dropped too low for the landing. He encountered prop wash that caused the aircraft to stall. The aircraft was only a couple hundred feet from the ground and crashed short of the runway at 90 degrees to the landing direction. The impact with the ground ruptured the fuel tanks, causing the aircraft to burst into flames.
The fire fighters, medics, and military policemen were in a standby position along the runway to provide immediate assistance in the event of an aircraft emergency landing. Thus, they were the first to reach the burning aircraft to aid the crew members.
I had returned to the operations office, but was alerted immediately following the crash. I rushed outside, jumped in a jeep, and sped to the scene.
When I arrived, the emergency crews had removed the air crew from the tail section and placed them in a waiting ambulance. We then attempted to rescue the remaining aircrew members from the forward cockpit area. As I approached, it appeared that the bombs had broken through the fuselage walls upon impact. The bombs were now on the ground and white-hot from the raging fuel fire. They were oozing a substance that I thought then, and still believe today, was the explosive material leaking from the bomb casing because of the intense heat. In the initial rescue operations, the firemen had sprayed water on the rear of the aircraft to protect the rescue and surviving crew members from the intense heat and fire. They now shifted the water from the aft section to the forward section.
Let me digress at this point for a moment. Our Group moved from England across the English Channel to France in the early fall of 1944. We were the first bomber group to deploy from England to France. We stood down from combat for a few days in order to supply our new French base. The method used to supply bombs to our new base until additional bombs could be provided was probably at that time unique. We loaded each aircraft with unfused bombs and flew them to the French base. When we arrived, we taxied to the designated bomb storage area, pulled the salvo lever, dropped the bombs on the ground, and returned to England. Because of this operation I assumed later that as long as the fuse was not activated, the bombs were safe. A foolish assumption. I now know better. Consequently, on the fateful day of the explosion I approached the burning aircraft with no fear. That was my last memory of the incident. I was apparently within 20 to 30 feet of a burning aircraft loaded with demolition bombs when they detonated. I felt no pain, heard no sound, and saw no explosion. My only sensation was that I was floating along, enveloped in a warm, gentle breeze. I believe because the aircraft engine was between the bombs and me I was shielded from the direct blast.
Later on I learned that I had sustained first, second and third degree burns on my head, face and upper body. Concussion had caused internal bleeding, plus ruptured eardrums, and I had numerous abrasions and holes in my arms, legs and body. I will never understand how I survived and so many others did not. It makes one think.
After the accident, Col. Brown advised me that the water sprayed on the hot bombs probably created such a shock that they detonated. He also advised me that Dr. Schwartz and I were the only two survivors from a group of 40 men. The aircrew members who were removed from the tail section and placed in an ambulance were also killed. The chassis was the only part of the ambulance remaining after the explosion.
How I lived nobody knows. However, it sure made a believer of me. I was released from the hospital to return to the USA either in late March or early April of 1945. After my experience at A-71 I was returned to flight status and had the good fortune to fly with the U. S. Air Force for another 28 years.
Joe Johnson (558th B.S.), "Tragedy Strikes the 387th," Shootin' In, Nov. 2002, pp. 6-7.
The highly regarded 556th Flight Surgeon, Capt. Franklin L. Watters was one of the rescuers, who was among the fatalities. Paul Priday (556th B.S.), "Tragedy Strikes the 387th," Shootin' In, Nov. 2002, p. 6.
Mon, 11 Dec 44 Mission: Dellfield railroad siding
In Germany, about 130 B-26s bomb defended positions at Birkesdorf, and Huchem-Stammeln; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 12 Dec 44
In Germany, 200+ bombers dispatched to bomb defended villages and storage areas are recalled because of weather; 1 bomber manages to bomb a stores depot at Reichenbach;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 13 Dec 44
In Germany, 90 B-26s and A-20s strike the defended villages of Gemund, Harperscheid, Hellenthal, Schleiden, Schoneseiffen, and Wollseifen, and the towns of Dorsel, Mayen, and Wiesbaden;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 14 Dec 44
In Germany, 250 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s hit a supply dump at Schleiden, plus defended positions in several villages and marshalling yard at Euskirchen; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 15 Dec 44 Mission: Ruthern oil storage
Bad weather grounds the bombers. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 16 Dec 44 Germans attack to begin Battle of the Bulge
In Germany, 300+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s hit defended positions, camp area, and oil storage at Heimbach, Wollseifen, Harperscheid, Schonau, Ruthen, and Dorsel; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division, ... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The great day! All checked out and off to Paris on the first leg of the long trip home. Stayed in Paris seven days, then flew (by C-47) to England and again reported to Churley for transportation to the States. Spent three weeks there before again boarding the New Amsterdam at Gurock, Scotland for home. Arrived in New York Jan. 22, 1945 and went to Camp Kilmer, N.J. for the night. Arrived at Ft. Leavenworth Jan. 25 and home in Wellington (KS) on Jan 26. For thirty days leave. Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary.
Sun, 17 Dec 44
Bad weather cancels 9th Bombardment Division combat operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The Allied advance into Germany was rudely interrupted by the plans of Von Runstedt, whose armies broke through the thinly defended American sector in the Ardennes and for days, in the confusion of extraordinarily thick fog, made a dash for Liege, Antwerp and other key cities. As the fog cleared, the German advance was stopped only about seventy-five miles from A-71. The mission of the air forces in this campaign was largely to destroy bridges to hinder the Germans retreat, for the enemys advance had been halted within a few days. ...Vigorous steps were taken for defense against sabotage and small arms were carried by all personnel.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
The Battle began on 16 Dec 44 and most of the allied air strength was grounded by the adverse weather conditionslow clouds, fog, rain, snowuntil the 23rd. Missions were briefed each morning and the aircrews stood by their aircraft throughout the day until late afternoon, when the mission was officially scrubbed. It was a very frustrating experience for us to be so close to the battle and unable to provide support to the beleaguered ground forces. Our base, near St. Quentin, France, was relatively close to the Belgium border. Paul Priday (556th B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
Mon, 18 Dec 44
In Germany, weather prevents bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 19 Dec 44
In Germany, 160+ A-26s, A-20s, and B-26s hit defended positions at Harperscheid, Hellenthal, Blumenthal, Dreiborn, and Herhahn;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 20 Dec 44
Weather grounds the bombers. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 21 Dec 44
Bad weather prevents all combat operations, except a night intruder mission by 2 fighters. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
At A-71 the Group was alerted on December 20th to be ready to move on six hours notice... History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
I was assigned to a new crew. We were assigned to the 387 Bomb Group 557 Bomb Sqdn. Again arrived during the Battle of the Bulge. When we arrived they told us not to unload as the Germans had broken through the line. We were near San Quentin, France. Ray V. Davila, My Military History.
Fri, 22 Dec 44
Weather grounds all operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 23 Dec 44 Mission: Mayen railroad bridge
Fighters fly a few strafing, weather reconnaissance, intruder patrol, and alert missions; bad weather cancels all other missions. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 24 Dec 44 Mission: Nideggen railroad siding
In Germany, around 500 B-26s and A-20s attack rail bridges, communications targets, villages, a rail junction and targets of opportunity losing 31 bombers; fighters fly bomber escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Meanwhile the planes, after being grounded for several days by heavy fog, took off on December 23 to get the Mayen railroad bridge, an important link in the enemys supply system. Ordered to bomb by PFF, the crews found CAVU conditions in the target area and scored, as was learned later, four excellent and one superior out of seven flights. Just after crossing the bomb line en route to the target, the formation was jumped by fifteen to twenty-five ME-109s, who concentrated on the low flight of the second box and knocked down four shipsthose of Lieutenant W. O. Pile, W. N. Church, C. O. Staub and W. J. Pucateri. Partial compensation for this loss was the destruction of four ME-109s and four damaged by Technical Sergeant Joseph Delia, Staff Sergeant D. D. Fasey and Sergeants James Jones, Ed Wesolowski and Leo Mossman. The other flights, after the Germans had been beaten off, continued to the target through intense and accurate heavy flak and destroyed the bridge. The fifth plane was lost when Lieutenant Smiths plane was picked off just before bombs away. In returning to the field Lieutenants W. P. Wade and T. G. Blackwell were forced to crash-land their badly damaged ships. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Just preceding Christmas Lieutenant Don Whitsett had flown his seventy-fifth mission inMississippi Mudcar and had departed for the States. This plane was one of the original B-26s which had been ferried across the north Atlantic in June 1943; Lieutenant Whitsitt had flown in it as co-pilot. On December 23rd the Cat was shot down on its 150th mission.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Finally, on December 23rd, the weather over the Bulge area cleared and fighters and bombers from both the 8th and 9th Air Forces literally swarmed over the battlefield. The Luftwaffe was also out in a surprising show of strength.
The initial target of the 387th was the railroad bridge at Mayen, Germany, approximately 25 miles west of Koblentz, which carried a critical rail line to the battlefield. Our losses for the mission were seven of the thirty-six aircraft which were launched. The target for the afternoon mission was Prum, a communications center approximately 35 miles east of Bastogne.
...
On the 23rd of Dec., 1944, the first day that we could launch a mission in the Battle of the Bulge, I flew as a substitute co-pilot on both the Mayen and Prum missions. During the former, our a/c was in one of the wing positions in the first box and except for the excitement of finally being able to join in this critical battle, it was a fairly routine mission from my standpoint.When we reached our fighter rendezvous the escorting fighters failed to appear and, as briefed, the leader turned on course over Bastogne. We didn't realize it at the time, but for some reason our second box missed the turn and became separated from us by five or six miles. In addition, their low flight was lagging behind the box leader. This violation of formation discipline resulted in a flight of ME 109's effectively attacking the low flight and shooting down four of the six a/c. In the first box, although we were aware of enemy fighter activity by the radio chatter, no enemy aircraft were in view from the cockpit. Flights in the first box approached the target in a routine manner, went into their in-trail formation and scored excellent results on the bridge. The flak was accurate and heavy, but no a/c were lost over the target.
In the meantime, the second box was engaged in a running gun battle with the ME 109's until one minute prior to opening their bomb bay doors. The two surviving Marauders from the low flight had tacked on to the lead flight. The Box Leader, realizing he was approaching the target on a heading different that that which had been briefed, made a 360° turn and lined up properly for the bomb run. The high flight followed him and the two flights made long steady runs and dropped with excellent results.
Both boxes sustained further flak damage on the way out, losing another aircraft and two aircraft crash landed at the base. Photos showed one span of the bridge destroyed and another span partially destroyed.
Within a few minutes after climbing out of the a/c, I was in a truck going to the briefing tent in preparation for a mission over Prum, Germany, a communications center for the German ground forces attacking in Belgium. As a substitute co-pilot for one of our Flight Commanders, I had more battle-time to observe the intense aerial activity over the area of the battle.
Our group was at 10,000 to 15,000 feetthe B-17's and B-24's were above us, probably at 20,000 to 25,000 feet and flights of P-47's could be observed peeling off below us in dive bombing and strafing attacks.
Prum was about thirty five miles northeast of Bastogne and I recall the flak was especially accurate as we flew toward the target. Regardless of our evasive action, the bursts seemed to be all over us. As our flights maneuvered into their intrail formation to commence the bomb run, the flight of six ships ahead of us from another group, literally blew apart. I presume the lead ship received a direct hit and the other five aircraft banked away to his right and left.
The 387th had been able to launch only 26 aircraft for this mission instead of the customary 36, and 21 of the 26 received battle damage. The bombing results were excellent.
Paul Priday (556th B.S.), Mission to Mayen.
The 387th Group lost four bombers and a pathfinder to some 20 German fighters that blasted away at the B-26s
between Bastogne and their target at Daun... In the hit on Mayen, the 387th suffered the loss of four Marauders to enemy fighters and another two to flak after failing to find their escort from the 367th Fighter Group. The B-26s did, however, claim 4 German fighters downed. Daniel Parker, To Win the Winter Sky, pp. 234.
The 387th and 394th BGs hit the village of Prüm east of St. Vith. The 387th lost only one plane due to flak damage. The crippled bomber was hit just before the bomb run and suddenly arched over on its back. The pilot somehow managed to roll over and straighten out in time to drop its bombs before the B-26 fell off to the side and spun to the ground...
Daniel Parker, To Win the Winter Sky, pp. 235-236.
Staffeln of JG 11 opposed the 70 B-26 Marauders of the 387th and 394th BGs bearing down on the marshalling yards at Mayen.
Daniel Parker, To Win the Winter Sky, pp. 243.
Mon, 25 Dec 1944 Mission: Irrel highway bridge
276 B-26s and A-20s hit rail bridges and communications centers in W Germany; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 26 Dec 44
Nearly 650 B-26, A-20s and A-26s hit rail and road bridges, communications centers and targets of opportunity in W Germany and the breakthrough area;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Following the attacks on Prum and Nideggen the Group, on Christmas day, amid hail and snow, went after the Irrel road junction. On this mission occurred one of the most heroic incidents in the history of the Group. The lead plane of Lieutenant John A. Alexander of the low flight was hit hard by flak over Bastogne, four minutes from the target. Two minutes later the interphone was shot out and a few minutes after the intervalometer. Since the time remaining was too short to make the necessary adjustments, Lieutenant Harvey W. Allen, the bombardier, signaled to the pilot to make another bomb run. With rudder, ailerons and wings full of holes, Lieutenant Alexander managed to hold the plane level so that the bombs could be salvoed, hitting inside the target area. Losing altitude fast and perceiving an indicated air speed of only 160 mph, Lieutenant Alexander coaxed his ship back across the bomb line near Trier and ordered the crew to bail out. Seven of the nine aboard made the jump, but staff Sergeant Michael Aguilar was thrown against the radio table and his chute flew open. Lieutenant Alexander gallantly offered to try to crash land the plane, but Sergeant Aguilar gallantly refused to agree, realizing the impossibility of a crash-landing among the hills. Climbing gingerly down through the nose wheel with the parachute draped over his arm, Sergeant Aguilar successfully made the jump. At 700 feet Lieutenant Alexander bailed out and watched his plane crash into a small creek and explode. They were not yet out of danger, for some American soldiers, thinking they might be Germans, fired at them before they could identify themselves. For their acts of gallantry, Lieutenant Alexander was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal and Lieutenant Allen and Sergeant Aguilar the Silver Star. In the afternoon a 387th formation attacked St. Vith with excellent results, but the most exciting events of the day were to happen after the mission. A 397th plane, coming in after dark, hit short of the runway, burned and exploded. The twenty-eight 100 pound demolition bombs knocked out nearly all windows, both on the base and in Clasteres. Fortunately all the crew escaped. About twenty minutes later a 387th plane, returning with sixteen 250s from a test flight, came in. In landing the nose wheel tire was punctured by a bomb fragment from the 397th ship, the 387th plane nosed over, caught fire and exploded. This crew also escaped, but all other whole window panes in Group headquarters were shattered.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, pp. xxx.
Came a never-to-be forgotten Christmas Day. In the morning the target was a road junction at Irrel. Ground in the target area was blanketed with freshly fallen snow, and have made bombing more difficult. Nevertheless, most of the formation hit the target for good results, and the rest bombed the defended town of Eshternach; also with good results. Making a secondary run on the primary target, the ship of Lieutenant [John] Alexander, leading the Low Flight of the II-Box, was hit hard by Flak, knocking out his one engine and the bombsight. Lt. [Harvey] Allen, bombardier, ingeniously got his bombs away in the target area, nonetheless, allowing his flight to bomb. In turning off the target, the ship was hit again and again by Flak; the rudder being badly damaged, both left gasoline tanks punctured, the top turret smashed and the nose Plexiglas of the plane shattered.
Lt. Alexander kept the ship under control while Lt. Allen and Sgt. Miller, GEE Operator, directed him to friendly territory, where all nine men in the crew safely parachuted. S/Sgt. Aguilar jumped after his parachute had opened accidentally inside the aircraft, and Lt. Alexander, last man out, with difficulty jumped from the careening plane at 700 feet. The plane was seen to crash seconds later into the bank of a small stream. All of the men returned later. None of the remaining nine planes furnished by the squadron received damage.
556th Squadron, Monthly Report, December, 1944.
On the Group's morning mission to Irrel, Germany, 1st Lt. John A. Alexander-0699645, by his undaunted actions, earned our country's second highest honor for valor, the coveted Distinguished Service Cross. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 52.
1st Lt. James M. Neff was our crew's pilot, and I might add, a damn good one. His skills were certainly taxed to the limit during the afternoon mission to Saint Vith, Belgium on Christmas day.
After waiting most of the morning for a special mission, which did not materialize, our six plane flight was tacked on to the Group's second mission. The I.P. was the town of Malmedy, approximately twenty-eight miles north of St. Vith. The target was heavily defended, and the scene of much Allied aerial efforts to disrupt German traffic in the area. We had a fresh snowfall on Xmas morning, the first of that cold winter. The visibility over the target was excellent, and each flight bombed visually.
I was in my gun position as tail-gunner, as our flight leveled out for the bomb run. Lt. Vernon Briscoe was calling last second corrections., when our plane seemed to shudder. The next second, I saw the planes in our flight do what I thought was a climbing right turn. This brief recollection lasted only a millisecond before I realized our plane was descending fast in a steep left turn. I saw smoke coming from one of the engines and called Neff on the intercome. His calm reply was, "I know it." He called Gamble to come forward, "On the double." I then saw that the left wing had holes in it, as well as the tail section. Neff adroitly managed to control our descent, and told the crew to standby to bail out. I grabbed my chest pack and met Walt Simmons(AG-top turret gun.) at the waist gun window. Walt plugged into the waist window intercom as I made ready to jump.
I learned later... that when Gamble went forward, he waded through ankle deep gasoline in the aft bomb bay. He notified Neff of this potential danger. The pilot's compartment was a shambles. Jimmy Harris, our copilot, was bleeding from shoulder and face wounds, the plexiglas was shattered and the pilot's instruments were shot out. Neff had his hands full trying to maintain control of our aircraft's desecent. Bris and Lt. Russ Trapper, our navigator, along with M/Sgt. Paris "Hoop" Hooper, our GEE operator, were feverishly, but methodically, plotting our position, and relaying headings for Neff to steer in order to be over friendly lines. The left engine seized up and Neff feathered it, when Harris announced that our right engine had burst into flames. The danger was very great for a mid air explosion, and Neff and Gamble realized it. At the persistent coaxing of our calm bombardier, Neff delayed the bail out order until Bris assured him we were over our lines. Neff ordered Trapper and Briscoe out of their nose compartment, and then gave the order to bail out. Walt and I exited the flaming aircraft from the waist window, while the other six members used the open bomb bay. Neff was the last member of the crew to jump. The B-26G circled under him, and then exploded in mid air! The fuselage fell into the Muese River near Huy, Belgium, while its two engines fell on each embankment. Four of us descended by parachute into the front-line positions held by the 84th Inf. Div., where we ate our Xmas supper. Harris ended up in a Paris hospital, and the rest of us arrived back to the 387thBG within three days. I suffered injuries to my ankles, while Bris was crippled with a knee injury. Luckily, no one else was injured. On board were:
Pilot
Copilot
*Bomb.
Nav.
*GEE
ROG
EG
AG1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
M/Sgt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.James M. Neff
James I. Harris.
Vernon L. Briscoe
Russell H. Trapper
Parris W. Hooper
Wm. J. Thompson, Jr.
Wm. F. Gamble
Walter H. Simmons*Received DFC Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 61.
Lieutenant Harvey Allen, bombardier on Lt. John Alexander's lead crew, suffered facial lacerations when the B-26 Plexiglas nose was shattered during their initial bomb run over Irrel. Lt. Allen reported that his bombsight was also damaged by the flak. On their flight's second bomb run, Lt. Allen aligned the secondary target up visually and they were able to place all their bombs in the target area. For his actoins, 2nd Lt. Harvey Allen was awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star. Staff Sergeant Michael C. Aguilar's rip cord caught on the radioman desk in the confined compartment of their stricken plane. His parachute prematurely popped open as the crew were making their emergency exit from the Marauder. When Lt. Alexander saw Aguilar's plight, he offered to stay with their falling plane and attempt to make a crash landing in the mountainous terrain, in order to give his engineer a chance for survival. The airman realized the great risks of Lt. Alexander's offer. It was then that Anguilar (it is reported) picked up his unpacked parachute, draped it over his shoulder, and exited through the nose wheel. Fortunately, his parachute and shroud lines performed perfectly and he floated to earth safely. Lt. Alexander was right behind him. To add to their hectic experience, friendly infantrymen opened fire on them when they landed.
FW Supplemental Section, Personal Experiences & Anecdotes By And Of The Men Of The 556th Bomb. Squadron, p. 52-A.
[This account reports that the flight was attacking the secondary target; this is probably incorrect.]
When the aircraft suffered its initial flak damage, Mike Aguilar, Engineer/Gunner, came forward from his position in the top turret to assist in the cockpit. As Mike passed through the bomb bay the ripcord of his chest pack parachute was snagged and the chute was accidentally opened. After "Bombs away," when it became apparent that the aircraft would have to be abandoned, John gave the order to bail out. As John struggled to control the rapidly descending "June Bug," crew members exited the aircraft until only John and Mike remained. At that point they were faced with an agonizing decision. As aircraft commander, John was duty and morally bound to attempt a crash landing if Mike was unable to jump. If Mike elected to gather his opened chute in his arms and exit the aircraft, he faced the very real possibility that his chute would prematurely deploy and snag on some portion of the aircraft, carrying him to certain death. Another possibility was that the canopy would become twisted or entangled in the shroud lines and fail to properly deploy.
Considering the uneven terrain over which they were flying, an attempted crash landing was a questionable alternative. Mike decided that he would jump rather than risk both of their lives. Miraculously, Mike's parachute deployed and he landed safely. John exited the "June Bug" as soon as possible after Mike's departure and, though perilously close to the ground when his chute opened, survived the touch-down.
For his heroic act of unselfishness, Mike was awarded the Silver Star. So was Harvy Allen, Bombardier, who had gallantly effectively directed the successful bomb run after the nose section had been seriously damaged by flak.
24 May 1945 General Orders No. 53
John A. Alexander O-699645, First Lieutenant, Army Air Forces, United States Army. For extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy while serving as pilot of a B-26 aircraft in a daylight bombardment mission over Germany, 25 December 1944. On this date, during the initial approach to the target, flak damage severed communications between Alexander and his bombardier and since contact could not be reestablished in time for accurate bombing Lieutenant Alexander continued to lead the flight on a true and level course. Midway on the bomb run another flak burst destroyed the bomb sight, shattered the plexiglass and tore holes in the wings and rudder. In spite of the great damage sustained by the aircraft, Lieutenant Alexander continued on an accurate course over the target and bombs were released with excellent results. The extraordinary heroism and determination to complete his assigned mission displayed by Lieutenant Alexander on this occasion are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.
By Command of General Spaatz
On 25th of December 1944 the 387th was assigned to hit the target at St. Vith in the bulge. We misidentified the target and hit a small town a few miles away. That small town just happened to house the headquarters for the German General who commanded the German forces in the bulge. That general wrote an article that appeared in Life magazine in December of 1945 wherein he suggested that our mistake crippled the effectiveness of his headquarters. I hasten to add that the first two boxes of the 387th did hit St. Vith, but my box did a 360 degree turn at the I.P. to provide better separation, and lost sight of the first two boxes. I read the article in Life waiting to get a haircut. I would love to have someone find a copy of the article and make it available. Please e-mail me. Thank you. Thomas C. Britton, Major, USAF (Ret'd) <britton@mcn.org>
Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 13:51:17 (CDT)
Wed, 27 Dec 44 Mission: Nonnweiller railroad bridge
The 9th Bombardment Division attacks road junctions, rail bridges, rail head, communications and casual targets in the breakthrough area as the enemy's westward drive ends short of the Maas River; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Operations for 1944 ended with the attacks on railroad bridges at Konz-Karthaus on December 26th and at Nonnweiler December 27th. Hits were scored on the former; the latter was destroyed. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
...on the night of December 26 the field was strafed by a lone German plane. No damage was done.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
The sound of the German night fighter's machine guns grew louder, an Cpl. Richard "Doc" Savage wondered whether he'd made the wrong choice. "I could hear the bullets getting closer--bup, bup, bup," Savage says. "I was saying, 'I wish I'd gone outside and jumped in that slit trench.'"
Savage's predicament started a few days before the Battle of the Bulge started on Dec. 16, 1944.
The 23-year-old Massachusetts native was an armorer with the 387th Bomb Group at San Quentin in central France.
He and his seven tent mates had acquired about 500 pounds of coal through "friendly trading."
"It was quite cold, and we only got enough coal for a couple of hours of heat a day," Savage says. "So, to be honest with you, we did a little
black marketing."A coal barge got stuck in the ice on a canal, and we traded with them. They gave us coal, and we gave him cigarrettes, candy, gasoline. This wasn't, you know, quite legal."
The men hid the coal under the floor boards of their tent.
When the German attack jumped off, the group was put on alert: If the enemy broke through, everything except critical supplies and planes were to be left behind.
"After going through all the work of getting that coal, I said, "Jesus, I'm not leaving it for the Germans," Savage says. "I hadn't had a bath in a month, so I said, "I think I'm going to have a nice hot bath with that coal.'"
So after breakfast, Savage loaded the tent's stove with coal and left three jerry cans of water next to it to heat up. After lunch and supper, he added more coal, until the water was steaming hot.
Then he poured the water into a 50-gallon barrel and climbed in.
"You can't imagine how good it felt," he says. "Then I put on my last pair of clean long johns and climbed in the sack. That was the nicest feeling. Right to this day, I can feel it, so cozy and comfortable."
About that time, though, the air raid signal went off.
"All we had for cover were slit trenches that were filled with mud and a crust of snow." Savage says. "I was all clean from my bath and didn't want to jump into one of those damn things for an air raid.
"Everybody else left the tent, so I pulled up the floor boards and jumped down with the coal. I heard the strafing sounds of the machine guns come right toward the tent. And then it was quiet.
"When everybody came back in, they had mud on them, and I was still nice and warm and clean. They were all envious. They didn't know I was scared as hell."
The next morning, Savage and his tent mates discovered parallel lines of bullet holes that stopped 30 feet from the tent.
"Another burst would have got me," Savage says. "So, whenever I think of the Battle of the Bulge, I think of that bath."
Kevin Lollar, "Warm bath nearly cost GI his life," News Press (Ft. Myers, December 1994)
Thu, 28 Dec 44
The 9th Bombardment Division attacks rail bridges, communications centers, and targets of opportunity in Germany and Belgium; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Operations for 1944 ended with the attacks on railroad bridges at Konz-Karthaus on December 26th and at Nonnweiler December 27th. Hits were scored on the former; the latter was destroyed. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Fri, 29 Dec 44
Weather prevents all combat operations except night-fighter missions. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 30 Dec 44
Weather causes the recall of 100+ bombers except for 7 which bomb Saint-Vith, Belgium communications center and Keuchingen, Germany road bridge;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 31 Dec 44
Weather forces the recall and cancellation of the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Dec 44
Weather grounds the bombers;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Jan 45
Just wanted to tell a short story. My dad, T/Sgt Donald C Bell, never mentioned much about the war, but did say a bunch of 26's saved his squad's butt at a bridge during the Bulge. Remembered them as angels spitting death. Thanks to the members of those unknown crews for my dad's life at that point. Snoopy Bell <Snoopythb@aol.com>
- Saturday, January 29, 2000 at 02:04:37 (CST)
Mon, 1 Jan 45 Mission: Bullay railroad bridge
January of 1945 was characterized by bad weather, many briefings and a few missions against bridges, transportation and communications centers. With the exception of the mission to Sinzig railroad bridge, flak was much less intense. Because of the small number of missions, it became possible to get much work done improving facilities at the field and squadron areas. Enlisted mens day rooms and officers messes and clubs were built with the help of civilian labor and, to the profound relief of the lower grades of enlisted men, civilian KPs were used for the first time in the ETO. Following the arrival of new crews, the largest number in the history of the Group, training classes were set up. Emphasis was placed on formation flying, navigation, GEE equipment, PDI, camera bombing, practice bombing and night flying. Inspections on the line found technical sections in excellent condition. During the winter combat crews had been allowed to make visits to the front lines, and some had been there at the time of the Ardennes breakthrough.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Tue, 2 Jan 45 Mission: Bad Munster railroad bridge
190 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s hit rail bridges, communications centers, a road junction, a command post, and HQ, all in Belgium and Germany; fighters escort 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 3 Jan 45
135 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s hit rail bridges and communications centers in Belgium and Germany; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
During take-off, A/C 880/FW-H hit the prop wash of the preceding B-26 seconds after being airborne, causing the pilot to lose control of his aircraft. The plane crashed off the end of the runway, in a turnip field. This terrible accident was the third one that this crew suffered--the other two during landings after training hops. Anyone who went to the accident scene after the crash, or saw photos of the wreckage, can only shake their heads in wonder...wonder that anyone survived. The onboard crew were:
Injured
Injured
Injured
Injured
Injured
KIAPilot
Copilot
ROG
EG
AG
AG/Togg2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.Verne V. Thompson
William R. Sherman
Robert H. Pitt, II
Henry L. Mayre
Robert B. Roark
Robert A. Leipse0699476
(no sqdn. record)
37623800
Unknown
16125205
36523886April, 1994. - Bob Pitt stated that he spent more than ten months in the hospital, and underwent numerous operations to mend his broken body. His injuries were the most serious of the badly injured crew members.
Later in life, Robert Pitt became very successful in the financial World.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 64.
Thu, 4 Jan 45
All combat operations are cancelled because of weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 5 Jan 45
Ninth Air Force: All combat operations, except a defensive patrol by 4 fighters, are cancelled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 6 Jan 45
The 9th Bombardment Division attacks rail bridges at Ahrweiler, Simmern, and Bullay, Germany and communications centers at Gouvy, Houffalize, and near Durler, Belgium, and Massen, Luxembourg. Fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 7 Jan 45
26 bombers of the 9th Bombardment Division strike Prum, Germany. Bad weather prevents all fighter operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 8 Jan 45
All other commands and the 9th Bombardment Division cancel operations as the weather is bad. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 9 Jan 45
Weather prevents operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 10 Jan 45
In Germany, 15 B-26s bomb the Rinnthal rail bridge with the aim of isolating 3 enemy armored divisions in the Landau area; XXIX Tactical Air Command (Provisional) fighters escort the B-26s. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 11 Jan 45
30+ B-26s sent against communications center and road bridge abort due to weather; the XIX Tactical Air Command escorts the B-26s,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 12 Jan 45
About 120 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s attack communications centers and rail bridges in Belgium and Germany; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 13 Jan 45 Mission: Simmern railroad bridge
All combat operations are cancelled because of weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 14 Jan 45 Mission: Ahrweiler railroad bridge
In Germany, 95 9th Bombardment Division bombers strike road and rail bridges at Dasburg, Steinebruck, and Simmern to disrupt enemy movements; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 15 Jan 45
280+ A-20s and B-26s strike bridges and communications centers in the base area of the Ardennes salient and in other areas of W Germany. Fighters escort 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 16 Jan 45 Mission: Erkelenz rail & communication center
In Germany, 16 B-26s hit the Simmern bridge to help thwart movement in the Trier area; the XIX Tactical Air Command escorts the B-26s,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 17 Jan 45
311 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s hit road and rail bridges, communications centers, motor transport repair center, and other targets in Germany; fighters escort 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 18 Jan 45
Weather cancels all bomber operations... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 19 Jan 45
Weather prevents all Ninth AF operations except for alert flights by 11 fighters... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 20 Jan 45
Bad weather cancels bomber operations;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 21 Jan 45
Bomber operations are cancelled due to weather;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
By January 20 the breakthrough had spent its force and the Germans were in full retreat. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Mon, 22 Jan 45 Mission: Dasburg highway bridge
In Germany, 166 A-26s, A-20s, and B-26s hit a rail junction and bridge at Euskirchen and marshalling yard and defended positions at Mayen; fighters...escort bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 23 Jan 45
304 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s bomb a marshalling yard, railhead, and road and rail bridges in Germany with the aim of obstructing troop movement; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On January 22 the Group materially hindered their retreat by bombing the Dassburg highway bridge. Just as a long German convoy started across, the bombing knocked out the western approach and the end of the 134 foot span and also stopped the head of the column, which had already crossed the bridge and was well on its way. This latter event occurred when one flight dropped late and scored a lucky hit on the road. Shortly after the road and bridge were tied up, American fighter-bombers appeared and destroyed the complete column. On that day the fighters scored the highest number of vehicles destroyed up to that timesome 1700 trucks and wagons. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Wed, 24 Jan 45
In Germany, a small B-26 force hits troop concentrations, a road bridge, and military transport targets at Blankenheim, Dasburg, and Arzfeld. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 25 Jan 45
25 9th Bombardment Division bombers hit communications centers at Schleiden, Stadtkyll, and Pronsfeld, Germany;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 26 Jan 45
170 A-20s and B-26s hit communications centers and railroad bridges, overpasses, and lines in W Germany with the aim of harassing and obstructing troop movement;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Bombing Sinzig railroad bridge on January 25 through moderate and accurate flak, the formation had excellent results. Some flights, showing the results of the strenuous training and practice bombing, were able to lay all their bombs within the 1000 foot circle. Results obtained on this mission were a prelude to the record making accuracy to be shown in March and April. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Sat, 27 Jan 45
In Germany, 27 B-26s bomb the Euskirchen rail bridge to interdict rail traffic SW from Euskirchen, much of which comes from Cologne and Bonn. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 28 Jan 45 Mission: Wittlich defended village (secondary)
Weather grounds the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 29 Jan 45 Mission: Rheinbach supply center
In Germany, 95 9th Bombardment Division B-26s hit a communications center at Mayen, rail bridges and an overpass at Eller, Sinzig, Remagen, and Kaiserslautern, targets of opportunity in W Germany, and fly cover for US First Army forces on the frontline in the Monschau-Butgenbach area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 30 Jan 45
364 A-20s, B-26s, and A-26s bomb rail bridges, supply and communications centers, and defended areas in W Germany; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 31 Jan 45
Weather cancels bomber operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Feb 45
All operations are cancelled due to weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 1 Feb 45
During February the majority of the missions were led by Pathfinders, and several went awry when the PFF equipment failed. These abortions and the lack of clear weather for visual bombing forced the use of GEE equipment, which proved unsatisfactory. Yet February was a highly successful month. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Fri, 2 Feb 45 Mission: Rosbach railroad bridge
46 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s bomb rail bridges and defended areas on the Rhine and Mosel Rivers and in W Germany near the battlefront. The IX and XIX Tactical Air Commands escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 3 Feb 45 Mission: Sinzig railroad bridge
350+ B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s bomb road and rail bridges to block the E-W movement E of the Rhine River and defended localities E of the battlefront in W Germany; fighters hit bridges...fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 4 Feb 45
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division attacks the Berg-Gladbach storage and repair depot, Dahlem communications center, rail bridges at Ahrweiler and Sinzig, and marshalling yard at Junkerath; fighters escort the 9th Bombardment Division,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 5 Feb 45
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division attacks a repair depot at Mechernich, the Arloff road and rail junction, and flies a leaflet mission. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 6 Feb 45 Mission: Wittlach & Guthenthal (secondary)
Weather cancels all operations except IX Tactical Air Command fighter patrols... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 7 Feb 45
In Germany, 261 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s attack the Rheinbach ammunition dump, Sotenich communications center, Vlatten defended village, Berg-Gladbach motor transport center, and several casual targets; fighters ... escort the 9th Bombardment Division bombers. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 8 Feb 45 Mission: Calcar defended town
16 B-26s strike the rail siding at Lipp, Germany; weather cancels other operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 9 Feb 45 Mission: Vierson communication center
320+ B-26s, A-20s, and A-26s strike a road junction, marshalling yard, 3 defended areas, and 10 casual targets in Germany. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 10 Feb 45 Mission: Berg-Gladbach motor transport and AFV center
In Germany, 347 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb communications centers at Viersen and Kempen, marshalling yards at Rheydt, Grevenbroich, and Viersen, and rail bridges at Neuwied-Irlich and Sinzig. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 11 Feb 45
In Germany, 320+ bombers of the 9th Bombardment Division attack communications centers at Kempen, Horrem, and Euskirchen, vehicle center and depot at Munstereifeland at Berg-Gladbach, and several casual targets including rail bridge at Bullay; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 12 Feb 45
In Germany, 97 B-26s and A-20s bomb the Bingen and Modrath marshalling yards;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 13 Feb 45 Mission: Sinzig railroad bridge
All combat operations cancelled because of bad weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 14 Feb 45 Mission: Engers railroad bridge
In Germany, 320+ B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s, attack rail bridges at Sinzig, Neuwied-Irlich, and Euskirchen, military transport depots at Schwelm and Iserlohn, defended points at Wittlich, and targets of opportunity; fighters escort the A-20s, A-26 and B-26s,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
In Germany, 600+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s attack rail bridges, a marshalling yard, communications centers, an ammunition dump, a prime mover depot, and several targets of opportunity in morning and afternoon missions aimed primarily at obstructing enemy movement and supply; fighters fly armed reconnaissance over wide areas, escort the bombers... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The Xanten and Engers missions were both flown on February 14th. Led by Captain R. N. Gunn the formation, supporting British troops, laid bombs in excellent pattern inside the target area of the communications center ant Xanten. In the afternoon the floor of the heavily defended railroad bridge at Engers was pierced by 1,000 pound bombs, but was not destroyed. On these missions Lieutenants J. P. McClung, G. W. Patterson, Jr. and E. I. Walker showed outstanding flying skill in bringing back their badly damaged planes. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
The Kron Prinz Wilheim railroad bridge, that spanned the Rhine River at Engers, Germany, was one of, if not the most notable flak concentrated target that the 387th BG undertook, while conducting combat operations during WWII. The Group's bombing accuracy on the mission was surpurb, scoring direct hits on the span, but unfortunately, faulty fuse settings prevented this critical target from being destroyed. 2nd Lt. Edward Walker managed to fly the battered "Sweatin' Five" back to A-71. He landed the plane, but due to damage to the hydaulic system, the aircraft's nose gear failed to extend properly. Consequently, "Sweatin' Five" ran off the end of the runway and nosed over. Lt. Walker, and his crew, were not injured.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 30.
A VALENTINE'S DAY MISSION It was February 14, 1945 and at briefing I saw the reconnaissance photos of our target - a railroad bridge at Engers, Germany. I was to fly the No. 2 position in my flight and the ship I was to fly was a new one in our squadron named "The Texas Queen." (TQ-G; Serial Number: 44-67916).
I met the co-pilot at the ship. He was from a replacement crew that had just come into the squadron; his name was Lt. McDonough. I'll never forget when he introduced himself to me, because he said, "Boy, at this rate I'll be going home in a couple of weeks!" When I asked what he was talking about, he said he had just gone on his first mission and this was to be his second. I never knew whether he had been on a morning mission this day or was referring to having been on one yesterday.
Little did I know what a prophet he was.
On the way to the target we got a moderate amount of flak at the bomb line, nothing really heavy. As I was flying in the No. 2 position I was resting my head against the middle window while watching the wing of the lead plane on my left. We arrived at the Initial Point and turned to start the bomb run. The bomb bay doors were opened and we had started toward the target when we took the first direct hit. The explosion of the shell deafened me and blew my sunglasses off. My vision was blurred so I wiped my face and eyes, and taking my hand away, I saw all this flesh and blood.
I thought My God, they have shot my face off but 1 didn't feel any pain. Then out of the corner of my eye I saw McDonough falling between our seats. I saw that about half of his thigh had been blown off. The debris of flesh and blood from his thigh was what had blurred my vision. I managed to get Thorin, my engineer/gunner, up into the cockpit to attend to McDonough. I was doing my best to keep my position in the flight.
Since my vision was still blurred, I moved my head forward to the front window compartment to see the lead plane better. Just after my head moved forward, a shell came through the middle window and hit between the top hatches blowing them open, damaging the trim cables, and taking out the radio. (You cannot imagine the speed of a shell until you experience it. It passed so close to my neck that 1 thought my flesh had been burned).
If 1 hadn't moved my head to the front glass, I would never have known what hit me. I t would have taken my head off. So, McDonough getting hit and part of his thigh being blown onto my face really caused me to move the position of my head, which saved my life and undoubtedly the entire crew.
With all that going on, I still managed to keep the plane in a reasonably good formation until our bombs were released on the target. We took another hit just as the bombs went away, and a piece of flak came up through my parachute and between my flight jacket's inner and outer lining. It exited below the collar of the left shoulder area.
There was no way I could fly formation and keep up with the lead plane taking evasive action to get away from the target area. I remember going into a dive and seeing the air speed indicator go past the red line. I started to the base as fast as I could go. Thorin and Suders (radio gunner) worked at getting the hatches closed and began administering to Lt. McDonough, using sulpha powder, morphine and bandages.
I got back to A-71 ahead of the Group and started a straight-in approach. There was another B-26 just ahead of me and I was closing on him fast. Since I didn't have a radio I had Thorin fire a red flare. When the plane ahead of me did not get out of the way he fired another red flare and this time the plane pulled up, which gave me clearance to go in and land.
As I pulled off the end of the runway and onto the taxi strip the ambulances were right there so I killed the engine and the rescue crew brought out stretchers to take McDonough out. Sgt. Suders was also hit, but not as severely, but they took him with McDonough to the field hospital. Our Squadron surgeon, Dr. Thom, did the surgery on them.
Joseph O. Stevens
Joseph O. Stevens received the Silver Star for the heroism he demonstrated on this mission.
Lt. Stevens and Latvala went to visit McDonough in the hospital while he was under treatment. His wounds were so gross to look at that Lt. Stevens fainted, hit his head on the floor and was unconscious for several hours. Eino also was so upset at the sight that he had to go outside and vomit.
Joe also commented on an incident that happened after he landed that Valentine's Day, which shows the imbecility of certain persons involved. The procedure after you cut off engines is to turn off the inverters, which in this case he forgot to do. Joe was embarrassed that he was criticized in front of his fellow pilots by our then commanding officer.
Thu, 15 Feb 45 Mission:
Sellingen ordnance depot
Fri, 16 Feb 45 Mission: Rees communication center
In Germany, around 90 B-26s bomb Sinzig and Mayen rail bridges and 4 targets of opportunity in the area;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On February 15 Lieutenant Colonel Glenn Grau, senior squadron commander of the Group, left the 556th for the States and a new assignment. He had joined the Group as a first Lieutenant and then been commanding officer of the 556th since January 1, 1944. His successor was Major M. K. Campbell. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Lt. Col Grau returned to the Z.I. in February, 1945. The quiet, soft spoken Grau was an adept pilot and an admired leader, popular with everyone who served under him. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 3.
Major Mansel R. Campbell succeeded Lt. Colonel Glenn F. Grau as [556th] Squadron C.O. in February, 1945. He was the third, and last commander of the 556th Bomb. Squadron.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 12.
Sat, 17 Feb 45
In Germany, 300+ B-26s and A-20s bomb the Mayen, rail bridge, Rees communications center, Solingen turbo-jet component works, Unna ordnance depot, and a target of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 18 Feb 45
In Germany, 31 B-26s strike the Mayen rail bridge and a target of opportunity at Reinfeld;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 19 Feb 45 Mission: Niederscheld marshalling yard
In Germany, 60+ B-26s bomb the Dottesfeld rail bridge, a target of opportunity at Daun, and 5 other targets of opportunity as the 9th Bombardment Division starts a campaign to isolate the Ruhr; the XIX Tactical Air Command escorts the B-26s... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 20 Feb 45
In Germany, B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s, strike the Mechernich prime mover depot, rail bridges at Pracht, Niederscheld, and Neuwied-Irlich, the Wiesbaden ordnance depot, and 4 targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 21 Feb 45 Mission: Haltern marshalling yard & Reisenbach autobahn bridge (secondary targets)
Weather grounds the 9th Bombardment Division;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 22 Feb 45 Mission: Nuttlar-Dulmen railroad bridge
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits rail a overpass and bridges, an oil storage depot, marshalling yards, communications centers, and 13 targets of opportunity;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 23 Feb 45 Mission: Buer supply point
In Operation CLARION, 450+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s of the 9th Bombardment Division bomb SW German targets including 46 rail bridges, 12 marshalling yards, 11 stations, plus junctions, roundhouses, a viaduct, a crossing, a workshop; this marks the first low-level operations by B-26s since May 43;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Washingtons birthday brought the largest scale effort up to that time of Allied Air Forces in the ETO. Every type of target was hit during the day. Flights from the 387th hit railway bridges at Wehrstapel and Nutlar-Dulmen and the defended village of Dulman with excellent to superior results. The spectacular event of the day was furnished by Lieutenant George W. Patterson and his crew. Flying through heavy flak over the target, his brand-new B-26 had been damaged so badly that he found it impossible to land. On returning to the home field he gave orders to his crew to bail out. This they did with the entire Group watching the show. After the pilot bailed out, the ship flew smoothly along for several minutes, then dived gracefully into the ground. Lieutenant Peterson floated leisurely down and landed directly in front of his squadron orderly room.
Why did you land here, George? his friends asked. He answered, Hell, you know its so damned hard to get transportation that I thought this would be the quickest way back.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
On this mission a 556th crew flew one of the 558th's Marauders, "Maraudin' Maude" on a mission to bomb the railroad bridges at Nutler-Dulmen, Germany. The pilot was George Patterson. "Maraudin' Maude" sustained flak damage to the control cables. By the use of the trim tabs, Patterson was able to fly the aircraft back to A-71. Rather than risk a landing, however, it was decided that the crew should bail out over the field. While the remainder of the formation landed, Patterson circled the field, using up fuel and gaining a comfortable altitude. One by one the crew members exited the aircraft and began their descent. After Patterson jumped, "Maude" continued on a straight course for a short distance and then began to turn to the left. It came back across the field, appeared to gradually climb, then made another turn and came across the field at least one more time before nosing up and entering into a classic tail spin. As the rate of descent increased, the rapid 360 degree rotation of the nose convinced everyone who was watching, regardless of their location on the field, that they were a potential target.
Their feelings are probably best described by the amusing description of this event, by Squadron Engineering Officer, Phil Detwiler:
Fortunately, "Maraudin' Maude" impacted in an unoccupied area of A-71. Most of the crew members landed in or close to the Squadron area. Burns Gillespie was the first to jump. Patterson landed fairly close to the tent area and first Sgt. Bates and I teamed up to collapse his chute after he hit the ground. Besides Burns Gillespie, the names of the other crew members are not known.We ground people were not often subject to danger. However, one fine day at our winter quarters in France our ships went on an early moring mission. Sivright and his armament crew had all the hardstands supplied with frag bombs for a possible second strike. There was battle damage on the first mission and the crew of one plane (I don't recall from which Squadron) bailed out at high altitude over the field. The plane climbed and spun, climbed and spun, etc. We earthlings watched it with fascination for perhaps 15 minutes. It then became disturbingly possible the final resting place would be in the 556th hardstand area.A gradual departure from the airplanes and all those frag bombs was started by some maintenance people. As their leader, I thought it not fitting to exhibit concern to early. As the place of impact became more apparent I joined the gradual migration. I think the procession was somewhat according to rank. Privates first, corporals second, perhaps crew chiefs and flight chiefs last. I started in the rear. As the impact zone became more final I increased my foot speed to a lead of perhaps 50' beyond all the troops.
The plane crashed near, but not on, our planes and frag bombs. Some time afterward Glen Grau went back to the USA on leave. While in Detroit, he visited my parents. He told them I was a fine leader of men--50' in front of all. I still keep in good shape but I doubt if I could match that sprint today.Gillespie was not a member of Patterson's crew, but was substituting for the tail gunner. He was injured, and spent several days in the hospital. Following his release, he was reassigned to the United States. He had virtually completed the standard operation tour of 65 missions.
Paul "Robin" Priday (556th B.S.), Shootin' In, March 2000.
Sat, 24 Feb 45 Mission: Vlatten communication center
The 9th Bombardment Division hits communications centers E of the Roer River as the US Ninth Army crosses the river and begins an assault (Operation GRENADE) toward the Rhine River;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 25 Feb 45 Mission: Gettingen railroad bridge
In Germany, nearly 500 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s hit 5 communications centers, 2 marshalling yards, 3 rail bridges, 6 town areas, and a target of opportunity as part of interdiction operations against troops during the Rhineland campaign;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Similar reports [that bombs were laid in excellent pattern inside the target area] were received about missions to Vlatten communications center and the bridges of Ahrweiler and Mayen. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Mon, 26 Feb 45 Mission: Zeiperich highway bridge
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division strikes 4 rail bridges, 4 communications centers, a marshalling yard and 9 targets of opportunity as part of the interdiction campaign against Germany; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Similar reports [that bombs were laid in excellent pattern inside the target area] were received about missions to Vlatten communications center and the bridges of Ahrweiler and Mayen. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Tue, 27 Feb 45 Mission: Munstereifal road junction
In Germany, 235 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s attack the communications center at Wickrath, rail and road junctions at Zieverich and Gladbach, a supply and ammunition depot (casual target), the towns of Kapellen, Viersen, and Munstereifel, and targets of opportunity;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 28 Feb 45 Mission: Mayen railroad bridge
In Germany, 118 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s attack the Ahrweiler rail bridge, communications centers at Glessen, Munstereifel, and Monheim, and a target of opportunity;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mar 45
In Germany, 340+ A-20s, B-26s and A-26s bomb rail bridges at Mayen, Niederscheld, and Colbe, the Unna ordnance depot, Kamp road junction, Siegen and Sankt Wendel marshalling yards, the town of Rheinburg, and targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Similar reports [that bombs were laid in excellent pattern inside the target area] were received about missions to Vlatten communications center and the bridges of Ahrweiler and Mayen. The latter bridge, severed by the 387th on December 23, had been repaired by the Germans. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Thu, 1 Mar 45 Mission: Rheinbach communication center
As winter showed signs of coming to an end, conditions at A-71 improved by leaps and bounds. New kitchens and day rooms were furnished, and tables were built that didnt sway and rock, spilling food and its eaters alike on the floor. For lack of paint, some walls were burned to bring out the natural finish of the wood. Several parties were held at Carpenter Hall, St. Quentin, for both enlisted men and officers. To the officers dances came both American nurses and French civilian girls; the nurses to dance, the French to eat. Many officers and men wore Class As for the first time on the continents. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
March and April rate as the peak period in the history of the Group. With the best weather in over a year and the accelerated Allied advances on the western front, thirty-seven missions were recorded during March, the highest of any month, and the highest point of efficiency was achieved by the combat crews.
History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
Fri, 2 Mar 45 Mission: Iserlohn barracks area
In Germany, 340+ B-26s, A-20s and A-26s attack the ordnance depot at Giessen, communications centers at Pulheim, Rheinbach, Rommergkirchen, and Stommeln, the rail bridge at Pracht, a road bridge, and 8 targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 3 Mar 45 Mission: Wermelskirchen ordnance depot
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits 5 bridges, 2 communications centers, 3 ordnance and motor transport depots, several city areas, and 6 targets of opportunity; the objectives are to hinder movement of enemy troops trying to help the German army caught in front of the US Third Army, to obstruct movement in general, and to damage enemy repair and refitting capabilities;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 4 Mar 45
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits Wiesbaden, Giessen, Bergisch Born, and Nahbollenbach ordnance and storage depots, rail bridges at Remagen and Simmern, a communications center at Heimersheim, motor transport concentration at Schwelm, the Rheinbach ammunition dump, Kirn marshalling yard and town, and several targets of opportunity; fighters fly bomber escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 5 Mar 45 Mission: Unna ordnance depot
In Germany, about 180 B-26s, A-20s, and A-26s strike marshalling yards and a rail junction at Recklinghausen, Lenkerbeck, and Herne, communications centers at Bruhl, Sechtem, and Rheinbach, and several other targets including a rail bridge and towns;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 6 Mar 45
In Germany, 565 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s attack 6 marshalling yards, a communications center, an ordnance depot, a city area and targets of opportunity with the aim of obstructing reinforcements and supplies to German forces being pushed back across the Rhine River; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 7 Mar 45
In Germany, 260+ A-26s, and B-26s hit Recklinghausen, Siegburg, and Opladen marshalling yards, Siegburg storage depot, and the town of Bochum as a target of opportunity;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 8 Mar 45 Mission: Ettort communication center
Weather cancels combat operations except for the XXIX Tactical Air Commands support of the US XVI Corps along the Rhine River in the Wesel area. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 9 Mar 45 Mission: Neiderhausen marshalling yard
328 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s hit 7 communications centers, 2 marshalling yards, a road overpass, and a military transport depot in the furtherance of the interdiction program;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 10 Mar 45 Mission: Altenkirchen road junction
In Germany, 600+ A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit 6 marshalling yards, storage and vehicle depots, ammunition-filling plants, and 12 targets of opportunity as part of the interdiction campaign;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 11 Mar 45 Mission: Brettscheid landing ground
In Germany, 383 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike 5 marshalling yards, a communications center, 2 city areas, miscellaneous targets in the Koblenz-Braubach area, and a target of opportunity; Eighth and Ninth AF fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 12 Mar 45
In Germany, 696 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s, hit 4 airfields, 3 communications centers, 2 ammunition filling plants, and several city areas and other casual targets; these attacks are to obstruct air operations and supply and troop movements in general;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 13 Mar 45 Mission: Westerberg marshalling yard
9th Bombardment Division A-20s, A-26s and B-26s attack 8 marshalling yards, an ammunition-filling plant, city areas and targets of opportunity; the attacks on the marshalling yards are aimed at blocking troop movements by rail into the Ruhr and Remagen areas; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 14 Mar 45 Mission: Gross Ostheim Airfield
In Germany, 450+ A-26s, A-20s, and B-26s, bomb 3 marshalling yards, 2 airfields, rail sidings, and several targets of opportunity in the continuing interdiction campaign; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 15 Mar 45 Mission: Pirmasens supply & communication center
In Germany, 350+ A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit 3 airfields, 4 rail bridges, a junction, 5 towns, and 3 targets of opportunity as the interdiction operations continue; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 16 Mar 45 Mission: Landau communication center
In Germany, 9th Bombardment Division A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s attack communications centers at Neunkirchen and Pirmasens, marshalling yards at Turkismuhle and Erbach, 3 flak positions, and several other targets, as well as dropping leaflets on Koblenz;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 17 Mar 45 Mission: Siegen marshalling yard
In Germany, 280+ A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit the Landau barracks area and communications center, the Niederscheld town area and rail bridge, 6 other town areas, a marshalling yard, rail junction, crossroads, and also drop leaflets; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 18 Mar 45 Mission: Worms Road Junction
In Germany, 650+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb 5 marshalling yards, 2 communications centers, an ordnance depot, 3 city areas, and several targets of opportunity; the attacks are to impede the enemy movement of troops, equipment, and supplies in the face of the advancing Allied forces; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
With clouds covering the ground battle area but with the need to continue support to the U.S. Third and Seventh Armies, on the 17th [of March, 1945] under PFF lead 481 bombers, accompanied by 20 Window aircraft, were launched in the morning to drop 715 tons of bombs. The 323rd Group, together with the 387th and 397th Groups, hit the Seigen Marshalling Yards as a part of a plan to impede the movement of German forces between the Ruhr and Central Germany. All lines in the yards were cut, 95 percent of the wagons in the yards were destroyed or damaged, and there was considerable damange to industrial installations adjacent to the yards. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, pp. 355-356.
In Germany, 660+ A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit the marshalling yards at Wetzlar, Worms, Kreuztal, and Bad Durkheim, a communications center at Bad Durkheim, and 4 town areas with the aim of hampering enemy movement; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The final combat sortie of the veteran B26B "TABASCO" began as a pathfinder mission. General Patch's Seventh US Army was attempting to cross the Rhine River in the vicinity of Worms - the historical German town on its west bank known for The Diet of Worms in the 16th century, and the founding of the Lutheran religion. The solid overcast ended sharply, and unexpectedly, at the I.P. in favor of a clear sky, allowing the formation to bomb visually. The individual flights circled to form in-trail to make their visual bombs runs. Enemy Flak was intense, and Lt. Magowan's plane was shot down during this circling maneuver over the I.P. No 'chutes were observed. Aboard "Tabasco" were the following airmen:
Pilot
Copilot
Togglier
Rad.-Gun
Eng.-Gun
Arm.-Gun
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
Sgt.
Sgt.
Sgt.
S/Sgt.KIA
George G. Magowan
Joseph M. Pallene
Raymond C. English
Donald S. Martin
William R. Cross
Edward J. Parker
0714735
0831781
36853022
32664115
39039899
13156344 Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 12.
The story on "Tabasco" reminded me of my 9th mission as a Togglier, preparing to start our bomb run. For some reason I was looking at "Tabasco" and admiring the colorful name and painting of flames that seemed to be engulfing her nose from behind the Bombardier's position in the cockpit. I can still see the words "Hot Stuff" below the pilot's side window. There was a sudden wrenching of the plane--no explosion, fire or smoke. She rose, slowed down and drifted out of my sight. Others watched the descent. As I remember it, pieces of the ship flew back, smashing the window of one of our squadron's planes. I don't remember the name of the pilot who was flying the plane that was struck by the debris, but he was later killed in an auto accident returning to our base in Holland from a day in town. Jim Taylor, writing in Shootin' In, March 2000
In order to hamper withdrawal of enemy troops from the narrowing area between the U.S. Third and Seventh Army pincer, the Wetzlar and Worms Marshalling Yards were made the focus of the morning attack of the 18th [of March, 1945] in which 646 tons of bombs were dropped. At Wetzlar, the combined attack of the 322nd, 323rd, 386th and 409th Groups cut all lines and sidings and did other major damage. Similar damage was done at Worms by the 344th, 387th, 391st, 394th, 397th and 416th Groups. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 357.
S/Sgt. Edward J. Parker, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Parker, of West Ninth Street, Aspinwall, has been officially reported killed in action since March 18, 1945, according to a telegram received by his parents. Previously reported missing, he was the only missing serviceman of Aspinwall. On his fifty-eighth mission, Sgt. Parker, a tail gunner on a B-26, and his crew, received a direct hit by German anti-aircraft over Ingelheim, Germany, en route to their target. The plane, loaded with bombs, fell to an altitude of 100 feet and exploded.
None of the six crewmen survived.
"Reported Dead S/Sgt Edward J. Parker," Newspaper clipping.
Tue, 20 Mar 45 Mission: Sythen explosive works
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division strikes 2 marshalling yards, 5 rail bridges, a communications center and several casual targets as part of the interdiction program to impede enemy movement; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 21 Mar 45 Mission: Coesfield road junction
In Germany, 360+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb the Geisecke marshalling yard, Sythen ammunition-filling plant, the town of Gronau (including a rail bridge), and several casual targets in or near 9 other towns; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 22 Mar 45 Mission: Haltern communication center & flak positions
In Germany, 580+ A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s strike 6 communications centers and a marshalling yard E of the Rhine River, along with several casual targets, in the interdiction campaign to obstruct enemy movement;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 23 Mar 45 Mission: Dinslaken defended town
In Germany, nearly 800 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb 9 communications centers and a marshalling yard E of the Rhine River (plus 7 towns, flak positions, and a target of opportunity) as part of the interdiction program to impede the movement of supplies and troops; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 24 Mar 45 Mission: Vlotho railroad bridge & flak positions
In Germany, around 800 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike 7 communications centers, a factory, and targets of opportunity (including several flak positions); attacks on communications centers are aimed at obstructing the movement of reinforcements to the front; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 25 Mar 45 Mission: Weyenbusch road junction
In Germany, almost 700 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s blast communications centers, rail bridges, flak positions, and numerous other targets in cooperation with the combined land-airborne assault across the Rhine River (Operation PLUNDER-VARSITY) by the British Second and US Ninth Armies and the US XVIII Corps of the First Allied Airborne Army; fighters attack with the bombers before the drop and carpet the landing zones with fragmentation bombs, immobilizing numerous flak batteries; fighters escort bombers... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 26 Mar 45 Mission: Fleiden marshalling yard
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits 4 communications centers, 3 marshalling yards, and targets of opportunity, including flak positions; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 27 Mar 45
In Germany, around 300 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit marshalling yards at Wurzburg, Gemunden, and Flieden, the town of Ruckers, and 2 targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
On the 26th [of March, 1945], the attack emphasis shifted to the area in front of the U.S. Third Army's bridgehead. Ther 323rd Group, along with the 409th, 410th and 416th Groups, attacked the Gemuenden Marshalling Yards cutting all tracks, blowing two trains apart and destroying considerable rolling stock. Success was also acheived at Wuerzburg by the 322nd, 344th, 386th and 391st Groups. At Fleiden, the 387th, 394th and 397th Groups did equally well. Secondary attacks were made on the comunications centers of Gerchsheim and Neckargemuend. Only one Division aircraft returned with battle damage. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 361.
Wed, 28 Mar 45
Weather cancels 9th Bombardment Division operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 29 Mar 45
In Germany, 215 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit the Neuenheerse and Erbach oil storage depots and 11 targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 30 Mar 45 Mission: Ebenhausen oil storage
All combat operations cancelled because of weather except for 2 fighters... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 31 Mar 45 Mission: Wurzburg marshalling yard
In Germany, 337 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s attack the Bad Oeynhausen tank factory, the Munden ordnance depot, the Ebenhausen oil depot, 2 town areas and 6 targets of opportunity, and drop leaflets; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Apr 45
In Germany, 550+ A-20s, A-26s and B-26s hit storage depots at Ebrach, Wurzburg, and Marienburg, the marshalling yard at Wurzburg, the town area of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and a target of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 1 Apr 45
During April the bombardiers reached an ultimate of success in bombing results. Outstanding bombing records were made by Lieutenants S. T. Ryper, R. F. Worthington, A. F. McGahen, W. H. Butterfield, M. E. Adkisson, V. J. Ward, H. W. Allen, W. C. Dumphy, J. E. Lemmons and J. E. Ritter. History of the 387th Bombardment Group (M) AAF, p. xxx.
It was during the closing months of the war that the 387th BG reached its zenith in bombing accuracy. The Group set a modern record for bombing accuracy (at that time), not only withing the IX Bomber Division, but throughout the entire USAAF. In April, the Group improved its circular error average by 87-feet, to a record circular error of 237-feet. This record was all the more impressive since it was not marred by any gross errors. Colonel Grover Brown's consistent training and refresher programs paid off.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 66.
Mon, 2 Apr 45
No bomber operations due to weather. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 3 Apr 45 Mission: Holzminden marshalling yard
Weather prevents operations by the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 4 Apr 45 Mission: Ehrbach oil storage
In Germany, about 230 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s attack Holzminden and Hameln marshalling yards, the town of Gottingen, 2 targets of opportunity, and fly a leaflet mission; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 5 Apr 45
In Germany, 330+ B-26s, A-20s and A-26s hit the Ebrach oil depot, Crailsheim marshalling yard and barracks area, Grossaspach supply depot, the town of Ellswangen, Backnang rail and road junction, and 2 targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 6 Apr 45
Weather prevents operations by the 9th Bombardment Division. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 7 Apr 45
In Germany, 99 B-26s, A-20s and A-26s hit marshalling yards at Gottingen and Northeim and the city area of Herzberg, and drop leaflets over 3 city areas; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 8 Apr 45 Mission: Nienhagen oil storage
In Germany, 268 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike marshalling yards at Northeim and Gottingen, plus 2 town areas; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 9 Apr 45 Mission: Amberg-Kummersbruck ordnance depot
In Germany, around 620 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s bomb the Munchenbernsdorf oil storage depot, the Sonderhausen communications center, Nienhagen oil refinery, Celle marshalling yard, and 8 city areas; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 10 Apr 45 Mission: Rudolstadt ordnance depot
In Germany, 700+ A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike marshalling yards at Jena and Saalfeld, oil targets at Bad Berka and Dedenhausen, ordnance depots at Naumburg and Amberg-Kummersbruck, and several targets of opportunity; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The USAF Research Center at Maxwell AFB do not have the operational reports for the two missions flown by the 387th BG on this date. They can offer no reason for the missing files. Seven flights bombed the ordnance depot at Amberg-Kummersbruck, Germany. Amber flight was the last flight. Lt. Stroud, at the controls of "Vulgar Vulture," was the flight's deputy, flying No. 4 position. On the bomb run, and what appeared to be a milk run, Amber flight was attacked twice by German ME-262 jet fighters. Lt. Stroud, and his crew, were shot down on the initial attack. Only one chute was observed. The crew were:
KIA
POW
KIA
KIA
KIA
KIAPilot
Copilot
Radio-Gun.
Eng.-Gun.
Eng.-Gun.
Arm.-Togg.2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
Sgt.
Sgt.
Sgt.
S/Sgt.John D. Stroud
Robert K. McCune
William D. Seitz
Owen D. Kendrick
Glenn A. Ryel
Albert T. Hodgson0696916
0718791
16078285
18219250
38405228
17153109 Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 62.
Wed, 11 Apr 45 Mission: Aschersleben marshalling yard
In Germany, 423 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s strike oil storage and ordnance depots, rail bridge and viaduct (all primary targets) and several other targets including a marshalling yard and an industrial area; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 12 Apr 45 Mission: Kempten ordnance depot
In Germany, 689 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike marshalling yards at Bernburg, Oschersleben, Zwickau, and Kothen, the Naumburg ordnance depot, Bamberg motor transport plant, and several other targets; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 13 Apr 45
In Germany, 167 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s attack the Hof rail bridge, Kempten ordnance depot, and Goppingen marshalling yard, plus a town area and a casual target of opportunity; 275+ planes abort because of weather; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Kempten is in southern Germany, close to the western Austria border. The mission was one of the longer ones during the war. As the formation passed over the bomb line, the Swiss Alps and Lake Constance could be seen to the south. But, as the Group neared the target, a barrier of commulonimbus clouds blocked the route. Efforts to fly above the immense build up of clouds proved impossible and the mission was aborted. As the cloud coverage closed in around the returning formation, maintaining flight positions soon became impossible as the aircraft darted in and out of the clouds. Many individual planes found themselves alone, blind, and in a sky filled with B-26s; left to find their own way back. Fortunately, on the return heading, better weather conditions prevailed and most of the Groups planes were able to reform for their return to A-71. The B-26G #86/FW-H, flying deputy lead position in II-Box, Low flight, disappeared. Onboard the Marauder were:
Pilot
Copilot
B/N
ROG
EG
AG
1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
1st Lt.
Sgt.
S/Sgt.
Sgt.MIA
R.W. Bates
F.F. Bangert
G.E. Warner
Leland S. Wiggs
Arthur Homer, Jr.
M.L. Marr
01285695
0779049
01296600
38366654
31211102
35564000 Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 65.
[The aircraft apparently went down with crew on board, and was apparently later found. Three of the crewmembers are buried at the Lorraine American Cemetery at St. Avold, France, where they are listed as having been killed in action on April 12, 1945. I suspect that the bodies of all six crewmembers were found and that the families of the other three requested their bodies be returned to the United States.]
Sat, 14 Apr 45
...weather grounds the 9th Bombardment Division;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 15 Apr 45
In Germany, 18 B-26s fly a leaflet mission in the Ruhr area;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 16 Apr 45 Mission: Guzenhausen marshalling yard
In Germany, 258 B-26s and A-26s bomb marshalling yards at Gunzburg and Ulm (primary targets) and several other targets including 3 marshalling yards; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 17 Apr 45 Mission: Magdeburg defended area
In Germany, about 450 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s bomb the Zerbst communications center, Gunzenhausen marshalling yard, Kempten ordnance depot, and Wittenberg marshalling yard and gun positions;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 18 Apr 45 Mission: Donau oil storage depot
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division attacks the defended city of Magdeburg (including numerous gun positions in the area), marshalling yard and ordnance depot at Aalen, marshalling yard and ordnance depot at Tubingen, and ordnance depot at Ravensburg; fighters fly escort to the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
I was radioman on Captain Jim Neff's crew during the mission to Magdeburg, Germany. This was our crew's last combat mission, and my 42nd one since we joined the Squadron in mid August of 1944. It was also one of the longest missions flown by the Group. On this mission Captain Neff led the II-Box of the Group's formation--the last of eleven bombing groups of the IX Bomb. Division to support the 30th Inf. Div. and the 2nd Armored Division's attack on the defended city. Our II-Box's TOT was 1440-1445; the ground forces attacked within five minutes. The city on the Elbe River fell the following day to the Ninth Army units. William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 68.
In Germany, about 590 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s attack oil storage at Neuburg an der Donau, marshalling yards at Juterbog and Nordlingen, and rail junctions at Falkenburg and Juterbog; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Lt. Walker's crew had more than their share of bad luck during their brief duty with the 556th Squadron. They were the last KIA listed for the 387thBG during WWII. The Group flew its last hostile operation the following day. On board Gravel Gertie" were:
Pilot
Copilot
Bom-Nav
Rad-Gun
(ROG)
Eng-Gun
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
2nd Lt.
T/Sgt.
Sgt.
Sgt.KIA
Edward L. Walker
L. Opalka
G. L. Swift
Frank M. Papile **
Gerald G. Kalas
John J. Scalzo
0824298
0833390
0196070
35301318
36652085
34423161
Waist Gun.
Tail Gun.
Top-turret gun.
**T/Sgt. Papile was a veteran airman with over 50 combat missions Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 28.
Fri, 20 Apr 45
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits marshalling yards at Ulm, Neu Ulm, and Gunzburg (primary targets), the city of Donauworth and a target of opportunity at Schelklingen; weather prevents 70+ of the 450+ dispatched aircraft from bombing targets; fighters fly escort to the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The last sorties of #071/FW-V on April 19 were also the last combat missions flown by the 387thBG during WWII. Two outstanding lead crews were aboard #071 that day. They were:
Morning Mission Pilot
Copilot
Bomb.
Nav.
GEE
ROG
EG
AG1st Lt.
1st Lt.
1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
T/Sgt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.Ben Van Cleave
Paul R. Priday
Lawrence Ritter
Ferdinand Dausen
Harold E. Schweighart
William Robinson
Alex Roskowski
Raymond Martin
Afternoon Mission Pilot
Copilot
B/N
Nav.
GEE
ROG
EG
AG1st Lt.
1st Lt.
1st Lt.
1st Lt.
T/Sgt.
T/Sgt.
S/Sgt.
S/Sgt.John Alexander
Hugh Avery
Harvey Allen, Jr.
Joseph E. Genome
William Miller
Harold Reed
Michael Aguilar
Kennard Billington William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 68.
Sat, 21 Apr 45
In Germany, 564 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike oil storage at Deggendorf and Annaburg, marshalling yards at Memmingen and Wittenberg, ordnance depots at Nordlingen and Straubing, and other targets including flak positions; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 22 Apr 45
In Germany, 121 bombers hit the Attnang-Puchheim marshalling yard; fighters fly escort,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 23 Apr 45
Weather prevents combat operations by the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 24 Apr 45
Weather cancels combat operations by the 9th Bombardment Division. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 25 Apr 45
In Germany, the 9th Bombardment Division hits the airfield at Landau an der Isar and an oil depot at Schrobenhausen; fighters fly airfield cover, escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 26 Apr 45 Mission: Schrobenhausen oil storage (recalled)
In Germany, 296 A-20s, A-26s and B-26s strike Erding Airfield and Freilassing ordnance depot; fighters fly airfield cover and escort missions,... US and Soviet forces establish contact near Torgau. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 27 Apr 45
In Germany, 125 bombers hit Plattling Airfield; fighters escort the bombers,... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The B-26B named "STINKY" survived its combat duty in the ETO, only to end up on the scrap heap at Landsburg, Germany shortly after WWII. "STINKY" was part of the Group's first bomb mission on August 15, 1943. The plane was slated to be part of the Group's formation on April 19, 1945; the last combat mission flown by the 387th BG. The old warrior was also armed and ready on April 26 when the last "hostile formation" of the 387thBG took to the air; only to be recalled three minutes from base, en route to their intended target at Schrobenhausen, GermanySchrobenhausen had been over run by the fast advancing US Ground forces. Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 15.
Sat, 28 Apr 45
Weather grounds the 9th Bombardment Division. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 29 Apr 45
Weather prevents all Ninth AF combat operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 30 Apr 45
Weather cancels operations by the 9th Bombardment Division. ... HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Medium) from Clastres, France to Beek, the Netherlands. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Tue, 1 May 45
Weather cancels 9th Bombardment Division and XXIX Tactical Air Command (Provisional) operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Wed, 2 May 45
9 A-26s bomb an ammunition plant at Stod, Czechoslovakia. The IX Tactical Air Command escorts the bombers... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 3 May 45
Weather cancels 9th Bombardment Division operations. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Fri, 4 May 45
132 A-26s (on the final 9th Bombardment Division raid) bomb the Stod, Czechoslovakia ammunition plant. The IX Tactical Air Command escorts the A-26s... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sat, 5 May 45
No bomber operations. ... 556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 387th Bombardment Group (Medium), from Clastres, France to Beek, the Netherlands with B-26s. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Sun, 6 May 45
No Ninth AF operations except tactical and photo reconnaissance in forward areas. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Mon, 7 May 45
No operations by the 9th Bombardment Division... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 10 May 45
The German High Command surrenders unconditionally all land, sea, and air forces at Reims, France effective 9 May 45. General of the Army Dwight D Eisenhower says, "The mission of this Allied force was fulfilled at 0241 local time, May 7, 1945." Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
[Is this right? I didn't think the group was assigned any A-26s.] On the day Germany capitulated to the Allies, a mission had been planned using A-26 aircraft of the 387th BG, 558th BS. Nathan Pearson was a gunner on one of the Invaders scheduled to fly against the target--Berchtesgaden, Hitler's retreat in the Bavarian Alps. Perhaps needless to say, the mission was scrubbed.
Nathan Pearson/Richard C. Jameson
Sun, 20 May 45
The 9th Bombardment Division is redesignated the 9th Air Division. Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Thu, 24 May 45
It was on this date that "Off Limits" crashed near the village of Junet, Belgium while on a training flight. The deaths were especially tragic, as they had survived the rigors and risks of combat, and saw the war in Europe to its conclusion. The three man crew consited of:
Pilot
Copilot
EG1st Lt.
2nd Lt.
S/Sgt.George W. Patterson
Robert W. Sibinski
Harold W. Stafford0173597
0834043
38495228 Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 58.
Wed, 30 May 45
HQ 387th Bombardment Group (Medium) from Beek, the Netherlands to Rosieres-en-Santerre, France;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
May 45
556th, 557th, 558th and 559th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 387th Bombardment Group (Medium), from Beek, the Netherlands to Rosieres-en-Santerre, France with B-26s;... Jack McKillop, Combat Chronology of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
Jul 1945
A few days after the end of hostilities, the pilot of the aircraft who's windshield was broken in the collision between "Itsy Bitsy" and "Tabasco" was killed in an auto accident returning to our base in Holland from a day on the town. A jeep in which several "556ers" was riding was side swiped by a 6x6. Shootin' In, March 2000.
Oct 1945
After VE-Day, personnel of the Marauder Groups in the IX Bomb. Division found themselves being reassigned to various Bomb Groups. Basically, these new assignments were divided into:
* Occupational forces for Germany--low point and career men.
* Retraining for possible redeployment in the Pacific Theater, if required.
* High point personnel with enough points to return to the States for discharge.The 387th BG was designated as one of the later Groups. During July, as the other B-26 Groups were being broken up to meet the above criteria, the 387th BG experienced a huge influx of high point personnel from other units; to be processed for return to the Z.I.
The 387th's base at B-87 also became one of the storage bases for the older B-26's until a method of their disposal could be determined. Many of the newer Marauders became part of the 344th occupational Bomb. Group. The majority of the newer F and G models were acquired by the French Air Force. Most of the older B and C models eventually ended up at Landsburg, Germany, as scrap. I am afraid that "Top Sarge 2nd" became a victim at Landsburg.
There is no greater tribute than to have served your country nobly.
Peter Crouchman, Alan Crouchman, Robert C. Allen, William J. Thompson, Jr., 556th Bomb. Squadron, B-26 Marauder Reference and Operations Guide, p. 55.
1st Lt. Willis D. Muselman had 74 points and topped the list of 556ers on Special Orders No. 64, dated 10 July 1945. Special Order No. 64 were our orders to Return to the ZI O/a 11 July 1945. When we left the 387th in July, we were assigned to the 70th Reinforcement Depot at Le Bourget Field, outside Paris. After the ten days or so required for processing we were finally placed on a troop train for Camp Tophat on the outskirts of Antwerp, Belgium. 1st Lt. Muselman was the ranking officer and was placed in charge of that troop train.
It was towards the end of July, and I remember we were going through a hot spell in the weather. We were all in a good mood when we boarded the train, anxious to get home. The train was full of GIs. The seats were hard and cramped. We finally reached the French-Belgium border about mid-day. There we were switched to a siding to await our new (Belgian) engine.
The marshalling yard was busy with train traffic and railcars were being moved by various switch engines. We were all given permission to stretch our legs. It was during this stop that one of the GIs noticed the flat-bed rail car next to us. On it were two huge wooden casks, in an upright position. They were the largest wooden vats I had ever seen. They took up the entire flatbed.
As we stood admiring these casks, speculation whelmed as to their contents. The vats were tapped and the sound told us they were indeed full. I almost fell over when one of the GIs made his way through the gathering crowd with a pick in his hands. It was abundantly clear what his intentions were, and we all scurried for available containers.
The man drove that pick into one of the casks, about a foot from the bottom. We had wine! Everyone crowded to fill his container. Some just put their face in the torrid stream and gulped. The distance between the two railcars was narrow and when word went out to all the troops on the train about the free wine, the area was a madhouse.
Naturally, the volume of wine pouring out of that pick hole had great pressure and for every cup gathered, about fifty cups ran wild onto the tracks. Soon another GI picked up the pick and plunged another hole into the remaining vat. Again a great volume of wine poured forth. We were all giddy with delight. Every possible container on board that troop train was filled with wine. We had to be the happiest troop train ever to arrive at Camp Tophat.
The train authorities were absolutely furious. They came from all over the yard to view the drained vats and all the time their French voices were going a mile a minute. We giggled. Cest la guerre was shouted by many of us. We toasted the Frenchand drank wine. We toasted the Belgiansand drank wine. God, we were wildly happy. The more furious the trainmen grew, the more we laughed at our reckless deed.
Soon Lt. Muselman appeared in our car. He wanted to know what the hell went on. He had a half grin on his face, but the conductor next to him was not grinning. Muselman had to sign the bill of lading for that entire cargo of wine, making the U.S. Army responsible for payment.
Bill Thompson (556th B.S.), Shootin In, March 1988.
The history of the 456th Squadron approprately sets forth the unexpected blow that fell on everyone [in the 323rd Bombardment Group in May of 1945]. Major Louis E. Rehr called a squadron meeting in the mess hall and told us he had bad news for us--the squadron was being temporarily "disactivated." The combat crews were assigned on detached service to the 397th Bombardment Group.4
4Most men transferred to the 397BG were subsequently transferred to the 387BG. John O. Moench, Maj. Gen., USAF, Marauder Men, p. 393.
4 Nov 1945 Departed Le Havre aboard U.S.S. LeJeune
In late October '45 everyone was shipped out to Camp 20 Grand at LeHavre, France. Edwin Hogan (558th B.S.), Shootin' In, November 2004, p. 393.
11 Nov 1945 Arrived New York; transported to Camp Kilmer
They departed LeHavre on Nov. 4th on the USS LeJeune, formerly the German Liner Windhuk. Edwin Hogan (558th B.S.), Shootin' In, November 2004, p. 393.
13 Nov 1945 Separation
They arrived New York on Nov. 11th, and after an all day wait at the pier, they proceeded to Camp Kilmer... Edwin Hogan (558th B.S.), Shootin' In, November 2004, p. 393.
13 Nov 1945 Separation
... all had departed for Separation Centers by Nov. 13 or 14. The 387th Bomb Group was no more. Edwin Hogan (558th B.S.), Shootin' In, November 2004, p. 393.
... all had departed for Separation Centers by Nov. 13 or 14. The 387th Bomb Group was no more. Edwin Hogan (558th B.S.), Shootin' In, November 2004, p. 393.
Documents incorporated in this chronology
Kiliiop finished
Mission list finished
Burl Thompson (556th B.S.), Diary finished
387th History Have finished MacDill to Chipping Ongar, Air offensive europe, Normandy, Northern France, [NOT Rhineland], [Ardennes done thru Dec]
FW Operations guide
Mission to Mayen