WWII AAF Operations Dec 1942

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 4, 1942.

To: Secretary of War
Chief of" Stafb
Deputy Chief o
Commanding General,* , Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURK BY COMMISSIONED
LIES SEN GER
SECTION I. 1.
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACT lull TAKEN

Recommends units to be included in January ship ment for Keflavik garrison.
Forwards text of the proposed agreement with
French regarding French West Africa.
The fighting around Tebourba and Chouigui was re newed on December 2. During December 1 and 2
each side left about 23 tanks on this battlefield,
including 11 of the British undergoing repair.
On December 2 US paratroops made an unsuccessful
attempt to dislodge the Germans from their
position at Faid.
The El Aouina (Tunis) and Sidi Ahmed (Bizerte)
airdromes were heavily and repeatedly bombed on
December 1 and 2; Gabes airdrome v;as also attack ed. Bone airdrome was attacked December 2 while
Allied replacement airplanes were landing; at
least eight of them were destroyed. Seven enemy
airplanes were shot down during the day by our
patrols.
Cencentration of Western Task Force strength in
the area Rabat-Port Lyautey continues.
From Bonesteel:
2.
From Eisenhower
3.
From Eisenhower
From Eisenhower:
Replies that he has insufficient information to

be able to recommend which units scheduled for
shipment should be replaced by the air defense
units recently offered him; he will recommend
priorities among these air defense units, how ever.
- 1
i,
5.
From Adler:
Requests reply concerning Russian alternative proposals that the United States furnish aircraft or aircraft with crews in lieu of complete air units for contemplated operations. Taken by CCS. Operations report for December 3. The 7th Austral ian Division, continued its aggressive action; its forward elements were advancing slowly eastward after clearing out a pocket of enemy troops trapped near Gona. US troops were continuing their re organization near Buna, where Japanese transport airplanes, protected by Zeros, supplied their forces by parachute on December 2. Our air forces continued to support our action in this area in a
series of coordinated attacks on enemy ground
troops and installations. One of our airplanes
was destroyed.
Reiterates his request for two additional amphibian
brigades needed for contemplated operations; his
request is submitted now in view of the time re quired for organization, equipping, and training.
Action: 6. From Ivla c Arthur
7.
From "dacArthur
SECTION II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Prepared letter for signature of the Secretary of War to the Secretary

of the Interior stating that conditions in the Aleutians do not
justify the return of evacuated natives to the pribilofs for the
1943 sealing operations.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No reported action by JCS or CCS
TIIOS. T. HANDY,
Major General, / /
Assistant Chief of Staff.
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 5, 1942.

Chief of Staff |)
Deputy Chief .of'
Commanding General,
Army Air Forces Commanding General, \VV^
Services of Supply |*"!
Assistant Chief of Sta
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1. From Navy:
MESSAGES RECEIVED A - D ACTION TAKEN

IJ JAN Grids for joint Army-Navy use will be changed
to new origins effective 0001Z December 31.
German tanks were reported at Bou Arada on Decem ber 2. On December 3 enemy infantry and tanks
supported by severe dive-bombing gained ground at
Tebourba; the 11th Brigade was authorized to
withdraw slightly to more favorable ground. On
December 1 and 2 a total of ten US and thirty
British tanks were lost; enemy aircraft were
active, and the operations of long-range night
bombers increased in intensity. Nine of our
fighters and at least eight of the enemy's were
destroyed. On December 3 El Aouina airdrome and
Bizerte docks were heavily bombed, two ships being
hit. On December 3 French and US troops drove the
Germans from Faid, inflicting 200 casualties.
Replies that US air defense experts could be of
assistance in establishing the air defenses in the
Casablanca and Oran areas, but that the respon sibility for the eastern area is accepted by the
British.
The Algerian press has indicated that Darlan pro poses to proclaim that he is assuming the pre rogatives of the head of the state in the absence
of the actual head, who is a prisoner. Eisenhower
will continue to deal with Parian as merely the
de facto head of the local administration.
2.
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
4.
From Eisenhower:
- 1
5.
From Eisenhower:
Concurs in Ilavy's tentative proposal to establish

and train in the US the naval elements of an amphib ious force ultimately t o b e assigned to operations
in the Mediterranean area. He is developing plans
which will provide the basis of the strength and
composition of the naval elements to be used, and
proposes that the training of the force in his theater
come under Clark's direction.
Reports that the French are prepared to defer con sideration of the question of the .exchange of in ternees, and are ready to sign the Dakar agreement
with certain indicated changes, and provided that
antagonistic partisan activities are dropped.
Adm. Lloreau is being sent from Algiers as Darlan's
envoy to confer with Godfroy concerning the status
of the French fleet at Alexandria.
(1) Four P-40's from Kweilin effectively attacked
an airdrome under construction in northern French
Indo-China December 1.
(2) On December 4, six B^24fs bombed a concentra tion of 300 enemy motor trucks at Pyawbwe (75 miles
south of Mandalay). All planes returned safely.
From Eisenhower
From Andrews:
8.
From Bissell:
9.
From Bissell:
Eastbound tonnage, carried by air from India to

China, showed an increase of ten per cent during
November despite Japanese attacks on Dinjan and un favorable flying weather.
Operations summary for December 4. "Activities in
New Guinea were confined to patrol operations,
supported by the air force which also attacked the
airdromes at Lae and Salamaua, a schooner off Timor,
and the airdrome at Kavieng. One A-20 failed to
return.
Reports the immediate need for 4200 replacements
already requested, and 2000 additional infantry.
10.
From MacArthur;
11.
From MacArthur;
SECTION I I . 1
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Directed SOS to increase by 200 the allotment of 2|-ton trucks to the

Persian Gulf Service Command, these trucks to be loaned by that
Command to the Iranian Government. Informed Connally and Ridley.
- 2
nffl _
2.
A3ked Eisenhower's recommendations as to forwarding Derlan's messages,

considering the delicate matter of Darlan's status.
SECTION III. 1.
PLANS
CCS directed the Secretariat to redraft the directive to Adm. Glass-

ford on CCS 129 and 131, "Negotiation regarding Dakar and French West
Africa," in the light of the results of the Algiers negotiations.
CCS accepted, subject to minor change, the directive to the Combined
Communications Board on CCS 128, "Coordination of Frequency Alloca tions" .
CCS accepted CCS 130 "Return of the Australian and New Zealand Divi sions from the Lliddle East", as amended, this paper to be submitted
to the President and Prime iiinister as an expression of CCS opinion
regarding the military shipping implications involved in the return
of these units.
CCS noted that Adm. Cunningham was arranging negotiations between
officers of Darlan's staff and Adm. Godfroy.
2.
3.
4.
THOS. T. HANDY, i j
Major General, r ryfa
Assistant Chief of Staf^..
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700 December 6, 1942

tV Chief of Staff . | V
t Deputy Chief o
Commanding General, V_/^j Army Air Forces Commanding General,
.
Services of Supply Assistant Chief of Staffj/v^
G-2 (Return to OPD) x/r
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Concurs in proposed policy to rotate air force
personnel in his theater. Asks that the policy be
put into effect so as to permit the initial reten tion of approximately fifty per cent of his exper ienced personnel.
As a consequence of the severe enemy attack of December
3, the British 11th Brigade was authorized to withdraw
slightly to more favorable positions dominating Tebourba
and Chouigui; part of its rear guard which failed to re ceive the order was cut off and twenty anti-tank guns
were lost. The Brigade claims to have inflicted severe
casualties on the enemy. General Eisenhower estimates
that during the period December 1-3 the enemy lost
thirty-three tanks; during December 1 and 2 ten US
and thirty Br5.tish tanks were lost. Heavy dive-bombing
continued during December U* The situation of the 36th
Brigade, to the north, is unchanged: it has made contact
with a commando unit landed on the north coast.
On December 3 El Aouina airdrome and Bizerte docks were
heavily bombed, two ships being hit.
The supply situation in the forward area is occasioning
some concern but is expected to improve by December 6
with the arrival of large stocks at the railhead
coupled with the availability of additional trucks
which will permit the opening of a new supply route
south from the port of La Calle. The railroad' situa tion in the forward area is bad but improving.
The harbor defenses at Oran are now manned by units
of the French Navy.
From Bonesteel:
2.
From Eisenhower;
- 1
3-
From Adler:
The Anglo-American Mission under Drummond is in com plete harmony of action and adhering strictly to the
directive, subjects beyond the scope of which are
offered only to London and Washington for consideration.
The Russians state that they desire aircraft but no
English or American personnel.
From Andrews:
Aircraft of our two heavy bomber squadrons, attacking

the Italian fleet, shipping, and the moles at Naples,
December J+, dropped 63 tons of demolition bombs. Direct
hits and near misses on a battleship, cruiser, and two
additional ships were reported; other hits were observed
on the docks, moles, the city, and railroad yards. All
our planes reached their home bases safely.
Replies that the British, who are furnishing guards for
US installations in Assam, state that they are unable to
provide for the protection of our bombardment airdromes
in eastern India. The problem of guarding these air dromes against sabotage is beyond the capacity of his
air corps tactical units.
Requests reconsideration of War Dept. decisions regard ing the activation of two additional fighter squadrons
for assignment to the 51st Group and the assignment of
the 16th Fighter Squadron to the 23d Group. He does not
consider it practicable at present to increase appreciably
the number of American aviation troops in China and em phasizes the point that approval of his request will not
require additional organizational equipment, fillers or
fighter airplanes.
Operations report for December f . The US 32d Division,
> attacking strong enemy positions in Buna, penetrated
into the village, reached the sea to the east, and is
now in contact with the Japanese along the entire peri meter of the village. Near Cape Endaiadere US troops
have resumed the attack after being temporarily halted
by strong enemy counterattacks. Buna Mission and
Sanananda were the targets for our medium and light
bombers operating in support of front line units.
Twelve B-2A1s attacking the airdrome at Kavieng, scored
hits on the runway and dispersal areas and set one enemy
aircraft afire.
Shipping at Rabaul was reported to include a "possible"
aircraft carrier, three heavy cruisers, four light
cruisers, and 17 other vessels.
From Bissell
From Bissell
From MacArthur:
- 2
8.
From MacArthur;
Forwards reconunendations for additional antiaircraft

troops for his theater to provide the necessary units
for contemplated operations in the immediate future.
P-39's strafed enemy positions on Guadalcanal, December
1, and participated in the attack, December 3, against
two heavy cruisers, two light cruisers, and six
destroyers 150 miles northwest of Guadalcanal. These
pursuit planes accounted for four, possibly six, enemy
float biplanes.
9.
From Harmon;
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Inquired of Eisenhower if he desired that the headquarters and headquarters

units of the VI Army Corps, Dawley in command, be shipped on UGF-4..
Informed Patton of units to be shipped him on UGF-A, totalling approximately
19,000; by contemplated use of local labor, SOS units are reduced below T/0
strength. Suggested that Ground-Air Support Command units be similarly re duced thus providing space for shipment of additional TD and armored person nel .
Informed Patton that six qualified officers will proceed to North Africa to
report on the M-l rifle, to determine any necessary improvements on it and
other ordnance equipment and to review other ordnance maintenance and supply
problems.
Directed the SOS to comply with Stilwell's recommendation to raise the
priority on the manufacture of oil production and refinery equipment for
the Kansu oil fields and to expedite its delivery.
2.
3.
4.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No approved action by JCS or CCS.
THOS. T. HANDY,A
Major General, j
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700 December 7 , 19/+2 To: Secretary of VTar Chief of Staff \\ Deputy Chief of Sta Commanding General, Army Air Forces ( Commanding General^ cervices of Supply A s s i s t a n t Chief of Staffcf:-) G-2 (Return t o OPD) )
IN T R B COJ&ISSIONED UN Y
LffiSSENGER
SECTION I . 1 . From E a k e r :
ISESSAGES RECEIVED AI.D ACTION TAKEN
Fifty-four B-17s effectively attacked the Lille locomotive and carriage works at noon December 6. Five enemy fighter planes were destroyed; one of our bombers i s missing. Seven B-S^'s attacking the Abbeville a i r drome at 1115 were intercepted by 30 to 35 German fighter aircraft, one of our planes being shot down in the channel; a l l others returned. Three U fighter S squadrons cooperated with British squadrons in covering the bombers. During December U the enemy maintained pressure on the
point of our salient, using mechanized troops, infan try, and dive-bombers. On December 5 the 78th Divi sion was regrouped to meet thrusts southwards from
Mateur and Tebourba. On the,morninf- of December 6
the 11th Brigade was again d^ve-bombed and enemy
armored units attacked west bf Tebourba. The weight
of the Axis armored force appeared to be south of the
Medjerda River where the First Army made dispositions
to meet further attacks west of L'edjez-el-F&b. The
enemy is improving his defensive line west of Tunis,
Heavy losses were inflicted on enemy motorized infan try by a Commando unit, which, after landing, seized
a road junction north of llateur and held it for three
days.
On December 4 our medium and heavy bonbers, and
. British aircraft free Malta, effectively attacked the
airdrome and harbor at Bizerte, as well as the docks
at Tunis, Bone was tvdee attacked by the enemy. In
2.
From
-1
Approximate ontact Dec $ ^
T^BOUIiBA
Enerrrr defense line

French and Paiâtroops
*
x x
X
X X
*>
ENGLISH MILES
*?
10
all air activity six enemy airplanes and one of our

medium bombers v/ere destroyed. Aircraft were again
active December 5; six to eight airplanes were de stroyed on each side, attempts to use the advance
air field at Lledjez-el-Eab costing us two.
From Eisenhower (to Andrews): Agrees that heavy bombardment aircraft

from the Middle East should not be used in his theater
at this time. To meet the present emergency one group
of B-2/k's is being moved from UK to North Africa, pre pared to operate for ten days after which a second group
will replace the first if the situation demands.
From Doolittle: Requests that a night-fighter group be made available
as early as possible since our aircraft in the forward
areas are constantly exposed to night bombing.
(AAF) replied, repeating that night-fighter aircraft
are not available in the US. Trained personnel and
ground control for two squadrons can be furnished start ing January 1 if properly equipped aircraft can be
secured from UK Suggested the use of fighter-searchlight
teams*
Replacements for P-3B's an:? combat crews for fighter and
bomber aircraft are needed as a result of our airforce
moving to the east much earlier than planned and the
unprecedented rate of operations.
Concurs in \*'ar Dept. proposal for the organization of the
air defenses of North Africa.
Reports that the announcement concerning Dakar has been
drawn up and agreed upon.
Recommends use by the Army of the Navy system of date
and time figures for identification of messages, instead
of the present system of message serial numbers.
Submits the civilian monthly petroleum requirements for
Western Algeria, Morocco, Eastern Algiers and Tunisia,
adding that immediate shipment of two to four months'
supply is necessary. Storage facilities are available
for one or two months1 supply without interfering with
necessary military storage.
Recommends that no commitments for a troop carrier group
be made to Russia until the North African situation is
cleared up, as this unit is urgently needed in the Middle
East for the support of our forces in the desert.
2
Action!
5.
Fran Doolittle;
6. 7.
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
9.
From Kurphy:
10.
From Andrews:
L2 b
11,
Froci Bjssell;
Requests approval of certain headquarters T/Ofs and the

authority to activate certain s ervice units which will
enable him to promote officers of demonstrated ability,
Reports the need for a corps headquarters under Patch in
the Guadalcanal-Tulagi area,
12.
From Harmon:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Advised all senior commanders concerned of the assignment of experienced

Navy and Army officers to staffs of Army and Navy commanders exercising
unity of command, and explained their role as working members, not liaison
officers.
Informed all defense commanders and commanders of overseas forces of the
new origins for the JAN grid system for joint Army-Navy action, initiated
by Navy,
Informed Brett that negotiations relative to the occupation of Butch terri tory in Aruba, Curacao and Surinam have been deferred pending the arrival
in the US of Dr. Von Molkey Dutch Minister of the Netherlands.
Replied to Adler that the Russian proposal is being discussed by the CCS
and that their decision will reach him through Drummond.
Transmitted to Eisenhower the President's views with respect to the
proposed arrangement with the French in North and IVest Africa.
At State Department request, asked Eisenhower1s views on a report trans mitted by the British that US forces may have lent undue assistance to
Spanish Communists, thereby disquieting the Spanish Government.
Sent Eisenhower the tentative list of units to sail on UGF-4, with recom mendation as to air defense units which should be included. Requested
his wishes as to units to be deleted from the tentative list so that these
air defense units may be included.
2.
3.
4. 5. 6.
7.
8. Advised Eisenhower that diplomatic pressure for release of our paratroops

in Spanish Morocco is considered inadvisable. This policy will be maintained
until he personally requests that it be changed.
9. Directed AAF and SOS to assign and move one troop carrier squadron to the
10th Air Force.
Notified Harmon that the Array Air Force units in the South Pacific Have
been designated as the Thirteenth Air Force.
Notified Harmon that 80,000 sets of jungle clothing and equipment will be
furnished his area as items become available, estimating that the majority
can be shipped before April 1.
10. 11.
-3
12 O
Acknowledged Harmonfs plan for diverting the leading convoy of the 25th
Division to Guadalcanal. Earned him that none of the units are combat
loaded Directed that he acknowledge receipt
PLANS
SECTION III.
IOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF OPERATIONS DIVISION WASHINGTON
1700 December 8, 1942

Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General^
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION 1. From Butler

Our reconnaissance plane, December 6, sighted four
landing barges operating at Kiska. A monoplane was
also observed 25 miles east of Kiska.
Replying to War Department request, states that
there is no military necessity for the additional
development of air fields in Ecuador.
Headquarters, United States Army Forces, South Atlan tic Command, was activated at Recife, November 2U*
Replies to War Department request for information of
the casualty lists for the North African operation,
adding that every effort is being made to collect
and process those reports which have not already been
forwarded.
Requests that a capacity carrier load of pursuit air craft be sent to Casablanca immediately as they are
urgently needed as replacements.
Lists the changes made in the arrangement which has
been made concerning French West Africa, adding that
Boisson has stated that our aircraft can pass through
French West Africa at once.
On December 6 enemy infantry and tank elements,
supported by dive-bombers on a reduced scale, attacked
from the vicinity of Tebourba towards Medjez-el-Bab,
this effort being coordinated with a second drive
from the 'southeast. Later in the morning a third
German column of tanks and infantry attacked to the
2.
From Brett:
3. From Walsh:
From Lee:
5.
From Eisenhower:
6.
From Eisenhower:
7.
From Eisenhower:
- 1
r-_ .._:. ^
northwest from the vicinity of Massicault. A

counterattack from the south by a battalion of our
13th Armored Regiment was stopped by enemy 88 mm
guns. A second counterattack from the northwest was
made by two battalions of the US 6th Armored Infantry.
These battalions concentrated on the high ground be tween Massicault and the Medjerda River that night.
Enemy forces have withdrawn from the battle area.
Enemy aircraft bombed Faid, Gafsa, and Bone,
and were active over the battle area, both sides sus taining losses.
8. From Bissell:
Twenty-four enemy airplanes ineffectively bombed a
cargo ship unloading at Chittagong, December 5*
(1) Operations report December 6. There was no
material change in the Buna area. Enemy air attacks
made during this period were ineffective. Allied air
attacks were made on Rabaul and on Lae airdrome. One
enemy bomber and one fighter were destroyed with no
Allied loss.
38 vessels, including six very large ones, were
sighted at Rabaul.
(2) made head Buna Operations report for December 7. Allied troops
slow progress to the west of the Japanese beach at Buna. Our forces on the beach to the east of
repulsed strong enemy counterattacks.
9.
From MacArthur:
Several Allied air attacks were made in support

of operations in this area. Included in the Japanese
air activities was an attack by three dive bombers,
three fighters, and eighteen high-level bombers on
the 2d Field Hospital which caused thirty casualties.
Two Allied air attacks were made on both Lae and
Kavieng. Fifteen enemy airplanes were reported shot
down in the Buna area, and one destroyed at Lae with out loss to ourselves.
10. From Harmon;
On December 5> our P-39's machine-gunned enemy land ing operations at Tassafaronga.
Asks if WAAC's are available for assignment to
theaters outside the continental limits of the US
and, if so whether certain specialists in auxiliary
grades could be obtained.
11.
From Harmon:
- 2
SECTION II. 1. 2.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Instructed Eisenhower to explain orally to Parian the attitude of the US

Government towards his military and political programs respectively.
Requested Eisenhower to advise the War Dept. if the Joint US Mission for
Dakar, now ready to leave, is acceptable to Boisson and asked when the
mission should arrive.
Explained to Eisenhower that the delays in transmitting decisions of the
Combined Communications Board are due to the necessity for clearing them
properly. He will be notified of approved changes in JAN procedure immed iately upon completion of the new manual.
3.
4.. Directed Drum to release to AGF the 26th Division, less one combat team,
and DeWitt'to release to AGF the 35th and 44th Divisions each less one
combat team. Further directed execution of the plan for regarrisoning
the Eastern and Western Defense Commands with these combat teams plus
other assigned units.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No action reported by JCS or CCS.
THOS. T. HANDY, ^ ^
Major General, /
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 9, 194-2

To: Secretary of V ' r
/a Chief of Staff 1
Deputy Chief of
Commanding Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of -Sta:
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TUHN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION M E N

Two unidentified airplanes were sighted over
Iceland on December 7.
During December 7 US forces remained in possession of
the battlefield southwest of Tebourba; the British 11th
Brigade regrouped two to five miles north and northeast
of Medjez-el-Bab. The enemy had apparently withdrawn
behind his defensive perimeter. Indications point to
a concentration of enemy armored and motorized elements
south of the Medjerda River. During the night of Dec ember 6-7, five enemy airplanes were destroyed over
Bone. On December 7 our aircraft bombed and machine-
gunned targets, including tanks, in the Tebourba area.
Allied and enemy aerial reconnaissances were active
during the day, losses being registered on both sides.
Mine B-24.fs successfully attacked the oil refinery
at Bangkok on November 26.
Operations report for December 8, The Australian 7th
Division repulsed a counterattack near Gona. Medium
and light bombardment aircraft supported our ground
troops near Buna who made a slight advance. A patrol
of Papuan infantry defeated a Japanese unit 10 miles
northwest of Gona,
Our heavy bombers in three attacks on six enemy
destroyers headed for Buna, scored two hits and two
near misses; the vessels withdrew. During these
attacks two B-17's and one B-24. were seriously
damaged, our bombers accounting for seven Zeros and
two "probables". Gasmata airdrome was twice attacked.
From Bonesteel: From Eisenhower;
From Bissell: From IlacArthur;
- 1
Lalrunai (Iiabaul) airdrome was bombed on the night

of December 6-7. Fighting continued in Timor on
December U.
serial reconnaissances disclosed 20 naval and other
vessels in the Buin-Faisi area, 37 at Rabaul, also
smaller concentrations elsewhere.
5. From Harmon: Acknowledges War Dept. message warning that the
units of the 25th Division are not combat loaded.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Invited Eisenhower's views as to the desirability of a visit to

Orpaz by himself or a representative.
(AiiF) replied to Doolittle that the possibility of delivering air craft to North Africa by carrier is being investigated, but that the
shortage of escort vessels may preclude this solution.
Informed Andrews that Adler1s directive contains a commitment for cer tain types of aircraft which cannot be abrogated unless the current
negotiations fail to be consummated. A troop carrier squadron, however,
is being shipped to the Africa-}fiddle Eastern Theater late in January.
2.
3.
4.. Forwarded to Fitzgerald the substance of Eisenhower1 s report that Boisson

has granted transit privileges for our aircraft through French West
Africa; instructed him to make temporary arrangements for air opera tions in that area pending the conclusion of formal negotiations.
5. Informed L^tcArthur that the artillery and other elements of the jungle-
trained combat team will leave for his theater about December 23 from
the east coast via Panama where the remainder of the team will join.
At the same time 5500 fillers, four replacement battalions and cer tain service troops will sail for his area.
Informed Harmon that the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, VIII
Corps is being allocated to his command; eight key staff officers will
leave'for New Caledonia by air in about two weeks, the remainder of the
personnel will move by water early in January.
Transmitted to Mr. I'icCloy the reply from Harmon concerning Free French
Forces in his i^rea, which states in substance that these are admini stered paid, clothed, quartered, and subsisted by the local Free French
Government, and not by the US as claimed by D'Argenlieu.
6.
7.
- 2
637
SECTION III. 1.
PLîS
JCS deferred action on JC3 14.6/1 to 14.6/3, inclusive, "Priorities

in Production of Munitions Based on Strategic Considerations'1,
pending the receipt of a study by i i . We Is on showing wherein
.r conflicts will occur in the program.
JCS agreed to recommend to CCS that CCS 82/2, "Combined Production
Requirements", be removed from the agenda.
JCS directed that the letter to the Secretary of State on JCS 160,
"Shipment of Grain to Iran", be redrafted to include all of the
salient points in a briefer form.
JCS deferred action on JCS 155-155/1, "Functions of The Office of
Strategic Services", pending further study.
JCS agreed to recommend that CCS approve, as amended, JCS 161,
"Formal Agreement For Use of Ascension Island".
JCS discussed JCS 162 "Operations in Burma".
JCS approved the recommendations contained in "Joint Intelligence
Agency" as constituting the ultimate objective, to be accomplished
gradually, and directed that the paper be returned to G-2 and ONI
for preparation of detailed draft directive.
2.
3.
U.
5. 6. 7.
Major General,'
Assistant Chief of Staff,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
1700, December 10, 1942 To: Secretary of War / )
Chief of S t a M O ^
Deputy Chief ^
Commanding General,\)
Army Air Forces Commanding General, , j ?
Services of Supply iY>
Assistant Chief of StaffiWQ
G-2 (Return to OPD) 7 ' )
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
Ground operations in Tunisia on December 8 were

limited to patrolling activity. The contour of
opposing positions was generally as indicated on
the attached map. Weather prevented operations
by our air force.
Operations report for December 9. The Australian 21st Brigade mopped up the remaining enemy positions in Gona and now occupies the entire Gona area. A US battalion made slight gains and then consolidated its position near Cape Endaiadere. Local attacks near Buna were successful and enemy counter-attacks from Buna and Buna Mission were repulsed. Allied air forces supported these efforts. Japanese forces burned two villages near Mubo (between Salamaua and Buna) December
From Eisenhower:
From MacArthur:
3.
From Harmon:
On December 6, his fighter aircraft destroyed enemy

installations at Banika (Russell Is.), Munda Point
(New Georgia Is.), and Rekata Bay (Santa Isabel I s . ) ,
and carried out the daily harassment of the enemy in
the Kokumbona (Guadalcanal) area. On December 7, two
B-17fs sank an enemy fighter aircraft at Rekata Bay.
The command of the Guadalcanal-Tulagi area passed to
the Army at 14.00 GCT, December 9. Patch has been
designated to command Guadalcanal unrler Harmon.
4..
From Harmon:
iyiCTORY BUY
- 1
Approximate |>6nt lines

r" -37 37
' f
' .
mSSICAULT
y
DJEZ-EL-BAB
POKT DU FAHS
36
B
ENGLISH MILES
-V-
10
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Directed SOS to divert shipments of supplies and equipment for the 25th
Division from Noumea to Guadalcanal.
Notified Eisenhower of the impending departure of the US Mission to Dakar.
Queried Eisenhower as to whether a detachment of men from Patton's command,
armed with the new rocket equipment might be of assistance in his Tunisian
operation.
Requested Eisenhower1 s comments on the recommendation by Hayes that our
troop carrier aircraft, forced down in Spanish Morocco, be sold or given
to the Spanish Government.
Informed Eisenhower that Childs is being instructed to confer with Patton
concerning undesirable personnel who may attempt to enter French Morocco
from Spanish territory; Pa,tton should maintain contact with Childs.
Informed the commanding officers of US Army Forces at Goose Bay, Labrador,
and Churchill, Manitoba, of the division of the Canadian project into
eastern and western sectors for control of administration and security.
These sectors are to operate directly under the War Dept.
Inquired of Eisenhower as to what major US units have been transferred to
North Africa from UK or are to be shipped in the near future, in order to
facilitate planning and to assist in shipments of fillers and equipment.
(AAF) informed Spaatz and Doolittle of replacement crews and aircraft
being dispatched to the 8th and 12th Air Forces.
2. 3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
SECTION III.
PLANS
llo approved action by JCS or CCS.
PHOS. T. HANDY, ^
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff
SBSCRST
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 11, 1942

To: Secretary of War***^
Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply-
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I . 1 .
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN Gen. W. E. Lynd and Col. J. V. Hart ere reported as missing on a weather flight in Alaska on which they were observers. Ground activity in Tunisia, impeded by the mud, has
been confined to patrol activity. Air operations
have also been restricted although the enemy sank a
corvette in the bay of Algiers.
Reports that, upon the formation of the US Fifth Army
in North Africa, the Mediterranean Base Section will
be separated from the commend of the Center Task Force;
the Services of Supply, Western Task Force, will be
similarly detached and designated as the Atlantic Base
Section. Supervision end coordination of both these
base sections will be under his headquarters.
Replies proposing that the call on Qrgaz be made by
Patton; suggests that the British Foreign Office be
consulted.
During the week ending December 5 US aircraft flew 80
missions in Tunisia, including bombing attacks on
Bizerte, Tunis, Gabes, Djedeica and Sfax. During these
operations 42 enemy aircraft were destroyed end 10
probably destroyed, while our forces lost 17 planes.
Considers it essential that Mine Sweeper Division 19 be retained in the North African Theater in view of the intensity of submarine activity and the shortage of escorts.
From D e W i t t :
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
From Eirenho?/er:
VICTORY
- 1
7.
From Maxwell:
The Libyan Service Command has been formed, with head quarters at Benghazi, December 7, to provide service for the Ninth Air Force and other US units in Libya. Operations report for December 10. While the Austral ian 7th Division, registering a slight advance south of Sanananda, repulsed Japanese counterattacks with heavy casualties, our 32d Division harassed the Japan ese positions in Buna with artillery and mortar fire and advanced slightly near Cape Endaiadere. Our A-20's bombed and machine-gunned enemy positions in direct support of these operations. Requests authority to activate certain quartermaster units to administer the 180 small ships and crews operated by the USASOS. The second group of the 25th Division (282 officers, 17 WO, 7359 EM) sailed December 10.
8.
From MacArthur
9.
From MacArthur
10.
From Emmons:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Eisenhower that the Dakar Mission is proceeding to Natal where

it will be ready to leave for Dakar on or about December 15, after re ceipt of clearance from the Governor General and proper identification
signals, call letters, etc.
SECTION III.
PLANS
THOS. T. HANDY, / & ~

Major General, /
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 12, 194,2

To: Secretary of War Chief of StafjM Deputy Chief of. Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General, Services of Supply Assistant Chief of Sta G-2 (Return to OPD)
I)
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

On December 10 an enemy force with approxirafttely
4 0 tanks attacked Medjez-el-Bab; it was repulsed
. with an estimated loss of 16tanks.
Enemy aircraft bombed the station at Souk-el-Arba,
delaying traffic for six hours.
From Eisenhower:
2.
From Andrews
On December 8, twelve US fighter-bombers with twelve

fighters as escorts, while on a mission in Cyrenaica,
were attacked by twelve enemy airplanes, of which six
(probably seven) were shot down. One of our airplanes
failed to return and one crash-landed.
Operations report for December 11. Air and ground
forces are maintaining pressure on the Japanese beach head at Buna. An ineffective attack on the C.P. of
the I US Corps was made by 29 enemy fighters.
Allied air forces attacked the enemy airdromes at
Lae and Salamaua in addition to supporting our ground
troops in the Buna-Sanananda area.
4.7 ships of various types were sighted at Rabaul.
3.
From MacArthur:
4..
From Harmon;
On December 7, US P-39's participated in an attack on

eleven destroyers 170 miles northwest of Guadalcanal.
Four hits were scored on one destroyer which was be lieved sunk. On December 10, a B-17, attacked over
New Georgia Island by fifteen Zero fighters, shot down
five of them. Eleven B-17 1 s escorted by eight fighters
shot down six intercepting Japanese airplanes while
successfully attacking two large ships in the Buin area
None of our airplanes were reported lost.
- 1
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Brett that CG, AAF proposes to constitute a night-fighter

squadron in his theater and asked if such unit is included in his
proposed troop basis for the 6th Air Force; also requested his recom mendations.
Informed Eisenhower of the State Department suggestion that all
messages from Parian to French officials abroad be referred to
Washington in order to prevent uncontrolled use by Parian of US
communications facilities.
Informed Andrews that the Russian counter-proposals are not accep table in Washington and that negotiations are continuing on the
original basis.
Informed Stilwell that 6000 Engineer, Medical and other service troops
with equipment and road-building machinery will arrive about March 1.
Transmitted Dill's summary of Wavell's views.
Informed MacArthur that the War and Navy Departments have agreed to
joint control for the discipline of all armed forces, effective Dec. 15
Informed Harmon of an impending shortage of shipping for equipment and
personnel for his area. Requested his recommendations as to prior ities for allotted units and as to possible reductions in unit equip ment, under the assumption that 30,000 troops can be shipped by July 1,
1943.
PLANS
2.
3.
U"
5. 6.
SECTION III. 1.
CCS noted that the "US Military Mission to French West Africa"^(CCS
129/2), whose letter of instructions and directive had received CCS
approval, has left for Natal where it will await clearance for Dakar.
CCS deferred consideration of CCS 82/3, "Combined Production Require ments" and CCS 121/1, "Formal Agreement for Use of Ascension Island."
2.
THOS. T. HANDY,/
Major General,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
1700, December 13, 1942

Chief of Staff ( .
^ Deputy Chief of Staff
Conuna nd ing Genera 1, Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
From Castner (G-2, ADC): On December 11, three B-26's scored two
500-lb. bomb hits on a cargo vessel at Kiska; four
escorting P-38's bombed and machine gunned shore in stallations there. The enemy did not attempt to
intercept this attack; all our aircraft returned
safely.
From Eisenhower: Reports on his conference with Parisn regarding the
letter's military and political programs.
Replies accepting War Dept. recommendations for ship ment of air defense units on UGF-4 and listing the
units which are to be replaced by them.
Transmits with approval the request of Giraud to
send to Washington a French mission of three officers
and three civilians to discuss questions regarding
the supply of materiel and equipment to the French
Forces in French Africa.
Instructions have been issued to Patton to dispatch
by air Ifi rocket grenade dischargers, with ammunition
and instructors, to armored infantry elements in the
forw&rd area.
Two enemy attacks, one south from Mateur, and the
other westward toward Medjez-el-Bab, were repulsed
on December 11. Allied armored elements were in
contact all day with light enemy forces east and
southeast of that town.
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
5.
From Eisenhower:
6.
From Eisenhower:
VICTORY
B U Y
1
The enemy garrison at Kairouan and Kebili were reported

reinforced the night of December 10-11, the former by 300
Italians accompanied by light or medium tanks, the latter
by a motorized battalion.
In the improving weather, hostile bombers attacked shipping
off Bone, Philippeville, and Bougie.
From Eisenhower: Forwards for consideration a suggestion that a battalion

of Brazilian infantry and, perhaps, some Brazilian fliers
be stationed in the French Moroccan area as part of the
Allied force, as a means of improving our relations with
the Spanish.
From Andrews: Orders have been issued, in compliance with Gen. Eisenhower'a
request, dispatching salvage equipment and personnel to
Northwest Africa.
On December 11, one flight of six B-24's, operating from Gaya, dropped 21 1000-lb. bombs in the Rangoon dock and warehouse district; a similar flight bombed Port Blair, Andaman Is., with unobserved results. Operations report for December 12. The ground situation on New Guinea is essentially unchanged, two Japanese .attacks near the Amboga River being repulsed. Patrolling and harassing activities continue. Allied aircraft con ducted intensive day and night searches along the coast betv/een Buna and Salamaua to detect any attempted Japanese infiltration southward. Two groups of enemy small boats along the coast were machine gunned. Seven Japanese fighter aircraft attempting to intercept a B-17 on reconnaissance were driven off, one, probably two, being shot down.
9.
From Bissell:
10.
From MacArthur:
11.
From Harmon:
Eighteen B-17's bombed Munda airfield (New Georgia Island), December 9 Heavy antiaircraft fire encountered diminished considerably as the bombing progressed.
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Eisenhower of a convoy, including tank lending ships and infantry

landing craft, which is being prepared for departure in January. Requested
his wishes regarding the use of deck space and the relative priority
between vehicles and P-Ô's to be loaded below decks.
Replied to MacArthur informing him of the prospective flow of replacements
to his theater.
2.
- 2
3.
.Asked UecArthur if personnel, other than those from combat units, is

available to fill the ten Quartermaster companies, for operation of local
shipping, whose activation he requested.
Summarized for MacArthur the status of jungle equipment which he has re quested. 70,000 complete jungle sets plus 50,000 sets, less machetes t.nd
dehydrated rations, together with 90 days maintenance for all items, t^re \
scheduled for delivery to his theater. An additional 60,000 sets, less
medical kits and rations, for Australian forces, will be shipped when
available, the first items probably in January. Asked that equipment now
en route be field tested prior to determining additional requirements.
PLANS
4..
SECTION III.
Major General,
" "]
MS
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 14, 1942

Chief of Staff\)
Deputy Chief of S t ' *
Commanding Genera], Army Air Forces Commanding Genera
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staf AjfV
G-2 (Return to OPD) ^
TURU BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
1.
MESSAGE RECEIVED AMD ACTION TAKEN

About 90 of our B-17's and B-24's, escorted by RAF
and US fighters, operated over the continent during
daylight December 12. Seventeen B-17's dropped 40
tons of explosives and incendiaries on the railroad
yards at Rouen. Persistent enemy -fighter resistance
was encountered; 19 enemy aircraft were destroyed,
and ten probably destroyed with a loss to us of two
bombers. Other missions were unsuccessful due to the
heavy cloud formations.
During the night of December 10-11 and the day of the
11th, the right flank of the Allied forces was with drawn to positions west of Medjez-el-Beb; a strong
detachment of British and French was left in that
town and a patrol half-way between it and Mateur.
Two enemy attacks, one south from Mateur, and the
other westward toward Medjez-el-Bab, were repulsed
on December 11. Allied armored elements were in con tact all day with light enemy forces east and south east of Medjez-el-Bab.
In the improving weather, hostile bombers attacked
shipping off Bone, Philippeville, and Bougie; an
ineffective air attack was made on Souk-el-Arbn
airdrome. Our bombers attacked the railroad north
of Sfax.
On December 12 British forces made contact with three
enemy columns, each comprised of infantry end'tanks,
advancing from Tunis and attempting to infiltrate
north and south of Medjez-el-Bab.'
Enemy motor transport on the Tunis-Medjez-el-Bab
roads was attacked from the air.
From Eaker:
2.
From Eisenhower;
- 1
3.
From Eisenhower:
Replies, concurring in Ambassador Hayes' recommen dation that the troop carrier aircraft forced down
in Spanish Morocco be sold or given the Spanish
Government, full use being made of this transaction
to obtain the early release of our crews.
Preparations have been completed at Dakar to receive
the US Mission.
(This message apparently crossed our outgoing message
to Eisenhower.) Repeated the latter, adding addition al data now available.
Gives position areas of three French Divisions (Map)
Forwards report that Boisson has issued instructions
for the immediate release of all United Nations in ternees in North Africa. Eisenhower requests that
he be advised of reciprocal measures to be taken by
the United Nations.
Forwards the text of a message from Parian to the
Mohammedan population of Northwest Africa, urging
them to fight with the United Nations against our
common enemy.
On December 13, US fighter-bomber aircraft attacked
trucks of the enemy retreating from El Agheila. Two
P-Ô-E's are missing.
Four B-25 ! s and 11 P-4.0's bombed oil storage tanks
and troop concentrations at Tengchung (Western Yunnan),
December 12, probably firing the oil storage. A direct
hit was probably obtained on the enemy headquarters.
Operations report December 13. Our ground troops made
slight progress against enemy positions north of Gona
and maintained aggressive night patrols near Buna.
An enemy convoy composed of one light cruiser and four
destroyers was attacked north of Vitiaz, Strait by nine
B-17's which obtained a hit on one destroyer and near
misses on others. Nine B-26's, bombing the Gesmata
airdrome, started small fires. Allied aircraft flew
numerous missions in support of the ground forces,
during which the Cape Killerton area, Buna Mission,
and small boats along the coast were attacked.
From Eisenhower:
Action:
From Eisenhower;
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower
8.
From Andrews:
9.
From Bissell:
10-
From MacArthur:
- 2
/>
P/lTfi
/,
TO
Enemy bombers raided Port Moresby twice the night

of December 13-14> but caused no damage. One enemy
bomber was destroyed and two Zeros probably shot
down by a B-2J+ on reconnaissance.
On Timor, the enemy ground forces attacked toward
Betano.
On the night December 1-2 about three companies of
Japanese infantry landed in the Kumusi River area.
13.. From Harmon: On December 11 our B-17's, supported by pursuit air craft, twice successfully attacked the enemy airfield
at Munda, New Georgia. Later that day Army pursuit
aircraft participated in an attack against eleven
enemy destroyers off North Bay, New Georgia, five
of the enemy ships being hit.
Munda was again attacked December 12 by eight B-17's
supported by dive bombers and pursuit craft. Two
enemy aircraft were shot down by Marine fighters.
From Harmon: Patch has been designated as the Commanding General
of the Guadalcanal Corps pending numerical designation
of that unit by the War Dept.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Notified SOS that dependents will not accompany enlisted personnel or

civilian employees to the Northwest Service Command; dependents already
in the Northwest Service Command will be gradually returned to the US.
Asked Eisenhower if he desires the 100th Inf. Bn. which is composed of
Americans of Japanese origin.
Informed Eisenhower that both the State and War Depts. agree that Patton
should make the call upon Orgaz; State Dept. will make necessary arrange ments through the US Consul at Tangier. British military representatives
in Washington will be notified.
Notified Andrews of the approval of the same T/0 for the Libyan Service
Command as for the Levant Service Command.
Informed Stilwell, in answer to his query, that neither the Lend-Lease
Administrationror State, Treasury or War Depts. have been approached
by the Chinese with the proposal that our forces in China be subsisted
at the expense of the Chinese Government; such an arrangement is not
contemplated nor will it be effected without his being first consulted.
1
*.
2.
3.
4.
5.
- 3
6.
Disapproved the assignment of a fighter squadron from the 51st Pursuit

Group to the 23d Pursuit Group and informed Bissell that the War Dept.
does not approve the activation of two additional squadrons for his
51st Pursuit Group. The fighter strength of the Tenth Air Force will
be augmented when conditions permit.
SECTION III.
PLANS
PHOS. T. HANDY, 'c

Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 15, 1942
To:
Secretary of Wej
Chief of Staff \
Deputy Chief of
Commanding General, i l Army Air Forces, Commanding
Services of
Assistant ChieF of" staVfi
G-2 (Return to OPD) <] y
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
MFSSAGFS RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

On December 12, B-17's attacked the docks and
shipping at Tunis. Other air action that day
resulted in the destruction of two enemy planes,
one US fighter, and two bombers.
On December 13, air attacks were made on a bridge
north of Sfax, Sousse, shipping and docks at Bizerte;
one bomber is missing and one crash-landed. On the
night of December 13-14- Wellington bombers from Malta
attacked Tunis, hitting two large ships.
Eisenhower and Tedder have arranged for the temporary
exchange of B-17's from the Middle East for the
longer-ranged B-24's of Eisenhower 1s command, so as
to bring Tunis and Bizerte within range of a maximum
number of bombers.
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
The Fifth Army Hq. is being organized at Oujda (100

miles SW of Ora.n), Hq., Western Task Force is being
redesignated as "Hq. 1st Armored Corps", and Hq.
II Corps is being reduced to T/0 strength. Requests _
that shipment of VI Corps Hq. be postponed and suggests
that it supervise the training of the 45th Division.
Requests that 72 medium tanks M4A1 be shipped to
Oran in UGS-4 as loss replacements.
Submits recommendations as to shipping allocation of
troops for the UK for January: Air Corps 50%,
Ground troops 25%, SOS units 25%.
From Eisenhower:
L,
a/ICTORY BUY
UNITED
STATES
iVINOS
From Eisenhower:
ONDS
-1
5 6. From Eisenhowert
From Breretpni
Transmits operating instructions for the airplane
carrying the US mission to Dakar.
On December 11, IS B-24's effectively attacked harbor
installations and shipping at Naples, using more than
46 tons of bombs. Two enemy aircraft which attacked
our bombers were believed shot downj one of our air planes was brought down by antiaircraft fire.
Operations report for December 14. Buna was taken ty assault. The enemy landed troops and supplies at the mouths of the Mambare and Kumusi Rivers frcm two cruisers and three destroyers. Six air attacks were made on the convoy, and 26 air attacks on the unloading operation; heavy damage and losses are believed to have resulted. Other Allied air attacks were made on Lae airdrome and
Gasmata airdrome. The enemy made an ineffective raid
on Port Moresby. Five, probably seven, Japanese
fighters were destroyed and 2 Allied airplanes crash-
landed in friendly territory.
A motor vessel convoying Australian and Dutch troops to
Timor was sunk by the enemy on December 1 with a
probable loss of 60 persons.
7 .
From MacArthurj
8.
Fran Ilarmon;
Requests certain blocks of position vacancies to permit the provisional organization of SOS, Service Commands, and Island Command Headquarters pending approval of tables of organization. These vacancies will permit of promotions for key positions.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHtiK ACTION TAKEN
Instructed SOS to establish and hold within the continental limits of the
US a strategic reserve of 3 months of supply of ammunition for all US Army
forces overseas or in Defense Commands. This reserve will be filled from
production as soon as practicable and will be drawn upon only by authority
of C/S.
Replied to Eisenhower that Mine Sweeper Division 19 is already returning to
the US by order of CINCLANT who has decided that the subchasers furnished
the Western Task Force, added to other available means, are sufficient for
escort purposes.
Informed Eisenhower of objections to the use of Latin American troops in
the North African Theater, but suggested alternate courses of action with
respect to Latin American troops should further consideration convince him
o the desirability of using them.
2.
3.
- 2
I
v .
4 -
Notified Fitzgerald that he is responsible for the supply of US forces at

Dakar. Responsibility for the supply of airfields between Dakar and Casa blanca, and between Accra and Gran will be based on the location of the
port of entry from which they can be most efficiently supplied. Informed
Eisenhower,
5, Notified Harmon that the designation "XIV Corps" has been assigned to the
corps in the Guadalcanal area.
SECTION III. PLkNS
HOS.
T. HANDY,
- ^ 7
1 1 j or General,
.a Assistant Chisf of Staff.
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENf
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, To: Secretary of War Chief of Staff

Deputy Chief of Staff Commanding General,
Army Air Forces Commanding General, Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Sta: G-2 (Return to OPD) )
)
) )
)
December 16, 1942,
IN TURN W C
MESSENGER
L >
~)
SECTION I. 1.
LIESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION

One unidentified airplane was reported over Iceland,
December 14
On December 14 Allied patrols were in .contact with
enemy forces east of Bou Arada, Ooubellat and Medjez el-Bab. A series of enemy s.tronp points were reported
in the Tebourba-St. Cyprien area; no movements in this
area were disclosed by aerial reconnaissance. Strong
enemy reinforcements were located near Station de Jefna.
Our heavy bombers again attack the docks at Tunis, a
direct hit being reported on one vessel, as well as
Bizerte where four enemy intercepting airplanes were
destroyed. The railroad yards and gasoline storage
at Sfax were twice attacked by our aircraft; our
pursuit airplanes destroyed several enemy trucks and
a grounded airplane. Our losses were one P-40.
From Bonesteel:
2.
From Eisenhower:
Fran Eisenhower;
Replies that he is quite willing'to accept the 100th

Infantry Battalion, composed of Americans of Japanese
origin, for combat service in his theater.
US pursuit aircraft, attacking the Axis forces re treating west of Mersa Brega, Cyrenaica, December
13 and 1/., dropped 56,000 lbs. of explosives on
vehicles and other targets of opportunity. In air
combat resulting from these operations two enemy
fighters were destroyed and three of ours are missing.
Operations report December 15. Units o * the US 32nd
* Division continued their 6ffen6ive patrolling mopping up operations. Three A-20's attacked
From Breretonr
5.
From MacArthur:
,,,, VICTORY fit'l i BUY

M A |W^ UNITED DTHTCII AV1NO
m'JW&ONDS (WK
ANU
rfJBYSTAMPS
- 1
Japanese-held village near the mouth of the

Mambare River. Two attacks near Gasmata, each by-
six B-24!s, on the Japanese returning convoy were
intercepted by enemy filters, three of which were
shot down.
Two enemy medium bombers, raiding Port Moresby the
night of December 14-15, caused five casualties.
One enemy bomber was probably destroyed by antiair craft fire.
6. From Harmon: On December 13, B-17's, escorted by P-38's and Navy
dive-bombers, twice effectively attacked the enemy
landing field at Munda, New Georgia Island.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Eisenhower that loss replacements for Combat Command "B"

are being set up for shipment and requested that he inform the War
Dept. of the equipment on UGS-4 ttiis materiel should displace.
Notified Eisenhower that the Dakar Mission -will leave Natal on
December 17 and arrive at Dakar December 18. Requested that he
inform Boisson.
Requested Eisenhower's reaction to a proposal that the senior members/
of the Chinese T/ELlitary Mission visit the North African front. ^y
PLANS
2.
3.
SECTION III. 1. 2.
JCS sent Mr. Nelson a letter, as amended in JCS 151/5 "Modification

of the 1943 Shipbuilding Program of the Maritime Commission."
JCS agreed that in the future all combat loaders shall be assigned
by the JCS. (JCS 15S-153/2, inclusive, "Transport Requirements to
End of February, 1943.")
JCS informed the representatives of the British Chiefs of Staff that
it is impracticable at the present time to make a strategic deploy ment of US troops for 1943. (CCS 32/4, "Combined Production Require ments.")
JCS dispatched a letter to Mr. Nelson on JCS 157, "Coordination of
Synthetic Rubber, 100 Octane Gasoline, and Escort Vessel Programs,"
and sent the Preside_n;t_ for his approval and signature a proposed
reply to Mr, Jeffers.
3.
4.
- 2
5. 6.
JCS discussed JCS 162/1-162/2, "Operations.'

JCS agreed to recommend to CCS that instructions contained in
CCS 133, "Large Scale Employment of Secret Radar Equipment" be
issued.
JCS deleted a portion of JCS 164-/1, "Functions of the Joint Deputy
Chiefs of Staff."
JCS removed from the agenda JCS 66 and 66/13 "Plan far Obtaining
Intelligence from Japan and Japanese-Occupied Territories."
JCS approved, as amended, JCS 166, "Special Operations in the Hiddie
East."
JCS agreed, subject to the approval of the Presidentf to recommend
to CCS that the US and UK adhere to the original proposal to furnish
air units to the Russians and in the event of non-acceptance, that
the Mission bp "withdrawn. (CCS 122 and 122/1.)
JCS discussed JCS 167, "Basic Strategic Concept for 1943", with a
view to its revision by the Joint Strategic Survey Comi'dttee in
the light of the points brought out in the course of the discussion.
JCS informed the Joint Strategic Survey Committee that no additional
reports are required vrlth reference to JCS 152/1, "Strategic Policy
for 1943," and JCS 168, "Planning for Operations Subsequent to TORCH."
7. 8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
5. T . HANIffj
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 17, 1942

Chief of Staf*.
Deputy Chief of*
Commanding General jArmy Air Forces Commanding General,
Services~ of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)*
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

An unidentified aircraft was reported over Iceland,
December 15.
On December 15, minor enemy activity was reported in
the vicinity of Medjez-el-Bab. Seven B-17's bombed
El Aouina airdrome, Tunis, in the face of heavy but
ineffective antiaircraft fire. Seven B-26's also
bombed that airdrome, securing hits on the field and
in the dispersal areas at the cost of one bomber.
Twelve B-17's attacked docks and shipping at Bizerte
where enemy defensive measures consisted of intense
antiaircraft fire and smoke screens in the target area
Asks if the Navy will agree to enlarge present UG
convoys to include regularly two or three French
vessels; this to forestall, diplomatically, their use
by Giraud for a contemplated movement of 50,000 Negro
troops from Dakar to North Africa, where logistical
facilities are already over-taxed. If Giraud could
be assured that these ships will carry a certain
amount of combat equipment, urgently needed by his
troops, and essential civilian supplies, as well as
US personnel and cargo, he might be persuaded to
divert these vessels and postpone his troop movement
until a more propitious time.
Inquires when the 100th Infantry Battalion, com prising men of Japanese extraction, may be expected.
Replies specifying the desired priority of loading
a convoy being prepared for departure in January.
From Bonesteel:
2.
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower: VICTORY

B U Y
UNITED
STATE! SAVING*
ONDS
- 1
6.
From Brereton:
Medium bombers and pursuit aircraft attacked the

retreating enemy motor columns December 15, with
excellent results. In aerial combat one ME 109
was destroyed and another reported as "probable".
The same day nine B-24.-D's destroyed railway in stallations at Sfax. All our aircraft returned
safely.
Reports raids on small towns north of Myitkyina by
P-40's on December 12 and 15 in which hits were
scored on enemy personnel and on a truck convoy.
Operations report December 16. The Australian 7th
and US 32d Divisions made limited progress near Buna.
Our medium bombers and pursuit aircraft supported
land operations, attacking a barge in the mouth of
the Kumusi River and the buildings at Buna Mission.
B-24's on reconnaissance missions attacked enemy sur face craft in the northern Solomons Sea and off New
Hanover Island with unknown results.
On December 15, bomber-fighter teams attacked Munda
Field, New Georgia Island and machine-gunned hostile
positions on Guadalcanal. A B-17 bombed Kahili
(Bougainville) airfield. One of our fighter aircraft
is missing from these operations.
7.
From Bissell:
8.
From MacArthur:
9.
From Harmon:
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Notified Eisenhower that the Dakar Mission will now leave Natal,
weather permitting, on December IS and arrive at Dakar December 19
Requested that he inform Boisson of the change.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No*approved action by JCS or CCS.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 13, 1942.

Chi ef of Staff XyJU
Deputy Chief o >
f Commanding Gener
Army Air Forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply' '
Assistant Chief of Staffk\J_
G-2 (Return to OPD) " j
IN TURN BY C0I/H.OSSI0NED i ESSENGER
SECTION I .
HESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN
1 .
From Wimsatt:
Recommends that the infantry battalion now stationed in Greenland be replaced by a provisional air base security battalion. Enemy aircraft were active, especially in the vicinity of Bore, December 15 and 16, Ground activities during December 16 were limited to patrolling, the enemy con solidating his defenses P-33's bombed enemy shipping off the Tunisian coast
and destroyed one enemy airplane, A-20!s attacked the
railroad yards east of Mateur and the armored vehicle
dispersal area at Massicault. All our aircraft returned.
2 .
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower; From ^senhower:
Prefers to drop the matter of Latin-American participation in North African operations. Proposes to set up a local petroleum supply committee for
North Africa, composed of one member of each of the three
services and one civilian An aviation products coordi nating committee also will be appointed. Starting in
January 194-3 these committees will submit to Washington
and London monthly forecasts of military and civil oil
requirements.
Adm. Fenard. just returned fran Alexandria, reports that the French fleet under Godfroy would join-with the Allies provided the US and British -would assure him that the arrangement -with Parian would remain in status quo for the period of hostilities. If the message sent to Godfroy by the President could be supported by another with specific reference to Parian's position it would
have a decisive effect on Godfroy.
5.
From Eisenhower:
VICTORY BUY UNITED

STATE*
.VINO*
ONDS
AND
STAMPS
-1
6.
From B i s s e l l ;
On December 14, medium bombers and p u r s u i t a i r c r a f t

a t t a c k i n g the airdrome fit Hanoi, scored h i t s on shops
and runways and i g n i t e d the gasoline s t o r a g e . Of four
Japanese a i r c r a f t encountered by t h i s mission, one vas
shot down. Cn December 15 and 16, US p u r s u i t a i r c r a f t
bombed and machine-gunned Japanese-held v i l l a g e s and a
motor column.
Operations r e p o r t December 17. Allied forces on New Guinea continued t h e i r mopping-up operations, maintaining vigorous p a t r o l l i n g throughout the a r e a . Our a i r force continued i t s support of ground o p e r a t i o n s , and a l s o bombed enemy-held towns on Timor.
7.
From L'ac Art hurt
From Harmon:
A delayed report on a i r operations in the Solomons area mentions the bombing on December 14 of the Kahili (Bougainville) airdrome and attacks on Munda Field (New Georgia Island) f Rekata Bay (St. Isabel Island), and enemy positions on Guadalcanal. The f i r s t echelon of the 25th Infantry Division arrived a t Guadalcanal December 17 and i s debarking s a t i s f a c t o r i l y Recommends t h a t the 362nd Ljigineer Regiment (General Service), now set up for F i j i , be diverted t o Guadalcanal. 'Ii ACTION T K N AE
From Harmon: From Harmont
10.
Informed Fjgcnhower that troops s e t up for UGF-4 far exceed the capacity of the convoy and requested an immediate decision as to what personnel should be removed fron the s a i l i n g l i s t s . ' Also requested, t h a t , in the f u t u r e , l i s t s of units be prepared for one convoy in addition to that next t o s a i l . 2. Notified Eisenhower of the State. Dept, report that large numbers of French refugees entering Spain from France propose t o go to North Africa to join the French forces. Pointed out the diplomatic and l o g i s t i c problems i n volved, and asked his reactions to a State Dept. proposal that an urray and a Navy officer go to Lladrid t o control the flow. Proposed to Harmon a counter-plan whereby an additional allotment of officers and e n l i s t e d s p e c i a l i s t s would be made to Hq., SOS, South Pacific Area, instead of approving special T/o f s for each of the separate bases. This would provide a more f l e x i b l e means of adjusting the supply organiza t i o n to the progress of operations. PUNS
3 .
SECTION I I I .
THOS. T. HANDY, '/

Kajor General,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 19, 1942

Chief of Staffv
Deputy Chief of
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I.

Inclement weather prevented operations in the
western Aleutians December 16, but the next day,
four B-24's successfully attacked the submarine
base and harbor shore line at Kiska. A weather
mission, making a thorough reconnaissance of Am chitka and the Semichis, found no activity, nor
anything new at Kiska or Attu.
In the air attacks on Tunis and Bizerte, previously
reported for December 15, eight enemy aircraft were
destroyed in the air and six to ten on the ground;
on December 16, four enemy and. one Allied airplanes
were destroyed.
On December 17 our air forces attacked Gabes, docks
and shipping at Tunis and Bizerte, and an enemy air drome near Djedeida. Five enemy planes were shot
down; all our aircraft returned safely.
Enemy ground activity increased on the south flank
the night of December 16-17, tending to confirm a
report that 30 Axis tanks and approximately 80U troops
had entered the Pont-du-Fahs area. On December 17
Allied action again consisted in active patrolling.
From Butler:
2.
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
jyiCTORY BUY
Inquires as to the possibility of obtaining, from

State Dept., names of Frenchmen who would be accep table to the Allies and the people of North Africa to
replace questionable high officials. Parian., who is
willing to oust any officials to whom the Allies ob ject, desires that capable replacements be designated
in order to forestall open defiance and possibly
bloodshed.
- 1
4.
From Eisenhower:
Replies that he has no objection to the proposal

thiit senior members of the Chinese Military Mission
visit the North African front.
A summary of observations made by his party during
their recent visit to the Russian front is being
sent to the War Dept. by courier.
On Dec. 16 and 17, B-17's escorted by P-38's, in two
attacks against, the Japanese landing field at Munda
(New Georgia) and one against the nearby enemy bivouac
area and stores at Lambeti, dropped over eighteen tons
of explosives and destroyed three' of twelve inter cepting enemy fighters. One B-17 was shot down.
5.
From Hurley;
6.
From Harmon;
SECTION I I . 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Reminded Wimsatt that most of the Air Base Security units he requested
are colored.
Suggested to Eisenhower that military and naval French nationals in the
US, a list of whom is being sent by State Dept. courier, might be per mitted to go to North Africa rather than be repatriated to France, after
a general exchange of the American Embassy staff at Vichy has been
arranged. The State Dept. objects to Parian's proposal that these
officers be permitted to remain in the US as liaison officers.
Notified Eisenhower that the shipment to the UK planned for late
December will leave early in January.
Informed Eisenhower that the 100th Infantry Battalion, of Japanese
extraction, can be made available by February at the end of its unit
training, or by June at v/hich time it will have received combined
training.
Informed Eisenhower of the establishment by the Navy on December 8 of
the Amphibious Force, Mediterranean, US Atlantic Fleet. This force,
under Adm. Bennett, will serve under the commend of Eisenhower es
Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Force in accordance with the principle
of unity of command. (its purpose is to establish and train the naval
elements of an amphibious force for future operations in the Mediter ranean area.)
Transmitted to Eisenhower a message from the President dated December
15 informing him that the President was that day appointing Murphy to
be his personal representative in North Africa with the rank of Minister.
Murphy will continue on Eisenhower's staff in his present capacity as
Civil Affairs Officer until such time as consultation with the War Dept.
suggests a change. The British Government is being informed.
2.
3.
4..
5.
6.
7.
Informed MacArthur of the availability of a Signal Construction

Company, colored, which has had more than a year's service in Panama
and can be sent to his theater in late January or early February to
replace, if desired, one of the two Signal Construction Companies,
white, being trained and planned for shipment in late March. (This
is the colored company which Andrews wanted to return last April fol lowing difficulties with the Panamanian police).
MacArthur replied that he prefers not to disturb existing shipment
schedules.
3.
Directed AGF and SOS to activate twelve CAC batteries (Spec.) (Mob.)
(AA) (Airborne) for dispatch in April, and eight quartermaster com panies, pack, for dispatch in May to the Southwest Pacific Area for
future jungle operations.
PLANS
SECTION III. 1.
CCS agreed as to the instructions on CCS 133, "Large Scale Employment

of Secret Radar Equipment", to be issued to the appropriate US and
British authorities.
CCS accepted the recommendations contained in CCS I6l/l, "Report on
Rubber", noting the report on Economy of Rubber in the Armed Forces
of the US and UK.
CCS agreed to reconsider the proposals in CCS 82/4 - 82/5, "Combined
Production Requirements", when agreement has been reached on the basic
strategic plan for 1943, noting that the strategic deployment of US
troops for 1943 is impracticable at this time.
CCS noted that Gen. Marshall will arrange suitable publicity concern ing Bethouard upon his arrival in Washington, and will take up with
Eisenhower the desirability of insuring appropriate military assign ments for Bethouard and Mast.
CCS agreed that Eisenhower has adequate powers to hold up the transfer
of French colored troops from Dakar to North Africa until circumstances
make their presence there desirable.
2.
3.
4.
5.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of StaffV
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 20, 194.2.

To: Secretary of War ) Chief of Staff ^ Deputy Chief of ) Commanding General^sL ) Army Air Forces(^(P^ | Commanding General, (vL^ (i
^
Services of Supply W Assistant Chief of St
G-2 ( R e t u r n t o OPD)
IN TUFJM BY COMMISSIONED IffiSSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
MESSAGES RECEIVED AMD ACTION TAKEN

No important ground operations were reported for
December 18. Ten US bombers destroyed railroad
installations at Sousse but an enemy box barrage
cost us two airplanes. 36 B-17's attacking Bizerte
obtained hits on a light cruiser. Three of fifteen
enemy fighters intercepting this mission were des troyed, plus two "probables". One B-17 was shot down
and another crash-landed. A-20's attacked the rail road yard and dispersal area at Mateur, while P-38's
attacked enemy trucks and other ground targets. The
enemy was active over our area, LeKef and Thelepte
(north of Gafsa) being bombed.
Replies that he prefers to have the 100th Infantry
Battalion in June, after it has received combined
training.
Requests approval of the proposed quasi-diplomatic
status of the seven members of Giraud's Mission to
the US.
From Eisenhower:
2.
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
From Ei s enhower-Murphyi Forward request of Parian that US influence be

used to prevent French diplomatic and consular officers
abroad, who have broken with Vichy and placed them selves under Darlant from being replaced by new
representatives from Vichy.
From Eisenhower-Murphyt Inquire if, and when, they may expect
Marcel Peyrouton (the former French Ambassador to
Buenos Aires, whom Parian is considering for an
important post). '
-1
Action:
Replied that a telegram is being sent to Peyrouton

offering to facilitate his air transportation to
North Africa.
17 B-2/,-1J'S attacked tho harbor of oousse the night
of December 13-19, dropping 1?| tons of bombs. All
aircraft returned.
Ururomonri and he concur that the Russians are deter mined not to allow any foreign force in the Caucasus
until that area is seriously threatened. The
Russians have announced that the weather is suitable
for their departure.
Instructed Adler to remain with mission as the discus sions are still being conducted on the highest level;
the situation should clarify shortly.
On-December 16, nine P-40's set fire to enemy food
supplies and attacked other targets in Burrriaj the
next day five B-25's bombed Lungling and attacked an
enemy truck column. On December 18 six P-40's,
reconnoitering the Hukawng Valley (northern Burmr),
heavily strafed the town of YJashawng (15 miles
east of .Viyitkyina).
(1) Operations report for December 13: Australians
in conjunction with the US 128th Infantry captured
Cape Endaiadere. In the Bismarcks our B-17's and
other bombers, reueatedly attacking an enemy convoy
of four destroyers, one light cruiser, and two trans ports escorted by enemy fighter aircraft, scored four
hits on the cruiser which was last seen sinking after
the apparent explosion of its magazines. Two of the
Japanese fighters were shot down. Australian attack
planes crippled a small enemy vessel off the north east tip of Timor and left it in a sinking condition.
Other bombing operations were carried out against
Lae, an airdrome near Madang, New Guinea, and a
Japanese-held village near the mouth of the Kumusi
River.
(2) Operations report for December 19J The" Australian
7th Division advanced slightly towards Sanananda.
B-25's and A-20 f s supported ground operations in the
6.
From Andrews:
7.
1'Vom ^dler J
Action:
8. From Bissell:
9,
From IvlacArthuri
-2
Buna Mission area. The enemy convoy apparently

reached the Mew Guinea coast, and on December 19
was again attacked by medium and heavy bombers
on itc return voyage; other bombers attacked a
light cruiser and a destroyer north of New Britain;
near misses v/ere secured on all these vessels. Lae
and Iviadang Harbor were also attacked. Five enemy
aircraft were destroyed; we lost a B-24..
10. From Harmon; Single 13-17' s, attacking the enemy landing fields
at Kahili and kunda on Leeember 17, set fire to
four enemy airplanes on the ground and caused other
damage.
Inquires as to the availability of eight small
Cub-type airplane ambulances to be used for units
on islands which are distant from hospitals.
11.
From Harmon:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed DeWitt that an infantry regiment, V\/hite, must be sent from

the ' * e t r 'Defense Command to the Astern Defense Command to complete
.'sen the latter's garrison. The War Dept. cannot favorably consider the
dispatch of the 184th Infantry to Alaska at this time; moreover, this
regiment is needed to complete his minimum garrison.
Informed De'witt that the Secretary of V.ar has agreed to send natives
and civilian supervisors to St. Paul Island, Pribilofs, in the early
summer of 1943 to accomplish the necessary pruning of the seal herd,
local arrangements to be made with Navy and Alaskan terri torial offi cials. If the military situation requires, the work will be done by
military personnel instead of civilians. Buckner concurs. Requested
L'e'witt's views as to permitting rehabilitation of natives on St. George,
proposed by the Secretary of the Interior.
Notified Eisenhower of the shipment on UGS-4 of "~I2 medium tank?, MLÂl,
with one month's maintenance, as requested.
Explained to Eisenhower that the ASV-equipped B-24's were allocated to
his command by the nersonal direction of the Secretary of War because
of his concern for the security of shipping for our forces in Worth
Africa. Since it is now intended that these airplanes shall remain in
England, it appears that they are not needed for the protection of
EisenhowerTs forces. Asked his views as to their release for the
important duty in this country for which they were originally intended.
2.
3o 4.
-3
5.
Replied to EisenhowerLuruhy that the War and State Depts. will

shortly submit a list of French officials whose appointment would
create no difficulties and would help the Allied effort; this will
be a su^êstion only, in response to their proposal,
Asked Jigsenhower how much of the British First .army is now in Worth
Africa, and how much east of Constantine. Similar information as to
American units is also desired.
Requested jDisenhower to furnish data on Bethouard and Mast so that the
US press may be properly briefed,
Informed Stilwell that the requested priority has been secured, per mitting the manufacture of oil-refining machinery for China within the
next four months*
PLANS
6.
7. 8O
SECTION III.
No approved action by JGS or GGS.
THOS. T. HANDY,'
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
1700, December 21, 1942,

Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of Staff
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General, Services of Supply Assistant Chief of Staff, G2 ( R e t u r n t o OPD)
SECTION I. 1

A strong force of B-17fs and B-24's was considered to
have had unusual success in a daylight attack on the
aircraft depot at Romilly-sur-Sein, preliminary reports
disclosing many hits on the target and heavy losses to
fighter opposition* Six B-lT's failed to return and
two crash-landed*
In Algeria the enemy is believed to be strengthening
defenses and regrouping units along the approaches to
the bridge-head which has been expanded to include the
Sousse-Eairouan positions, concurrently building up a
mobile armored force east and southeast of Medjez-el-Bab
with the probable intention of offensive operations
against our southern flank.
Submits hie recommendations as to the units, in order
of priority, to be shipped on UGF-4.
Replied to a War Dept, query that he would be delighted
to have Governor Lehmanf s representatives come to 3tudy
relief needs in his theater.
Reports that on December 20, and on his representations,
Darlan removed from office the Mayor of Constantine whose
influence was being used against us.
From Chaunoeyt
From Eisenhower:
3*
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
5,
From Eisenhower:
PJ/ICTORY
From Eisenhower (to CCS)t Recommends that the most earnest attention be given to increasing the amount of antiaircraft with ground troops and forward airfields and indoctrinating a l l personnel with the conviction that well-directed and intense fire from every available weapon is the best defense against low flying a i r c r a f t .
- 1
7.
From Eisenhower-Murphy: Darlan requests that the competent Allied author ities be informed that the release of detained French
citizens would be appreciated, this in view of the faot
that necessary instructions have been given for the immed iate release and transfer to British territory of all
interned United Nations subjects in French West Africa.
From Eisenhower-.Murphy: 123 Soviet internees are held in Algeria, princi pally because of Conmunist activity; the majority belonged
to the International Brigade. Local authorities are
willing to repatriate them or return them to the US or UK,
but oppose their remaining in Algeria.
From MacArthur; Operations report for December 20. US and Australian
forces, supported by air, artillery and tanks, made sub stantial gains in the Cape Endaiadere sector. The
Australian 7th Division captured 186 Rabaul natives near
the mouth of the Amboga River, New Guinea. There was
little air activity beyond that in support of ground
operations. One B-24 is missing from a reconnaissance
mission*
In air operations over the South Pacific, December 18,
B-17?s with fighter protection twice attacked the eneiry
bivouac area at Munda Point destroying the ammunition and
supply dump. Reconnaissance-bombing raids by single B-17's
were also performed at Munda and Kahili, and P-39's strafed
enemy positions on Guadalcan-al all day.
8,
9.
10.
From Harmonx
SECTION II. 1
'OTHER ACTION TAKEN
(Navy) notified Eisenhower of the arrival of the Dakar Mission on

December 20.
Recommended to Eisenhower that staff officers be sent to Washington to confer
on the loading of each pair of UG convoys,
Informed Ridley that, due to limited shipping and other commitments, the 200
trucks already requested are the only transportation which can be made
available at this time for the Iranian Army.
Informed Harmon that the 362d Engineer Regiment, General Service, will be
diverted to Guadalcanal as requested.
PLANS
~<
-ft^'O /* " -*- / .,.
3.
4.
SECTION III.
No approved action by JC3 or CCS.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of '
Commanding General, ^ Army Air Forces Commanding General, r /
u Services of Supply irN I )
Assistant Chief of Staff,1
G-2 (Return to OPD)
December 22, 1942.
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

Replies that he desires only white troops for the
Greenland Base Command.
On December 20 an attack on Kiska was made by five
B-24's, four B-26's, four B-25's, and nine P-38s.
Heavy damage, including the explosion of a munitions
shed, resulted. There were no airplane losses in
spite of heavy antiaircraft fire.
From Wimsatt:
From Butler:
From Chauncey (8th Air Force): Supplements previous data on the

Romilly-sur-Seine raid of December 20 in which 71 of
101 heavy bombers dispatched reached the target area.
Hits were obtained on buildings and enemy aircraft,
many fires being started. Bomber crews claim that 45
enemy fighters were destroyed and 26 probably destroyed,
L.
From Eisenhower:
During December 19 and 20 ground activities in Tunisia

again were characterized by aggressive patrolling.
Recent contacts with hostile forward elements were
along the general line: ten miles west of Mateur
five miles east of Medjez-el-BabPont-du-FahsPichon,
the last now being held by Allied forces.
On December 19 air operations were hampered by rain,
but the railroads at Sfax were bombed without loss of
any of our aircraft. Hostile reconnaissance and bomber
aircraft were active over our area on December 2 0 .
5 . Fr om Ei s e n h ow e r: Submits messages from Darlan for transmission to French

officials in the Americas. Parian requests information
VICTORY
B U Y
- 1
pertaining to the status of French consuls in the

US, it being reported that some French officials
abroad are realigning themselves with Vichy because
of failure to receive any assurance of support from
Parian.
Fr c >n Fi Re nhower: T Comments that any amphibious operation to be exe cuted by his command in the near future will be on a
scale which will require participating units to be
trained in the US. Preparations are being made to
troin small units in the Mediterranean area for amphib ious operations; these could be assisted by Bennett 1 5
Force.
British bombers mode a second attack on Sousse on the
night of December 18-19 dropping 17g tons of high ex plosives on the harbor.
There h^s been no material change in the ground situa tion in New Guinea during the past 24- hours. O u r
supporting aircraft harrassed the enemy positions.
Finschhafen was attacked twice, two small vessels
being destroyed. Enemy aircraft bombed Port Moresby
unsuccessfully the night of December 21-22.
On Timor, 300 Japanese and natives attacked an Allied
patrol near Atsabe December 1 8 , and other enemy forces
occupied Turiscai December 2 0 .
At Rabaul 76 ships were sighted, including 4 4 merchant men totalling about 2/,.2,000 tons.
9. From Harmon: On December 19, seven B-17's escorted by eight
destroyed buildings and started several large fires at
Munda. Three of 20 intercepting Japanese fighter air planes were destroyed. Single reconnaissance-bombing
missions were again carried out by B-17 1 s over Kahili,
Munda and Buka. US pursuit craft strafed the coastal
road on Guadalcanal from Bonegi River to Tassafaronga.
7.
From Brereton:
From MacArthur:
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Directed Brett to move the 275th Signal Construction Company (colored)

to New Orleans at the same time as the 5th Infantry.
Replied to Eisenhower that the Navy has approved an increase in the size
of UGF and UGS convoys so as to include three French ships regularly in
each. No special escorts are available to bring these ships from Dakar.
2.
3.
Authorized Adler to withdraw his mission and return to Cairo as soon as

practicable. Informed Andrews.
SECTION III.
PLANS
S. T. HANDY, Major General, Assistant Chief of Staff.
- 3
t-
WAR DEPARTMENT
1700, December 23, 19/, 2,

Chief of l
Deputy Chief o
Commanding Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1. 2.

Continued air activity, including some bombings of our in stallations, were reported from Tunisia for December 21.
Transmits the names of the Bethouart mission, expected to
arrive at Miami December 24 or 25.
Replying to War Dept. request, reports ma,1or US units which
have been, or are to be, rhipped to North Africa from the
UK. Total shipments will be approximately 13,000 to ETF,
12/,,700 to CTF.
Replies that the British and he agree that the best place
to combat submarines ir near their bases; Q5?-> of those
operating in the Atlantic are launched from fivn bases
in the 3ay of Biscay. The ASV -equipped B-2/, s can
therefore most effectively be operated from the UK.
From Eisenhoweri ^rom Eisenhowort
1. From Eisenhower;
4.
From Eisenhower:
5.
From Ejsenhower-Murphy: The North African Economic Board has been constituted
to coordinate civilian with military supply and transporta tion. Murphy and Galo are joint chairmen.
From Eisonhower: Requests statement of policy regarding Naval and Army
responsibility for receipt, storage, maintenance, and
operation of landing craft.
From Eis enhower-Murphy: Transmit a suggestion of cur Consul at Cons tan tine
that stocks of consumer goods should accompany Allied
troops on their entry into Tunis, as the Axis forces are
reported to be distributing to the Arabs all remaining
stocks of clothing, edible oils, and wheat which they are
unable to ship to Europe.
6.
7.
ICTORY
BUY
vmrr.o TATRf
VINO*
NDS
AMD
- 1
SCAMPS
Fran
^'-Penhower-IAirphy t Request advice as to the desirability of sending Adm. Battet to Martinique in an effort to acquire for the United Nations the use of the French naval and merchant shipping there. Lashio was the t a r g e t of a successful raid, December 20, by seven B-25s escorted by ten P-40's. Hits were r e ported on the airport and town. Attacks on Munda and Kahili were made on December 20 by B-17's escorted by pursuit a i r c r a f t . Concurs in War Dept. proposal that an additional allotment of personnel at large be made to Hq., SOS, South Pacific, to be reassigned by him to the SOS Hqs. of his various bases.
9.
Frcm Dissell:
10. 11.
From Iiamont From Harmon:
SECTION I I .
O H R ACTION TE
1. Transmitted to DeWitt the suggestion of AGF that he substitute the 7th for
- the 35th Division. Amphibious training will be carried out by direct
coordination between DeWitt and COMTASKFQR IHREE.
2. Suggested to Eisenhower that, as a tactful gesture towards polit3.cal unity
in Morocco, it would be desirable for him to pay a formal visit at Fez to
the tomb of Moulay Idriss, and another to the holy village by the same name.
3. Informed Eisenhower that it is contemplated that Peyrouton will be sent
as replacement for Chatel State Dept. concurs. Directed M/A, Argentina,
to issue necessary orders for air travel via Natal at Government expense.
SECTION III. PLANS
1. JCS approved the directive outlining "Functions of the Office of Strategic

Services" (JCS 155/2/D), a s amended in the course of the discussion.
2. JCS approved the recommendati ons of the Joint Staff Planners in JCS 170,
"Office of Strategic ServicesSpecial Operations in the Western
Mediterranean Area".
3. JCS referred JCS 97/7, "Deployment of US Air Forces in the Pacific Theater",
to the Joint Staff Planners for study and recommendation in connection with
their study on the entire situation in the South and Southwest Pacific.
4. JCS dispatched to the Combined Munitions Assignment Board the letter prepared
by Admiral Leahy, as amended, on JCS 174, "Relative Priorities of Theater
Operational Requirements for Aviation Fuel".
5. JCS approved the recommendation of the Joint Staff Planners in JCS 171,
"Request for Sight Additional Airplanes for Netherlands Purchasing Commission".
- 2 -
^ygJH
6,
J S directed the Secretary to prepare a draft memorandum far the President C on JCS 173, "Operational Control of Merchant Vessels", indicating possible adverse effects of his directive to the War Shipping Administration, together -with recommendation as to changes that should be made. JCS approved JCS 172, "Requirements Representatives on the Combined Staff
1
7. 8,
>_
JCS agreed to recommend to C S that C S 134, "Assault on Sardinia", be

C C referred to the Combined Staff Planners for study and recommendations to
CCS.
JCS approved JOS 167/1, "Basic Strategic Concept for 1943", as amended,
agreeing to recommend to C S that this concept be approved.
C JCS also discussed JCS 175, concerning Stilwell's theater. General Marshall presented to JCS s t a t i s t i c s on the possible number of U S forces which rnL^ht be moved to the U in the near future. K
9. 10, 11.
TSIOS. T . / ^ Major General, /

-3
WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL. STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 21,9 194-2
To:
Secretary of War
Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief o J
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding Gener<
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff, jl^
G-2 IReturn to OPD) )t
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

The situation in Tunisia remained essentially unchanged
December 22.
Bomber missions were cancelled December 21 and 22
because of the weather but our fighter aircraft were
active over the forward areas, destroying four enemy
planes in combat and attacking enemy motor transporta tion.
From November 8 through December 18, 93 enemy aircraft
have been destroyed, 22 probably destroyed, and 38
damaged in aerial combat. Between 55 and 60 enemy
aircraft have been destroyed on the ground. Our combat
losses for the same period total 55
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
All US personnel from the "Strathallan", including

thirty-one nurses and five WAAC officers, are safe.
The vessel was torpedoed, December 21, and sunk 85
miles from Oran.
Replies requesting that the present system for designat ing the priorities for loading of convoys be continued
for UG-5, as there is insufficient time to dispatch
staff officers to Washington to confer thereon.
Transmits a suggestion of French authorities that the
French vessels now at Buenos Aires make at least one
trip to North Africa to deliver needed wheat and other
foodstuffs.
3.
From Eisenhower:
4..
From Eisenhower;
1
- a
*
5.
From Bissell:
Using a base approximately 100 miles northwest of

Calcutta, five B-24.'s attacked the docks and ware houses of Rangoon December 22; seventeen bombs were
seen to strike in the target area.
(1) Operations summary, December 22. Allied ground
forces, aided by air support, continued their steady-
advance over the small area remaining to the enemy in
the Buna-Sanananda area. In other air activity, ships
at Arawe and Cape Cunningham (New Britain) were
attacked, one ship being set afire. One enemy fighter
was shot down and two of our aircraft were lost.
(2) Operations report December 23. US and Australian
troops advanced a short distance: northwest of Senimi
Creek. Near Buna offensive action gained a suitable
line of departure for further attack and brought the
buildings of the government station at Buna under our
fire. Our bombers attacked the airdrome at Cape
Gloucester twice end again bombed the camouflaged vessel
off Arawe. Three of nine intercepting Zero's were shot
down by a B17 on reconnaissance south of Kavieng. It
was reported that A50 Japs landed at Kaukenau on the
southwest coast of Dutch New Guinea, December 22.
6.
P'rom Mac Arthur
7.
From Harmon:
On December 21 two B-17's attacking two cargo vessels

near Buin scored a direct hit on one of them which was
observed burning and settling by the stern. Single
bomber raids were carried out against Munda, Kahili (3)>
and Sohana.
The next day, a B-17 dropped two tons of demolitions
on the enemy landing field at Kahili (Bougainville),
TODI
Harmon:
Reports that debarkation of the first echelon of the

25th Division, at Guadalcanal has been completed.
SK-CTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Replied to Eisenhower that the proposed method of visa-ing the papers

of the Giraud mission is satisfactory to the State Dept.
- t
2.
Asked Eisenhower if the existing plan of obtaining safe passage through

the Mediterranean for the eight Swedish relief ships carrying food from
the US to Greece is satisfactory; if not, his recommendations were
requested.
Informed Bissell that four transport planes with crews will be returned
to him from the Middle East by January 1.
P L M S
3.
SECTION III.
Wo approved action by JCS or CCS.
THos.
T. HANDY;
Major General,
-3
1L W-SJi."
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 26, 1942.

Chief of Staff ^ .. .*
Deputy Chief of Stejff
Services of Supply
0-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
The 144th Infantry has been designated as the

regiment to be transferred from the Western Defense
Command to the Eastern Defense Command.
Concurs in the use of the 7th Division for Alaskan
operations
Replies that six tuna boats can be released for trans fer to MacArthur.
1. Front DeWittt
2. From DeWitt: 3. From Brettt

4.
From Lang(Buenos Aires): As Peyrouton, leaving for Rio de Janeiro on

December 29, oannoT obtain priority on the Brazilian
line, recommends that Army airplanes be detailed to
carry him from Rio to Natal,
Requests information as to the status of the 1st
Ranger Battalion, and as to plans for replacing its
losses* Recommends that this unit be maintained at
ten per cent overstrength.
In response to a query by OPD for details concerning
Bethouart and Mast, states that both were reinstated
by Parian in their respective ranks on December 10
and that Bethouart was promoted from brigadier gen eral to major general just prior to his departure
from Algiers. Gen, Bethouart gave immediate assist ance to American foroes on their arrival in Morocco.
Recommends that Hohenthal be Instructed to send to
Allid Force Hq. for approval detailed information
on Frenoh military or oivil personnel in Spain de-
siring passage to North Africa, and that French
refugees without military implication be not allowed
passage at this time. French authorities concur in
5. From Eisenhower t
6.
From Eisenhower}
7,
From Eisenhower:
VICTORY
BUY
UNITED
STATES
SAVING
fBOUVS
AND
L STAMPS
- 1
this latter recommendation.

8, From Eisenhower: On December 23 patrolling continued* In capturing
and holding against a counterattack a hill six miles
NNE of Medjez-el-Bab, the British Guards Brigade sus tained a hundred casualties. One battalion of the
US 18th Regimental Combat team relieved the 2d Bru
Coldstream Guards. Rainy weather impeded activity.
Fran Bissellt On December 20 nine B-24's attacked the railroad yards
and airdrome at Rangoon, dropping more than seventeen
tons of bombs which scored many hits in the target
areas.
Myohaung railroad junction (north of Akyab) was
effectively bombed, December 21, by six B-25'.
SECTION II. 1* OTHER ACTION TAKEN
9.
Requested Andrews' recommendations on a plan to authorize the Caribbean

Defense Command"~a 15 per cent overstrength in officers to permit of
greater latitude in the subsequent withdrawal of experienced officers.
Officers fum ished to the command are to be in the lowest grade except
those for positions calling for a particular grade and qualification.
Informed Eisenhower of approval of the appointment of Georges Picot
to the Frenoh Military Mission in the US. Suggested that The question
of messages from Parian to other officials could best be discussed with
this mission on its arrival here.
Replied to Eisenhower that he may make voluntary enlistments in the UK
of American citizens in order to secure suitable personnel for marine
repair work in the combat zones,
PLANS
2.
3.
SECTION III.
THOS. T. HANDY, ^ ^
Major General, /
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 26, 1942,

Chief or Staff/f
Deputy Chief of \
Commanding Ger Army Air Forces ' Coiranardj ng General,
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPL>)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1. 2.
MESSAGES RECEIVED iiND ACTION TAIIEN

An unidentified airplane was reported ewer Iceland,
December 2A.
& Replies subnri tting strength of British < US troops
in the Combat Zone and on L. of C.
Requests material upon which to base a reply to the High
Commissioner regarding French broadcasts from radio Accra
directed at French West-African listeners, allegedly in sulting certain French personalities.and publishing news
that was flagrantl:/ untrue.
From Bonesteel: From Eisenhower: From Eisenhower:
From 31 sen)iower-Murphy: Berr:eret called a conference of French North

African leaders immediately after Parian's death in
order to determine upon the future leadership. Eisenhower-
Murphy suggest that the C-in-C be authorized to adopt a
definite attitude reflecting that of the American and
British Governments,
5. From Ridley: The Iranian Government has requested approval of his ap pointment as Assistant Minister of War, charged with re organizing the Army, particularly the service branches.
Believes that the Army can maintain security in the
country if the British and US Governments will permit
shipment of a reasonable amount of motor transportation
and supplies.
On December 22, five B-25's attacked the railroad'yards
at Sagaing (near Mandalay) while four P-A-O's attacked the
airdrome at Son La (130 miles west of Hanoi) where they
shot down an enemy airplane. Five B-25fs also attacked
Lashio, scoring hits on the cantonment and warehouses.
From Bi3sell:
- 1
O December 23 ten P-Ô's attacked Faingkwan, Burma, and n the next day four fighter airplanes attacked enemy transportation at Taipha-ga, Burma. 7. From MacArthur: (1) Operations summary for December 24. The steady progress of the Allied troops in the Buna area continued, supported by low-altitude air attacks. Our bombers attacked the Lae, Madang, and Gasmata airdromes, and sank a 1300-ton transport in the harbor at Arawe (New Britain). One heavy bomber, intercepted by 13 enemy aircraft, shot down 3 , plus one "probable". A 5,000 or 6,000-ton enemy vessel at Gasmata was sunk by six E-17's; nine Hudson bombers scored a direct hit on an enemy transport off the northwest coast of Timor. (2) Operations report for December 25. 200 Japanese from Sohana landed at Tinputz Mission, Bougainville, destroyed the mission, and moved inland. Allied forces in N w Guinea e maintained their pressure on the enemy v/hose latest landing attempt near Buna Mission that night was subjected to our a r t i l l e r y and mortar f i r e . T o enemy landing barges near w Cape Yfard Hunt were attacked by U PT boats the night of S December 24-25; casualties "were inflicted although the extent of the damage was not reported. Single bcmbers attacked Cape Gloucester and Lae, enemy troops and barges on northeastern Timor and a large submarine off the southeast coast of N w Britain. e 8. Fran Harmon: O December 23 Munda was attacked by two striking forces n of escorted bombers. Two, probably three, Japanese planes were shot down; we lost three fighter a i r c r a f t . The next day a force of nine Navy bombers, escorted by thirteen Army and Navy fighter a i r c r a f t , caught a large number of enemy planes on the ground a t Munda. Four of e i ^ i t Zeros attempting interception were shot down as were ten other airplanes taking off from the field. Be tween ten and twelve more aircraft were destroyed by bombing while awaiting take-off. Latar that day, eight of our bombers and sixteen fighters returned to bomb the runway and defense i n s t a l l a t i o n s . Another bomber-fighter force, attacking landing barges loaded with troops and supplies off Munda Point with 100 and 500-lb. bombs, sank a l l but four of the barges and reported that only a few of the personnel escaped. All of our airplanes returned.
From Emmons;
On December 23, 26 B-24's successfully attacked Wake Island with 500-lb. bombs and incendiaries5 there was every i n d i c a t i o n that the attack was a complete s u r p r i s e . All our airplanes returned,
SECTION I I . lo
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Authorized Eisenhower t o s e l l t o Spain the three transport airplanes interned t h e r e , delivery t o be made when we are secure i n the Mediterranean and when the airplanes could no longer be used against him. Offered to make the sa3.e for him i f he prefers t o avoid administrative d e t a i l s . Informed Eisenhower t h a t the convoy, with P - 4 0 ' s , crash b o a t s , and LCT's loaded as desired, w i l l s a i l i n the middle of January. Informed Eiscnhower-Murphy t h a t Peyrouton i s scheduled t o depart from Buenos Aires December 29 and t r a v e l to Algiers, via Natal, by a i r . PLANS
2 . 3 .
SECTION I I I .
JOS. T. HANDY, Major General, Assistant Chief of S t a f f .
- 3
_
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700 December 27, 1942

To: Secretary of War Chief of S t ^ Deputy Chief of ^ Commanding General Army Air Forces Commanding Genera Services of p p ^ J ^ Assistant Chief of Staff, G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I.

On December 25 a bomber-reconnaissance mission reported
eight enemy monoplanes in the west arm of Holtz Bay and
five enemy barges near Kiska.
Reports that Buckner concurs in the recommendation that
natives be returned to St. George Island (Pribilof Group),
the military situation permitting, to prune the 194-3 seal
herd.
From Buckner:
From DeWitt:
From CJO, Ladd Field: Requests that one Airbase Security Battalion be assigned
to his station. This would release combat troops for their
primary duties. Buckner concurs.
From Eisenhower: On Christmas day, after two days of attacks and counter attacks, Allied troops held the crest six miles NNE of
Medjez-el-Bab. Other Allied units repulsed enemy attacks
northwest of Kairouan and near Pichon.
Air operations December 2J+ were confined largely to routine
patrolling. On Christmas day, there was little air activity
other than a P-4-0 attack on enemy concentrations at Sfax.
From Eisenhower: The Imperial Council of French Africa (Giraud, Boisson,
Bergeret, Chatel, Nogues), meeting December 26 to designate
the successor of Parian, unanimously decided to appoint
Giraud as High Commissioner in French Africa and Commander in-Chief of all the armed forces, this appointment to take
effect immediately.
- 1
til
6.
From Bissell:
In operations December 22 and 23 our fighter aircraft successfully attacked enemy motor transport near Lungling and destroyed one of two Japanese bombers encountered in that vicinity. On December 24., four medium bombers attacked Tengchung, Western Yunnan.
7.
From MacArthur
Operations report for December 26. An enemy vessel shelled Buna during the night December 26-27. US PT boats inter cepted, torpedoed and sunk an enemy submarine off the mouth of the Kumusi River and a US submarine intercepted and sunk an enemy submarine off Gasmata. Enemy air attacks were carried out against our. installations in the Buna-Gona area during the day but no damage resulted. Six Zeros were shot down, three probably shot down, as against our loss of three aircraft destroyed and two damaged. Two Hudson transports, attacked by at least 12 Zero fighters, shot down one and reported another as "probable". A B-24 on armed reconnaissance successfully attacked an 8,000-ton merchant vessel in convoy in St. George's Channel; the vessel, when last seen, was burning and being abandoned. Other air attacks were carried out against enemy stores in Timor, the airdromes at Cape Gloucester and Finschhaven, Madang, Jacquinot Bay, and against ground installations along the northwest coast of New Guinea.
8.
From Harmon:
On Christmas Day, B-17's attacked Munda airfield, Buka, and

Rabaul. At Rabaul, three 500-lb. bomb hits were obtained on
o large transport or cargo vessel and seven near misses were
observed close to three other cargo ships. The enemy made
no attempt to intercept any of these missions and all our
bombers returned.
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Forwarded to G-l, -G-2, G-3, G-4, AGF, AAF and SOS, copies of the JCS directive
on the functions of the Office of Strategic Services for their information
and/or necessary action.
Informed Eisenhower and Andrews that a commission, formed by direction of the
Secretary of War with Adm. Stephenson as its director, will leave for Cairo
within a week to study typhus and preventative measures in the Middle East.
Informed Eisenhower that, starting with UGS-4, the speed of cargo convoys will
be reduced to permit the inclusion of nine-knot ships; sailing time will be
increased two days.
- 2
2.
3.
Notified Eisenhower that the Air Echelon of the 325th Fighter Group will sail
on the "Ranger", for fly-away delivery at Casablanca. The ground echelon of
this group will be available for UGF-5. Inquired as to the destination of
this group.
SECTION III.
PLANS
1'HOS. T.
Major General,
- 3 -
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 28, 1942

Chief of Sta
Deputy Chief o
Commanding General,ftr Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff
G-2 (Return to OPD)
,
4
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
1.

Six B-24-'s, escorted by P-38's, dispatched to Holtz Bay to attack the eight enemy Zeros previously reported there, were unable to locate these planes. One P-3S was lost while strafing antiaircraft installations at Holtz Bay and another was forced down on the north shore of Tanaga Bay on the return trip. One unidentified airplane was reported over Iceland December 26. Transmits messages from: (1) DeGaulle to Giraud through
Eisenhower, suggesting a meeting for the purpose of
unifying anti-Axis French effort, and (2) Eisenhower,
reporting delivery of the above message and a statement
by Giraud that he would take the matter under advisement.
There was little change in the situation on the Tunisian
front on December 26; the weather was clear but the ground
still boggy. Enemy aircraft kept our area under
surveillance; Algiers and Bougie were bombed.
Requests that the Commanding General, VI Army Corps, and
three staff officers proceed by air to his headquarters
and that other key staff officers be sent to Oran on
UGF-4, this in anticipation of the probability that US
forces will be employed in the Tebessa area.
Informed Eisenhower that his requests are being complied
with and asked what additional corps troops he desired
with Hq. & Hq. Co., VI Corps on UGF-5.
From Butler:
2.
From Bonesteel:
3.
From Hartle:
4.. From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
Action;
-
1
From Eisenhower:
Requests that troops departing on the sixth and subse quent convoys be equipped with the full allowance of cotton clothing, as well as wool, and that units pro ceeding to his theater be equipped with half of their T/BA heavy tentage. Operations report for December 27: Enemy bunkers in the Buna Area were destroyed by direct artillery fire and a Japanese counterattack repulsed. A probable submarine again shelled our positions at Buna Village the night of December 27-28. Allied"artillery engaged barges off Buna Mission with unobserved results. 20 to 30 enemy fighters and seven or eight dive bombers, attacking the Allied forces near Cape Endaiadere, were intercepted by 12 P-38's over Buna; nine (probably 12) enemy fighters and two dive bombers were destroyed at a cost of one P-38 damaged. Heavy bombers, attacking enemy shipping at Rabaul during the night December 26-27, destroyed one large cargo vessel and left two medium cargo vessels afire. Other bombing attacks were carried out against enemy transportation near the mouth of the Amboga River, the Buna Mission area, Finschhafen and Japanese installations and personnel on Timor. One Japanese and one Allied airplane were shot down.
From MacArthur:
8.
From Harmon:
On December 26, a striking force of dive bombers escorted by pursuit aircraft attacked two enemy cargo ships in Wickham Anchorage (near New Georgia), sinking one 3,000 ton vessel. Lone B-17's, dispatched on harassing missions from Guadalcanal, bombed Munda, Rekata (Santa Isabel), Kahili and Tonolei (Bougainville). The B-17 attacking Tonolei scored a direct hit on an unidentified ship. Requests that only military visitors on important and essential missions be authorized to visit Guadalcanal because of the limited accommodations there, and that advance information of such visits be furnished.
9.
From Halsey:
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Replied to Eisenhower that the receipt, storage, maintenance, and operation

of US landing craft assigned for operations in the Mediterranean are to be
under the immediate supervision of the Navy as units of the Amphibious
Force, Mediterranean. Under the principle of unity of command, this force,
upon the arrival of its units in the Mediterranean, will come under his
command.
2.
Informed Eisenhower that the master T/O to be used as a guide for

activating base censorship detachments is now being completed. Re quested information on the general censorship plan for North Africa
and made recommendations as to coordination of censorship activities.
Notified all concerned of the revocation of the secret classification
of the presence of US troops on Fiji, Tongatabu, Bora Bora, Espiritu
Santo and Efate.
Advised Stilwell of the status of pending negotiations for the abolition
of the treaty granting extra-territorial rights to US citizens in China
and of the War Dept. intention to conclude when necessary an agreement to
provide for exclusive jurisdiction of US courts martial over US military
personnel.
PLANS
3.
4..
SECTION III.
THOS. T. HANDY/,
Major General,
-3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, To: Secretary of War .^
December 29, 19A2
Chief of Staffy*/ ^vl
Deputy Chief of
Commanding General*; Army Air Forces Commanding General^*
1
Services of Supply * Assistant Chief of Staff,
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

(1) Requests information as to the'delivery date of
the remaining 1J+ winterized B-24 airplanes to be
assigned to his command and asks that delivery be
expedited.
(2) Forwards, with his concurrence, Butler's recom mendation that nine winterized P-38 replacements be
sent to the Eleventh Air Force without delay.
From DeWitt:
From Bonesteel:
An airplane, believed to be a Focke-Wulf, was fired

on by our antiaircraft units in Iceland December 27.
On December 26, 18 B-17's attacked shipping at Sfax,
sinking one small and two large ships. Bizerte was
attacked by 18 B-17's which started fires among the
shipping and in the dock area. Successful Allied
fighter sweeps were made during the day. Three enemy
airplanes ineffectively bombed the Allied airfield at
Biskra. In all, four US aircraft were shot down or
missing, and two enemy aircraft were destroyed.
Operations on December 27 were characterized by ag gressive patrolling by both sides, although the main
lines are essentially unchanged. Increased enemy
activity in the Gafsa area was apparent.
In a destructive air attack on the harbor at Sousse,
V, B-17's, bombing from 23,000 feet, claimed hits on
four ships, one of which was seen to blow up. Docks
and warehouses also were severely damaged. Biskra
was again attacked by three enemy aircraft, December 27,
but no damage or casualties resulted.
- 1
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenj^wei^MurjB^: Giraud, in his new capacity as High Commis sioner, paid his first official visit to Eisenhower
on December 28. Giraud proferred, and requested, com plete cooperation. He urged immediate reconsideration
of the exchange rate of the dollar, pound and franc in
North and West Africa, in which request Eisenhower con curs.
5.
From Hartle (For AAF): The projected South Atlantic air route has been
approved by the British Air Ministry.
On the night of December 26-27, five of his heavy
bombers aided Tunisian operations by attacking Tunis,
Sousse and Sfax, hits being observed in the barracks
and dock area at Sfax.
The next day, 12 US heavy bombers attacked the harbor
and shipping at Sousse, obtaining direct hits on one
merchant vessel. All our aircraft returned safely.
6. From Brereton:
7.
From Bissell:
Enemy fighters and medium bombers caused no damage in

a surprise attack against our airdrome at Yunnanyi,
December 25- The next day a similar attacking force
was intercepted by 17 P-4-0' s. Our airdrome suffered
little damage, but the enemy lost three bombers and
five fighters; our loss was two fighters.
The same day, five B-25's escorted by 11 P-4-O's started
large fires in the Lashio warehouse area and shot down
one Japanese airplane.
From MacArthur:
Operations report for December 28. US troops con tinued to progress slowly in the Buna area, repulsing
enemy counterattacks and capturing 13 enemy bunkers.
In addition to supporting these ground operations, our
aircraft made destructive bombing attacks against the
airdromes at Lae, Kavieng and Gasmata. Eight B-^^+'s,
bombing Rabaul, scored direct hits on a heavy cruiser
or large transport. Our aircraft also attacked a
landing strip at Fuiliro (Timor) with unobserved re sults. One enemy reconnaissance airplane was shot down,
Enemy aircraft made an ineffective raid on Merauke
(New Guinea).
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Brett and MacArthur that six ,large, refrigerated tuna boats
are now en route from Panama to the Southwest Pacific Area, via the US
,... x.
where repairs will be effected.

2. Replied to Eisenhower that no action would be taken on the request con cerning propaganda broadcasts from Radio Accra in view of the changed
political situation and the professed intention of all the French to
cooperate. i
Advised Eisenhower that Rear Admiral Pegram and Air Vice Marshal Hamil ton have been selected as British Naval and Air Representatives, re spectively, with Glassford's Mission.

U.
\^
Informed Stilwell and Wheeler that the plan for organization of the SOS
in the China-Burma-India area, as represented by recently submitted
Tables of Organization, has been approved, with slight reductions in the
personnel involved. Approximately 100 officers below the grade of
colonel, of the 132 provided for, will depart in mid-January, the re mainder as requested by Stilwell.
SECTION III.
PLANS
fao"s7T. HANDY,
Major General,
'
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 30, 194.2

Chief of Stai
Deputy Chief
Commanding General,
Army Air Forces Commanding Genera
Services of Supp
Assistant Chief of Staf.
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I.

Recommends that regimental anti-tank companies in his
theater be equipped with the 75 nun anti-tank gun or its
equivalent as the 37 mm gun is ineffective against
German Mark Ill's and IV's except at very short ranges.
The French captured some 100 prisoners near Oued Kebir
Reservoir (12 miles southwest of Pont-du-Fahs), but an
enemy counterattack in that ares, December 28, is report ed to have mede considerable progress. An enemy attack
in the Heidous aret (north of Medjez-el-Eab) is being
held.
On December 28 enemy air transport and reconnaissance
activities continued. US fighter aircraft on ijotrol,
reconnaissance, and offensive missions shot down six
enemy planes and destroyed considerable enemy motor
transportation. One P-38 was lost. Sixteen B-17's
attacked Sousse: results are as yet unknown.
From Eisenhower:
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Andrews:
During the night December 27-28, six British B-24's,

uruler US command, attacked the shipping and harbor in stallations at Sousse, causing large fires; all bombers
returned safely.
During the daylight hours of December 28, twenty-two US
B-24's, attacking Sousse harbor, obtained hits on two
tankers and started fires along the quay. Of seven or
more enemy planes attacking this formation, two were
shot down. One of our bombers is missing.
From Bis sell
On December 27, a striking force of ten B-25's escorted

by 11 P-Ô's bombed and machine-gunned aircraft and
installations at Lashio airdrome. Threce enemy aircraft
- 1
were destroyed and others probably damaged in the dis persal area. One of our bombers, failing to reach the
primary target, bombed Mengmao (enst of Lungling), ob tained three direct hits on the barracks there, and ob served a concentration of enemy motor transport in the
vicinity. A striking force of three B-25's and three
P-4.0!s, dispatched to attack the latter target, reported
that major damage was inflicted.
A lone fighter airplane machine-gunned a moving train
north of Maymyo, setting coaches on fire and damaging the
locomotive.
5. From MacArthur:
Operations report for December 29. US and Australian
troops, consolidating their gains near Buna Mission and
penetrating the enemy positions northwest of the old
landing strip, have confined the enemy to the vicinity
of the Buna Government Station and into a V-shaped area
to the east. Lone B-2/, raids were carried out against
Lae and Gasmata and three A-20's strafed enemy canoes
and huts on a coastal sweep between Amboga and Salamaua.
The Beaufighters which strafed the Fuiloro (Timor) air drome the previous day silenced enemy machine gun posi tions and damaged a grounded plane.
From MacArthur
Recommends that three additional submarines, either
operational or non-operational type, be allocated to his
theater in order that guerrilla organization in the
Philippines may be supplied. Ris available submarines
cannot undertake additional schedules without interfering
with strategically important operational missions.
(1) The second enemy c&rgo ship attacked by a striking
force of our five bombers in Wickham Anchorage (near New
Georgia) on December 26, sank late that day.
The next day our pursuit planes attacked enemy supply
parachutes at Tassafaronga. Twelve dive bombers and
fourteen P-39's bombed and strafed the enemy bivouac area
near Kokumbona: Munda was again attacked, Marine fight ers shooting down three Zeros over the field. One enemy
airplane was destroyed on the field. All our airplanes
returned undamaged.
(2) On December 28 Munda was strafed by 18 US airplanes
which set fire to three Zeros and destroyed one anti aircraft grin and crew. Of nine Zeros and two Japanese
bombers encountered over Munda- that day, one bomber was
shot down.
- 2
7.
From Harmon:
8.
From Harmon:
Reports on December 29 that 12 B-17's are to be trans ferred to Port Moresby to carry out, under MecArthur, daily attacks against enemy shipping at Rabaul for come ten days or until profitable targets there are exhaust ed. They will attack Rabaul en route. Reports-, that upon his recommendation Halsey has request ed New Zealand to assume responsibility for the defense of Tongatabu. The New Zealand War Cabinet approves, and replacement will be by New Zealand forcer, starting early in February. Harmon recommends that he be given the authority to settle all questions concerning Army interests involved in the turn-over. Requests that an additional complete heavy bombardment group be stationed in his department as soon as possible in order that more missions simile-r to the recent r&id on Wake Island can be undertaken. Nimitz concurs. Informed Emmons that no heavy bombardment groups are available for this purpose. Concurred in the continua tion of such long range missions as his present means permit.
From Harmon:
10.
From Eminons:
Action:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION T - K K
/.E
Authorized DeWitt to divert ten P-38's from the Fourth Air Force for
assignment to Alaska, these airplanes to be replaced by en increased allot ment to the Fourth Air Force in February.
Replied to DeWitt that the modification on seven B-24's is expected to be
completed by January 5, end on the remaining three a few days later, the
delivery of the last mentioned three completing the project. Authorized
him to retain in the combat area unwinterized operational B-2/.'s pending
the arrival of the above airplanes.
Forwarded to Eisenhower an extract of JCS 1 5 5 A / D informing him that
officers and agents of the Office of Strategic Services will be under the
direct control of theater or aree commanders who are to be informed of
all plans or projects, and that such officers and agents are not tc en gage in any activity which has not been approved by the commander concerned
2.
3.
/+. Informed Eisenhower that the Navy has agreed to increase by three the
ships in convoys to and from Northwest Africa so that military equipment
for the- French forces and civilian commodities may be carried on the east ward trips. '
5. Suggested to Eisenhower-Murphy that they discuss with British authorities
the question of transporting the 123 Soviet internees in Algeria to the UK
for subsequent movement to Russia. Our State Dept. has suggested that
the Soviets take this matter up directly with the British on the same
basis.
6.
Forwarded to Eisenhower-Murphj inform; Lion from the State Dept. that the
US Consuls at Accra and Brazzaville have been questioned with reference
to the release of the French citizens that Boisson desired returned.
Queried Bissell as to: (1) the length of time a heavy bomber group and
fighter group, less ground echelon, could be operated and maintained
effectively with the personnel and installations in his theater and
(2) the minimum ground echelons, transported by air, necessary to oper ate the above groups for about three months.
Requested Stilwell's comments on a proposed project to open an overland
route from Karachi to Chungking via Ashkhabad (Persia).
Informed MacArthur that the Australian 9th Division and other remaining
Australian troops in the Middle East, except the air personnel, will be
returned to Australia, departing the latter part of January.
Requested H j r f e H s comments on a plan for supplying the 1st Marine Divi +-*tfsion, whereby items which cannot be supplied by the I Marine Corps will
be requisitioned through Army channels in the si me manner as for Army
units, the necessary instructions for the honoring of such requisitions
to be furnished- Army supply agencies in the US.
7.
8.
10.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No action reported by CCS or JCS.
THOS. T. HANDY/, ^
Major General,
Ufl
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 31, YjL2 To: Secretary of War Chief of S t % Deputy Chief of f Commending General,!} Army Air Forces tP Commanding Genera Services of Supply J K T A Assistant Chief of SrtafTJ G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. 1.

- 0 B-17's successfully attacked the German submarine
4 installations at Lorient, December 30, despite heavy
anti&ircraft fire and many enemy fighterr., seventeen
of which were destroyed. Three of our bombers are
missing.
Axis forces occupied the Heidous area after costly
attacks on December 27 and 28 which forced the with drawal of our covering forces. Although reinforced,
the enemy attack southwest of Pont-du-Fahs which
started December 28 is being held. In the Pichon area
the French advance was checked on December 29*
The enemy continued to reinforce his positions. Aggres sive patrols along the entire front by both sides were
active during December 29.
On December 29, 18 B-17's attacked Sousse harbor; there
was considerable other air c-ctivity over the combat zone,
From Eaker:
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
Asks War Dept. views as to his proposal to recommend

that Spaatz be appointed as Combined Air Commander in
his theater.
Concurred, suggesting that Eisenhower submit his recom mendation to CCS. Suggested the desirability of unified
air command throughout the Mediterranean, especially as
pertains to operational control over long-range bombers.
Concurs with Spaatz in State Dept. approval of the sale of interned transport airplanes to the Spanish Government, suggesting that War Dept. arrange the s&le through Hohenthal.
Action:
4..
CTOKY
From Eisenhower:
BUY
UNITED STATE* LVINOS I N D S AMD
- 1
STAMPS
From Fisenhower-Murphy; The French mission at their headquarters

points out that the French mission now in Washington
is composed of two independent units: (l) A permanent
military mission headed by Bethouart, and (2) a tem porary civilian mission composed of Lemaigre and
Dubreuil.
From Eisenhower-Murphy; Recommend that West Civil Affairs jurisdiction political, administrative, life of West Africa is now French North Africa.
7. From Brereton: Africa be included under the
of their theater as the
economic, and commercial
closely knit into that of
On December 29, 12 B-2/,-D's, unable to attack their

primary targets at Tunis because of weather, bombed
shipping at Sousse where hits were observed on a
merchant vessel. All our* bombers returned.
Twelve B-24!s operating from Pandavaswsr (130 miles
northwest of Calcutta), effectively attacked the rail way station, docks, airdrome and arsenal at Bangkok on
December 27.
Operations report for December .30. Allied forcer, in
New Guinea continued their pressure with no materiel
change in positions. An AlliecT detachment in central
Timor has been forced back; another is isolated in the
same region.
Single B-17's and B-24's on armed reconnaissance,
attacked Japanese airdromes at Wewak end Lae, and the
village of Madang in New Guinea; light bombers harassed
enemy positions as far west as Salamaua. At least four
enemy airplanes, including a bomber, were destroyed on
the ground.
Seven B-17's, attacking the enemy fleet at Rabeul
(estimated at 75 vessels including 23.3,000 tons of mer chant shinning), obtained direct hits on each of two
large ships setting both afire, and scored other hits
on an 8,000-ton transport and a near miss on a 10,000-ton
transport.
Twenty-two Japanese bombers attacked Merauke (south
coast of New Guinea) where half the town was destroyed
without military casualties.
From Bissell;
From MacArthur
- 2
lot
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Directed AGF and SOS to take the necessary action to prepare the de tachment of Hq. & Hq. Co., VI Army Corps, for movement to Northwest
Africa.
Directed the AAF to organize and equip, without delay, a party as
recommended by Bradley, for the survey of the airdromes, installations
and air routes necessary to maintain and operate an air force in Siberia.
Notified all concerned to address to Harmon (and not the island base
commanders) all communications concerning general policy matters of the
South Pacific Area.
Inquired of Eisenhower as to how many medium tanks, M-/f, he desired on
UGS/+ for the British and how many for Combat Command B, in view of a
supplementary request received through the British mission here.
>-.
3.
A.
SECTION III. 1. 2.
PLANS
JCS approved the recommendation contained in JCS 180, "The Bradley Mission."
JCS agreed to recommend that CCS approve, as amended, the report of the
Combined Production and Resources Board Truck Committee (sub-enclosure
of CCS 110/8, "Motorized Vehicles").
JCS approved the Arnold - Evill - McCain - Patterson "Agreement on Air
Supplies to British in 1943", (JCS 178).
JCS approved the recommendations contained in JCS 79/5, "Security Control
for Military Operations."
JCS, discussing CCS 136, "Polish Liaison Section", recommended to the CCS
that the Polish M A be informed that CCS, although pleased to have a
Polish liaison officer in Washington, cannot approve a similar assign ment to Eisenhower's staff.
JCS agreed to inform the representatives of the British Chiefs of Staff
of their desire to defer action on the recommendations submitted in
CCS 121/2, "Formal Agreement for use of Ascension Island", pending
comments being prepared by the State Dept.; request is to be made for
the latter.
JCS referred JCS 154/1, "Troop Bases for all Services, for 194-4- and Be yond" , to the Joint Staff Planners for their use as an approved strategic
concept in connection with studies they have been directed to make.
3.
A.
5.
6.
7.
S.
JCS noted Mr. Nelson's reply to JCS 151/6, "Modification of the 1943 Ship building Program of the Maritime Commission", and directed that he be in formed that action on the question is being withheld pending results of
the study being conducted by the War Production Board.
JCS approved the recommendations of the Joint Staff Planners contained in
JCS 108/1, "Importation of Bauxite and Alumina".
JCS directed that a draft memorandum to the President be prepared for
signature of Adm. Leahy, on JCS I8l/l "Deployment of High and Medium
Altitude Bombing Against Moving Surface Targets", including the matter
contained in Arnold's memorandum.
JCS reached several decisions concerning CCS 134-/1* dealing with Eisen hower' s operations.
JCS recommended to the CCS that CCS 137, "Construction Program of Escort
Vessels", be reexamined immediately by the Combined Staff Planners with
the view of expediting the production of escort vessels in sufficient
number to meet the submarine menace.
10.
11.
12.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff ^
'JO 3
-37
37
**J t
<
P HSIDOUS BEJA O IGDJEZ-EL-BAB 0
O P01IT-DU-FAHS
!
APPROXIMATE L l i E CF E1B1 POaVAlQ ELELENTS DEC. 29
FIEMCH ATTACK O PIGHDN
ENGLISH
MILES

WWII AAF Operations Dec 1942

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WAR DEPARTMENT

WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF

1700, December 4, 1942.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACT lull TAKEN

Replies that he has insufficient information to

Action: 6. From Ivla c Arthur

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Prepared letter for signature of the Secretary of War to the Secretary

No reported action by JCS or CCS

1700, December 5, 1942.

SECTION I. 1. From Navy:

MESSAGES RECEIVED A - D ACTION TAKEN

Concurs in Ilavy's tentative proposal to establish

Eastbound tonnage, carried by air from India to

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Directed SOS to increase by 200 the allotment of 2|-ton trucks to the

A3ked Eisenhower's recommendations as to forwarding Derlan's messages,

CCS directed the Secretariat to redraft the directive to Adm. Glass-

1700 December 6, 1942

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Aircraft of our two heavy bomber squadrons, attacking

Forwards reconunendations for additional antiaircraft

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Inquired of Eisenhower if he desired that the headquarters and headquarters

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

ISESSAGES RECEIVED AI.D ACTION TAKEN

Approximate ontact Dec $ ^

Enerrrr defense line

all air activity six enemy airplanes and one of our

From Eisenhower (to Andrews): Agrees that heavy bombardment aircraft

Requests approval of certain headquarters T/Ofs and the

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Advised all senior commanders concerned of the assignment of experienced

8. Advised Eisenhower that diplomatic pressure for release of our paratroops

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

1700 December 8, 1942

SECTION 1. From Butler

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

northwest from the vicinity of Massicault. A

Several Allied air attacks were made in support

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Instructed Eisenhower to explain orally to Parian the attitude of the US

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

1700, December 9, 194-2

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION M E N

From Bonesteel: From Eisenhower;

From Bissell: From IlacArthur;

Lalrunai (Iiabaul) airdrome was bombed on the night

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Invited Eisenhower's views as to the desirability of a visit to

4.. Forwarded to Fitzgerald the substance of Eisenhower1 s report that Boisson

JCS deferred action on JC3 14.6/1 to 14.6/3, inclusive, "Priorities

1700, December 10, 1942 To: Secretary of War / )

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Ground operations in Tunisia on December 8 were

On December 6, his fighter aircraft destroyed enemy

Approximate |>6nt lines

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

llo approved action by JCS or CCS.

1700, December 11, 1942

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Informed Eisenhower that the Dakar Mission is proceeding to Natal where

No approved action by JCS or CCS.