321 - BG - 1943-07 Flak

12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing
321st Bombardment Group

History: July 1943
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For my dad,
Colonel John “Jack” Fitzgerald, U.S. Army (retired)
“Lil Butch”
John T. Fitzgerald, SMSgt, U.S. Air Force (retired)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing (M)
321st Bombardment Group (M)
History: July 1943
The following is a compilation of the 321st Bomb Group’s Headquarters and individual
Squadron War Diaries. They have been transcribed word for word, from the Squadron
Histories provided by the Air Force Historical Research Agency (AFHRA), Maxwell Air
Force Base Alabama. At the end of each Squadron’s daily entry, the individuals cited in
the entry are identified by full name, rank and duty, in alphabetical order. The day’s
entry begins with the Tactical Operations Statement, from the United States Army Air
Forces (USAAF) Chronology, for the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO). The
history also includes mission reports, mission crew rosters, Missing Air Crew Reports
(MACR), personal mission logs, journals, and diaries made available by various sources.
Invitation
Anyone who has documentation pertaining to the 321st Bomb Group or its members, and
would like to have it included in this history, is welcome to participate. Copies of:
photos (official or personal); orders (promotion, decoration, travel, etc.); Mission
Reports; Missing Air Crew Reports; personal diaries, logs, journals, etc; other
documentation; or information that will help identify hi-lited individuals will be greatly
appreciated, as one of my goals is to correctly identify every man and plane assigned to
the 321st Bomb Group.
My only interest in this project is to honor those who served by perpetuating their story,
and making it available for future generations, particularly the families and friends of
our Great Heroes. If you are interested in helping, or if I may be of assistance in finding
information about your 321st BG Hero, please contact me at: Lil-Butch@nc.rr.com
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks

Agostino Alberti: Professor - historian (Soncino, Italy)
Michele Becchi: aviation history - archaeologist (Reggio Emilia, Italy)
Jack Brellenthin, great nephew of: Harold Ray Brellenthin, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Cecile Burandt, daughter of: Charles Lawson “Chuck” Burandt, Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Sally Brown, daughter of: Barnard H. Seegmiller, Sgt, armament, 445th BS
Dave Charville, grandson of: Leighton Daniel “Danny” Charville, 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Barbara Connolly, daughter of: Edward Charles “Salvo” Ennis, T/Sgt, radar-radio-
gunner, 447th BS
1Lt Robert S. Crouse: pilot, 379BS
Ralph “Monguse” Gimenez: Software Architect, IL2-FB Skinner
Bob Haney, son of: Vincent M. Haney, M/Sgt, flight engineer, 341st BG
Ed Haney, cousin of: Gale Monroe Dickson, Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Special Thanks to Very Special Folks (continued)
Jim Hawkins, son of: Frank B. “Pancho” Hawkins, 2Lt, pilot, 381st BS
John Hughes, son of: John Jerome “Jack” Hughes, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS
Patti Johnson: genealogist, proofer, and family friend of: James Raymond Orechia,
T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS
Don Kaiser, son of: Quentin C. Kaiser, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 489th BS
John Lanza, nephew of: William A. Lanza, Sgt, gunner, 446th BS
Stephanie Lile, daughter of: Keith B. Lile, S/Sgt, gunner, 445th BS
1 Lt Joseph A. Malec: bombardier, 448th BS and friend of: Vernon Curtis Dossey, Capt,
st
pilot, 448th BS
Vince Mango, son of: Vincent A. “Vince” Mango, S/Sgt, aerial gunner, 447th BS
John J. McCarthy: Sgt, engineer-gunner, bombardier, 447th BS
Lorraine McRae, daughter of: James Arrington McRae, 1Lt, bombardier, 446th BS
T/Sgt Rocco F. “Rocky” Milano & daughter Peggy Chatham: Crew Chief of Peg O' My
Heart, Lil Butch, and Haulin' Ass, 446th BS
Bob Ritger, nephew of: Frederic Charles Ritger, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Irving J. Schaffer: T/Sgt, radio-gunner, photographer, 448th BS
1st Lt Frederick H. Smith: pilot, 447th BS
Marsha Gurnee Suszan, daughter of: Clarence E. “Shine” Gurnee, S/Sgt, gunner,
448thBS
Dominique Taddei: author, U.S.S. Corsica (Corsica)
S/Sgt George B. Underwood: gunner, 381st BS
David Waldrip, nephew of: Robert Laseter Waldrip, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
Vinny J. White, son of: Joseph P. White, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 381st BS
S/Sgt, Harry (NMI) Yoa: engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Crew lists
Aircraft information - serial #, name, etc Sometimes used
P Pilot Bomb/Nav Bombardier-Navigator
CP Co-pilot BN Bombardier-Navigator
N Navigator EG Engineer-gunner
B Bombardier RG Radio-gunner
E Engineer-gunner TG Turret gunner
R Radio-gunner AG Aerial gunner
G Gunner PH Photographer
F Photographer AP Aerial photographer
CL Cannon Loader (on B-25G) CC Crew Chief
O Observer
Acronyms & Abbreviations
A/C: Aircraft M/G: Machine Gun

A/D: Aerodrome MIA: Missing In Action
AE: Aerial Engineer M/T: Motor Transport (Truck)
A/F: Air Field, also Anti-Flak MTB: Motor Torpedo Boat
AA or AAA: Anti-Aircraft (Artillery) M/V: Military Vessel, Maritime Vessel
abs: absent M/Y: Marshalling Yards
AGL: Above Ground Level MC: Maintenance Crew
ALO: Allied Liaison Officer NARA: National Archives and Records
Administration
ALW: Alive and Well NASAF: Northwest African Strategic Air
Force
AMGOT: Allied Military Government for NATC - Northwest African Training
Occupied Territories Command
A.R.C.: American Red Cross NATOUSA: North Atlantic Theater of
Operations USA
ASC: Air Support Command Nav: Navigator
ASN: Army Serial Number (personnel) N.B.S.: National Bureau of Standards
Assg: Assigned NC: Nurse Corps.
ASV: Anti-Surface Vessel (radar) NCO: Non-Commissioned Officer
ATA: Actual Time of Arrival Nickels: propaganda Leaflets
ATC: Air Transportation Command (NMI): No Middle Initial
ATS: Air Transport Service - also Army NOK: Next Of Kin
Telegraph Service
Azon: Azimuth only (guided bomb) NRO: National Reconnaissance Office
BC: Bomber Command OAF: Occupation Air Forces
BIC: Bruised in Crash OD: Officer of the day, also Olive Drab
Bmb: Bombardier OLC: Oak Leaf Cluster
Bn: Battalion OTU: Operational Training Unit
B.R.L.: Ballistic Research Laboratory PAX: Passengers
BSM: Bomb System Maintenance PDI: Pilot Direction Indicator
CA: Heavy Cruiser POE: Point of Embarkation
CAVU: Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited POW: Prisoner of War (also PW)
C.B.I.: China-Burma-India Theater PRO-Kit: Individual Chemical
Prophylactic packet
C/D: Coastal Defense PW: Prisoner of War (also POW)
CE: Circular Error PWB: Psychological Warfare Branch
CEP: Circular Error Probable PX: Post Exchange
Chaff (US term): Radar countermeasure: QBB: Base of cloud
tiny strips of aluminum, metalized glass
fiber, or plastic. See Window
CL: Cannon Loader QDM: Course to steer
CO: Commanding Officer QM: Quarter Master
CG: Commanding General R/B: Road Bridge
CP: Command Post RC: Red Cross
CQ: Charge of Quarters R/J: Road Junction
C/S: Call Sign R/Y: Railroad Yards
CWS: Chemical Warfare Service Repl: Replacement
D/H: Direct Hit RMC: Returned to Military Control
DD: Destroyer RON: Remain OverNight
DED: Declared Dead - no body or remains RR/B: Railroad Bridge
found
Demo: Demolition RR/J: Railroad Junction
DL: Dead List RR: Railroad
DNB: Died Non-Battle / Died Not-Battle RTD: Returned To Duty
DOW: Died Of Wounds. R/V: Rendezvous
DOWRIA: Died of Wounds Received in S-1: Administration
Action
DS: Detached Service S-2: Intelligence
E/A: Enemy Aircraft S-3: Operations
E/F: Enemy Fighter S-4: Supply
EM or E/M: Enlisted Men SAP: Semi-Armor Piercing
ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival SD: Special Duty
ETIR: Estimated Time In Route S/E: Single Engine (plane)
EUS: Evacuated to the United States S.E.: Special Equipment (Shoran)
E/V: Enemy Vessel S/F: Siebel Ferry
F Boat: Flying Boat sk: sick
F/L: Formation Leader - also Flight Leader S/M: Submarine
FO or F/O: Flying Officer SO: Special Order
FOD: Finding Of Death SOI: Standard Operating Instructions?
Frag: Fragmentation S/P: Sea Plane
F.S.: Flight Section Sq: Squadron
GLO: Ground Liaison Officer (UK) Sqdn: Squadron
GO: General Order SWA: Seriously Wounded in Action
GP: General Purpose/Gun Position T/A: Target Area
GTC: General Time Convention (railroad) T/C: Troop Concentration
HE: High Explosive T/E: Twin Engine (plane)
IAS: Indicated Air Speed TAC: Theater Allied Command
I & E: Information & Education TBF: Tactical Bomber Force
I.F.F.: Identification, Friend or Foe TD: Temporary Duty
(i. o.): Initials Only (initial is the name) TDY: Temporary Duty
IP: Initial Point TLC: Tactical Landing Craft
KNB: Killed Not Battle TO: Take-Off (time), also Technical
Order, and Transportation Officer
KIA: Killed In Action T/O: Table of Organization
L/A: Landing Area TOT: Time Over Target/Time On Target
LC: Landing Craft Trfd: Transferred
L/G: Landing Ground TWX: Teletypewriter Message
Lox: Liquid Oxygen u/i: Unidentified, also unit of issue
L/S: Landing Strip UNRRA: United Nations Relief and
Rehabilitation Administration
L/V: Large Vehicle Very Pistol or Verey Pistol: Flare gun
LST: Landing Ship Tank VOCO: Verbal Order of the Commanding
Officer
Ltr: Letter WC: Water closet
LWA: Lightly Wounded in Action W.O.: Warrant Officer
MACR: Missing Air Crew Report WIA: Wounded In Action
MATS: Military Air Transport Service Window (British term): Radar
countermeasure: tiny strips of aluminum,
metalized glass fiber, or plastic. See Chaff
WP: White Phosphorus (bombs)
WT, W/T: Watch Tower
XC: Cross Country
ZI: Zone of Interior (U.S.A.)
Thursday, 1 July 1943
USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): P-40's, along with

Twelfth Air Force fighters, fly armored reconnaissance of S Sicily and convoy patrol in
the Cap Bon, Tunisia area and off Kebili, Tunisia. Royal Air Force (RAF) Halifaxes hit
Catania, Sicily railway yards.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force): During

the night of 30 Jun/l Jul, Wellingtons bomb barracks and railway station at Cagliari,
Sicily. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) flies patrol, reconnaissance, and
convoy protection. The 8th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group transfer
with C-47’s from Matemore, Algeria to El Djem, Tunisia. The 18th Troop Carrier
Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group transfer with C-47’s from Blida, Algeria to
Kairouan, Tunisia. The 28th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group transfers
with C-47's from Thiersville, Algeria to El Djem, Tunisia. The 312th Bombardment
Squadron (Dive), 86th Bombardment Group (Dive) transfers with A-36's from Tafaraoui,
Algeria to Korba, Tunisia. During the month of July: HQ 52nd Troop Carrier Wing
transfers from Oujda, French Morocco to Kairouan, Tunisia, and HQ 62nd Troop Carrier
Group transfers from Matemore, Algeria to Goubrine, Tunisia, and the 1st and 2nd
Antisubmarine Squadrons (Heavy), 480th Antisubmarine Group (Heavy), AAF
Antisubmarine Command, based at Port Lyautey, French Morocco operate from Agadir,
French Morocco with B-24s.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 1st of July found the group well established at Souk-El-
Arba in carrying out damaging blows against enemy military objectives and installations.
There were few provisions for recreation or diversion of any sort, with the exception of
an occasional movie. As a result, personnel of the group turned their attention to such
places as Tunis, Bizerte and Bone. With transportation facilities that were more or less
limited, most men visited Tabarka or Ain Draham. The beach at Tabarka was an
excellent one and trucks were sent daily there for those who wished to do a little
swimming. Ain Draham was a pleasant little village in the mountains where any number
of personnel became regular and frequent patrons of the Restaurant – Hotel Beau SeJour
and the Bellvue Hotel. The drive through the mountain-country to these places, was a
relaxing and most picturesque one.
445th BS War Diary: No mission today. The weather remains very hot and sultry. We
have been having trouble keeping the Arabs out of our dispersal area. This morning we
rounded up ten of them and held them out in front of the operations building in the hot
sun under the watchful eye of an armed guard. The guard was more or less just to let
them know that we meant business. After about four hours of sitting in the sun we took
their names and pictures and told them to get off the field and stay off. T/Sgts Finn and
Gallaher when the jeep they were driving turned over as they were returning from Ain
Draham this morning were injured. Sgt. Finn got out with a broken nose and minor cuts
on his face while Gallaher received injuries to his chest and stomach. They are in the
Thursday, 1 July 1943 (continued)
base hospital. The first squadron league softball game was won this evening by our
enlisted men over the 909th Air base squadron by a score of 9 to 7.
Finn, Jessie N., T/Sgt, duty soldier Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt, gunner
446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.
447th BS War Diary: The Articles of War were read to the enlisted men today.
448th BS War Diary: No Entry

Friday, 2 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's bomb airfields at

Lecce, Grottaglie and San Pancrazio Salentino, Italy. In Sicily, B-25's hit the airfield and
surrounding area at Sciacca; P-40's, escorting bombers to Sciacca, shoot down a fighter
and damage 1. 2 P-40's are lost.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)

Wellingtons hit Palermo and Cagliari during the night of 1/2 Jul; and Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) B-25's hit Castelvetrano during the day. Northwest African
Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft attack 2 vessels off the W coast of Italy and fly
patrols, reconnaissance, and convoy protection. The air echelon of the 111th Recon-
naissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group transfers with P-51's from Bou
Ficha, Tunisia to Korba, Tunisia.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry
HQ 321st BG Communications Log:

0253 Received a call that Sgt. D. C. Gallaher and Sgt. R. F. Finn were in a Jeep
accident at AIN DRAHAM, and requested an MD and transportation back.
Called Group Dispensary and they stated that they would send an MD up.
1030 Lt. GARRET in 005 (448th BS 41-30005 “The Duck”) departed for Gunnery.
1215 A/C 520 (446th 42-64520 “Duchess”) off for gunnery.
Load 18 A/C with 500’s inst and .025 fuses.
Load 18 A/C with 300’s inst and .015 fuses.
Finn, Robert F., Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Gallaher, Dewitt C., Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS
Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
445th BS War Diary: No mission today. A few local training flights were flown. It was
terribly hot and windy and lasted until late this evening. Ice cold beer was served at
chow this evening which was welcomed by all after a hot day.
447th BS War Diary: Late this morning the squadron was notified to be on the alert for a
bombing raid. It later developed that there were some bombers in the area but they were
American planes doing practice bombing. A false alarm.

Saturday, 3 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-25's hit airfield at

Comiso, Sicily. P-40's fly escort over Sicily and over Pantelleria Island in the
Mediterranean, claiming destruction of 1 fighter. The 564th, 565th, 566th and 567th
Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 389th Bombardment Group (Heavy) based at Hethel,
England begin operating with B-24's from Bengasi, Libya.

the night of 2/3 Jul, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons attack
Olbia, Sardinia and Trapani, Sicily. The following day, B-17's and B-25's hit Chilivani,
Italy, and the airfields at Monserrato and Alghero, Sardinia. In Sardinia, fighters hit radar
stations at Pula and Alghero, while B-26's bomb the airfields at Milis and Capoterra. In
Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's hit the area around
Marsala and airfields at Sciaccay and Trapani. The ground echelon of the 111th
Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group transfers from Nouvion,
Algeria to Tunis, Tunisia. The air echelon is at Korba, Tunisia. The 309th Fighter
Squadron, 31st Fighter Group transfers with Spitfires from Korba, Tunisia to Gozo Island,
Malta.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The first mission of the month was carried out on July 3,
1943 against Alghero Airdrome and aircraft at that base. This was the 79th mission and
36 planes took part. The planes took off at 1025 and dropped 129 three-hundred pound
bombs and 108 five-hundred pound bombs with instantaneous and .025 fusing from
9,000 to 10,000 feet. All planes returned at 1425. Four large buildings were hit on the
west and east perimeter. One large fire was started just north of the landing ground and 1
large fire and a column of smoke were observed to have been started southeast of the
landing-ground. Strings of bombs were dropped across the landing-field and 2 twin-
engine planes in front of the hangar, were destroyed by direct hits. Private Augustine
LaRue of 494 Hunt St., Central Falls, R.I.; Staff Sgt. Raymond A. Morris of Ashland,
Wis.; and Staff Sgt. George B. Ally of 2980 Buckingham Rd., Berkeley, Mich., each
destroyed 1 ME-109. Staff Sgt. John P. Silva of Soledad, Calif., destroyed 1 RE-2001.
Ten or 12 single-engine planes attacked us after leaving the target and 1 attempted to fly
through the formation. Flak over the target was heavy, slight and inaccurate. Flight
leaders were Capt. Burns, Capt. Isaacson, Capt. Culp, Lieut. Fineman, Lieut. Bonus and
Lieut. Cratin. Capt. Gerber flew as observer
Ally, George B., S/Sgt, gunner, bombardier, 448th BS
Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Burns, John P. "Buster", Capt, pilot, 447th BS
Cratin, William S., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Culp, Merle H., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Gerber, Joseph H., Capt, pilot, 95th FS, 82nd FG
Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS
Saturday, 3 July 1943 (continued)
LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt, gunner, 448th BS
Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 448th BS
Silva, John P., S/Sgt, gunner, 448th BS
HQ 321st BG Mission Summary: (Ops Order 67/mission 66) Group Mission # 79:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Report # 79, 3 July 1943
1. 321st Bombardment Group (M).
2. At 1025 36___ _B-25s__ took off to _bomb_ Alghero A/D & A/C. _None__
Time No. A/C Type A/C Mission Target No. A/C
returned early. ___36__ dropped _129x300_ (8 salvoed near target) and 108x500 lb.
No. A/C No & Type No & Type
bombs with instantaneous and .025 fusing from 9000/10,000 ft. at 1250. __36__
Alt. Time No A/C
returned at 1425.
Time
3. Four large buildings hit on west and east perimeter. One fire just north of L/G and
one large fire and column of black smoke 100 yards SE of L/G. String of bombs
across L/G. Two T/E ships in front of hangar, destroyed by direct hits. Destroyed: 3
ME-109’s and 1 RE-2001.
4. Air---------10-12 S/E attacked after leaving target, one attempting to fly through
formation. 12 S/E and T/E dispersed in small groups around perimeter.
Marine----3 vessels believed to be 1 DD and two transports heading west at 1250 at
40°33’N, 8°15’E. 8 seaplanes at Terranova. 12 small boats in Alghero
harbor.
Flak-------- Heavy, slight, inaccurate over target. Some from SE side of field. About
15 bursts from the three ships sighted.
5. Enroute----6/10 coverage, alto-cumulus at 6500 feet.

Target----- Hazy, visibility 5 miles 4/10 15000 feet.
Return----- 7/10 alto cumulus 13,000 feet, visibility 8 miles. Scattered showers near
field.
6. Pvt. Augustine LaRue, ASN 11069889, 494 Hunt St., Central Falls, R.I., 448th BS
S/Sgt. Raymond A. Morris, ASN 34202342, Ashland, Wisc, 448th BS
S/Sgt George B. Ally, ASN 16082238, 2980 Buckingham Rd, Berkley, Mich, 448thBS
Each of the above destroyed 1 ME-109.
S/Sgt. John P. Silva, ASN 39003239, P.O. Box 628, Soledad, Calif. Destroyed one
RE-2001, 448th BS
Route------ Left field at 1047 at 5000 feet heading 32° to cape Rosa, 45 miles,
38°58’N, 7°35’E. Hit deck there. Reached 40°03’N, 7°40’E. at 1215 and
started climb to 8000 feet. At 41°07’N, 7°40’E. made right turn toward
target and reached target at 1250. Then diving left turn and home on deck.
Possible L/G’s---Italy 1:100,000 Sheet 179

6515—not observed.
35118—appeared level from 10,000 feet.
4924—not observed.
Flight leaders:---Captains Burns, Isaacson, Culp, Lts. Fineman, Bonus and Cratin.
Observers--Captain Gerber.
Number of sorties this date---36.
Photos taken.
FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON,
Major, Air Corps,
Intelligence Officer
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E/A Tactics, Mission No. 79
One ME-109 attacked from above at five o’clock. He came within 200 yards and
the tail-gunner fired 50 rounds into the enemy plane which then dove downwards and
crashed into flames.
One ME-109 was noticed at 500 yards at six o’clock, straight on the tail of one of
our planes. The tail-gunner fired 30 rounds into the plane, which burst into flames at 250
yards, went into a spin and exploded upon hitting the ground.
One ME-109 got through the tip-cover and fired, with bullets hitting the right
rudder of one of our ships. The enemy plane peeled off to the right of our plane and the
turret-gunner fired between 125-150 rounds before the enemy plane completed his turn.
Most of the bullets entered the cockpit. Flames burst from the rear of the enemy’s
cockpit before it crashed.
One RE-2001 came in from behind and above and dove on one of our planes.
The turret-gunner fired 100 rounds and the canopy of the enemy plane was seen to fly off
as it passed. The plane was seen to hit the ground.
445th BS War Diary: Coffee and doughnuts were served by the Red Cross girls this
evening at evening chow. It is undecided whether the coffee and doughnuts or the girls
received the most attention. The water problem was solved today when a 2,000 gallon
Italian water truck was brought down from Medjez El Bab by two of our ground officers.
They are making plans for a shower in the squadron area. This evening the enlisted men
chalked up a victory by a score of 9 to 7 over the 1145th quartermaster outfit.
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 67/mission 66) Group Mission # 79: Thirty
six B-25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb the airdrome at Alghero. 87 x 300 lb. demo.
Bombs were dropped by the 445th from 9,000 ft. Four large buildings on the west and
east perimeter were hit. One fire north of the landing ground and one large fire and
column of black smoke were seen at the southeast corner of the field. Two twin engine
aircraft in front of the hangar were destroyed by direct hits. Forty two P-38’s from the
82nd fighter group were our escorts. The flak was heavy, slight and inaccurate. The
formation was attacked by 10 to 12 enemy fighters after leaving the target. Three ME-
109’s and one RE-2001 was shot down by the bombers.
A/C No. 42-64575 (flight leader) A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi

Gambler II” (flight leader)
P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Cratin, William S., 1Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt
N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt
B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt
G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED”
P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt
CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Morse, Arthur E., S/Sgt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt
E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt
R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt
G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F Asbury, William (NMI), 1Lt, HQ 321st None
BG (observer)
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt
N Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt None
B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
G Boyette, Roy E., Cpl Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-53373

P McGee, William N., 1Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
N None None
B McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt
G Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Pvt
F Cox, Bernard L., Sgt G Seegmiller, Bernard H., Cpl
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13211
P Gunter, Macon A., Jr., 1Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
F Blasi, Augustine (NMI), Pvt None
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”
P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt
N None None
B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Smith, James B., Sgt
F None None
446th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 67/mission 66) Group Mission # 79: Group
mission 66, Sqdn 57 composed of 7 planes led by Lt. Schmidt to the Alghero L/G,
Sardinia. 300 and 500 lb bombs were dropped and the target was well covered. 5 a/c
were destroyed and 2 damaged on the ground. Direct hits were scored on buildings,
dumps, and hangars. The 82nd Fighter Group reported that this was the best bombing
they had ever seen.
A/C No. 42-32432 “Hell’s Angel” A/C No. 41-13008

P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt
CP Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt
N Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Braucher, David C., 2Lt
E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt
G McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl Smith, Wade E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 41-13192 (spare – returned
early)
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt None
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam II of
(spare) St. Joe” (spare)
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt Beyer, William J., 2Lt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Harris, Posey T., 2Lt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
F None None
446th BS: War Diary of: Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner (mission 12)
“# 12 July 3, 1943 Time 4:25 Sqdn Mission # 57 Gr. Mission # 66
300# & 500# demo. Alghero, Sardinia
Formation Leader - Capt. Burns
Results - Target covered as briefed 5 E/A destroyed & 2 damaged on gnd. Direct hits on
buildings, dumps, hangars.
Remarks -Flak inaccurate.
Ship number - 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” Formation 4:2
P- Chappell, CP - Carr, N- Springer, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill”
Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS Carr, Philip O., 2Lt, pilot
Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner
Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt, navigator
447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 67/mission 66) Group Mission # 79: Eleven
of our planes participated in a raid on Alghero airdrome in Sicily. Bombing results good.
All our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
(formation leader - flight leader)
P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt
CP Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st Sholund, John D., 2Lt
BG
N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None
B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt
E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt
R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt, Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt
G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
II”
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt
N None None
B Horne, Wendell C., M/Sgt Harter, James E., S/Sgt
E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt
R O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64657 A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts”
(flight leader)
P Shapiro, Leonard L. “Shap”, 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt
N None Colby, John W., 2Lt
B Schulze, George F., S/Sgt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt
E None listed – likely Newhouse, Ralph W., Nelson, James E., S/Sgt
Sgt
R Waldrip, Robert Laseter, T/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt
G Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt
F PFC Scrappy (Lt Shapiro’s dog) None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-64695

Lady”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, HQ 321st BG None
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt None listed – likely Henry, William R.,
S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Meyers, William W., Sgt
G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
N None Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt
B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt None listed – likely the navigator
E None listed – likely Sheets, Ralph M., Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Werner, George P., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F None Leon, Robert D., Cpl
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl”
(returned early)
P Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt
CP Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt
N None Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt
B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt None listed – likely Mercer, William R.,
S/Sgt
R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt
G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Alton, David D., S/Sgt
F None None
447th BS: War Diary of: McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 23)
“Tonight everybody in the 447th is happy. And, for your information, today is July 3,
1943---and tomorrow has been declared a day off. But days off don’t scare up much
appreciation around here---at least not as much as might be expected. Everyone is
happy for an entirely different and much more important reason. The “Fightin’ Four
Forty Seventh” led a formation of 36 airplanes today on what we consider our most
successful raid to date. Our target was an air field near Alghero on the northwestern
coast of Sardinia. Capt. John P. Burns was pilot of the lead ship and I would like to
mention here that he has done very well since he started leading formation flight. He did
himself unusually proud today we are all proud of him and glad for him. His navigator,
Lt. C.M. (Jug) Weaver did a beautiful job under adverse conditions. But then Jug has
made a habit of turning out good work.
Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Weaver, Charles M. "Jug", 1Lt, navigator
Here is how it happened.
We took off from our base at Souk el Arba at 10:25 this morning---36 B-25s
strong. Even then there was a light haze and visibility wasn’t so hot, and our
weatherman had informed us that it would get worse, much worse on the way out and
over the target area. And it did….
After take off we circled back over the field and hit out for Cape Rosa, our
rendezvous point with our escort---P-38s of the 82nd Fighter Group. We were running
slightly ahead of schedule, so we made a wide circle over the cape to kill a few minutes,
then turned on course and dropped to the deck. Visibility began to get bad, a thick desert
haze and a low layer of scud---light, but bothersome.
From the cape we flew just a little west of north for a while, then, when we were
about 50 miles from the west side of Sardinia, turned and flew straight north up the coast
of the island. Visibility got pretty low and an overcast above us had us worried about our
bombing altitude. I don’t give our horizontal visibility more than five miles at the
outside. We flew our north course until we were a little north of the island and off the
northwest tip, then we turned about 110 degrees and hoped to hit the island over a
peninsula that protrudes from the northwest corner. We were to go inland from the
peninsula for a way then turn directly south to go over the target. Just before we reached
our northernmost turning point, we began our climb which was intended to take us a little
above 9,000 ft., our bombing altitude. But Johnny chose to stop at 8,000 ft. for fear that
the flights that were supposed to bomb from higher altitudes would find themselves over
the target and in the overcast. We hit our altitude and leveled off then made our turn
which should have brought the island into view under ordinary circumstances. We flew
for a while and---no island! I could just see Jug sweating it out! He does a little
sweating on such flights anyhow, and here he was, heading for an island that wasn’t to
be seen where it should have been. But it was the fault of the haze. A little longer and
there it was, dead ahead with the peninsula sticking out right where it should. When we
came in sight of the island we were right on course. Of course such navigation takes a
little guess work combined with a good knowledge of what is intended and what is taking
place. Jug has the combination down pat. He is almost uncanny!
Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Weaver, Charles M. "Jug", 1Lt, navigator
I was in the No. 5 position in the element right behind the lead element. Burns’
bomb sight went out on the run and Big Moose Lingrel, his bombardier, led him over the
target by interphone and dropped his bombs from where he just figured they would hit
“somewhere in the vicinity.” They did. But DeMoss, who led my element, took us
slightly off to the right on the run that he (Johnny) should have made. We dropped our
six 500 pounders, flew straight on for just a moment, then turned to the right in a long
280 mph dive for the deck.
Burns, John P., Capt, pilot DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot
Lingrel, Paul Warren "Big Moose", 1Lt, bombardier
Flying on a wing I never get to see anything anyhow, but this time was the first
time I had ever been over a target and saw no flak bursts at all when all the time they
were throwing the works at us. No one, however, was hit by flak, although one ship
stopped a few slugs from one of the 12 fighters that came up to worry us. The gunner on
the ship in question didn’t see his antagonist until the slugs started pouring in. Then he
whipped his turret around and shot about 20 rounds at the ME-109. That was all that
was necessary apparently, because the ship was seen to drop, with various and sundry
parts leaving its company. Then the pilot was seen to step out and over the side. It is not
known whether he made it or not since the falling ship was getting pretty close to the
ground. Our escorts didn’t see the enemy fighters come in on us and so didn’t attack.
Well, we came on home. The boy whose ship was shot up landed with his right
tire flat, but did a good job of it and ship and crew came out hale and hearty.
We knew before we landed that it would be hot on the ground. The air was
bouncy, choppy and as violent as a young bronc. Visibility was rotten---four miles at the
most, but we landed in our formation of threes in quick succession, the crippled ship
waiting until last. And when we stopped our roll and opened our windows, a blast of hot
air smote us in the face and scorched our eyes. It was a veritable hell! The hood of a
jeep was definitely too hot to accommodate a posterior---the seats in the shade of a top
were bad enough!
We were interrogated according to the usual fashion and left immediately for our
respective area. It was the general consensus of opinion that it ’looked like a good job.’
But looks can be and often are deceiving. So we put only a little stock in what was seen
by human eyes from the bombers. We go over too fast, leave the scene too fast, and just
naturally use our eyes too much for the more important task of watching for enemy
fighters to see much on the ground.
We had been back in our areas for only a short time when our fighter escort
called to inform us that our bombing was the best they had ever seen and to apologize
profusely for not having seen the enemy fighters. Not one of us could blame them,
however, on account of the poor visibility. It was just one of those things that happen---
and the fighter boys seemed sincerely sorry for the mishap. We felt plenty good, too, for
their complement as it is not often that they talk about target results. They seemed
genuinely enthusiastic about this one though.
Just a few minutes ago Big Manly called up Group to ask if pictures of the results
had come in. Major Pemberton told him that they had been received and were so good
that he had almost forgotten how hot it was!
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, intelligence
Part of our ships carried 300 lb. demos and were to hit the concrete runway and
generally pock the field. The pictures apparently showed hits on all buildings and bombs
bursting all over the field, with three strings lacing the runway!
We must have wrecked the joint!
Such was my 23rd raid on the enemy. And that leaves my 22nd raid unreported. But after
today’s run, what took place on Jun 30th was child’s play….” (See the 30 Jun 43 diary
entry for Lt McDuff’s account of his 22nd mission)
“…So---you now have Nos. 22 and 23.”
448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 67/mission 66) Group Mission # 79: Mission
48 (79): At 10:25 36 planes off to bomb Alghero. Dropped 29 x 300 and 108 x 500
bombs at 12:30 and returned at 14:25. 4 large buildings hit on West and East perimeter,
1 fire North of L/G and large fire and column of black smoke SE of L/G, two 3 E (3
engine) planes and 3 ME-109’s, 1 RE-2001 destroyed. 10-12 E/A attacked after leaving
target. 3 M/V seen heading N at 12:30 at 40° 33’ N and 8° 15’ E, flak, slight heavy
inaccurate. S/Sgt. Roy A. Morris destroyed 1 ME-109, S/Sgt. George B. Alley destroyed
1 ME-109 and S/Sgt. John P. Silva destroyed 1 RE-2001. Weather: 6/10th covered, hazy.
A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 42-12926 “Hawkeye”

P Veum, Ole E., Capt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
N Holt, William E., 2Lt None
B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt
E None listed – likely Porch, Dean O., Pvt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-29967 (flight leader)
P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Haskell, John D., 2Lt
N None Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt
B Colby, Arthur R., Pvt Gibbons, James (NMI), 1Lt
E Larsen, Fred M., Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., Pvt
R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., Pvt
F None Gerber, Joseph H., Capt, 95th FS, 82nd
FG (observer)
A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 42-64514
P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt
CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
N None None
B Reid, Robert L., Sgt Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt
E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., Pvt
R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., Pvt
G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-30001 (flight leader)
P Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt
CP Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
N Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt Boland, Chester H., 1Lt
B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., Pvt Poynter, Robert A., Pvt
R Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, Pvt Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt
G White, George E., Pvt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-30343
P Sinclair, Erwin W., Jr., 1Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O
N Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt None
B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E Robb, Earl K., Pvt None listed – likely Polinsky, Marvin J.,
PFC
R Orman, Virgil N., Pvt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, Pvt Silva, John P., S/Sgt
F None Hobert, Walter W., PFC
A/C No. 42-64661 (returned early)
P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
N None
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt
R Marlow, Sterling, H., S/Sgt
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
F None
Sunday, 4 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): Royal Air Force (RAF)

Halifax aircraft bomb the Catania, Sicily. Railroad yards during the night of 3/4 Jul. B-
25's hit the airfield at Comiso, Sicily. P-40's escort bombers and convoy and fly sea-
search for a missing pilot. Fighters claim 3 Bf 109's shot down. 4 P-40's are lost. The
86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons, 79th Fighter Group transfer with P-40's from Tunisia to
Malta.
the night of 3/4 Jul, Wellingtons hit Trapani, Sicily and Lido di Roma, Italy. Leaflets are
dropped in the Rome, Italy area. In Sicily, B-17's and B-26's hit the airfields at Catania
and Gerbini; B-25's bomb 2 satellite airfields near Gerbini; and Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20 and medium bombers hit airfields at Comiso, Trapani,
Sciacca, and Castelvetrano. The 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group transfers with
P-38's from Telergma, Algeria to El Bathan, Tunisia.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 80th mission took off at 1035 on July 4, 1943 with 36
planes to bomb the Gerbini Satellite #1 in Sicily. They dropped 136 three-hundred pound
bombs and 108 five-hundred pound bombs with instantaneous and .025 fusing from
9,500 to 10,500 feet. One plane was believed to have landed at Malta, and one landed at
Korba. The target was passed on the run from the west, due to poor visibility, but it was
bombed on the second run. Some hits were scored on the target and two fires were seen
in the northeast corner of the airdrome. Also, hits were observed on the revetments on
the north side of the main Gerbini airdrome. Two ME-109s with white spinners were
damaged and upon leaving the target, 10 sing-engine planes attacked the formation, but
made no hits on our planes. Flak was heavy, intense and very accurate over the target,
and 14 planes were hit by flak. Lieut. Axson, Lieut. Coffey and Lieut. Meehan and
Technical Sgt. Shields, all of the 446th Bombardment Squadron, were wounded on this
attack. The enemy attacked with a few bursts of flak from Ponte Olivo upon leaving, but
this flak was inaccurate. Bursts of red flak were observed. Flight leaders were Capt.
Stultz, Capt. Culp, Lieut. Cratin, Lieut. Bonus, Lieut. Garmon and Lieut. Bailey. Maj.
Pemberton and Lieut. Malek flew as observers on this mission.
Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Garmon, James M. "Max", 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Malek, Stanley J., 1Lt, intelligence, 445th BS
Meehan, James M., 1Lt, bombardier, navigator, 446th BS
Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, intelligence, HQ 321st BG
Shields, James A., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS
Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
Sunday, 4 July 1943 (continued)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1035 36___ _B-25s__ took off to _bomb_ Gerbini Satellite #1. _None__
returned early. ___36__ dropped _136x300_ and 108x500 lb. with instantaneous and
No. A/C No & Type No & Type
.025 fusing bombs at 1305 from 9500/10,300 feet. __34__ returned at 1500. One
Time Alt. No A/C Time
Plane believed landed at Malta. One landed at Korba.
3. Target passed on run from west due to poor visibility but bombed on return run.
Some hits made on target. Two fires seen in NE corner of A/D. Hits observed on
revetments on north side of main Gerbini A/D. Two ME-109s with white spinners
damaged.
4. Air---------10 S/E attacked formation leaving target.

Flak-------- Heavy, intense, very accurate over target. 14 planes hit. Two pilots and 1
Co-pilot wounded. Few inaccurate bursts from Ponte Olivo when leaving.
Bursts of red flak seen.
Marine---- One large and one small dinghy, lashed together, seen at 1402 to miles S.
of Pantelleria.
5. Enroute----5/10 alto cumulus at 15,000. Scattered low scud layers.

Target-----Very hazy. Visibility 5-6 miles.
Return-----4/10 at 17,000. Scud layers at sea. Visibility 7 miles.
6. None.
Left field at 4300 feet at 1100. Reached coast at 1140 on direct course to rendezvous
at 36°20’N, 14°30’E. and went to 600 feet. Started climb at 1155 and reached
rendezvous at 10,000 feet at 1235. From there to 37°30’N, 14°28’E. at 11,000 feet,
then to target at 1305. Left turn to coast where hit deck and returned.
Possible L/G’s---Italy---1:100,000 Sheet 269.
7868, 8065, 7669---Unable to locate but region generally seemed
favorable.
Flight leaders---Captains Stultz and Culp; Lts. Cratin, Bonus, Garmon & Bailey.
Observers-------Major Pemberton and Lt. Malek.
Number of sorties this date---36
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: The terrific heat continues. The temperature today was recorded
by the English in Souk El Arba as being 140 in the sun and 115 degrees in the shade.
The wind was like that of a breeze blowing out of a blast furnace.
six B-25’s (11 of the 445) bombed Gerbini satellite #1. 60 x 500 lb. demo. Bombs were
dropped by the 445th from 9,500 ft. The formation was led by Major Cook. The
visibility was very poor and the formation was unable to locate the target on the first run.
On the second run the target was found and some hits were made. Ten enemy fighters
attacked the formation as they left the target. The flak was very heavy, intense and
accurate. Fourteen ships out of the formation were hit, one pilot and one co-pilot was
wounded by flak. One pilot was injured when an enemy fighter attacked from above and
ahead. It is believed that Lt. Gunter was the pilot who was injured by the fighter as his
ship did not return and is probably at Malta.

P Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt
CP Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”
N Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt
BG (observer)
B Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt
E Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt
R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt
G Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt
F Cox, Bernard L., Sgt None
A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”
P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt
N None None
B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Boyd, Ewell V., S/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt
F None Malek, Stanley J., 2Lt (observer)
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt
N None None
B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Mais, Charles W., T/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle”
P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Schuster, S. E., Cpl
G Boyette, Roy E., Cpl Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 42-53373 (formation leader - A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
flight leader)
P Cook, Bailey C., Maj, Commander O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt
CP Cratin, William S., 1Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt
N Larson, Harold W., 1Lt None
B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Morse, Arthur E., S/Sgt
E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt
R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt
G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt
F None Blasi, Augustine (NMI), Pvt
A/C No. 42-30387 “Kay Girl” (down A/C No. 42-64516 (returned 1247 due
at Cap Bon - completed mission) to engine trouble – oil leak)
P Gunter, Macon A., Jr., 1Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt
N None None
B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt
E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Smith, James B., Sgt
F None None
445th BS: War Diary of: Seegmiller, Barnard H., Sgt, armament:
07/04/43 “There is little to remind one that today is Independence Day. Our noon
meal was unusually poor. We were called out at daylight to load twelve ships and the
boys are out now on a big raid over Sicily with 500 pounders. I went on my first raid
yesterday. It was successful and all planes came back. Some flak and a few fighters. I
have definitely made up my mind to become a gunner as soon as there is a chance.
Yesterday afternoon was the hottest weather I have ever experienced.”

mission 67, Sqdn 58 composed of 12 planes led by Lt. Garmon to Gerbini, Sicily. 300
and 500 lb bombs were dropped with only fair results. The formation had difficulty in
finding the target because of haze. Heavy and accurate flak was encountered and enemy
aircraft attacked the formation. 2 of them were destroyed and several probably
destroyed. The plane piloted by Lt. Axson was shot up considerably and made an
emergency landing at Cape Bon. Lt. Axson, Lt. Coffey, and T/Sgt. Shields were hit by
flak, but not seriously injured.
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”

Traveler II” (future “Enid II, “No
Peekin’”)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt
N None Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Roulier, Edward T., Cpl
G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30293 A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon”
(flight leader)
P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt
CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt
N None Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt
B Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt
E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt
R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt
G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Grant, Richard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32432 “Hell’s Angel” A/C No. 42-64526
P Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt
E Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R Houghom, Milfred O., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt
G Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess”
St. Joe” (flight leader)
P Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
N Beyer, William J., 2Lt None
B Harris, Posey T., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13197 A/C No. 41-13192
P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt
B Coe, George A., 1Lt Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt
E St. Antoine, James J., S/Sgt Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., S/Sgt Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt
G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt
F None Shields, James A., T/Sgt (passenger –
SOL returned from KORBA on 13200
crew)
A/C No. 41-13200 (landed at KORBA A/C No. 41-13208
– completed mission)
P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt
N Meehan, James M., 1Lt None
B Navigator filling both B & N positions Pappas, William J., 2Lt
E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
R Shields, James A., T/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt
F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt (passenger – SOL returned from KORBA
on 13200 crew)
446th BS Special Account: On July 4, 1943 the Squadron furnished 12 planes for a
mission to the Gerbini A/D in Sicily. Some difficulty was experienced in finding the
target due to haze and heavy accurate flak was encountered. Enemy fighters attacked the
formation and two of them were destroyed. The plane piloted by Lt. Axson was badly
shot up and was forced to make an emergency landing at Cape Bon. Lt. Axson, pilot, and
Lt. Coffey, co-pilot, and T/Sgt. Shields were hit by flak, but not too seriously injured.
The remainder of Lt. Axson’s crew included: Lt. Meehan, bombardier; S/Sgt. Ludwig,
engineer; S/Sgt. Mitchell, turret gunner; and S/Sgt. Benson, photographer.
Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 2Lt, pilot Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt, gunner, photographer
Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt, pilot Ludwig, Michael E., S/Sgt, gunner
Meehan, James M., 1Lt, bombardier Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt, gunner
Shields, James A., T/Sgt, gunner
The following is an eye witness account of the mission by one of the crew
members: For our Fourth of July celebration we were assigned to bomb the Gerbini A/D
in Sicily. We had some trouble finding the target and the Germans and Italians sent up
plenty of flak. We dropped our bombs and started away from the target, lagging because
our plane had been shot up. 10-12 enemy fighters came in to finish us off, but instead of
our being finished we got two of them. A 20 mm shell exploded in the pilot’s
compartment and injured Lt. Axson, our pilot, who fell forward putting the plane into a
steep dive. Everybody and everything that wasn’t tied down fell in a heap on the floor.
The co-pilot, Lt. Coffey, straightened the plane out and brought it to an emergency field
on Cape Bon. When we got there we had practically no gas left and we then found out
that Lt. Coffey had also been hit and injured, but he had said nothing about it. All in all it
was an exciting Fourth. James A. Shields, T/Sgt.
Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt, pilot Shields, James A., T/Sgt, gunner
446th BS Special Account: On July 4, 1943 a mission was sent to Gerbini, Sicily where
heavy flak was encountered. Although the results of the mission were highly successful
ship number 41-13200 was hit several times and its pilot Lt. Ralph Axson and the co-
pilot Lt. Noel Coffey were both injured when a 20 MM cannon shell burst in the cockpit.
The following is the story of the trip related by the pilot:
Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 2Lt, pilot Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt, pilot
On this day it was our squadron’s time to supply the last flight of the bomber
formation, and our ship was placed in the trailing position known as the “tail-end
Charlie”.
Our trip out was uneventful until we reached the target area, where we ran into an
extremely dense barrage of anti-aircraft fire. After our bombs had been dropped and we
were leaving the area of ack-ack we began to breathe easier, although we were slightly
trailing the formation and had the controls against the firewall for we were confident that
our escort would keep away the enemy fighters. While still deep in the enemy territory
enemy planes were spotted off to our left and headed for our formation. The interphone
crackled with voices as the crew prepared to beat off the attack. The enemy fighters kept
coming in even after two of their number were shot down in flames. One ME-109 came
in for a head on attack and received a hot reception. Tracers and exploding shell were
flying thick and fast, when all of a sudden the side of the cockpit seemed to be crushed in
on top of me. I was temporarily blinded and stunned from the shock of the explosion;
also there were many sharp fiery pains in my face, arm and leg.
When the explosion occurred the nose of the ship was forced down at a very steep
angle and it seemed we would surely crash into the country-side, but the co-pilot, Lt.
Noel F. Coffey, was already on the controls and leveled off the plane in the direction of
our home base. The gunners having been bounced around returned to their posts and
continued to ward off the attacking enemy fighters until our own escorting fighters came
to our rescue and drove away the remaining 109’s. A sum total of twenty enemy fighters
attacked our ship that day, losing two of their number but failing to down the stout-
hearted B-25 Mitchell.
Feeling very tired and weak I was content to recline and let the bombardier
administer sulfanilamide for my wounds while Lt. Coffey kept the ship level and on a
homeward course under very adverse condition, both elevators having been partially shot
away so that the trim tabs were of no use and the left wing flap completely shot off,
besides the fact that the left engine was losing power and heating up due to loss of much
oil and the right engine was backfiring.
As we preceded toward land the fuel gauges dropped until they indicated zero,
after which we flew mostly on prayers. The sight of land brightened everyone’s spirits,
and we headed for the nearest landing field, a fighter field at Corba on the Cape Bon
Peninsula. Knowing that we would not have time to fly around very long, Lt. Coffey
called for wheels down and started in to land. On the approach leg when Lt. Coffey
called for flaps I then informed him that half of them were gone and it would be
impossible to use them. At this he laughed and said, “I always did want to land this thing
without flaps” and continued toward the small landing strip.
The approach that day was at cruising speed, all that we could get, one hundred
and sixty-five miles per hour. When we were over the end of the runway and almost on
the ground the left prop ran away up to about 3000 R.P.M. where upon Lt. Coffey cut all
power and set our weary ship lightly upon the hard landing strip. Taxing over and cutting
the engines Lt. Coffey jumped from the plane and asked why the ambulance wasn’t
waiting, for our red light had been on while landing.
Not until we were on the ground did Lt. Coffey let it be known that pieces of
shrapnel had entered his left arm and foot.
As I recall that day I can only think of a job well done under extreme
circumstance. RALPH L. AXSON, Jr.,
Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt, pilot 1st Lt., Air Corps,
Pilot
300# & 500# demo. Gerbini, Sicily
Formation Leader - Major Cook
Results - Fair - visibility bad
Remarks -Heavy & accurate Flak - E/A attacked & 2 destroyed - several probabilities.
Ship number - 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” Landed with punctured Left Tire (20 m.m.
shell) Formation 2:1
P- Chappell, CP - Carr, N- Phillips, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill”
Carr, Philip O., 2Lt, pilot Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot
Cook, Bailey C., Maj, pilot, Commander, 445th BS
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt, navigator
Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 68/mission 67) Group Mission # 80: One of
our planes participated in a raid on Gerbini satellite #1. The ship flown by Lt. Fabling
was attacked from the front by fighters and slightly damaged. Bombing results poor. Lt.
Fabling returned safely.
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” (spare –
II” returned early)
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt
N None None
B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt
E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt None listed - likely Sheets, Ralph M.,
S/Sgt
R O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon”
(spare – returned early) (spare – returned early)
P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt
CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt
N None None
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Hartis, John G., 2Lt
E Henry, William R., S/Sgt None listed – likely Million, Fred B.,
S/Sgt
R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt
G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 42-64657 (spare – returned
Duck” (spare – returned early) early)
P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt Shapiro, Leonard L. “Shap”, 1Lt
CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt
N None None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Schulz, George F., S/Sgt
E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt None listed – likely Newhouse, Ralph W.,
Sgt
R Anderson, Chester E., S/Sgt Waldrip, Robert Laseter, T/Sgt
G Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt
F Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt None
(observer)
447th BS: War Diary of: McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt, pilot
“The day most everyone seems to have expected an invasion—I flew spare for a 36 –ship
raid on one of the Gerbini airfields over on the eastern part of Sicily. As it was, thought,
I was just a spare. I flew along with them for about 20 minutes after they left the coast,
but no one fell out where I would fit, so I came home.”
“We had a time that day. I was leading the six spare ships—all from our
squadron. My formation was made up of Lungren on my element with Fabling on his left
and Shapiro on his right. Just after we left the coast, one ship out of the lead flight of the
main formation fell out, and Bugbee, who couldn’t quite tell which formation it was that
had the hole in it, hopped over to fill. He came right back and I managed to get his
signal that they wanted 500 lb. bombs instead of the 300 lb. jobs we of the first element
were carrying. It was up to Shapiro, then, to take the spot, but he didn’t see it, and after
waiting a few minutes, Fabling pulled out and took it. Then Shapiro woke up and went
trailing off after him, trying, I suppose, to beat him to it.
Lungren had been signaling for some time that he wanted to turn back---his radio
was out apparently. I told him (by signals) to hang around a moment and we would go
back together, but after a while he came up, gave a landing signal, and figuring
something else had gone wrong, I signaled O.K. and he left. Bugbee had gone off to what
he thought was our second element to signal for someone with 500 lb. bombs to take the
vacancy---and when he came back he saw Lungren leaving and latched onto him by
mistake. Visibility was very poor, and when Fabling and Shapiro took off together, I
figured I had hung around long enough, so I turned around and Cohagan and I came
back together. We had a lot of explaining to do when we got back for not coming in
together, but it was just one of those things brought on by a series of events and poor
visibility.”
Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 1Lt, pilot Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt, pilot
Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt, pilot Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt, pilot
Shapiro, Leonard L., 2Lt, pilot
448th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 68/mission 67) Group Mission # 80:
Mission 49 (80): At 10:35 36 planes off to bomb Gerbini #1, dropped 136 x 300 and 108
x 500 bombs at 13:05 from 9500 feet. 34 planes returned at 15:00, 1 landed at Corba and
1 at Malta. Poor visibility at target and passed it going E and on return run some hits
made and 2 fires seen on E/A, hits observed on revetments on N side of A/D. 10 E/A
attacked after leaving target. Intense, heavy, accurate flak, 14 planes hit over target, 2
pilots and 1 co-pilot wounded. Weather: 5/10th Alto cumulus at 15,000 feet. F/L:
Stultz, Culp.
A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe”
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
N Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt None
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt
E Potosky, John S., Pvt Masteller, Harry M., Pvt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Papile, Frank M., Pvt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt
F None Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer)
A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30343
P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Davies, Robert D., 1Lt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Barton, Thomas M., F/O
N None Holt, William E., 1Lt
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt
E Roberts, Harold L., Pvt Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., Pvt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Yutzy, Eli N., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29967 (flight leader) A/C No. 42-64661
P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt
E None listed – likely Rude, Norman J., None listed – likely Ripple, William E.
S/Sgt “Rip”, PFC
R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, Pvt
G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-30355
P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Bruton, John E., 1Lt
CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt
N None None
B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt
E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt None listed – likely Porch, Dean O.,
PFC
R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Harding, John E., Pvt
G Beal, H. L., S/Sgt Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt
F None None

P Culp, Merle H., Capt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt
CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt
N Boland, Chester H., 1Lt None
B Reich, William John, 2Lt Reid, Robert L., Sgt
E Poynter, Robert A., Pvt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
R Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt
G Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt Hobert, Walter W., PFC
F None None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 42-64514
P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt
CP Fleming, George B., F/O Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Moorman, Arthur L., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E None listed – likely Lambert, Robert P., Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
Sgt
R Robinson, Jeptha D., Pvt Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt
G Taylor, Henry F., Pvt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
F None None
Monday, 5 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's attack the harbor, harbor installations, railway yards,

and oil storage at Messina while B-25's hit the airfields at Sciacca and Biscari. P-40's fly
uneventful sea patrol. Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers strike railroad yards at
Catania, Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force): North-

west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the airfields at Villacidro,
Sardinia and Catania, Sicily during the night of 4/5 Jul.
In Sicily, NASAF fighters, medium and heavy bombers hit main and
satellite airfields at Gerbini and radar stations at Marsala and Licata; Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers hit Sciacca and airfields at
Trapani, Comiso and Biscari. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) airplanes
maintain sea patrol, reconnaissance, and convoy escort.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: On July 5, 1943, 36 planes took off to bomb the Gerbini
Satellite #1, again. They took off at 1015 and dropped 265 three-hundred pound bombs
with instantaneous and .025 fusing from 8,500 to 9,500 feet at 1230. Thirty-three planes
returned at 1410. One plane landed at Tunis; one landed in Sicily and burst into flames;
and still another landed 3 miles off Bianco Point. All of the crew of the latter were seen
in a dinghy. Due to haze and poor visibility, the target was seen too late, so the main
airdrome was bombed. Hits were seen on the runway, revetments, taxi-strip and the
hangar. Planes on the field were hit and 4 fires were started. Considerable white smoke
was seen on the field the origin of which was unknown. Twelve planes were observed on
the main airdrome and 6 were seen on the #1 airdrome. Flak over the target was heavy,
intense and accurate with 11 planes being hit. Capt. Robert W. Manly, 447th
Bombardment Squadron, who flew as observer, was slightly wounded on the mission.
Sergeant Victor W. Sheldon and Sgt. Curtis L. Lovell, both of the 446th Bombardment
Squadron, were seriously wounded in the crash-landing in the Mediterranean. Lieut.
Leonard L. Shapiro, Lieut. Nathan H. Greenwood, Sgt. Robert L. Waldrip, Sgt. Lawrence
E. Rider, and Sgt. George F. Schulze, all of the 447th Bombardment Squadron, were
reported as missing in action over Sicily. Lieut. Macon A. Gunter, Jr., was killed in
action in the raid of July 4, 1943. Flight leaders of the 81st mission, were Capt. Isaacson,
Capt. Bradley, Capt. Morton, Capt. Veum, Capt. Seel and Capt. Griffith. Capt. Manly
and Lieut. Asbury flew as observers.
Asbury, Wilburn (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, HQ 321st BG
Bradley, James L. "Jungle Jim", Jr., Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Gunter, Macon A., Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Monday, 5 July 1943 (continued)
Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt, turret gunner, 446th BS
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence, 447th BS
Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot, 447th BS
Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt, gunner, 447th BS
Schulze, George F., S/Sgt, bombardier, 447th BS
Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot, 447th BS
Shapiro, Leonard L. "Shap", 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Sheldon, Victor W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS
Veum, Ole E., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
Waldrip, Robert Laseter, S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1015 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Gerbini Satellite #1. _None__
Time No. A/C Type A/C Target No. A/C
returned early. ___36__ dropped _265x300lb. bombs with instantaneous and .025
No. A/C No & Type
fusing from 8500/9500 feet at 1230. __33__ returned at 1410. One landed at Tunis
Alt. Time No A/C Time
One landed in Sicily and broke into flames. One landed 3 miles off Bianco Pt. All
crew seen in dinghy.
3. Due to haze and poor visibility, target was seen too late so main A/D was bombed.
Hits seen on runway, revetments, taxi strip and hangar. Planes hit on field and 4 fires
seen. Considerable white smoke seen on field, origin unknown.
4. Air---------12 planes on main A/D. 6 on #1 A/D.

Marine----One report of 4 ships anchored in Licata harbor at noon. Two outside
harbor to SE. 15 small M/V in Porto Empedocle, and two small Bianco
Pt. heading NW, all at noon.
Flak-------- Heavy, intense, accurate over target. Heavy, slight from Porto Empedocle
and boats in harbor, from Licata and Agrigento. Eleven planes hit by flak.
5. Enroute----Scattered scud layers, visibility 7 miles.

Target-----Very hazy.
Return-----Visibility 5 miles.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4300 feet at 1055 on heading 84° 193 miles to Bianco Point at
37°12’N, 13°40’E. Started letting down 5 miles from coast at 1115 and
hit deck at 1125. Started climb at 1146 and reached 10,000 feet at 1202.
Reached Bianco Point at 1208. Then at 68° 63 miles to Catenanuova, and
127° for 10 miles to target. Made bomb run at 9000 feet then left turn and
returned course.
Possible L/G’s---Observer in missing plane.
Flight leaders---Captains Isaacson, Bradley, Veum, Morton, Seel & Griffith.
Observers--------Captain Manly and Lt. Asbury.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: In spite of mosquito nets and Atebrin a few cases of malaria have
been found in the squadron. We haven’t figured out yet which is worse, malaria or the
Atebrin.
six B-25’s took off to bomb Gerbini satellite #1. Six of our ships were spares, five of
which filled in. 40 x 300 lb. demo. Bombs were dropped by the 445th. Although we
didn’t lose any ships, the group lost two. One landed at Sicily and burst into flames and
the other made a crash landing in the Mediterranean just off the Sicilian coast. All the
crew members escaped. Due to poor visibility and haze, the formation passed over their
target before it was sighted so the main airdrome at Gerbini was bombed. Hits were
made on the runway, revetments, taxi strip and hangar. Four fires were seen. The flak
was heavy, intense and accurate. It was confirmed today that Lt. Gunter and crew were
at Malta. Lt Gunter was injured but no one seems to know how bad off he really is.
A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”

P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt
N None None
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”

P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt Grau, Robert B., 1Lt
CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt
N None Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt
B Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt
E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” (spare)
P Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt Miller, Roy N., 1Lt
CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Butela, William F., 2Lt
N None Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt
B Morgan, Robert E., Sgt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt
E Winston, E. G., Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt
R Childress, W. H., Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt
G Pierce, William V., Sgt VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
mission 68, Sqdn 59 composed of 10 planes led by Capt. Griffith. The target was the
Gerbini L/G #6, Sicily. 300 lb bombs were carried but only one corner of the field was
hit. Flak was heavy and accurate, but there were no fighters. Lt. Bradley’s plane was hit
by flak and he was forced to land it in the sea. S/Sgt. Sheldon received a broken leg and
S/Sgt. Lovell received cuts on his face. The crew was picked up by a British ASR launch
and taken to Malta. Capt. Griffith’s plane was also badly hit by flak and S/Sgt. Billy
Dykes was injured by it.
A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon”
St. Joe”
P Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt None
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt
R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64526 (flight leader)
P Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt
CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt
N None Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt
B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Marek, Joseph Rudolph, 2Lt
E Langan, Charles H., Sgt, Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt
R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt
G Orr, William J., Sgt Dykes, Billy (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 41-13192
Pee Wee”
P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt
1Lt
CP Davison, William R., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt
N None None
B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt
E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt
R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt
G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13197 A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas
Peekin’”)
P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt Braucher, David C., 2Lt
B Coe, George A., 2Lt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Haasch, George F., T/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Smith, Wade E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo” A/C No. 42-32432 “Hell’s Angel”
(Crashed at sea – completed
mission)(flight leader)
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Bradley, James M. “Jungle Jim”, Jr.,
1Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt
N None Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Rockafellow, Alfred A., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Sheldon, Victor W., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” (returned A/C No. 41-30293 (returned – damaged
– turret gun out) tail section)
P Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N None None
B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt
E None listed - likely Carstens, Clarence Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt None
446th BS Special Account: On the 5th of July, 1943 a mission was sent to Gerbini
Satellite number 1. The results were very good but intense flak was encountered causing
our ship to crash land at sea. The following narrative was written by the navigator of the
ship. The pilot was Lt. James Bradley and the ship was 42-32432 “Hell’s Angel”. The
crew was Lt. T.O. Wright, Co-pilot, Lt. Benjamin W. Anzalone, Bombardier, S/Sgt
Rockafellow, Eng. Gunner, S/Sgt. Lovell, C.L., Turret Gunner, and T/Sgt. V.W. Sheldon,
Radio Gunner.
Anzalone, Benjamin W., 1Lt, bombardier Bradley, James L., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt, turret gunner Rockafellow, Alfred A., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Sheldon, Victor W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt, pilot
Our target was Gerbini, Sicily and we knew it was going to be rough from results
of the day before. Everything went fairly well until we were about to start on our bomb
run. We could see quite a bit of accurate flak at the flight ahead of us and one of the first
bursts at our formation hit us in the left engine and it felt like the plane was going to be
turned over. We were in flak several minutes; never the less Lt. Bradley thought it wise
to get all he could out of the engine to get out of the flak as soon as possible. This was a
wise move because we were hit at least twice more and had we been going slower we
likely would have been hit again and that might possibly have stopped us before we could
reach water.
After we had nearly reached the end of the flak I felt a strong pull on the left
engine and the prop was running away. Lt. Bradley attempted to feather it, but was
unsuccessful, so we cut the manifold pressure and the R.P.M. all the back and we cut off
the fuel to that engine. It was o.k. for awhile, wind milling at about 800 R.P.M. and we
were of the impression that we would make it.
We were losing altitude and going down toward the deck at about 190-195 and
just about the time we were going to level off to start our journey back across the water
the left prop ran away again. Lt. Bradley gave the right motor about all it could take and
we were losing altitude and air speed quite rapidly. I heard Lt. Bradley call over
interphone that we were going to “ditch” and shortly thereafter we hit the water. Lt.
Bradley brought the ship in for a very nice water landing without full control for I could
see part of the right aileron was gone and a number of holes completely through the left
wing and nacelle. The ship was very hard to handle and from the time the prop ran away
until we hit the water Lt. Bradley had to use all his strength to hold the ship from flipping
over.
After the plane stopped on the water Lt. Bradley took charge of getting the life
raft inflated and the things for the raft. He made sure his entire crew was safe, even
though one man had a broken leg. The P-38’s circled us for about 30 minutes and went
to Malta and brought back a rescue launch with a Spitfire cover. We were all picked up
after 3 hours and 50 minutes afloat in the raft.
Bradley, James L., Jr., 1Lt, pilot STERLING DAVIS
1st lt., Air Corps,
Navigator.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Intentionally placed on the day of the event, rather than date of the letter)
446th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF
321st BOMBARDMENT GROUP (M) AAF
APO 520
11 July 1943
Subject: Report on Action taken by crew on coming down in the sea on 5 July 1943.
To : Intelligence Officer, 321st Bombardment Group (M), APO 520.
1. On the raid on 5 July 1943 over Gerbini Satellite No. 1, the B-25-C of 1st Lt
James L. Bradley was hit over the target by flak, severely damaging the left engine. Lt
Bradley was an element leader in the Second Flight of twelve in a thirty six plane
formation.
2. Coming off the target the formation crossed the coast of Sicily at 1255 hours,
eight miles East of Licata, at 1,000 feet. It was impossible to feather the propeller on the
damaged engine. In an attempt to maintain his airspeed Lt. Bradley brought his element
down to 200 feet. Leveling off at this altitude his airspeed dropped to 140, and he landed
in the sea thirty seconds later. It was necessary to keep the wheel in the extreme right
position to keep the left wing up. When Lt Bradley saw that a forced landing was
necessary he called the crew on the inter-phone, instructing them to prepare to ditch. At
this point the airplane began to turn into the bad engine, whereupon the pilot reduced
power and dropped the tail. After the tail hit the water the nose dropped and they skidded
along the surface. Just before stopping the co-pilot removed the pilot’s escape hatch, and
water rushed down on the pilot and co-pilot. There had not been time for a radio distress
signal.
3. The co-pilot, bombardier, navigator, and finally the pilot, went out through the
pilot’s escape hatch. Some difficulty was experienced as the pilot’s and co-pilot’s seats
were left in the normal flying position, and also because there was no prearranged order
of exit. The navigator tried to take out maps and the water bottles; however the water
knocked it out of his hands. The bombardier swam some distance from the aircraft to
avoid the danger of being pulled down when the plane sank, however, the plane stayed
afloat about nine minutes and then sank very slowly.
4. In the landing the radio operator received a broken leg, and the gunner cuts
about the face and knee. Before landing the engineer had dropped the rear escape hatch
to avoid the danger of springing it on the belly landing. He left through the lower hatch
first, helping the other two injured crew members out behind him. The radio operator,
with a broken leg and not knowing how to swim, came to the surface at the tail of the
plane out of sight of the other crew members, and if it had not been for the alertness of
the engineer, would have drowned.
5. Meanwhile, the crew members in the forward part of the plane had climbed
through the top hatch onto the wing. The pilot’s emergency life raft release failed to
operate so the navigator pulled the raft out from the outside of the plane while standing
on top of the fuselage. The raft was inflated on the wing and then launched. The injured
radio operator was put inside on the bottom of the raft while the others sat along the
sides.
6. The crew had two escape kits and three purses in their possession and opened
them to get cigarettes, gum, malted milk tablets, and the compass. The co-pilot also
removed one of the parachutes from the plane before it sank on the possibility that it
might be used as a sail or a marker.
7. The crew, though only five miles off the coast of Sicily, did not wish to leave
the position at which the plane came down as they felt it would lesson their chance of
rescue. For this reason they paddled only enough to keep their bow into the swell, and to
overcome the south east drift.
8. At about 1415 hours a boat approached from Sicily. Lt. Bradley cautioned the
crew members to go through their pockets for any material that might be of value to the
enemy, and also warned them to give only their name, rank, and serial number if taken
prisoner. He inserted the escape kit compass in the inside ankle seem of his trousers.
However the boat turned off before reaching them.
9. Several of the P-38 escorts circled the bomber for an hour after it hit the water,
and one of them went to Malta to guide the Spits and the rescue launch to the life raft.
The crew was picked up by the launch at 1645 and taken to Malta where the injured
members received medical attention. The other crew members returned to their base.
10. Attached to this report are the ditching suggestions submitted by Lt. Bradley.
GEORGE L. FORD
Captain, Air Corps,
Intelligence Officer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APO 520
9 July 1943
Subject: Ditching Suggestions.
To : Operations Officer, 321st Bombardment Group (M), APO 520.
1. The following Ditching Suggestions are made as a result of personal
experiences off the coast of Sicily on July 5, 1943.
a. Warn the other members of the crew in sufficient time before the impact with
the water so that they can get properly braced to prevent injuries.
b. Strike the water upon landing in a tail low position, holding the nose up as
long as possible. Avoid dropping the plane in from a stall by making a fast approach.
c. Leave pilot’s escape hatch closed until the plane has almost stopped.
d. Before landing place the co-pilot’s seat in full rear position so that person in
the navigator’s compartment can get out between the seats.
e. Have a definite procedure agreed upon as to which crew member leaves first,
which second, etc. Do not all try to get out through the hatch at the same time.
f. Water jugs, flares, headgear and emergency equipment do no one any good at
the bottom of the ocean, so bring them with you when leaving the airplane.
g. It cannot be too strongly stressed that escape kits should be kept on the person
at all times on missions. Don’t let them go down with the plane.
h. The escape hatch in the rear of the ship should be left open because of the
danger of water pressure and springing action of the fuselage holding it closed.
i. A definite procedure should be set up as to what emergency equipment should
be taken out by each individual member of the crew in leaving the plane.
JAMES L. BRADLEY
1st Lt., Air Corps.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
of our planes participated in a raid on Gerbini satellite #1. The wrong satellite was
bombed with fair results. The flak was very intense. Lt. Shapiro’s ship received a direct
hit and went down in flames. The whole crew was lost. With him were Lt. Greenwood
and S/Sgts. Schulze, Waldrip, Rider and Lt. Shapiro’s little dog “Scrappy”. This was the
first complete crew to be lost by the squadron. Capt. Seel’s plane was hit in several
places. The upper turret canopy was smashed by fragments of a shell and the gunner,
S/Sgt. A. Jensen injured. His face was cut pretty seriously but he stuck with his guns.
One fragment cut the oil line in Capt. Seel’s right engine and he had some difficulty with
it. Lt. Cohagan’s ship was also hit in several places. Fragments coming in through the
bombardier’s compartment injured the bombardier, Lt. Hartis and observer, Capt. Manly.
Lt. Hartis’ injuries weren’t serious but Capt. Manly had one finger pretty badly mutilated.
Lt. Cohagan landed at Tunis where Capt. Manly was left for hospital care. All planes
except that of Lt. Shapiro’s returned safely.
A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”

P Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
N None None
B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt
E Henry, William R., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Myers, William W., Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G None listed – likely Szczepanski, Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry
Duck”
P McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
N None None
B Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, None
Commander (observer)
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
Lady”
P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt
CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt
E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt
R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt
G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., Pvt
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon”
Ball” (left engine out – hit by flak)(flight
leader)
P Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2lt
CP Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt
N Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt None
B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Hartis, John G., 2Lt
E None listed – likely Nittle, Samuel None listed
(NMI), S/Sgt
R Balsom, James P., S/Sgt Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt
G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt
F None Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt
(observer)
A/C No. 41-64657 (MACR-71 - shot A/C No. 442-64600 “Lady Luck”
down – direct hit) (flight leader)
P Shapiro, Leonard L. “Shap”, 1Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt
CP Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt
N None Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt
B Schulze, George F., S/Sgt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt
E None listed Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt
R Waldrip, Robert Laseter, T/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt
G Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt
F PFC Scrappy (Lt Shapiro’s “little dog”) None
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
(returned due to engine trouble)
P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt
CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt
B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt
E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt
R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt
G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt
F None
447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 71: Started over field at 1055.
Flew 84° for 193 miles to Bianco point at 37° 12 minutes N., 13° 40 minutes N. Started
letting down 5 miles from coast at 1115 and hit the deck at 1125. Started climb at 1146
and reached 10000 feet at 1202. Reached Bianco point at 1208 then at 68° 63 miles to
Catenanuova and 127° for 10 miles to target. Made bomb run at 9000 feet then left turn
and retraced course.
A/C No. 41-64657 (MACR-71 - shot down – direct hit)

P Shapiro, Leonard L. “Shap”, 1Lt - KIA - DED
CP Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt - KIA - DED
N None
B Schulze, George F., S/Sgt - KIA - DED
E None listed
R Waldrip, Robert Laseter, T/Sgt - KIA - DED
G Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt - KIA - DED
F PFC Scrappy (Lt Shapiro’s “little dog”) - KIA - DED
Eyewitness Account: DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

A.P.O. # 520
July 6, 1943
SUBJECT: Eye Witness Account.
TO : All Concerned.
1. While leaving the target of the combat mission on July 5, 1943 a B-25 in an
element of three planes in front of me started smoking and pulled out of the formation
apparently in distress. It appeared that this plane had been hit by flak in the left engine,
as the smoke streaming from the left engine steadily became worse and the plane
continued to lose altitude rapidly.
2. After this ship had lost several thousand feet of altitude (still smoking) I
decided to follow it down in order to cover it. When we reached a position
approximately 500 feet above and slightly to the rear right hand side the black smoke
stopped and white smoke lasting about 10 seconds appeared from the left engine nacelle.
At this point the smoke stopped.
3. About one minute later the plane seemed to stall-out and flip over to the left on
its back, tail-high, at an altitude of approximately 100 feet and dive into the ground.
Upon hitting the ground it immediately burst into flame. No one on my crew saw
occupants of the distressed plane bail out at any time or any sign of life after the crash.
The crash occurred at 1240.
JACK M. DEMOSS,
1st Lieut., A. C.,
Pilot.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
447th BS Special Account: The report submitted by Group to Higher Headquarters
regarding the bombing raid on Gerbini L/G was as follows: At 10:15 36 B-25s took off
to bomb Gerbini Satellite #1. None returned early. 36 dropped 265 x 300 bombs from
8400-9500 at 12:30. Due to haze and poor visibility, target was seen too late so main
A/D was bombed. Hits seen on runway, revetments, taxi strip, and hangar. Planes on
field hit: 4 fires seen. 35 planes down at 14:30. 1 plane sent down in flames over Sicily.
1 plane went down in the sea (crew was seen to board life rafts). 1 plane landed at Tunis
to discharge wounded man.
Ten 447th planes participated in the raid and most of those were part of the third
and last flight in the formation. Pilots were as follows: Capt. Seel, Capt. Morton, Lt.
Cohagan, Lt. Nixon, Lt. Grantham, Lt. Brinkley, Lt. McGowan, Lt. Hengel, Lt. DeMoss,
and Lt. Shapiro.
Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt, pilot Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt, pilot
DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot
Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt, pilot McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt, pilot
Morton, William H. "Mort", Capt, pilot Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt, pilot
Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot Shapiro, Leonard L. "Shap", 1Lt, pilot
Heavy, intense, and accurate flak was encountered from Porto Empedocle while
approaching the target area. Within a ten mile radius of the target proper the flak was
also heavy, intense, and accurate. Of the ten planes (447), three received sufficiently
serious hits by flak to wound members of the crews and a fourth crashed in flames as the
result of flak hit.
The plane which crashed in flames was piloted by 1st Lt. Leonard L. Shapiro. As
related by Lt. DeMoss who followed the ship down, it appeared that one engine had been
hit and was on fire. He believes that Lt. Shapiro put the plane into a dive in an effort to
put the fire out. The plane was not brought out of the dive and was seen by Lt. DeMoss
to crash to the ground, go over on its back and continue to burn. Capt. Seel saw the plane
at 2000 ft. headed downward. 2nd Lt. Nathan H. Greenwood was co-pilot on the ship.
The bombardier was S/Sgt. George F., Schulze, the radio operator was T/Sgt. Robert L.
Waldrip and the Gunner was S/Sgt. Lawrence Rider. The plane, #42-64657, had not been
modified. None of the crew was seen to bail out before the plane crashed.
DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt, pilot
Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt, gunner Schulze, George F., S/Sgt, bombardier
Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot Shapiro, Leonard L. "Shap", 1Lt, pilot
Waldrip, Robert Laseter, T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Capt. Seel’s plane was hit in the left engine and the engine cut out over Beja on
the return trip. He landed safely on one engine. The plexiglass on the turret was
shattered by flak. S/Sgt. Jenson, the turret gunner, suffered lacerations of the face. Lt.
Garrett, bombardier in Lt. DeMoss’s ship suffered laceration of the elbow from flak
which came through the plexiglass in the nose of the ship. A flak burst near the nose of
Lt. Cohagan’s ship injured him, his bombardier, Lt. Hartis, and his observer, Capt.
Manly, who was in the nose of the ship with Lt. Hartis. Lt. Cohagan suffered laceration
of the face, Lt. Hartis contusion of the hip and laceration of the leg, Capt. Manly
lacerations of the finger and leg. Lt. Cohagan landed at Tunis where Capt. Manly was
left for medical treatment. The rest of the crew returned to their home base the same
afternoon.
Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt, pilot DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot
Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt, bombardier, navigator Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier
Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt, gunner
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt, pilot
“July 5th was my day off and I recon I’m kind of glad it was. The boys had a very tough
mission, raiding the Gerbini Airfields. Some big shot somewhere had his head up and
locked and “ordered” that they follow the course he prescribed. It was a honey. They
were to approach the target area from the south, going west of it so that, when they got
well north of it, a turn to the right would bring them southwest to the target. They were
to make a 270° turn to the left after dropping their bombs, fly west a way, then go back
off the island to the south the same way they had come in. And it was a long way from
the target to the coast! It would be just begging for trouble.
And they got it. Shapiro was shot down and crashed on the island---DeMoss, who
followed him down to give him what protection he could, said Shap crashed and
burned—not a chance to live through it. Bradley, of the 446th, was shot down about 8 or
10 miles off the coast of Sicily, and several others were shot up pretty bad. Cohagan and
his crew took a beating---as did his passenger, Capt. R.W. Manly, who got various and
sundry pieces of flak here and there and nearly had the top of one of his fingers torn off.
Cohagan landed at Tunis and left him in the hospital there. He is not back yet, but
should be in a few days. Apparently there was nothing really serious.”
Bradley, James L., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt, pilot
DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot
Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt, intelligence
Shapiro, Leonard L. "Shap", 1Lt, pilot
447th BS: War Diary of: Stephenson, Henry W. "Steve", 2Lt, pilot (mission 1)
TARGET: Gerbini Satellite 3:55 300 lbs
Plane 925 (41-12925 “Huckelberry Duck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone,
S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“One A/C landed at Tunis. One landed in Sicily and broke into flame. One A/C landed
3 miles off Bianco H. and crew seen in dinghy. Hits seen on runway taxi strips &
hangars. Flak heavy accurate. Lt. Shapiro and crew forced down over target. Capt.
Manly an observer was hospitalized.”
Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt, gunner
Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot
Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt, intelligence McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
50 (81): At 10:15 36 planes off to bomb Gerbini #1, dropped 265 x 300 bombs from
8500 at 12:50. 33 returned at 14:10. 1 landed at Tunis and 1 in Sicily in flames, 1 in the
sea 13 miles off Bianco, all crew seen in life raft. Due to haze and poor visibility target
not seen until late and main A/D at Gerbini bombed instead, hits seen on runways,
revetments, taxi strips and hangars. 4 fires seen and white smoke over field. Intense,
heavy, accurate flak over field. 4 boats in harbor at Licata and Agrigento. 11 planes hit
by flak. Weather: Scattered cloud, target very hazy. F/L: Isaacson, Veum.
A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 42-64521

P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt
CP King, James L., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt
N None None
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt
E Ridgeway, Robert L., Pvt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
R Egbom, Clarence W., Pvt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt
G Dellwo, Lawrence W., Pvt Deal, Herman L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck”
P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
N None None
B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Moorman, Arthur L., Pvt
E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Lambert, Robert P., Sgt
R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl
G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., Pvt
F Jaenicke, Reinhart W., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG Asbury, Wilburn (NMI), 1Lt, HQ 321st
(observer) BG (observer)
A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 41-30326
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt
N None None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt
E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Roberts, Harold L., Pvt
R Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt Tanner, James T., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” A/C No. 41-30355 (flight leader)
P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt Holt, William E., 2Lt
B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ
321st BG
E Pitts, Lawrence P., Pvt None listed – likely Porch, Dean O., Pvt
R Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt Harding, John E., Pvt
G Ryal, Clarence M., Pvt Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 42-64655
P Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
N Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt None
B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Colby, Arthur R., Pvt
E Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., Pvt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, Pvt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G White, George E., Pvt Ally, George B., S/Sgt
F None Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer)
A/C No. 42-64661 (flight leader)
P Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt
N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt
B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
E None listed – likely Rohleder, Jack J.,
Pvt
R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Vance, Paul S., Pvt
F None
Tuesday, 6 July 1943
In Sicily, B-24's strike satellite airfields at Gerbini; B-25's hit the

airfields at Biscari and Gerbini while P-40's escort bombers, patrol, and carry out dive-
bombing operations. The 85th Fighter Squadron, 79th Fighter Group transfers with P-40's
from Tunisia to Malta.

Wellingtons hit Gerbini Airfield and 2 satellites during the night of 5/6 Jul; during
predawn hours and throughout the day, light and medium bombers of Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) bomb airfields at Biscari, Sciacca, Trapani, and Comiso;
NASAF B-17's again hit Gerbini Airfield and 3 satellite fields; B-25's bomb Biscari
Airfield. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) maintains sea patrol and convoy
protection.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: At 0835 on July 6, 1943, 36 planes took off to bomb Biscari-
San Pietro airdrome. One plane returned early and the others dropped 268 three-hundred
pound bombs with .1 and 45 second fusing from 8,000 to 9,000 feet at 1025. Almost all
of the bombs were dropped on the field, and the results were excellent. The buildings on
the northeast and northwest corners were also hit and 1 JU-52 taking off from the
airdrome, was believed to have been hit. No flak was encountered. Flight leaders were
Lieut. Bailey, Lieut. Garmon, Lieut. Richardson, Lieut. Fineman, Lieut. Cratin and Capt.
Tipton. Capt. Bell and Capt. Landron flew as observers.
Bailey, Harold Merle "Buzz", 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Bell, Albert R., Capt, pilot, HQ 321st BG
Landron, George J., Capt, photographer, 82nd FG
Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot, 445th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 6 July 1943 (continued)
2. At 0835 36___ _B-25s__ took off to _bomb_ Biscari/San Pietro A/D. __One__
returned early. ___35__ dropped _268x300lb. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second
No. A/C No & Type
fusing from 8000/9000 ft. at 1025. __35__ returned at 1205.
3. Almost all bombs dropped on field. Results excellent. Buildings on NE and NW

corners also hit. One JU-52 taking off believed hit.
4. Air---------5 T/E on SW corner of field near revetments. Two T/E on E. side.

Apparent graveyard in NW corner.
Marine----4/6 small boats in Licata harbor. Two yellow dinghys seen at 37°N, 14°E.
at 1031.
Flak--------None.
5. Enroute----Hazy, visibility 9 miles.

Target----- Hazy, visibility 10/12 miles.
Return----- Hazy, visibility 9 miles.
6. None.
Route------Left field on heading of 82°, 47 miles to Medjez el Bab 37°30’N, 9°36’E.
which was rendezvous. Left Medjez at 4000 feet at 0911 heading 73°, 83
miles to Cap ed Drek, 77°00’N, 14°20’E at 1023 at 9000 feet. Then 10
miles at 59° to target. Left turn and hit deck at coast.
Possible L/G’s---Area around 37°07’N, 14°03’E. appeared level.
Flight leaders---Lts. Bailey, Garmon, Richardson, Fineman, Cratin and Capt. Tipton.
Observers--------Captain Bell and Landron.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Sgt. Finn and Gallaher are out of the hospital now and will be
back to normal condition shortly. The hot winds were present throughout the day and the
temperature remained at 114 degrees. Steak was served at chow this evening which was
quite a jump from the two standard meats, Vienna sausage or Vienna sausage.
Finn, Jessie N., T/Sgt, duty soldier Gallaher, Dewitt C., T/Sgt, gunner
six B-25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Biscari, Sicily. 80 x 300 lb. demo. Bombs.
Were dropped by the 445th from 8,500 ft. The majority of the bombs dropped on the field
with excellent results. One JU 52 was hit while trying to take off. The escort was 24 P-
38’s and spitfires from Malta furnished a high cover. No more word from Lt. Gunter and
his crew.
A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-53373

P McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Neck, John S., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt
N None None
B Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Gregory, John N., T/Sgt Schuster, S. E., Cpl
G Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl
F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog” Sgt
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED”
Gambler II” (flight leader)
P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt
CP Bitner, William H., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt
N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt
B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt
E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt
R Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt
G Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear”
(Bear - no lettering)(flight leader)
P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt
CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
N None Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 2Lt
B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt
E Halpin, John J., Sgt None listed – likely Finn, Robert F.,
T/Sgt
R Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt
G Smith, James B., Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-64516

P Grau, Robert B., 1Lt Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt
CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
N None None
B Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt
E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt
R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt
G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., S/Sgt
F None Cox, Harold L., Sgt
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”
P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt
N None None
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 41-30354 (returned because
guns would not check out)
P McGee, William N., 1Lt Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt
N None Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt
B McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt Kazich, Rudolph William, S/Sgt
E Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt
R Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt
G Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt Boyette, Roy E., Cpl
F None None
mission 81, Sqdn 60 composed of 10 planes. Lt. Bailey led the Group to Biscari, Sicily
with Col. Knapp as co-pilot. 300 lb bombs were dropped and the target was very well
covered. It is believed that the field was rendered unserviceable. This was one of the
most concentrated bombing attacks in which this Squadron participated.
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO -
Pee Wee”
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N None None
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”
P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
N None None
B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Orr, William J., Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 41-13208
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt
N Braucher, David C., 2Lt None
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Pappas, William J., 2Lt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
R Haasch, George F., T/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt
F Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas
Peekin’”)
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt
CP Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt
Commander
N None None
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship” A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, HQ 321st BG Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
Commander
N McCarter, Elmer H., Capt None
B Brown, John Roland, 1Lt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin, B., S/Sgt
R Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G South, William R., S/Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl
F None Landron, George J., Capt 82nd FG
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam II of
Polka” (returned because of fuel leaks) St. Joe” (flight leader)(returned early)
(only pilot & ship identified – likely
crew is)
P Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt Beyer, William J., 2Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Harris, Posey T., 2Lt
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
F None None
300# demo. Biscari A/D, Sicily
Formation Leader - Lt. Bailey
Results - Target excellently covered as briefed
Remarks -No flak or fighters
P- Chappell, CP - Schwane, Maj, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Nicholson, G -Skill”
Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt, pilot
Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier
Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, Commander
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 82/mission 81) Group Mission # 82: Twelve
of our planes participated in a raid on the Biscari San Pietro airdrome in Sicily. Bombing
results good. All our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Werner, George P., Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt
B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt
E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
R O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts”
Duck” (flight leader)
P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt
B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt
E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt
R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt
G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt
F Leon, Robert D., Sgt None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt
CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt
N None None
B Harter, James E., S/Sgt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt
E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt
R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt
G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt
F Bell, Albert R., Capt, HQ 321st BG None
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-64695

(flight leader)
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N Daume, Oscar R., 2Lt None
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt None listed – likely Henry, William R.,
S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle”
Lady”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., S/Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt (observer) None
“On the 6th I went on my 24th mission. It was a lilly (Dilly?)! Our target was an airfield
just inland from the southern coast of Sicily, and each of the 36 ships carried a load of
three-hundred-pounders. It seems that the idea is to neutralize the fields themselves
rather than just to destroy the aircraft on the ground. In this particular case, we mauled
the hell out of it.
In keeping with its performance of late, I had a little trouble with Ruff Stuff. For
some unknown reason the darn thing is slow---disconcertingly slow. I flew on DeMoss’
right wing and stayed with him fairly well on the climb and going over the target, but
when they checked out getting off the target, DeMoss flew most of the way by himself.
Lungren was on his left wing and he, too, had trouble keeping up. He lagged about as
far behind as I did, and we looked like a two ship element trailing a one ship element.
But such tactics are dangerous only when there are fighters around. On this run we saw
none. And the odd part about it was that we went over the particular field that was our
target and right near to two others and no one saw even one burst of flak! For a
supposedly well defended island, they did surprisingly little shooting. Something seems
fishy to me…”
DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt, pilot
447th BS: War Diary of: Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 27)
TARGET: Biscari San Pietro A/D 3:30 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Results excellent. All bombs dropped in target area. Flight leader Lt. Richardson. No
E/A.
Richardson, Robert W., 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Biscari/San Pietro A/D 3:30 300 lbs
S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper, Cpl. Leon
“Almost all bombs dropped on field. Results excellent. One JU 52 taking off field
believed hit. Five T/E on SW corner of field near revetment. Two T/E on E side. No
flak.”
Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Leon, Robert D., Sgt, photographer McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
51 (82): At 08:35 36 planes off to bomb Biscari San Pietro airdrome, Sicily, dropped 268
x 300 bombs from 9000 feet. 35 returned at 12:05. Almost all bombs fell directly on
field excellent results. Weather: Hazy, visibility 9 miles.

P Sinclair, Erwin W., Jr., 1Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt
N Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt
B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
E Robb, Earl K., Pvt Rohleder, Jack J., Pvt
R Orman, Virgil N., Pvt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29967 (spare) A/C No. 41-30001 (spare)
P Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O
N None None
B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E Masteller, Harry M., Pvt Polinsky, Marvin J., Pvt
R Papile, Frank M., Pvt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt Silva, John P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64655 (spare) A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” (spare)
P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Fleming, George B., F/O
N None None
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Lambert, Robert P., Sgt
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., Pvt
F None None
Wednesday, 7 July 1943
ANTISUBMARINE WARFARE (AAF Antisubmarine Command): The

German sub, U-95l, is sunk in E Atlantic, 37-40N 15-30W, by a B-24 of the 1st
Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy).
In Sicily, B-24's hit airfields at Gerbini and the rail line N of Brucoli;
and B-25's bomb the airfield and surrounding areas at Biscari and Comiso. P-40's bomb
and strafe Lucca Airfield, Italy.

west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Palermo, Sicily and
airfields at Villacidro, Milis, and Pabillonis, Sardinia during the night of 6/7 Jul.
In Sicily during the day, B-17's, B-25's, and B-26's bomb Gerbini
satellite fields and Bo Rizzo Airfield, as P-40's fly a diversionary sweep over the W part
of Sicily; Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's hit Sciacca during the
night of 6/7 Jul, and the following day bomb airfields at Trapani, Biscari, Comiso, Bo
Rizzo, and Mazara del Vallo, and hit Sciacca, and Marsala radar stations, Caltanissetta
and Porto Empedocle
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 83rd mission took off at 0850 on July 7, 1943 to bomb
the Gerbini Airdrome #7. The planes dropped 270 three-hundred pound bombs with .1
and 45 second fusing from 8,500 to 9,500 feet at 1050. A good proportion of the bombs
are believed to have fallen in target area. Hits were also reported on #3 and #6
airdromes. Visibility was limited to 4 miles, making observations of result difficult. Our
B-25s also strafed 2 Seibel Ferries and escort vessels 1 mile north of Corridore D Pero.
One ME-109, black with silver spinners, attacked the formation after the target was hit.
Three other fighters in the air, did not attempt an attack. Large numbers of fishing-boats
were reported off the coast. Two large and several small boats were seen in Augusta
Harbor and 1 M/V was seen in Syracuse Harbor. Flight leaders were lieut. Richardson,
Lieut. Walker, Lieut. Fineman, Lieut. Whiteford, Lieut. Urquhart and Capt. Stultz.
Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Wednesday, 7 July 1943 (continued)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0850 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Gerbini A/D #7. __None_ returned
early. ___36__ dropped _270x300lb. bombs with .1 & 45 second fusing from
No. A/C No & Type
8500-9500 ft. at 1050. __36__ returned at 1320.
3. Good proportion of bombs believed to have fallen in target area. Hits also reported
on # 3 & # 6. Visibility was limited to four miles making observation of results
difficult. Strafed two Siebel ferries and escort vessels one mile north of Corridore di
Pero.
4. Air---------1 ME-109 black with silver spinner attacked after target. 3 other fighters
did not attack.
Ground---- A few aircraft reported on Gela/Ponte Olivo. Also on satellites # 3 & # 6.
Storage tanks observed at Corridore di Pero.
Flak--------Heavy, moderate to intense usually ahead and to left. One 6 gun battery
reported at southern edge of Catania city; another immediately north of
Mass. Reitano.
Naval------Large number of fishing boats at 37°18’N, 15°08’E. 2 large and several
small boats in Augusta harbor. One large M/V in Syracuse harbor.
5. Weather: En Route – 7/10 alto stratus becoming 1/10 as formation proceeded out to
sea. Visibility 7 miles.
Target – Very hazy, Visibility 4 miles.
Return – Hazy 3/10 cumulus at 7,000, visibility 10 miles.
6. Press Data - None.

Route------Left field at 4500 ft. at 0919 heading 111°, 117 miles to 36°08’N, 10°23’E.
Crossed coast near Enfidaville at 0944 and hit deck. Climb started on
same course at 1020 at 36°40’N, 12°47’E for 118 miles and reached 9,000
ft. at 1050. Crossed Sicilian coast at 37°06’N, 14°07’E, I.P. heading 59°
for 20 miles to 37°17’N, 14°25’E. Then 25 miles on 77° to target at 1050.
Heading 102° for 40 miles and then home around Cape Passero.
Possible L/G’s---Area immediately N.W. of Mass. Reitano appeared level.
Flight leaders---Lts. Richardson, Walker, Fineman, Whiteford, Urquhart, Captain
Stultz
Observers--------Captain Bell and Landron.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: It was learned today from Mrs. Johnson, mother of Lt. Johnson,
who went down with Lt. Adcock’s crew at El Djem on April 4th, that Lt’s. Johnson and
Hill, Sgt’s. Lippincott, Boyd and Campbell were all safe but prisoners of war in the hands
of the Germans. She said that Sgt. Lippincott received slight injuries in the landing. Our
enlisted men were defeated in a softball game with the 62nd base hospital—the final score
being 9 to 6.
Adcock, Roy Dale, 2Lt, pilot Boyd, Hugh A., Sgt, gunner
Campbell, Theodore W., Sgt, gunner Hill, Raymond DeWitt, Jr., 2Lt, bombardier
Johnson, Richard S., 2Lt, pilot Lippincott, Spencer H., Sgt, gunner
six B-25’s (11 of the 445th) took off to bomb Gerbini Satellite. 88 x 300 demo. Bombs
were dropped by the 445th from 9,000 ft. A good portion of the bombs were believed to
have fallen in the target area. The weather was very hazy and the visibility was limited to
about 4 miles making observation of results very difficult. Two Seibel ferries and escort
vessels were strafed about a mile off the coast. Four enemy fighters with black spinners
were seen but only one attacked us. The flak was heavy, moderate to intense usually
ahead and to the left of the formation. Twenty four P-38’s acted as escorts while spitfires
from Malta furnished the high cover over the target.
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle”

P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt
CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt
R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt
G Pierce, William V., S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear” A/C No. 41-13211

(Bear - no lettering)
P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R None listed Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-64575 (flight leader)
P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt
CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt
B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt
E Halpin, John J., Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt
R Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt
G Smith, James B., Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64516 A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Grau, Robert B., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt
CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt
N None None
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt
E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt
R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt
G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt
F None Cox, Bernard L., Sgt
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 42-53373
P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt
F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt None
A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED”

(flight leader)
P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt
N Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt
B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt
G Boyette, Roy E., Cpl
F None
mission 82, Sqdn 61 composed of 12 planes led by Lt. Garmon. The Target was the
Gerbini A/D #7, Sicily. 300 lb bombs were dropped but the results were only fair
because the target was difficult to find. Two Siebel Ferries and an Escort vessel were
strafed off the coast of Sicily.
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of

Polka” St. Joe”
P Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
N Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt Beyer, William J., 2Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 41-13208 (spare)
(spare)
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N None Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13008 (spare) A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”

P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
of our planes participated in a raid on Gerbini satellite #7. Because of poor visibility the
bombs were dropped on #3 & 4 with fair results. All our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts”
(flight leader) (flight leder)
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt
Commander
N Daume, Oscar R., 2Lt Colby, John W., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt
G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl”
P Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt Hasty, Curtis B., 2lt
CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt
B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Henry, William R., S/Sgt None listed
R Myers, William W., Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G None listed – likely Szczepanski, Alton, David D., S/Sgt
Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt
CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt
N None None
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Hartis, John G., 2Lt
E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Million, Fred B., S/Sgt
R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt None listed – likely Wanner, Harry
(NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 41-30002
P Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Ackley, James H., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt None
B None listed – likely the navigator Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
Lady”
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt
N None None
B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt
E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt
R Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., Pvt
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Duck”
P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt
CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt
N None None
B McCone, Walter G., S/Sgt Harter, James E., S/Sgt
E Kramer, Gilbert W., 2Lt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt
R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt
G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt
F None None
“On the 7th I got my 25th mission. Thirty-six ships loaded with 300’s again went after one
of the Gerbini satellite fields again. It was on this run that the boys had so much trouble
the day Shapiro was shot down. However, his loss got Col, Knapp on the ball and from
now on we plot our own courses to and from the targets. Our course for this raid was
considerably different: instead of making around trip of our route, as on the previous
raid, we were to hit the target from the southwest, bomb and turn off to the southeast,
taking the shortest route to the coast which was about ten miles.
Richardson was leading the entire formation and did a darn good job. Oscar
Daume, his navigator, turned in a faultless piece of work. Visibility was rotten—about 4
to 5 miles over the target at most. But we came into the target just where we intended to
and left it just as we had hoped—all blown to hell! We got a little flak, but nothing like
the stuff they ran into on the previous raid. It was scattered and more or less inaccurate.
Our return trip was a long one. As we left the target, we went over the eastern
coast of the island until it was almost out of sight, then we turned and flew south for a
while. The coast of Sicily faded out entirely when we made that turn and after a few
minutes, Daume had us going almost straight west, and we held that course for about an
hour and ten minutes. I was beginning to think that Oscar had missed Tunisia entirely,
and I fully expected to fly up on Gibraltar at any minute. But in due course we hit the
coast exactly where we had left it about three hours before. We hadn’t seen a thing since
leaving the coast of Sicily and to come out exactly where we intended was a masterpiece
of navigation. Just to show you how accurate it was, we flew right over the big middle of
the 340th field at Hergla on the way out, and coming back our course took us right over
the middle of the same field!
Since I had to use so much power in old Ruff Stuff to keep up with the formation,
Major Sampson got a little worried just before take off and came around to talk to me
about it. I told him that I thought it would make it O.K. and, although he gave me my
choice, I decided to try it. If I ran short on fuel on the way home, I could land at Hergla
which was about 35 minutes from our base. As it turned out, I had about an hour of fuel
in my tanks when we landed here. I started to land at Hergla anyhow—and go
swimming…”
Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt, navigator
Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, pilot, 321st BG Commander
Richardson, Robert W., Capt, pilot
Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, pilot, Commander
Shapiro, Leonard L. "Shap", 2Lt, pilot
TARGET: Gerbini A/D 4:30 300 lbs
S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper, Cpl. Leon
“Strafed two Siebel ferries and escorts vessels, one mile north E of Pero. One E/A
ME109 with silver spinners attacked over target. Flak moderate, heavy, intense.”
Leon, Robert D., Sgt, photographer McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
Mission 52 (83): At 08:50 36 planes off to bomb Gerbini #7, dropped 270 x 300 bombs
at 10:50 from 8500 feet. Haze and smoke prevented observation of results. All planes
returned at 13:20. Moderate inaccurate flak. Weather: 6/10th overcast, haze.
A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” A/C No. 42-64661

(flight leader)
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Cain, George S., 2Lt
E Potosky, John S., Pvt Schmidt, Walter I., Pvt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., Pvt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., Pvt
F None None
P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
N None Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt
B Reid, Robert L., Sgt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt None listed - likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F None None
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O
N None None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E None listed – likely Coleman, Smith B., None listed – likely Polinsky, Marvin J.,
S/Sgt PFC
R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt
F Hobert, Walter W., PFC None
A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 41-30326

P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt
N None None
B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt
E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Roberts, Harold L., Pvt
R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Tanner, James T., S/Sgt
G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt”
P Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt
B Kruse, Milford E., 2Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt
E Masteller, Harry M., Pvt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., Pvt
R Papile, Frank M., Pvt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, Pvt
G LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt White, George E., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe”
(returned – engine trouble)
P Conway, John G., Jr., 1Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
N None Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt
E Gebhardt, Ralph J., T/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, Pvt
R Spencer, John S., T/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, Pvt
G Kerr, Daniel (NMI), S/Sgt Wallace, John R., Pvt
F None None
ANTISUBMARINE (AAF Antisubmarine Command): German sub, U-232,

is sunk off Portugal, 40-37N 13-4lW, by a B-24 of the 2nd Antisubmarine Squadron
(Heavy).
In Sicily, B-24's attack the Catania railway station, telegraph and

telephone buildings, and industrial area; B-25's hit the airfields at Biscari and Comiso and
nearby areas; and P-40's attack Biscari Airfield, escort bombers over Sicily, and carry out
sea patrol.

Wellingtons bomb airfields at Comiso and Catania during the night of 7/8 Jul. During the
day, B-17's, B-25's, and B-26's make several strikes against Gerbini and its satellite
fields; P-38's strafe radar installations in the E part of Sicily; Northwest African Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) light bombers hit Sciacca Airfield while medium bombers hit
airfields at Biscari and Comiso; A-36's attack trucks, a train, railroads, highways, a sulfur
plant, and a marshalling yard at several points in Sicily.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Gerbini Satellite #6 was the target for the 84th mission on
July 8, 1943 which took off at 1110 with 48 planes. They dropped 361 three-hundred
pound bombs with .1 and 45 second fusing from 8,000 to 9,500 feet at 1330. The
coverage of the field was good, with especial concentration on the eastern end. A flak
position on the field was silenced by strafing and 2 Seibel Ferries were strafed east of
Corridore di Pero. Flak was heavy, inaccurate, varying from moderate at leading flight to
intense at rear flight. Bursts tracked the formation to the coast. A few bursts of heavy
flak were encountered from the town of Gela and Ponte Olivo airdrome. Flight leaders
were Maj. Cook, Capt. Tipton, Capt. Stultz, Lieut. Garmon, Lieut. Fineman, Lieut. Bailey
and Lieut. Richardson. Maj. Blake and Capt. Silver flew as observers.
Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th BW
Silver, George A., III, Capt, medical officer, 448th BS
Large numbers of personnel were affected with the “summer complaint” or the
“GIs”. Many adversely affected by the dosage of atabrine, found their conditions slightly
worse. Local purchases of wine and cheap “vino’ took their toll and found more than one
victim of “a-sittin’ and a-sittin’!” Vienna-sausages and the bulk of dehydrated food had
most of the men grumbling about the monotony of our diet. So, there were large numbers
of men who cooked their own eggs and bought locally, such items as tomatoes and
onions which the Arabs were willing to part with – at a fee. Or, if a jeep were available,
others would take off for the Ain Draham for poorly prepared food in limited quantities at
exorbitant prices; but anything to liven up our diet. Ain Draham had the peak of its trade
around paydays, with a decided slackening-up towards the end of each month.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1110 48___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Gerbini Satellite #6. __None_
returned early. ___48__ dropped _361x300lb. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second
No. A/C No & Type
fusing from 8000/9500 ft. at 1330. __48__ returned at 1550.
3. Coverage of field was good with especial concentration on eastern end. Few bombs
were over. Flak position on field silenced by strafing. Two S/Fs strafed east of
Corridore di Pero.
4. Air---------15 planes on E end of field. 15 on Ponte Olivo, 5 T/E on #6, 7 on #7.

Three fighters above formation did not attack.
Ground---- Coast from Marina Point to Licata reported to have string of strong points
partially concealed by hay stacks.
Marine----Two S/F’s and one escort vessel 4 miles E. of Corridore di Pero fired on
formation from almost same position as yesterday. 4 transports, possibly
one destroyer and about 20 small boats in Augusta harbor. 6/8 small M/V
in Sciacca harbor. 12/15 small V/V in Licata harbor.
Flak--------Heavy, inaccurate, varying from moderate at leading flight to intense at
rear flight. Bursts tracked formation to coast. Position at tip of Augusta
peninsula. Few bursts of heavy from town of Gela and Ponte Olivo A/D
5. Enroute----4/10 alto-stratus at 14,000. Hazy, visibility over 10 miles.

Target----- 4/10 alto-stratus at 14,000. Hazy, visibility 10 miles.
Return----- 3/10 cirro-stratus at 20,000. Hazy, visibility over 10 miles.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4,000 feet at 1140 on heading 92° for 115 miles to Korba
36°35’N, 10°52’E. Hit deck at coast near Korba at 1227 on heading of
42° for 45 miles, to 37°07’N, 11°23’E. From this point on 94° heading for
82 miles. Started climb at 1255 on same heading for 70 miles to 37°07’N,
14°08’E. reached at 1313. Then headed 60° for 21 miles and 79° for 35
miles to target at 9000 ft. at 1330. Right turn to 37°18’N, 15°40’E. then to
deck and home.
Possible L/G’s-----Area immediately W of Gela appeared flat. Also fields 3 miles

WSW of Ponte Olivo A/D.
Flight leaders------Major Cook, Captain Tipton & Stultz. Lts. Garmon, Fineman,
Bailey and Richardson.
Observers----------Major Blake, Captain Silver.

Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Word was received today that Lt. Gunter was dead and had been
buried last Sunday. This sad news came as quite a shock since we had received word a
few days ago that all the crew was saved. The loss of Lt. Gunter was a great loss to the
squadron and as he was a very good pilot and a fine man, well liked by all his fellow
officers and looked up to by the enlisted men for the real man he was. Lt. Gunter had
been with us since the squadron was activated back in the states.
Gunter, Macon A., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 84/mission 83) Group Mission # 84: Forty
eight B-25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Gerbini Satellite #6. 85 x 300 lb. demo.
were dropped by the 445th from 9,000 ft. The formation was led by Major Cook, with
Captain Tipton leading one of the flights. 48 P-38’s of the 82nd fighter group were escort.
Coverage of the field was good with especially a good concentration of hits at the eastern
end. Flak positions on the field were strafed. Two Siebel ferries were strafed just off the
coast. Enemy fighters appeared above the formation but did not attack. Several boats
were seen in Augusta Harbor on the way out from the target. The flak was heavy and
inaccurate varying from moderate at the leading flight to intense at the rear flight. Major
Cook received wounds about the eye which resulted from flak which hit the pilot’s
window. Sgt. Eagan was slightly wounded on the head when a piece of flak went
through his steel helmet.
A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 41-13211

P Cook, Bailey C., Maj, Commander Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt
CP Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt
B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Nysson, John W., 2Lt
E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt
R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt
G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”
P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt
CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt
N None None
B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Halpin, John J., Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt
R Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt Choka, Andrew J., T/Sgt
G Smith, James B., Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, S/Sgt
N Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt None
B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt
E Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt
R Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II”
P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Cratin, William S., 1Lt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt
N McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, HQ 321st BG Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt
F Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt None
A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
under bombardier's window)
N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt None
B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
F None Cox, Bernard L., Sgt
P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt None listed – likely Finn, Robert F.,
T/Sgt
R Carson, Donald (NMI), S/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt
F None None
mission 83, Sqdn 62 composed of 11 planes led by Lt. Garmon. The target was Gerbini
L/G #6, Sicily where 300 lb bombs were dropped. The field was well covered with a
heavy concentration of bombs on the eastern edge. Three enemy aircraft were
encountered but they didn’t attack.

Pee Wee”
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt None
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship”

P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., S/Sgt
G Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O
N None None
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt None listed – likely Misik, John (NMI),
S/Sgt
R Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas
(flight leader) Traveler II” (future “Enid II, “No
Peekin’”)
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt
CP Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt
N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt None
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess”
P Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
N Beyer, William J., Jr., 2Lt Braucher, David C., 2Lt
B Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 41-13197 (returned early -

Polka” faulty voltage regulator)
P Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt
R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl
F None None
300# demo. Gerbini A/D #6, Sicily
Formation Leader - Major Cook
Results - Good results.
Remarks -Flak - heavy, inaccurate, moderate to intense 3 E/A above formation no attack
Ship number - 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - Pee Wee” Formation 4:1
P- Chappell, CP - Schwane, Maj, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Nicholson, G -Skill”
Carr, Philip O., 2Lt, pilot
Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot
Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt, navigator
Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt, gunner
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier
Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner
of our planes participated in a raid on Gerbini satellite #6. Bombing results good. All
our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt
CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 1Lt Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt
G Werner, George P., Sgt Alton, David D., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry

(flight leader) Duck”
P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
N Colby, John W., 2Lt None
B Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt
E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt
R Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt
G Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, HQ 321st BG None
Commander (mission commander)
A/C No. 42-32430 “Miss Virginity” A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt
N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt None
B None listed – likely the navigator Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon
Ball”
P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt
N None None
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Davis, Donald A., S/Sgt
G Reilly, James M., Cpl Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt
F Pinger, Robert R., Maj, HQ 321st BG None
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
(flight leader)
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt
CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Harter, James E., T/Sgt
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt
G Murphy, Brendon J., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 41-30002

P Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E None listed – likely McGrail, Robert J., Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
S/Sgt
R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 42-64695 (returned early –
(returned early – radio & inter-phone loss of fuel pressure)
out)
P Ackley, James H., 2Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt
B Navigator filling both B & N positions Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt None listed – likely Henry, William R.,
S/Sgt
R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F Leon, Robert D., Sgt None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
Lady” (spare – not completed)
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt
N None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt
F None
“Yesterday, July 8th, I got my 26th. And this time the 321st really went out in strength!
Forty-eight ships (of which our squadron furnished 15) went back to the Gerbini fields
with 300 lb. demolition bombs again. And again I flew lead ship for an element---behind
Fineman who led the fourth flight of 12 ships and who, incidentally, carried the great
Col. Knapp.
Visibility at take off was terrible again and our joining up procedure was ragged,
but it just so happened that I got my element off soon enough behind Fineman that I
could see him all the way and so had no trouble finding my spot. After a couple of
circles and S turns we got under way. And this time our course was a little different.
Instead of going straight east from Enfidaville as previously, we turned about northeast
over the coast and flew straight out from Cape Bon. Then, after a little while, turned east
until we could see the coast of Sicily on our left. Ruff Stuff had no trouble keeping up,
and for the first time in quite a while, we made a mission without going into high blower.
Flak was a little bit more eager this time, although none came within worrying
distance of our flight. Major Cook got a little in his cockpit and suffered a few scratches
on his face but so far as I have been able to learn, nothing serious. Various other
members of his crew were hit too, but only minor injuries resulted.
Visibility over the target was much better, and I got my first look at Mt. Etna---
which is quite some hill.
Our course was practically identical to that the day before in so far as leaving the
target was concerned. The navigation, however, was not nearly so good. We went too
far on our southerly leg and almost over ran Malta. And so I got my first look at Malta.
It is a long island or group of islands that seem to rise out of the sea to a rocky height of
about 200 or so feet. We saw it from a distance and it looked blue and cool, but we knew
it could get awfully hot if we came too close. The boys on Malta have developed some
mighty itchy trigger fingers and are reported to shoot at anything that flies over---even
gulls!
But we turned short of it a little ways and came on west to home. On the way---
and just shortly after we left Malta---we could see the largest collection of boats of all
sizes I have ever imagined! Its size is almost unbelievable…Boats lined up and scattered
around for as far as the eye could see. A lot of power, there, and I have a feeling
someone is going to get a taste of that power somewhere and soon!
Just before we got to the Tunisian coast we passed right between two more
convoys---big ones---in fact I don’t think I’ve every seen a herd of cows with as many
cows in it as that convoy had boats!
I look for the invasion sometime between the 10th and 12th of July. We shall see!”
Cook, Bailey C., Col, pilot, Commander, 445th BS Fineman, Ernest, 1Lt, pilot
TARGET: Gerbini – Satellite # 6 4:40 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Coverage of field good. Flak position silenced by strafing. 371 led our squadron.
Major Pinger with 371.”
Pinger, Robert R., Maj, Surgeon, HQ 321st BG
TARGET: Gerbini Satellite No 6 4:40 300 lbs
“Coverage of field very good. A few bombs over. Flak positions silenced by strafing.
15 planes on E end of field. 15 on Ponte Olivo. 12 to 15 boats in Licata H. Flak heavy,
inaccurate.”
McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt, pilot (mission 3)
“Missed four straight missions while our ship was being modified. Finally got my foot in
it again today though. Target – Gerbini Satellite Airfield #6 in E. Sicily. B-25s and 32
P-38s for cover. Flak was heavy but we breezed through it. Saw a convoy of about 100
ships on the way back from the target. Beautiful sight. (Shapiro was shot down over
here Monday). Went to Trans Atlantique last night for supper.”
Mission 53 (84): At 11:10 48 planes off to bomb Gerbini #6, dropped 361 x 300 bombs
at 13:30 from 9599 feet and returned 15:50. Coverage of field excellent, concentrations
on Ea end and flak positions silenced by strafing. 2 fields strafed E of Corridor do Pero.
3 E/A seen above but did not attack. Intense, heavy inaccurate flak. Weather: Hazy.
F/L: Stultz.

P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt
CP Driver, William J., F/O Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., Pvt Gebhardt, Ralph J., T/Sgt
R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt
G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
F None None

P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt
CP Driver, William J., F/O Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., Pvt Gebhardt, Ralph J., T/Sgt
R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt
G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 42-64519
P Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Haskell, John D., 2Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt None
B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt
E Rohleder, Jack J., Pvt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Vance, Paul S., Pvt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 42-64521
P Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt
CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Barton, Thomas M., F/O
N None None
B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Reid, Robert L., Sgt
E Masteller, Harry M., Pvt None listed – likely Carnathan, J. D.
(i.o.), S/Sgt
R Papile, Frank M., Pvt House, Harry H., S/Sgt
G LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt
F Castle, Roy V., Pvt None
A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-29967 (flight leader)
P Culp, Merle H., Capt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP Boatwright, John S., 1Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
N Boland, Chester H., 1Lt Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt
B Reich, William John, 2Lt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Poynter, Robert A., Pvt None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F None None

P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt
N None None
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Roberts, Harold L., Pvt
R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl Tanner, James T., S/Sgt
G Taylor, Harry F., Pvt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt
F Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th BW (observer) None
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Ryan, Joseph C., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Colby, Arthur R., Pvt
E Potosky, John S., Pvt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 42-64661 (returned early –
faulty landing gear – hydraulic trouble)
P Veum, Ole E., Capt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
B Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ Cain, George S., 2Lt
321st BG
E None listed – likely Porch, Dean O., Pvt Schmidt, Walter I., Pvt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Marlow, Sterling H., Pvt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., Pvt
Friday, 9 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's bomb airfields at

Maleme, Crete, and Comiso and Taormina, Sicily.
In Sicily, B-25's hit Sciacca landing ground and Biscari Airfield and
dispersal areas while P-40's escort bombers over Castelvetrano, and Milo Airfields. This
pre-invasion air bombardment of Sicily provides air superiority over the enemy. British
and US airborne contingents are dropped on the island during the night of 9/10 Jul to help
facilitate the amphibious assault of seaborne troops which are to land tomorrow morning.
This is the first major airborne operation to be undertaken by the Allies in World War II,
and subsequently becomes the subject of intensive study.
In Sicily, during the night of 8/9 Jul, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the airfields at Catania, Gerbini, and Comiso, and
throughout the following day B-17's, B-25's, B-26's, and fighters attack other targets,
including Sciacca and Biscari Airfields, Gerbini satellite field, and Cape Passero Island
radar stations; and Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) planes hit Sciacca and
Milo Airfield during the night of 8/9 Jul, and on 9 Jul hit Milo and Biscari Airfields,
Sciacca, Porto Empedocle, HQ at Taormina, a junction NE of Gela, the Canicatti area,
and targets of opportunity.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 321st Bombardment Group still bombed away. On its
85th mission, 42 aircraft bombed the town of Caltanissetta with disastrous results. On
July 9, 1943, they dropped 245 five hundred pound and 8 three hundred pound bombs on
the town, railroad yards, tracks and barracks. Several explosions were seen in clouds of
smoke after fires have been started in the city. Flight leaders on this mission were Capt.
Stultz, Capt. Isaacson, Lieut. Chappell, Lieut. Garmon and Lieut. Richardson.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1545 42___ _B-25s__ took off to _bomb_ town of Caltanissetta. __None_

returned early. ___42__ dropped _245x500 lb. & 8x300 lb bombs with 1/10 and 45
No. A/C No & Type
second fusing from 10,000/11,000 ft. at 1730. __42__ returned at 1900.
Friday, 9 July 1943 (continued)
3. Town thoroughly covered, including hits on RR yard, tracks and barracks to NE.
Explosions seen in clouds of smoke after fires had been started in city.
4. Air---------None.
Ground---- None.
Flak--------A few bursts as crossed Cape Bianco.
5. Enroute----Clouds 4/10 at 6000 ft. becoming less than 1/10. Visibility unlimited.
Target------CAVU.
Return----- 1/10 cumulus at 6000. Visibility unlimited.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 feet at 1609 heading 84° to Kelibia, rendezvous at
36°53’N, 11°07’E. reached at 1643 at 2000 feet. Hit deck to 37°08’N, 11°22’E.
heading 44° for 25 miles reached at 1650. From there on 84° heading for 27 miles to
37°13’N, 11°52’E reached at 1658. Started climb to 10,000 feet on same heading to
Cape Bianco 37°23’N, 13°16’E for 80 miles reached at 1721. Then on same heading
for 45 miles to target. Right turn to coast and home.
Possible L/G’s-----Area 3 miles to NE of Ponte Olivo and 6 miles to SW appeared

level.
Flight leaders------Capts. Stultz, Isaacson, Lts. Chappell, Garmon, Richardson and

Fineman.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: It was learned today that Lt. Shaw and Lt. McLeod were slightly
wounded during the raid of July 4th as the result of the flak. This evening, a number of B-
25 G’s landed at the field and most of the men went down to the tower where they were
parked to look them over. The crews on the “G’s” called them the “Flying Caissons”.
We called them the “Flying Coffins”, knowing the type of work they would have to do.
McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt, bombardier Shaw, William H., 1Lt, pilot
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 85/mission 84) Group Mission # 85: 42 B-
25’s (6 of the 445th) took off to bomb the town of Caltanissetta. 36 x 500 lb demolition
bombs were dropped by the 445th from 10,500 ft. The escort was 36 P-38’s of the 14th
Fighter Group. The town was thoroughly covered including hits on railroad yards, tracks
and barracks in the northeast section of the town. A large explosion was seen. No enemy
fighters were seen and the few bursts of flak that were seen came from along the coast.
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-13211
P Kent, William S., 2Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Haegele, Frederic, G., 1Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Haney, T. J., Sgt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt
N None None
B Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Miller, Gail G., 2Lt
N Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt
B McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt Kazich, Rudolph William, S/Sgt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Boyette, Roy E., Cpl
F None None
mission 84, Sqdn 63 composed of 12 planes led by Lt. Chappell. 300 lb bombs were
dropped on Caltanissetta, Sicily. The results were only fair as the depots and barracks
were missed, however the Squadron’s target which was the RR yards and junction was
well covered.
A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13197 A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship”

P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Davison, William R., 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt Braucher, David C., 2Lt
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13192 A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP Tapper, George G., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
N None Beyer, William J., 2Lt
B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt
E Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., T/Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania
Traveler II” (future “Enid II, “No Polka”
Peekin’”)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
N None None
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO -
(flight leader) Pee Wee”
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo”

P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt
CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt
B Coe, George A., 1Lt Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt
R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt
G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt
F None None
300# demo. Caltanissetta, Sicily
Formation Leader - Capt. Stultz
Results - Fair results R.R. well hit.
Remarks -Practically no FLAK - no Fighters
P- Chappell, CP - Riordan, N- Springer, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill”
Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt, pilot Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier
Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner
Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt, navigator Stultz, Raymond B., Capt, pilot, 448th BS
of our planes participated in a raid on barracks at Caltanissetta, Sicily. Bombing results
excellent. All our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
P Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP Ackley, James H., 2Lt Stephenson, Harry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator McCone, Walter G., 2Lt
E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt
R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F Lowery, Bruce (NMI) “Field Marshall”, None
M/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon
Lady” Ball”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Balsom, James P., S/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32430 “Miss Virginity” A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda”
P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt
N None None
B Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt None listed – likely McGrail, Robert J.,
S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64695
(flight leader)
P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N Colby, John W., 2Lt Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt
B Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Nelson, James E., S/Sgt None listed – likely Henry, William R.,
S/Sgt
R Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle
(flight leader) II”
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt
CP Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt
F Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st Leon, Robert D., Cpl
BG (observer)
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-30002

P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt None
B None listed – likely the navigator Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F None None
TARGET: Caltanissetta 3:15 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Town RR yards and tracks well hit. Few bursts of flak from AA as we crossed Cape
Bianco. First mission our squadron bombed troops.”
TARGET: Caltanissetta Sicily 3:15 300 lbs
Plane 600 (42-64600 “Lady Luck”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, S/Sgt
Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“The town was thoroughly covered including hits on railroad yards, tracks and
barracks. This mission was first mission in which our squadron bombed troops. In the
city, two divisions believed camped.”
“Target today Caltanissetta in Sicily – town, railroad yards, barracks, military depot –
no flak – no fighters – P-38s covered.”
“We are being unusually busy these days, and it is a little difficult to find the time to keep
my log up with my missions. I intended to write a lot more about the raid on which
Shapiro was shot down, but the lights went out and I had to quit, and I have just not had
the time since.
Doc Manly came back this morning. He had bandages on his right forearm and
the fingers of his right hand. The bones of one finger were pretty well crushed, and his
arm was perforated here and there, but he says his wounds don’t hurt him much and time
will heal everything except his feelings. He is a little unhappy about the situation
because at briefing before the mission he had classified the flak as “scattered and
inaccurate”. But after he got hit, he changed his ideas and called it “accurate”.
Furthermore, he said he saw the darn thing coming and just couldn’t do anything about
it. The cramped quarters of the bombardier’s compartment don’t afford much room for
evasive action.
I didn’t mention that the boy who rode up front on Cohagan’s ship as his
bombardier had a close one when Doc Manly was hit. It seems that a large and
industrious chunk of flak came in the side and undoubtedly would have killed him if it
hadn’t run into his .45 automatic which he had in his shoulder holster. The slug hit his
pistol with such force that it bent the side action and completely ruined his gun. That was
Hartis—the very short little guy who, with his ‘wife’ I invited to ride home with you one
night down at Eglin.
Bradley, the boy who hit the water off the coast of Sicily on the same raid, is now
back here. It seems that a couple of P-38 boys stayed with him, circling over him until
help came from Malta. Its boys who do things like that who, I believe, deserve the D.F.C.
There were seven aboard Bradley’s ship when it went down---and only six clambered out
to get on the raft. For a second or two they didn’t realize that one was missing---and
when they did, one of the boys dived down and pulled the delinquent to the surface by his
hair. The boy was pretty well beat up—having suffered a broken leg and so was unable
to swim. The entire crew is O.K. and the few who were injured are well on their way
back to action.
All that took place on July 5th, which, as I mentioned, was my day off. For some
reason I wasn’t scheduled for the mission today, but I’m not complaining. I was tired
anyway.”
Bradley, James L., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt, pilot
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier Manly, Robert W. “Horse, Capt, intelligence
448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew):
“Sale` to Souk El Arba. Sleep on table in Mess tent.”
Mission 54 (85): At 1545 42 planes off to bomb Caltanissetta and dropped 245 x 500 and
8 x 300 bombs from 10,000 feet at 17:30 and returned at 19:00. Town thoroughly
covered, hits on RR tracks, yards and barracks to NE. Explosions seen and clouds of
pink smoke after first started in city. No flak or enemy action. Weather: 4/10 th cover at
6000 visibility unlimited. F/L: Stultz, Isaacson.
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt”
P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Fleming, George B., F/O Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., Pvt
R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, Pvt
G Taylor, Henry F., Pvt White, George E., Pvt
F Silver, George A., III, Capt (observer) None
A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 41-30343

P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
N Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt
E Porch, Dean O., Pvt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, Pvt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, Pvt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt Wallace, John R., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-64655
P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
N None None
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Colby, Arthur R., Pvt
E Roberts, Harold L., Pvt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 42-64521( flight leader)
P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., Pvt
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., Pvt
F None None
P Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt
N Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt Boland, Chester H., 2Lt
B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Kruse, Normal L., 2Lt
E Robb, Earl K., Pvt None listed
R Orman, Virgil N., Pvt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, Pvt Spencer, John S., T/Sgt
F None None

P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt
B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F Castle, Roy V., Pvt None
321st Bomb Group Headlines: (The date in the upper right corner of this page from
“321st Bomb Group Headlines” should be July 10, 1943)
In Sicily, B-24's attack the marshalling yard at Catania and airfield at

Vibo Valentia; and B-25's hit Palazzolo, Sciacca, Catania, Agrigento, Floridia,
Giarratana, Biscari, Syracuse, and Piazza Armerina while fighters cover the assault beach
areas.
In Sicily, during the night of 9/10 Jul, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Catania, Syracuse, the Syracuse Isthmus seaplane
base and the railroad station at Syracuse, and Caltagirone; Northwest African Air Force
Troop Carrier Command flies airborne operations to drop British and US paratroops; the
US Seventh and British Eighth Armies make amphibious landings on the S and SE coast
of Sicily. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-36's hit railroads, road
junctions, trains, and vehicles while P-40's fly cover for amphibious landings. NATAF
light and medium bombers hit airfields at Sciacca, Canicatti, Ponte Olivo, and Trapani,
and towns and surrounding areas of Caltagirone and Palazzolo. Throughout the day
NASAF B-17's and B-25's bomb Milo and Sciacca Airfields, Gerbini satellite fields, and
towns of Palazzolo and Caltanissetta, Sicily. P-38's on sweep strafe radar installation.
HQ 3rd Air Defense Wing transfers from Tunisia to Licata, Sicily.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The group had a busy day on July 10, 1943 with two
missions. The first took off at 0700 with 36 planes to bomb Palazzolo Town. Nearly 300
two hundred and fifty pound and three hundred pound bombs were dropped from 10,000
to 11,000 feet, with .1 and 45 second fusing. The town was well-covered and barracks on
the east and southwest were completely covered. A few bombs were short and over.
Flight leaders were Maj. Schwane, Capt. Tipton, Lieut. Garmon, Lieut. Fineman, Lieut.
Richardson and Lieut. Whiteford. Observers on this mission were Col. Taylor, Lt. Col.
Olmsted, Maj. Hoover, Maj. Pemberton, Capt. Landron and Capt. Nickerson.
Hoover, Travis (NMI), Maj, pilot, 47th Wing
Landron, George J., Capt, photographer, 82nd Fighter Group
Nickerson, James E. "Nick", Capt, intelligence, 445th BS
Olmsted, Charles T., Col, pilot, Executive, HQ 321st BG
Schwane, Henry H. "Hank", Maj, pilot, Commander, 446th BS
Taylor, Y. H. (i.o.), Col, Chief of Staff, HQ 47th Wing
The second mission of the day, the 87th, took off at 1640 with 36 planes to bomb
the Milo Airdrome. They dropped 42 five hundred pound and 162 two hundred and fifty
pound bombs from 9,000 to 10,000 feet at 1805. The field was well-covered, including
hits on the runway. A hangar was seen to blow up and a direct-hit was made on 1
transport. One ME-109 was damaged and two of our planes hit by flak, made controlled
landings on the water west of Sicily. Flak was heavy, very intense, with 19 of our planes
being winged. Sgt. Arthur E. Morse and Sgt. Kenneth K. Krause were seriously
wounded. The personnel of the two planes were reported as missing in action, but later
were returned to duty and reported as captured. Lieut. Jung and Lieut. Roessler were
reported as captured and Sgt. Fred B. Million and Sgt. Ralph V. Nelson were reported as
having been killed in action. Lieut. John G. Hartis and Sgt. Harry Wanner were slightly
wounded. Six ME-109’s were observed dog-fighting with the escort. One ME-109
attacked the formation over the target. Flight leaders were Capt. Tipton, Capt. Culp,
Capt. Veum, Lieut. Richardson, Lieut. Fineman, and Lieut. Whiteford. Lt. Col. Olmsted,
Lt. Col. Lowell, Capt. Stultz, Lieut. Lichtward and Lieut. Dobbins flew as observers.
Dobbins, Daniel G., 1Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier, 447th BS
Jung, Roland W. "Wongy", 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Lichtward, Frederick W., Capt, intelligence, 448th BS
Lowell, William A., Lt Col, Adjutant, HQ 321st BG
Million, Fred B., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 447th BS
Morse, Arthur E., Sgt, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS
Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt, gunner, 447th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0700 36___ _B-25s__ took off to _bomb_ Palazzolo Town. __None_

returned early. ___36__ dropped _72x250 lb. & 213x300 lb bombs with 1/10 and 45
No. A/C No & Type
second fusing at 0902 from 10,000/11,000 feet. __36__ returned at 1050.
Time Alt. No A/C Time
3. Town well covered. Barracks on the east and southwest completely covered. A few
bombs were short and over. Spitfires not seen at rendezvous point.
4. Air---------None.
Ground----None.
Flak-------- None.
5. Enroute----Low scud over sea. 2/10 cumulus.

Target------CAVU.
Return----- 4/10 cumulus at 5000. Visibility unlimited.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 feet at 0725 on heading 111° for 92 miles to coast near
Enfidaville reached at 6000 feet. Left coast on 90° heading for 188 miles.
Started climb at 0835 to 11,000 feet on same heading to 36°20’N,
14°00’E. Then headed 50° for 35 miles and crossed coast at 36°42’N,
15°58’E at 0855. Then to target at 357° for 25 miles, reached at 0902.
Left turn and home.
Flight leaders------ Maj Schwane, Captain Tipton, Lts. Garmon, Fineman, Richardson,
and Whiteford.
Observers---------- Colonel Taylor, Lt. Col. Olmsted, Majors Hoover & Pemberton.
Captain Landron and Nickerson.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1640 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Milo A/D. __None_ returned early.
___35__ dropped 42x500 lb. & 48x300 & 162x250 lb bombs with 1/10 and 45
No. A/C No & Type
second fusing from 9,000/10,000 feet at 1805. __34__ returned at 1925.
3. Field well covered, including hits on runway. Hangar seen to blow up. Direct hit on
one transport. One ME-109 with yellow nose damaged. Two planes hit by flak made
controlled landing on water W of Sicily.
4. Air---------5/6 ME-109s dog-fighting with escort. One ME-109 attacked formation

over target. 12 planes on E side of field, 6 T/E & 6 S/E in NW corner and
some on W perimeter.
Marine---- Two small ships in Trapani harbor fired on formation.
Flak--------Heavy, very intense, accurate from target began firing to left on same level
then picked up formation. Pink bursts observed. Positions also at San
Marco and Favignana, Stagnone and Levanzo Islands. 19 planes hit by
flak.
5. CAVU for route.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 feet at 1646. Heading 84° 130 miles to Kelibia,
36°52’N, 11°07’E, reached at 1720. Started climb from there on heading
34° for 45 miles to 11,000 feet at 38°15’N, 11°32’E reached at 1731.
Head 34° for 65 miles to 38°25’N, 12°05’E reached at 1747, then at 74°
for 35 miles to 38°25’N, 12°42’E reached at 1754. Heading of 170° for
15 miles to 38°10’N, 12°48’E reached at 1759, and then 230° for 15 miles
to target at 1805. Right turn and home at 6000 feet.
Flight leaders------Lts. Richardson, Fineman, Whiteford, Capts. Tipton, Culp &
Veum.
Observers---------- Lt. Colonels Olmsted and Lowell, Capt. Stultz, Lts. Lichtward &
Dobbins.
Photos taken. FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON,
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Lt. Armstrong’s tent in the area caught on fire this afternoon but
no one was able to get near to tent to put the flames out because of the great display of
pyrotechnics caused by ammunition, flares, land mines, hand grenades, and assorted
German ammunition. (Lt. Armstrong DID have quite a collection of German) souvenir
and ammunition but not any more).
Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt, pilot
25’s (12 from the 445th) took off to bomb the town of Palazzolo in Sicily. The escort was
24 P-38’s and Spitfires. 96 x 300 lb bombs were dropped by the 445th from 10,500 ft.
which covered the town very well. Very few bombs fell over or short of the target. No
flak was encountered. While flying to the target, hundreds of Allied boats including
battleships, destroyers, barges and other types of boats could be seen along the southeast
tip of Sicily.
A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-53373

P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt
CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
N None None
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt
R Matthews, Earl L., S/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Kaschenbach, Karl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
N None None
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt
G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-64516
P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, S/Sgt
N None None
B Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt None listed – likely Krause, Kenneth K.,
S/Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” (flight A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
leader)
N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt Larson, Harold W., 1Lt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, S/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
F None Nickerson, James E. “Nick”, Capt
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”
P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Morse, Arthur E., S/Sgt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Boyd, Ewell V., S/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., T/Sgt
F Taylor, Y. H. (i.o.), Col, Chief of Staff, None
HQ 47th Wing (observer)
P Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt
N Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 2Lt None
B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt
E Lockwood, Patrick B., M/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt
R Chereski, John J., T/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt
G Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt
F None None
445th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 87/mission 86) Group Mission # 87: The 2nd
mission was 36 B-35’s (12 from the 445th) to bomb Trapani Milo airdrome in northwest
Sicily. 54 x 500 lb. bombs and 24 x 250 lb. bombs were dropped by the 445th from 9,500
ft. The field was well covered including numerous hits on the runway, one hangar
blowing up and 1 direct hit on a transport. Five or six ME 109’s were seen dog fighting
with the escort. One ME 109 attacked the formation over the target. The flak was heavy,
very intense and very accurate. The flak started bursting on the same level as the
formation and finally picked the formation up from behind. Nineteen planes were hit by
flak, two of which made controlled landings in the Mediterranean west of Sicily. Lt.
Rudolph and his crew are down in the Mediterranean somewhere as the result of being hit
severely by the flak. Sgt. Morse, bombardier on Lt. Kayser’s crew, was hit with flak
while he was on his sight during the bomb run. But in spite of his injuries he finished the
bomb run and released his bombs, then manned the nose gun. Even though he was
severely wounded by flak which entered his buttocks and on up through his pelvis. He
continued to man his gun in defense of his ship against fighters. This was a truly heroic
act, one which really required “intestinal fortitude”. Three turret domes were blown off
three of our ships and Sgt. Mickey Pierce was knocked out of his turret when his dome
was blown off.
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 41-2-64516 (crash landing at

sea 1 mile off Cape Bon)
P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt
CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
N None None
B Morse, Arthur E., S/Sgt Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt
E Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt
R Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt
G Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt
F Dobbins, Daniel G., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG Cox, Bernard L., Sgt
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64508 (flight leader) A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
P Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt Grau, Robert B., 1Lt
CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt
N Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 2Lt Larson, Harold W., 1Lt
B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E None listed – likely Finn, Robert F., Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt
T/Sgt
R Chereski, John J., T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
G Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
F Smith, William C. “Doc”, Capt, None
(observer)
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 42-64575
P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
N None None
B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie"
P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt
N None Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt
B Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt
F None Lowell, William A., Lt Col, HQ 321st BG
(observer)
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” (flight
leader)
P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt
CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt
E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt
R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt
G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
N None None
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Matthews, Earl L., T/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl
445th BS: Crash Landing at Sea:
A/C No. 41-2-64516 (crash landing at sea 1 mile off Cape Bon)
P Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt - rescued by convoy
CP Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt - rescued by convoy
N None
B Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt - rescued by convoy
E Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt - WIA flak, rescued by convoy
R Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt - rescued by convoy
G Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt - rescued by convoy
F Cox, Bernard L., Sgt - rescued by convoy
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Intelligence Officer
APO 520
12 July 1943
Subject: Crash landing on sea made by Lt. Rudolph on July 10th.
To : FRANCIS R. PEMBERTON, Major, Air Corps, Group Intelligence Officer
1. I submit herewith a report on the crash landing on the sea which Lt. Rudolph
made on July 10th. This report is based upon the statements made to me by Lt. Rudolph,
pilot, Lt. Kailer, co-pilot, and Sgt. Fehr, radio operator.
2. In the afternoon of July 10th, Lt. Rudolph took off on a bombing mission over
Trapani Milo airfield. His aircraft was No. 42-64516, an unmodified green ship. The
crew was as follows: 1st Lt. Raymond L. Rudolph, pilot; 2nd Lt. William F. Kailer, co-
pilot; S/Sgt Edward F. Klunk, bombardier; T/Sgt. Robert A Fehr, radio operator; Sgt.
Stanley J. Quintin, turret gunner; S/Sgt. Kenneth K. Krause, engineer; and Sgt. Bernard
L. Cox, photographer.
3. Everything was satisfactory when the ship started its bomb run over the
airfield. It was the no. 3 airplane in the first element of the second flight. As the
formation approached the target, heavy flak of unusual intensity was encountered.
Almost a solid line of bursts similar to barrage type were observed just off to the left,
parallel to the formation. Lt. Rudolph stated that he had not been through any more
intense flak and it is to be remembered that he flew through the very intense flak which
was encountered just south of Tunis on Easter Sunday.
Rudolph, Raymond L. "Rudy", 1Lt, pilot
4. Sgt. Klunk had just flipped the toggle switch and released the bombs when the
ship was hit with 4 heavy bursts, one following rapidly after the other. One burst hit
under the bomb bay, another by the left horizontal stabilizer, a third by the nose and the
fourth near the camera hatch. Fragments pierced over a hundred small holes throughout
the ship. In addition the right engine was knocked out.
Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt, bombardier
5. Lt. Rudolph found himself with a ship in which there was no power in the right
engine, the bomb bay doors could not be closed, the landing gear was partially down, the
flaps had dropped approximately 10 degrees, and the tail gunner Sgt. Krause had just
called on the interphone to report that he had been hit.
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rudolph, Raymond L. "Rudy", 1Lt, pilot
6. The formation had been flying a little over 200 miles per hour on the target at
an altitude of about 9500 ft. As soon as the engine lost its power the ship skidded to the
right towards Captain Tipton’s ship leading the element. Lt. Rudolph immediately
brought the ship under control but due to the condition of the ship it was impossible to
maintain its speed or altitude or to make turns with the formation. Accordingly it was
necessary for Lt. Rudolph to drop out of the formation and adopt a plan of action to save
his crew.
Rudolph, Raymond L. "Rudy", 1Lt, pilot Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Maj, pilot
7. He decided to head straight out over the water and to get as far away from
Sicily and as close to friendly shores as possible. His speed had been cut to about 140
miles per hour and in order to gain or maintain speed he put the nose of his ship down
when he peeled out of the formation. He also feathered the prop on the right engine.
8. The condition of his ship was observed by the fighter escort and he was
followed by 10 P-40’s. Although he was fired at both from the mainland of Sicily and
from the island of Favignana, no further hits were scored. At this time he had cleared the
small islands lying off the west coast of Sicily. He had lost about 5500 ft of altitude and
was flying at about 4000 ft. He was still gradually losing altitude.
9. An attempt was made to make radio contact with air-sea rescue stations and
also with sources that could give him a radio fix. There was difficulty with the radios, Lt.
Kailer stating that he thought they had been impaired by the flak bursts. Lt. Rudolph did,
however, make contact with the island of Pantelleria which gave him a heading of 230
degrees from Cape Bon.
Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt, pilot Rudolph, Raymond L. "Rudy", 1Lt, pilot
10. At or about the time contact was made with Pantelleria, the ship was flying at
1000 ft altitude. While it seemed that he might be able to hold the ship at this altitude, Lt.
Rudolph could not gain any height and could not make any turns without losing more
altitude.
11. He was faced with the problem of deciding whether to make a landing on the
sea or come down somewhere on the land. We decided that under circumstances he
would have a better chance on the sea as close as possible to the beach. Thereafter he
sighted a friendly convoy about 2 miles off Cape Bon which was proceeding in a north-
westerly direction. He passed in front of the formation at an altitude of about 700 ft. and
attempted a landing on the water about 1 mile from the shore.
12. Word had been passed through the ship, of course, that a crash landing would
be attempted and steps taken toward the opening of the escape hatches. The landing gear
was still partially down and the bomb bay doors were open. It was the objective of Lt.
Rudolph to bring the tail down first and drag it through the water before letting the nose
down. This he did in a most satisfactory manner. However, the sea was fairly heavy and
a large wave struck the nose and brought the ship to a sharp stop throwing Lt. Rudolph
against the front of the ship which resulted in the injuring of his nose.
13. Lt. Rudolph, Lt. Kailer, and Sgt. Klunk made their way out through the
escape hatch over the pilot’s compartment. The automatic release for the life raft had
failed to work and Lt. Rudolph climbed out on top of the fuselage to get the life raft off.
Sgts. Fehr, Quintin and Cox made their way out of the escape hatch on the side of the
ship near the radio operator’s compartment. However, because of the serious flak
wounds to his thigh and kneecap, it was necessary to help Sgt. Krause out through the
camera hatch.
Cox, Bernard L., Sgt, photographer Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt, radio-gunner
Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt, pilot Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt, bombardier
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt, gunner
14. The ship stayed afloat from about 5 to 7 minutes. It was not possible for all
the men to get on the life raft at one time and those who were unable to do so were
supported by their life vests and also held on to the edge of the raft. They were unable to
make much if any headway paddling the raft. They drifted offshore in the direction of
the convoy.
15. The convoy had sighted them making their landing and sent a small tank
landing craft to pick them up. There was some difficulty in getting a rope to the life raft
because of the size of the waves until finally a sailor tied a rope around his waist and
swam to the raft. The convoy was on the way to Bizerte and accordingly the crew was
landed at that place.
16. The ten P-40’s which accompanied the ship when it left its formation stayed
with the plane until the men were rescued. Lt. Kailer who was interviewed by me
repeated several times that but for the steady and constant skill displayed by Lt. Rudolph
throughout the whole affair the crew would have never got back.
JAMES E. NICKERSON,
Captain, Air Corps,
Intelligence Officer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS 1 Aug 43 Annual Report: On July 10 Lt. Rudolph found himself over Trapani
Milo airfield, with intense flak bursting around and at the controls of a ship in which
there was no power in the right engine, the bomb bay doors could not be closed, the
landing gear was partially down, the flaps had dropped approximately 10 degrees and the
tail gunner, Sgt. Krause, had just called on the interphone to report that he had been hit.
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt, pilot
The formation had been flying a little over 200 miles per hour on the target run at
an altitude of about 9500 ft. As soon as the engine lost its power the ship skidded to the
right towards Captain Tipton’s ship leading the element. Lt. Rudolph immediately
brought the ship under control but due to the condition of the ship it was impossible to
maintain its speed or altitude or to make turns with the formation. Accordingly it was
necessary for Lt. Rudolph to drop out of the formation and adopt a plan of action to save
his crew.
Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt, pilot Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot
He decided to head straight out over the water and to get as far away from Sicily
and as close to friendly shores as possible. His speed had been cut to about 140 miles per
hour and in order to gain or maintain speed he put the nose of the ship down when he
peeled out of the formation. He also feathered the prop on the right engine.
He was able to keep the plane up and under control until about a mile off Cape
Bon where he made a crash landing on the sea. All of the crew made their way out and
were rescued by a tank landing craft from a nearby convoy.
445th BS 1 Aug 43 Annual Report: On July 10, the day that the invasion of Sicily was
commenced, Sgt. Arthur E. Morse was the bombardier in the nose of Lt. Kayser’s ship on
a mission over Trapani Milo airdrome. The flak on that mission was exceptionally
intense and burst almost in a solid line close to the formation. Just as Sgt. Morse was
getting set with his bombsight a piece of flak tore its way into his body. It was a critical
injury which gave him only a good fighting chance to live. The Squadron Doctor verifies
that the physical and mental shock was much as to normally cause complete collapse.
Sgt. Morse stayed on his bombsight. He released the bombs and accurately too. And
thereafter he continued to fire the 50 cal. Machine gun in the nose until the enemy
fighters disappeared. This was heroism to an almost unbelievable degree.
Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt, pilot Morse, Arthur E., Sgt, gunner, bombardier
Smith, William C. "Doc", Capt, Flight Surgeon
445th BS 1 Aug 43 Annual Report: On the same day, S/Sgt. Kenneth K. Krause, tail
gunner in Lt. Rudolph’s ship, was hit by two pieces of flak, one of which pierced his
thigh and the other striking him in the knee. One burst of flak had hit under the bomb
bay, another by the left horizontal stabilizer, the third by the nose and the fourth near Sgt.
Krause. All that Sgt. Krause had to say was “Rudy, I’ve been hit”. He made no mention
of how badly he was hit and gave no call for assistance despite his wounds. He simply
stuck by his post until he was helped out after the ship had made a crash landing on the
Mediterranean.
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 1Lt, pilot
Elizabeth C. Stanton
Offloading supplies for the invasion of Sicily, 10 July 1943
mission 85, Sqdn 64 composed of 12 planes. Major Schwane led the Group with Col.
Knapp as co-pilot. 500 lb bombs were dropped on Palazzolo, Sicily and town was well
covered.
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship” (flight
leader)
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj,
Commander
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, HQ 321st BG
Commander
N None McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, HQ 321st BG
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Brown, John Roland, 1Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt South, William R., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-13192

Peekin’”)
P Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt
CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt
N None None
B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt
E Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt, Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt
R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt
G Orr, William J., Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt
F None Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam II of A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”
P Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt
CP Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt
N Beyer, William J., 2Lt Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt
B Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt
E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Roulier, Edward T., Cpl
G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania
Polka”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt (observer) Hoover, Travis (NMI), Maj, HQ 47th
Wing (observer)
A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 41-13008
P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt
CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt
N None Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Braucher, David C., 2Lt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Haasch, George F., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13197 A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO -

Pee Wee”
P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
N None None
B Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl
F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG
500# demo. Palazzolo, Sicily
Formation Leader - Maj Schwane
Results - Town well covered.
Remarks -No FLAK or Fighters
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier
Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, pilot, Commander
mission 86, Sqdn 65 composed of 1 plane flown by Lt. Schmidt. The target was
Trapani/Milo A/D, Sicily. The field was very well covered by 500 lb bombs. Two
planes in the Group were lost with one crew missing. Our plane returned safely.

Peekin’”) (spare – used)
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt
R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13197 (spare) A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania

Polka” (spare)
P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC
F None None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (spare)
(spare)
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None McGuire, Charles W., 1Lt (observer)
447th BS War Diary: Our squadron participated in two missions today. We had twelve
planes in the first mission and twelve planes in the second. No news of Lt. Jung’s crew
tonight.
Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 86/mission 85) Group Mission # 86: The
first was a raid on barracks at Palazzolo, Sicily. Bombing results excellent. Crews
reported seeing large convoys near the coast of Sicily and landing barges unloading
invasion troops. This was the day of the invasion of Sicily. All our planes retuned safely
from this first mission.
A/C No. 42-32430 “Miss Virginity” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
(flight leader)
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt
B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., S/Sgt
G Werner, George P., Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt
F Leon, Robert D., Cpl Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st
BG (observer)
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”

P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt
CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Harter, James E., S/Sgt
E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt
R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
Ball”
P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N None None
B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt
R Balsom, James P., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry
Lady” Duck”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
N None None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F None Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st
BG (observer)
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 41-30002
II”
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
R O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
(flight leader)
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Navigator filling both B & N positions
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R None listed Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 87/mission 86) Group Mission # 87: The
second mission was a raid on the airdrome at Trapani Milo. Bombing results excellent.
The flak on the second mission was very intense. Lt. Jung’s plane received a direct hit
and lost altitude rapidly. One of the engines was on fire. He was seen to make a
controlled landing in the sea. With him were Lt. Roessler, Lt. Hartis, S/Sgts. Million, R.
Nelson, and Sgt. Wanner. The hydraulic system in Lt. Ashley’s ship was damaged by
flak and he experienced some difficulty getting his wheels down when he got home. All
planes except that of Lt. Jung’s returned safely from the second mission.
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
II” Lady”
P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt
CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt
N None None
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt
E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt
R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, Robert J., Pvt
A/C No. 42-32430 “Miss Virginity” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
(MACR-97 - landed at sea after reaching
target)
P Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt
CP Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt
N None None
B Hartis, John G., 2Lt Harter, James E., S/Sgt
E Million, Fred B., S/Sgt Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt
R Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt
G Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt
F None Cook, Arnold J., M/Sgt, HQ 321st BG
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
Ball”
P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt
CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt
N None Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt
B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Nittle, Samuel (NMI), S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt
R Balsom, James P., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt
G Jensen, Aage E., S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
Duck”
P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
N Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt
B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M.,S/Sgt
G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-30002
P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt
N None None
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts”
(flight leader) (flight leader)
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Olson, Robert C. "Ollie", 2Lt
Commander
N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt Colby, John W., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Allison, John M. "Alley Cat", Jr., 2Lt
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Nelson, James E., S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Hanneman, Carl D., S/Sgt
G Murphy, Russell E. “The Kid”, S/Sgt Popowski, Frank A., S/Sgt
F None None
447th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 97:
A/C No. 42-32430 “Miss Virginity” (MACR-97 - landed at sea after

reaching target)
P Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
CP Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD
N None
B Hartis, John G., 2Lt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD 23 Jul 43
E Million, Fred B., S/Sgt - KIA drowned
R Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt - KIA by flak
G Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt - MIA, POW, liberated and RTD 23 Jul 43
F None
Eyewitness Account: Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

Office of the Operations Officer
APO No. 520
July 12, 1943
SUBJECT: Report of missing aircraft.
TO : Commanding Officer, Headquarters, 321st Bombardment Group (M) AAF,

APO No. 520
1. Lieut. Jung was No. 2 position in the first element and I was in position No.
1 in the second flight of six ships.
2. Just after coming off the bomb run I started to pull back into position, behind
the first flight, when I noticed that Lieut. Jung had received direct hits and that he was
leaving the formation. I started to slow up so that I could pick him up and fly on him, but
since the damage to his plane, mainly the lowering of his landing gear, the opening of his
bomb bay, fire in one engine, and gas streaming from one of the nacelles, resulted in his
loss of speed immediately, that I overshot him.
3. I immediately contacted him by radio, and instructed him to pass us if it was

at all possible for the time we were doing about 150 MPH and descending. For a few
minutes Lt. Jung was able to stay behind us then he called saying that he was going down
at sea. He had the protection from our escorting P-40’s and they circled him after he hit
the water. He made a water landing approximately 10 miles north of Marettimo Island.
4. Considering the circumstances, Lieut. Jung made a very fine water landing
and it was certain that his raft was launched and that the survivors were getting out of the
ship.
5. We immediately contacted the Air Sea Rescue on “D” Channel giving them
the exact position of the stricken airplane. I believe I recognized Lieut. Jung’s voice
calling for a “fix” on this channel and I think his call was acknowledged. There was a
good deal of conversation going on over the band, since there was another B-25 going
down at sea. If possible the use of this band at such a time should be used very
judiciously so that the utmost help can be given disabled aircraft.
For the Squadron Commander

ERNEST FINEMAN,
1st Lieut., Air Corps
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier, 447th BS
REDISTRIBUTION STATION NO. 2

Miami Beach, Florida
CASUALTY INFORMATION REPORT FOR THE ADJUTANT GENERAL’S

OFFICE
SOURCE: 1st Lt. John J. Hartis, 0-663264

UNIT: 321st Bomb Gp. 447 Bomb Sq.
DATE OF MISSION: 10 July 1943
DATE OF INTERROGATION: 29 April 1944
KNOWN INFORMATION: Target - Trapani - Milo Airdrome, Sicily.
At 1000, 10 July 1943, immediately following dumping of bombs on target, this plane
was damaged by flak and pilot ditched it in water 10 miles off MARETTIMO Island.
Source states that Radio-Gunner Nelson was killed in the plane by shell (88mm) that
disabled plane. He states that Sgt. Nelson’s chest was torn open by the fragments.
Turret gunner Wanner caught a piece of flak in his back from the same burst and he was
also injured in the ditching. Upon ditching, Pilot Jung was slightly injured about the
head. Co-pilot Roessler slightly injured in ditching. Source, Hartis, got out of plane and
noticed that Sgt. Million was in the plane with chute caught. He swam back to plane and
attempted a rescue but failed and at the same time he himself passed out and was rescued
by other crew members.
Pilot Jung, Co-pilot Roessler, source, Hartis, Top turret Wanner got into life raft. Source
Hartis revived shortly after being pulled into life raft.
They floated in raft first night and at 0700 the following morning, they rowed toward the
island. A boat containing an Italian Officer, 3 EM and several civilians came out to meet
them and took them as prisoners.
They were locked in a small barred building for two days and were then taken by boat to
Trapani where they were placed in the Royal Marine Hospital.
Jung and Roessler were taken from the hospital as soon as their injuries were dressed, and
source did not see them again.
Hartis and Wanner stayed at hospital until 23 July 3943 when our troops captured town
and they were rescued. Source states that he last saw Wanner in a battalion aid station
near Trapani where Wanner, although seriously wounded gave a blood transfusion to an
injured paratrooper.
HEARSAY INFOMRATIN:
Source states that after he was revived, Jung and Roessler told him that Sgt. Million got
out of ship but lost his life jacket and went down before he could get to raft or be reached
by others of crew.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Account: On July 10, 1943 the crew listed below participated in a raid on
Trapani Milo, Sicily. After dropping their bombs on the target the ship in which the crew
was flying received three direct hits by anti-aircraft shells which disabled it so that a
forced landing in the sea had to be made. The crew:
Pilot 2nd Lt. Roland W., Jung, 0-792274 Still in captivity
nd
Co-pilot 2 Lt. Gustav T. Roessler, 0-734265 Still in captivity
Bombardier 2nd Lt. John G. Hartis, 0-663264 Relieved from captivity by
invading American forces.
Radio-gunner S/Sgt. Ralph V. Nelson, 36074861 Killed by flak burst.
Turret-gunner Sgt. Harry Wanner (NMI), 32178023 Relieved from captivity by
Invading American forces.
Tail-gunner S/Sgt. Fred. B. Million, 19102797 Drowned
This account is based on information obtained from 2nd Lt. John G. Hartis, the
bombardier, who is now at the 38th Evacuation Hospital recovering from wounds
received when the plane crashed.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier
When the first anti-aircraft shell hit the right engine it started a fire. The second
hit affected the hydraulic system causing the Bombay doors to open and the wheels to
come down. The third hit was about at the radio compartment. The altitude was 4000 ft.
when the right engine was set on fire. The prop was feathered and the fire put out but the
left engine ran away in the meantime and at three thousand feet both engines were out.
Lt. Hartis crawled out of the nose into the navigator’s compartment and looked over the
Bombay to see how the men in the back were faring. He was unable to see anyone back
there and reported this to the pilot, 2nd Lt. Jung. Lt. Jung motioned Lt. Hartis to climb
over the Bombay into the back so that he would be able to release the raft. The entire
communication system was cut including the interphones. The Bombay was burning
from the second hit and when Lt. Hartis crawled over it he suffered burns on his hands
and neck. When he reached the end of the passage overlooking the radio compartment he
saw S/Sgt. Nelson lying on the floor, his chest mangled. Apparently a heavy burst of flak
had caught him in the chest and killed him instantly. Lt. Hartis let himself down into the
radio compartment and just at that moment the plane hit the water. Lt. Hartis hadn’t had
time to brace himself and he was thrown against the side of the compartment with great
force. He received three cuts on the forehead, a gash in his left leg, and the small toe of
his right foot was almost cut off. He regained his feet as the water started coming in and
released the raft. Sgt. Wanner, turret gunner in the meantime had made his way to the
rear escape hatch. His legs had been badly mangled and he had to drag himself along
with his hands. He was the first out of the plane but he was in great pain and so weak
that he could only float helplessly in the water depending on his life belt to hold him up.
Lt. Hartis was the second member of the crew to get out. He came out through the rear
escape hatch also. He climbed on top of the fuselage and at the same time Lt. Jung and
Lt. Roessler, pilot and co-pilot came out through the front escape hatch and made for the
raft which was floating nearby. S/Sgt. Million, tail-gunner, was attempting to get out
through the rear escape hatch but he had his parachute on and could not get out through
the opening. Lt. Hartis told him to remove the chute and remained on top of the fuselage
above the escape hatch to assist S/Sgt. Million in getting out when he had removed his
chute. Before S/Sgt Million had succeeded in removing his chute Lt. Hartis collapsed
and fell into the water. Lt. Jung and Lt. Roessler in the meantime had brought the raft in
closer and had dragged Sgt. Wanner into it. They also pulled Lt. Hartis out of the water.
S/Sgt Million finally succeeded in getting his chute off and he came out through the rear
escape hatch. In removing the chute however he had unfastened his life belt also and he
sank immediately when he came out. It is not known whether he was hurt by the crash as
he never came up. His life belt floated just above where he went down. The plane
remained afloat for about three minutes before it sank. Lt. Jung suffered a slight cut on
his left cheek and had his lower lip bruised when the plane crashed. Lt. Roessler received
two slight cuts over his right eye.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt, pilot
Million, Fred B., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt, pilot Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt, turret-gunner
Lt. Jung in command of the survivors decided it would be best to try to remain in
the same locality where they crashed so that it would be easier for Air-sea rescue to find
them. They remained there all night but no help came. At dawn next morning they
began to row toward the small island of Marettimo hoping that they would be able to hide
there until rescued. They came within sight of a village on the coast and tried to skirt it
but they were spotted from the shore. A motor launch came out to intercept them. There
was an Italian officer and two enlisted men in the launch, armed. The crew was taken
into the village where there was a small garrison. The Italian officer got their names,
ranks and serial numbers, took their personal equipment, watches, money, etc. and listed
it under the name of each man. They were then taken to prison and given medical
attention immediately. Afterwards they were given food, spaghetti, black bread and
wine. They remained in this prison all that day, all the following day and at six a.m. the
next day were put on a motor launch to be taken to Trapani. Ordinarily this would have
been only a three hour trip but there were three alerts and the boat pulled in to the shore
each time until the all-clear was given. The trip took ten hours.
Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt, pilot
At Trapani Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner were taken to the Royal Marine Hospital.
At this time they were separated from Lt. Jung and Lt. Roessler and did not see them
again. The hospital orderlies told them that the pilot and copilot had been flown to
Rome. They also told them that it would not be long before the Americans would be in
Trapani and they seemed to be very delighted about it. All of the Italians whom the crew
spoke with seemed very friendly. Two German enlisted men on the boat which took the
crew to Trapani passed out chocolate and wine to the prisoners.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt, pilot
While in the hospital at Trapani an Italian dressed as a Red Cross official brought
in forms for Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner to fill out. Included on the form were many
questions pertaining to the details of organization, location of unit, training of
individuals, etc. There was a space on the form for a message which would supposedly
be sent to relatives through the International Red Cross. The representative was very
peeved when Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner would not fill in the answers to revealing
questions and said that the message could not be sent through unless all the questions
were answered.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt, turret-gunner
On July 23, 1943 Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner saw Americans fighting for the hill
on the outskirts of Trapani. Within three hours they were streaming past the hospital into
the city. A medical officer attached to the paratroopers was the first to visit the hospital
in which Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner were being held. He arranged to evacuate them and
on July 25 they were flown to Tunis. Sgt. Wanner was taken from there to the hospital at
Mateur and Lt. Hartis remained at the 38th Evacuation Hospital.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier Wanner, Harry (NMI), Sgt, turret-gunner
“We got home just shortly before lunch. I just had time to wash my face and
hands and get to the mess tent. After lunch I hit the sack and fell asleep---exhausted. At
about two p.m. I was rudely awakened and told we were off on another mission—my 28th.
During briefing I was just about half asleep and it wasn’t until I was out at the
ship and ready to go that I realized we were going after one of the hottest targets in
Sicily: the airfield just to the east of the city of Trapani. (The other hot one is Palermo.)
It was considered highly probable that we would encounter fighter opposition, but
we had an impressive escort---44 P-40’s which we met at their field on the tip of Cape
Bon.
Ours was the lead flight with Richardson leading, Jung on his right and Ashley on
his left. Under his element was Grantham as lead with me on his right and Brinkley on
his left. Behind us came Fineman with six more of our squadron’s ships.
Ashley, Wilson S., 1Lt, pilot Brinkley, Wilton R., 1Lt, pilot
Fineman, Ernest, 1Lt, pilot Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot
Jung, Roland W., 2Lt, pilot Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt, pilot
We flew out to the rendezvous with the fighters at an altitude of about 6,000 ft.
and as we left the cape, started our climb to 9500. We were to bomb from 9,000 but we
pick up an extra 500 ft. so that we can dive and gain a little speed going over the target.
We flew wide to the west of the Egadi islands, made a wide circle to the right until we
were well north of the little bay on the tip of the island. Then we turned almost south and
were on course for our target. We dived to gain our speed. Below us I could see a few
bursts of flak---feeling out our altitude. Our bomb bay came open. Falk began to pop
thick and fast---and accurate! Close…much too damn close! The indicator light on my
panel flashed---I could see it out of the corner of my eye. Our bombs were falling. Flak
was getting mighty close to us, and now and then I could hear pieces hitting my ship---
and too often I could feel the ship bounce under me with a jolt that only the explosion of a
flak shell can give it! My bombardier called just as the light flashed the last time:
“Bombs away!” The bursts were thicker now and, if possible, closer. I half closed my
eyes and was too scarred to even hope, much less pray! Suddenly Jung’s ship was hit! I
think I must have seen it as it hit because I can remember seeing everything happen as it
happened. He didn’t even have his bomb bay doors close. His bombs---fortunately for
all of us---had gone, but his bombardier had not had time to close the doors.
Jung, Roland W., 2Lt, pilot
I saw a sheet of flame come out of his bomb bay, and simultaneously his wheels
fell to the down position, smoke began to pour out and various and sundry parts came
falling almost directly for me. I subconsciously ducked. Wongy (Jung) pulled out to the
side, trailing smoke and falling slowly. He passed out of sight behind me. We began
some violent evasive action, and while I was trying to decide whether to fall out and try
to cover him or not, I heard the pursuits call to each other that they had a cripple with his
wheels down to cover. That settled it and made up my mind for me. I hung in formation,
giving “The Saint” (Fabling’s ship) all she would take to keep up. The air was full of
calls. I couldn’t make them out, but I did hear Wongy say that one engine was losing oil
and smoking and he would have to feather it. That meant that there was nothing he could
do but go down on the water. With its wheels down, its bomb bay open, and (someone
said later) its flaps down, his ship couldn’t be expected to fly on one engine.”
Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt, pilot Jung, Roland W., 2Lt, pilot
TARGET: Town of Palazzolo Milo A/D 3:05 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Field well covered. Hangar seen to blow up. Lt. Jung’s plane hit by flak landing in
water W of Sicily. Escort engaged ME 109’s in dog fight.”
TARGET: Town of Palazzolo, Sicily 3:50 250 lbs
Major Pemberton, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“Town well covered. Barracks on east and west completely covered. Spitfires not seen
at Rendezvous point.”
TARGET: Milo A/D 3:05 250 lbs
Lt. Bodine, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“Field well covered, including runway. Hangars seen to blow up. Direct hit on one
transport. One E/A ME-109 with yellow nose damaged. Two planes hit by flak made
controlled landing in water W of Sicily. One of these planes, #42-32430 (Miss Virginity)
- never forced down - Piloted by Lt. Jung. Lt. Jung, Lt. Roessler, Lt. Hartis and Sgt.
Wanner taken prisoners but Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner were later recaptured. S/Sgt.
Nelson and S/Sgt. Million were killed.”
Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier
Jung, Roland W. “Wongy”, 2Lt, pilot Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier Million, Fred B., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt, radio-gunner
“INVASION OF SICILY – Target – Milo Airdrome at Trapani, Sicily – P-40s for cover
(44) – flak was very accurate and very intense, two ships lost. Our ship had four flak
holes in it – no enemy fighters.”

P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt
CP Driver, William J., F/O Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
N None None
B Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., Pvt Masteller, Harry M., Pvt
R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., Pvt
G Silva, John P., S/Sgt LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt
P Veum, Ole E., Capt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt
CP Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
N Boland, Chester H., 1Lt Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt
B Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt
321st BG
E None listed Potosky, John S., Pvt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Spencer, John S., T/Sgt Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” (spare) A/C No. 41-30001 (spare)
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
N None None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Cain, George S. S/Sgt
E Gebhardt, Ralph J., T/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt
R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
55 (86): At 16:40 36 planes off to bomb Milo A/D, 35 dropped 42 x 500, 48 x 300 and
162 x 250 bombs from 9000 feet at 18:05. 34 planes returned at 19:25. Field well
covered and hits on runway, direct hit on transport, 1 ME-109 damaged. 2 of our planes
hit by flak and made controlled landing in water off Sicily. 5 or 6 ME-109’s tangled with
escort. Intense heavy, accurate flak, 19 planes hit. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Culp, Veum.

P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
N None None
B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt
E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, Pvt Potosky, John S., Pvt
R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, Pvt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Wallace, John R., Pvt Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt
F None Jaenicke, Reinhart W., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 42-64655
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 1Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
N None None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Colby, Arthur R., Pvt
E Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-30352
P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr, 1Lt
CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt
B Reid, Robert L., S/Sgt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt
E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt None listed – likely Rodgers, Charles H.,
Jr., Pvt
R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, Pvt
G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt White, George E., Pvt
F None None

P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 1Lt
CP King, James L., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
N None None
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt
E Porch, Dean O., Pvt Masteller, Harry M., Pvt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Papile, Frank M., Pvt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt
F None Castle, Roy V., Pvt
A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe” A/C No. 41-29967 (flight leader)
P Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
N Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt Boland, Chester H., 1Lt
B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Robb, Earl K., Pvt Poynter, Robert A., Pvt
R Orman, Virgil N., Pvt Watrous, Roger T., Pvt
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, Pvt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt
F None Lichtward, Frederic, W., 1Lt (observer)
A/C No. 42-30327 (flight leader) A/C No. 41-30343 (A/C landed at
Hergla – did not reach target)
P Veum, Ole E., Capt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O
N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt None
B None listed – likely the navigator Hammerschmiedt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E None listed Polinsky, Marvin J., Pvt
R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Spencer, John S., T/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt
Sunday, 11 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's hit airfields at

Vibo Valentia, Sicily and Reggio di Calabria, Italy. In Sicily, B-25's hit airfields at
Trapani, Milo and Bo Rizzo, and areas between Sciacca and Enna. P-40's escort bombers
and provide beach cover as invasion forces push inland in Sicily. On the ground in Sicily,
the US Seventh Army's II Corps is hit by a counterattack, mainly in the Gela region. The
attack is repelled, but an airdrop of a contingent of 82nd Airborne Division troops results
in heavy casualties.
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) planes hit

Milo and Sciacca Airfields during the night of 10/11 Jul and numerous tactical targets
during the day, including town areas, vehicle convoys, bridges, trains and roads; NASAF
B-17's bomb the Catania marshalling yard while B-26's hit Milo Airfield and Gerbini
satellite airfields; and B-25's and P-38's hit Sciacca Airfield and the town of Caltanissetta.
Throughout the day NASAF fighters attack truck convoys on Sicilian highways, and hit
gun positions and targets of opportunity.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1440 39___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb town of Caltanissetta. __None_

returned early. ___39__ dropped 233x500 lb. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing
No. A/C No & Type
from 10,000/11,000 feet at 1630. __38__ landed at 1805. One believed landed at
Tunis.
3. Strings of bombs started at RR station on W. side and fell through town, covering
target area very well.
4. Air---------Three S/E on deck 10 miles E. of Licata.

Marine---- Warships shelling shore. One large M/V and 1 barge burning.
Flak--------None.
Ground---- 6 trucks moving N. out of town.
5. Enroute----CAVU.
Target------Small cumulus over target.
Return----- CAVU.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 feet at 1507 on heading 83° 47 miles for Medjez
36°38’N, 9°36’E reached at 1521. Medjez to Kelibia, 36°52’N, 11°05’E.
heading 44° for 83 miles reached at 1546 at 6000 feet. Kelibia to
37°08’N, 11 12’E on heading 44° for 25 miles reached at 1555. From
there to Cape Bianco, 37°23’N, 13°16’E. heading 84° for 100 miles
reached at 1614 at 10,000 feet. Cape Bianco to target on same heading for
45 miles reached at 1630. Right turn on heading 200° for 25 miles and
home.
Flight leaders------Captains Tipton, Veum, Stultz, Lts. Cratin, Bailey, Garmon.

Observers---------- General Ridenour.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: According to plan, today the kitchen burned down. We hope the
Vienna sausage and the powdered eggs went with it. It was quite a surprise this
afternoon when Lts. Rudolph and Kailer, Sgts. Klunk, Fehr, and Quintin walked in to the
Operations building. They were last reported to be down in the Mediterranean
somewhere west of Sicily. Lt. Rudolph set the ship down about a mile off Cape Bon with
the landing gear down and the bomb bay doors open because flak knocked out the
hydraulic system. In addition to this, the landing was made on one engine. The ship
stayed afloat for about 5 minutes which gave the crew adequate time to get out of the ship
and help Sgt. Krause who was badly wounded in the leg by flak out of the tail via the side
window. The crew was afloat in the raft for about 40 minutes before being picked up by
a tank landing craft which was returning from Sicily. Sgt. Krause was left behind in the
hospital at Bizerte. The other crew members were only slightly wounded. Sgt. Cox the
photographer was last seen getting off the boat at Bizerte and hasn’t been seen since.
Cox, Bernard L., Sgt, photographer Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, Sgt, gunner
Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt, pilot Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt, bombardier
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt, gunner
Rudolph, Raymond L. “Rudy”, 2Lt, pilot Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb the town of Caltanissetta in Sicily. 72 x 500 lb.
demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th from 10,000 ft. Captain Tipton led the
formation. 24 P-38’s of the 82nd Fighter Group were our escort. Strings of bombs started
at the railroad station on the west side and fell through the town very well. No flak and
no fighters. As the formation came back across the coast they saw the Navy shelling the
shore.
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, HQ 321st BG
Commander
N None Larson, Harold W., 1Lt
B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Kazich, Rudolph William, 1Lt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Toy, Joseph R., S/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53373 A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED”
P Kent, William S., 2Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt
CP Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E Haney, T. J., Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt
R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt
G Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie" A/C No. 41-64529
P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Boyette, Roy E., Cpl Smith, James B., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”

Gambler II”
P Cratin, William S., 1Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Bitner, William H., 2Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt None
B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt
CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt
B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt
E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt
G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”
P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt
N None None
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
R Garthwaite, Howard L., S/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt
F None Ridenour, Carlyle H., Brig Gen, 47th
Wing Commander(observer)
07/11/43: Day after the invasion of Sicily
“Yesterday being July 10th, and the day chosen for the invasion of Sicily, I took it
upon myself, as we finished loading bombs just in time to start engines, to go on the
evening raid. The target was the Milo-Trapani airport, a Luftwaffe fighter base. It
turned out to be rough indeed. The flak was very heavy over the target (an airport on
Sicily) and very accurate. I saw the ship on our left (#16) (42-64516) pitch and shudder
and the landing gear drop down and hang uselessly from the nacelles. Soon she dropped
behind and the last I saw of her, she peeled off and headed toward an island several
miles off the coast. Some of the boys saw her make a landing at sea. Rudolph and Klunk
were in her and we have not heard from them. One ship from another squadron was lost
and several came back with wounded aboard. I was sickened at the thought of so many
men engaged in killing one another. Below, the invasion was in progress involving men
by the hundreds of thousands and I could not help thinking of the blood I knew was being
shed over and on the islands and waters of the peaceful Mediterranean. Sherman said,
“War is hell.” It seems he just kept saying it.”
Klunk, Edward F., S/Sgt, bombardier, crew chief
mission 87, Sqdn 66 composed of 12 planes led by Lt. Bailey. 500 lb bombs were
dropped on Caltanissetta, Sicily. Bombs hit the RR center and covered the town.

Peekin’”)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
N None None
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC
F None None
A/C No. 41-13192 A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty”
P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
CP Tapper, George G., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt
E Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt
F Benson, Henry E., Sgt None
A/C No. 41-13197 A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess”
P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
St. Joe”
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
N Springer, Luther B., Jr., 2Lt Beyer, William J., 2Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 41-30293
Polka”
P Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO -
Pee Wee”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin, B., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., S/Sgt
F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt
500# demo. Caltanissetta, Sicily
Formation Leader - Capt. Tipton
Results - Bombs hit R.R. center & town.
Remarks - No flak or fighters
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier
Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner
Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt, navigator
Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt, pilot, 445th BS
447th BS War Diary: In the evening about 2230 a plane flew over and dropped three
bombs. One landed to the west of our field, another to the south west and the other to the
south. It developed later that the plane was an Allied one and that the bombs dropped
were photoflash bombs. They were designed to go off in the air to provide light for
photography but instead exploded when they hit the ground. Fortunately no damage was
caused by the bombs.
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 88/mission 87) Group Mission # 88: Four of
our planes participated in a raid on the railroad station at Caltanissetta, Sicily. Bombing
results excellent. All planes returned safely.
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
Lady”
P Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Saiers, Edward L., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Navigator filling both B & N positions
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F Leon, Robert D., Cpl None
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind”
P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Reilly, James M., Cpl
F None None
A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
Snarp” (unused spare) (unused spare)
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E None listed – likely Sparby, Arnold R., Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
S/Sgt
R None listed – likely O’Mara, Robert M., Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
T/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F None None
TARGET: Town of Caltanissetta 3:25 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Target well covered. Warships were shelling shore constantly.”
“Caltanissetta again today, no flak – no fighters – saw invasion fleet – Battleship
shelling Sicily – Spitfires for cover.”
“We have seen! But it was on the 10th. But I’ll have to confess that that wasn’t exactly
my own guess. Hasty has a friend in a fighter group who came over for a visit a few days
ago and he said that according to all indications they had had, he figured that the
invasion would be on the 10th. It seems that they were being moved on the 9th so as to be
ready to provide top cover for an invasion fleet on the 10th.
Yesterday will probably go down in history books as a very large day. It will go
down in my book, too, as a large one!
We got out early—at 4:30 a.m.—had breakfast, got briefed, and were on our way
by 7:10. We flew (36 airplanes with 250 and 300 pound bombs) east to the coast at the
foot of Cape Bon where we turned and flew northeast along the cape and a little past it.
Then we turned almost east and went to a point just off the southern most tip of Sicily.
We flew all the way at about 6,000 ft over an overcast of about 3/10 coverage---the first
time I had been over an overcast in ages! It was beautiful!
Shortly before we started our climb to our bombing altitude, we hit the edge of the
overcast and found the sky bright blue and clear. Far to our right we could see Malta
looking almost like an immense floating barge. To our left was a more unusual sight.
Boats! Boats, boats, and more boats! Big boats, little boats, and medium sized boats!
Just to the left of the point was a bunch of them, strung out and still with smaller
craft all around them and running to and from the beach. Naval vessels skirted the group
of large transports and kept moving around and around. You could tell they were busy
and up to no good---no good for Musso, that is. My radio man said he lost count when
he got to 53 boats in that one bunch. Just around the point to the east and north of us
was another and larger group. It stretched as far as we could see, and although it was
slightly hazy looking into the sun, we could see pretty far.
By this time we were turned and on course for our target, which was a little town
high on a cliff and supposed to be hiding an armored force. Our bombardiers could see
it as we crossed the coast line, so all they had to do was wait---and watch the invasion.
We were at altitude and flew steadily on toward the town. No flak came up to worry us,
so we just sat there and flew. It was a lovely run! And when the time came our
bombardiers were on the ball. They said, and our gunners said, and the pictures proved
that we blew the hell out of that town! Of the 288 bombs dropped, only one string of 8
missed falling in the town.
Hasty, Curtis B., 1Lt, pilot
“Set up our own Sqdn. of “G”s at nearby field. Tent #10.”
Mission 56 (87): (mission numbers, but No Report)

P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Fleming, George B., F/O
N None None
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Lambert, Robert P., Sgt
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., Sgt Taylor, Henry F., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-30326
P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt
CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
N None Boland, Chester H., 1Lt
B Colby, Arthur R., Pvt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt None listed - likely Poynter, Robert A.,
Pvt
R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt
G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt
F None None
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Reid, Robert L., Sgt
E Potosky, John S., Pvt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 41-30327

P Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt
B Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ
321st BG
E Robb, Earl K., Pvt None listed
R Orman, Virgil N., Pvt Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, Pvt Spencer, John S., T/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-29967
P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Roberts, Harold L., Pvt None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F Lowry, Bruce (NMI), M/Sgt, HQ 321st None
BG
A/C No. 41-30001
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N None
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
F None
Monday, 12 July 1943
ANTISUBMARINE WARFARE (AAF Antisubmarine Command): A B-

24 of the 1st Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy) sinks U-506 near Portugal at 42-30N 16-
30W.
In Italy, B-24's attack the harbor, ferry slip, and marshalling yard at
Reggio di Calabria, and the ferry slip and railroad yards at Villa San Giovanni. In Sicily,
B-25's hit Bo Rizzo Airfield while P-40's patrol over the Licata area. On the ground in
Sicily, with bridgeheads firmly established by the end of day, British and US troops make
contact at Ragusa. Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers bomb Reggio di Calabria
Airfield, Italy.
In Sicily, during the night of 11/12 Jul, Northwest African Strategic

Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons pound Trapani, Marsala, Mazara del Vallo, and
Montecorvino-Rovello Airfield and Northwest African Air Force Troop Carrier
Command drops paratroops in front of the forward lines in the battle area; more than 20
C-47's fail to return from mission; during the following day, B-17's hit Messina railroad
bridges, medium and light bombers hit Gerbini satellite field, Agrigento, Canicatti, and
Milo Airfield. Fighters hit trucks, trains, troops, tanks, and other targets of opportunity
during sweeps over Sicily. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and
light bombers hit Milo Airfield, Sicilian beaches, Termini harbor and town, Ninfa rail
junction, several trains, numerous vehicles, and communications targets throughout
Sicily. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft fly convoy escort and
carry out shipping strikes in Tyrrhenian Sea and W of Corsica and Sardinia. HQ XII Air
Support Command transfers from Tunisia to Sicily.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Gerbini Satellite #11 was the target of the 89th mission
which took off at 0930 on July 12, 1943 with 36 planes. They dropped 203 five hundred
pound bombs with .1 and 45 second fusing from 7,000 to 8,000 feet. The bombing
pattern covered the target area and hits were scored on the landing strip. Explosions were
seen among planes on the dispersal area south of the runway. Bursts were also observed
north and east of the strip. Flak encountered was heavy, moderate and inaccurate over
the target. Six miles away from the target, flak was heavy, moderate and accurate from
allied ships offshore at Gela while the formation was at 9,000 feet. One of our planes
was hit. Flight leaders were Capt. Bates, Capt. Veum, Lieut. Chappell, Lieut. Bailey,
Lieut. Richardson and Lieut. Grau. Capt. Landron was an observer on this mission.
Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt, pilot, Commander, 448th BS
Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Grau, Robert B., Capt, pilot, 445th BS
Landron, George J., Capt, photographer, 82nd Fighter Group
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0930 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Gerbini Satellite # 11. __None_
No. A/C No & Type
from 7000/8000 ft. at 1130. __36__ returned at 1330.
3. Bomb pattern covered target area. Hits made on landing strip. Explosions seen
among planes on dispersal area S. of runway. Bursts also N and E of landing strip.
4. Air---------One E/A was preparing to land as formation approached. One E/A taking
off from # 12. 5/6 made head on attack on leaving coast at Punta Sacco.
25/30 E/A on dispersal area running parallel to landing strip on S. 8/10
S/E on NW corner of field. 5/6 possibly transports on landing strip. 5/6
S/E on #4, 20 on # 7, 20 on # 6, 12 on # 12.
Ground---- Medium size convoy on road 2 miles N of Piazza Armerina, believed
heading S.
Flak--------Heavy, moderate, inaccurate from target. Position observed on NE corner
of field. Heavy, slight, inaccurate from # 7. Batteries reported extending
one mile SE along road from 37°23’N, 14°52’E. Heavy, moderate,
accurate from allied ships offshore at Gela while formation was at 9000 ft.
and 6 miles away. One plane hit.
Marine---- None.
5. Enroute----Scud clouds at 15000 ft.

Target------CAVU.
Return----- Low scud clouds.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 0937, heading 111°, 92 miles. Reached Enfidaville, 36°08’N,
10°23’E at 1001 at 6000 ft. Left on heading 90° for 188 miles to 36°17’N,
15°50’E, reached at 6000 ft. at 1046. Begin climb on 90° heading for 40
miles to 36°20’N, 14°30’E reached at 1056 at 10,000 ft. Headed 349° for
50 miles to 37°04’N, 14°15’E where crossed coast at 1108. Headed 17°
for 30 miles to 37°30’N, 14°23’E reached at 1125. From there to target on
heading 108° for 23 miles, reached at 1130. Right turn to coast and home.
Flight leaders------Capt. Bates, Veum, Lts. Chappell, Bailey, Richardson, Grau.
Observers---------- Capt. Landron.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: This evening, just after dark, some of the men identified a ship
overhead by the sound of the engines as being a JU 88. Five minutes later several flare-
bombs were dropped and everyone headed for the nearest foxhole. It is believed that the
aircraft was over the area for photo-reconnaissance.
25’s (6 spares from the 445th, 3 of which filled in) took off to bomb Gerbini Satellite No.
11. 18 x 500 lb demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th from 8000 ft. The escort
was Malta based Spitfires; Hits were made on the landing strip. Explosions were seen
among the planes in the dispersal south of the runway. Bursts were also seen north and
east of the landing strip. One enemy aircraft was seen on his final approach to the
landing strip as the formation started their bombing run. The flak was heavy, moderate
and inaccurate from the target. The flak received by the formation from the English
Navy was heavy, slight and inaccurate. Damn the limeys!!! One plane was hit.

P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” (spare)
P Grau, Robert B., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt
CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt
N None None
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt
E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt
R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt
G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” (spare)
(spare)
P Cratin, William S., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt
CP Bitner, William H., 2Lt Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt
B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt
E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt
R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt
G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
mission 88, Sqdn 67 composed of 11 planes led by Lt. Chappell to Gerbini #11, Sicily.
500 lb bombs were dropped and the target was well covered. The runway was hit and
several e/a were damaged.
A/C No. 41-30293 A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”

P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 41-13192
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Tapper, George G., 2Lt
N None None
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt
G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Blick, Oliver L., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” A/C No. 41-13197
P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt
N None Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt
E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt
R Shields, James A., T/Sgt Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt

Pee Wee”
P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O
N None None
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl
F None Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania
Polka”
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Meehan, James M., 2Lt
E Smith, James A., Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt
N Beyer, William J., 2Lt
B Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None
500# demo. Gerbini A/D, Sicily
Formation Leader - Capt. Bates
Results - Target well covered - Several E/A hit. (16 E/A on Field)
Remarks - Flak - heavy, inaccurate, moderate. The formation fired on by allied ships on
coast.
P- Chappell, CP - Carr, N- Beyer, B- Manning, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill”
Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt, pilot, 448th BS
Beyer, William J., 2Lt, navigator Carr, Philip O., 2Lt, pilot
Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt, bombardier Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 89/mission 88) Group Mission # 89: Ten of
our planes participated in a raid on Gerbini satellite #11. Bombing results good. All our
planes returned safely.
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle”
P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Myers, William W., S/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle
II”
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt
CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt
N Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E None listed – likely O’Connell, Daniel Mercer, William R., S/Sgt
E., S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt
G Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt Alton, David D., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
Duck”
P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
R Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
Lady”
P Spikes Robert F., 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G Reilly, James M., Cpl Wagner, Harvey H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon
Ball”
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt
CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt
G Werner, George P., Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the
Snarp” (returned – turret out)
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt
N None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt
E None listed
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt
F Leon, Robert D., Cpl
TARGET: Gerbini – Satellite # 11 4:00 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Flak heavy inaccurate. Bomb pattern covered target area. Explosions seen among
planes on dispersal area. Hits made on landing strip.”
TARGET: Gerbini Satellite #11 4:00 500 lbs
“Hits made on landing strip. Explosives seen among planes on dispersal area S of
runway. Flak heavy, moderate, inaccurate.”
“Gerbini Satellite #11 moderate heavy flak – no fighters as we crossed the coast of Sicily
we were fired on by our own ships and shore positions – P-38s for escort.”
447th BS: War Diary of: McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt, pilot (mission 29 -
actually 28th ?)
“I got my 29th mission today on a raid on another of the Gerbini air fields in Sicily. We
carried 500 lb. demolition bombs again, which indicated that we were out to damage the
field itself and not necessarily any airplanes that might be on the ground.
We sent up 12 of the 36 ships on the raid and were to constitute the third flight of
12---or what we called the “Tail End Charlies.” My position was lead ship of the second
element of three, but that was changed when several of the boys had to turn back.
Richardson led the second flight of six ships in our 12 and Fineman led the first. Right
after we took off however, Fineman had to go back to the field, leaving two ships in the
first element. A spare with a Norden sight soon took over and we flew that way for a
while, but it wasn’t long until the replacement started trailing smoke from his right
engine and had to leave. There were no more spares with Nordens and I had one and
Rich had one, so Rich pulled up and took over the lead while a regular spare took over
the second six--- and I enjoyed it! It was my first experience at leading a block of six, but
I think I did pretty well. (Me talking!) Hasty was on my right wing and I told him before
we left that I was going to give him a good workout---and I fairly well did!
We had no trouble on the way out and in the climb, but as we started over the
coast of Sicily (over our own territory) we were fired on by our own ships who had not
recognized us. They were pretty good shots, too, putting several holes in a couple of
ships. But, although they didn’t fire but a couple of times, I saw only two burst of flak.
That, however, was enough for me. I took my flight of six all over the sky---evasive
action! No one in his right mind could have effectively fired or even aimed an anti-
aircraft gun at my flight with any chance of success.
We flew way to the northwest of our target, going almost to the northern coast.
(We could see the sea beyond it.) Mt. Etna was clear above the smoke layer, with a long
stringer of white smoke rising from the crater. A low layer of hazy smoke hung over the
entire island, but it wasn’t thick enough to obscure the target, and our turn into the
southeast put us right on course over it.
The wires under the top edge of the instrument panel made flying by the PDI a
little unhandy, but I managed to give at least a reasonable facsimile of a run and our
crew in the back room said our bombs fell on the target. So no one had any complaint.
Richardson’s bombardier, however, missed the target and flew too far over it. He
dropped his bombs he knows not where! As soon as they were away, Rich made a long
diving turn to the right toward the rest of the formation. There was, apparently, no flak
were he was, but he was far ahead of me and my flight. To get with him I would have to
cut to the right and sort of cut him off. But there was a little flak to our right and I
thought twice before I headed in to it. It was sort of scattered and didn’t look too vicious,
so I heeled it over in a steep bank to the right and went tearing off through it 90 to
nothing! I caught Rich right quick that way and so considerably increased our chances
against any fighters that might appear. None did, however, and we came on home
unmolested. Even our ships didn’t shoot at us on the way---they had figured out who we
are.
From the target to the coast I did quite a bit of evasive action---a little too violent,
I know, but I was bent on giving Hasty his work out. His only complaint, however, was
my decision to fly through that flak. He didn’t like the idea---but since I got him through
it without his getting hit, he had no legitimate kick.
We could see no ground activity from our altitude, but there were still a lot of
boats off the southern coast of the island. They were pretty busy, too, apparently, and
very much on the alert since they shot at us. They probably have been having a good
reason to stay alert because I could see several large oil slicks on the water, and I
understand they underwent an attack by dive bombers who were apparently at least
partially successful. I can’t blame them for shooting---even at us!”
Fineman, Ernest, 1Lt, pilot Hasty, Curtis B., 1Lt, pilot
Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt, pilot
“Work on ship. Chow not very good. Very hot and dirty. Sleep on ground.”
Mission 37 (89): At 09:30 36 planes off to bomb Gerbini #11 and dropped 203 x 500
bombs from 8000 feet at 11.50, all returned at 13:30. Bombs pattern covered target area,
hits on landing strip and explosions seen among planes in dispersal area, bursts also N
and E of landing strip, 25 E/A on dispersal area, 8-10 E/A on NW corner of field and 5
transports on landing strip. Medium sized convoy 2 miles N of Tiazo Armenia.
Moderate, heavy, inaccurate flak, from Allied ships at Gela. Weather: CAVU: F/L:
Bates, Veum.
A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 41-30352

P Veum, Ole E., Capt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt
B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt
E None listed None listed – likely Rodgers, Charles H.,
Jr., Pvt
R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, Pvt
G Spencer, John S., T/Sgt White, George E., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 42-64514
P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
N None None
B Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt
E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, Pvt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, Pvt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Wallace, John R., Pvt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F None None
P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt None
B Colby, Arthur R., Pvt Reid, Robert L., Sgt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
R None listed House, Harry H., S/Sgt
G Taylor, Henry F., Pvt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 42-64552
P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O King, James L., 2Lt
B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F None None

P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt
N None None
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt
E Roberts, Harold L., Pvt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., Sgt
P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt
CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt
B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Porch, Dean O., Pvt None listed - likely Poynter, Robert A.,
Pvt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt
F None None
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's strike airfields at

Crotone, Italy and Vibo Valentia, Sicily.
In Sicily, B-25's attack the Leon forte road and harbor at Termini; and
P-40's patrol the Licata area.

Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons hit Caltanissetta, Gerbini Airfield, and Enna. During the
day, B-17's, B-25's, B-26's, and fighters attack Enna, Milo Airfield, Carcitella landing
ground, Randazzo, and targets of opportunity. Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) aircraft hit truck convoys, trains, railway stations, troops, and numerous targets
of opportunity over wide areas in Sicily. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF)
continues sea patrols, reconnaissance, and convoy protection and attack ship convoy NE
of Palermo, Sicily. On the ground in Sicily, the British effort to break out onto Catania
Plain by establishing bridgehead over Simeto River near Lentini is firmly opposed. HQ
31st Fighter Group and its 309th Fighter Squadron transfer with Spitfires from Gozo
Island, Malta to Ponte Olivo, Sicily. The air echelon of the 23rd Photographic Squadron
(Light), 5th Photographic Reconnaissance and Mapping Group arrives at La Marsa,
Tunisia from the US with F-5's. The ground echelon is still at Colorado Springs,
Colorado and will not leave the US until 8 Aug; they will arrive at La Marsa on 8 Sep.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 90th mission took off at 1425 on July 13, 1943 with 36
planes to bomb the town of Enna. They dropped 210 five hundred pounders with .1 and
45 second fusing from an altitude of 10,000 to 11,000 feet. The town was especially well
hit on the east side particularly. The railroad crossing on the northeast of the town and
the fort on the east side, were hit. To the south, fires and explosions were seen and
smoke was visible from 50 miles at 6,000 feet. Flight leaders were Lieut. Bailey, Lieut.
Chappell, Lieut. Fineman, Lieut. Richardson, Lieut. Whiteford and Lieut. Bonus.
Observers were Col. Taylor, Maj. Blake, Capt. Weld, Capt. Powell and Mr. Green.
Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th BW
Green, Paul, Correspondent for Stars & Stripes
Powell, Group Captain, (listed as observer, but doesn’t show up on any of the crews lists)
Taylor, Y. H. (i.o.), Col, Chief of Staff, HQ 47th Wing
Weld, David (NMI), Capt, HQ 82nd FG
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1425 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb town of Enna. __None_ returned
early. ___36__ dropped 210x500 lb. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing from
No. A/C No & Type
10/11,000 feet at 1612. __36__ returned at 1755.
3. Town was well hit, especially on E. side. RR crossing on NE and fort on E side hit.
Some bombs short and to S. Fires and large explosion see, and smoke visible for 50
miles at 6000 feet.
4. Air---------1 S/E E/A close to target, did not attack. One report of one transport on
field approximately 3 miles ENE of Valguarnera.
Ground---- Large train of about 60 cars on siding 10 miles ENE of town. Heavy
traffic at RR junction 37°34’N, 14°27’E. About two companies of
infantry and 5 M/T on road NE of town. Train between Caltanissetta and
target, possibly on fire. Freight cars on fire just W. of town. 6 M/T NW
of town heading NW. 6 M/T halted S. of town. Fire observed SW of
Caltanissetta.
Flak--------Heavy, slight, inaccurate from target. One report of flak position in center
of town. Position 1 mile N of San Giovannello on W side of road to Enna.
Marine---- None.
5. Enroute----CAVU.
Target------CAVU.
Return----- No clouds, visibility 7 miles.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 feet at 1450 on heading of 82° for 47 miles to Medjez,
36°38’N, 9°36’E, reached at 1514. Left Medjez on heading 84° for 83
miles then to Kelibia, 36°52’N, 11°05’E reached at 6000 feet at 1524.
Left on heading 83° for 83 miles then started climb at same heading at
1545, and reached 10,000 feet at 1558 at 37°17’N, 13°32’E. Headed 69°
for 45 miles to target, reached at 1612. Right turn off target on heading
159° for 15 miles and home.
Flight leaders------Lts. Bailey, Chappell, Fineman, Richardson, Whiteford, & Bonus.
Observers---------- Colonel Taylor, Major Blake, Captain Weld, Mr. Green, Group
Captain Powell.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: This evening we enjoyed the ever-popular meat spam. For
popularity with the boys, spam ranks second only to Chelsea cigarettes.
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb the town of Enna in Sicily. 72 x 500 lb.
demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th from 10,500 ft. 24 P-38’s of the 82 Fighter
Group were our escort. The town was well covered with bursts and especially good
coverage on the east side. Railroad crossings on the northeast and the fort on the east
side were hit. Some of the bombs fell short and to the south, Fires and large explosions
were seen. The smoke was visible for 50 miles. One single-engine aircraft was seen near
the target but did not attack the formation. The flak was heavy, slight and inaccurate.
A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
Judy”
P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt
CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt
B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt
E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt
R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt
G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt
N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt None
B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Garthwaite, Howard L., S/Sgt
G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt
F None None

P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt
CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt
E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt
G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64529 A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Grau, Robert B., 1Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt
CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt
B Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt Nysson, John W., 2Lt
E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt
R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt
G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia”
P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
N None None
B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt
N None None
B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt
E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Smith, James B., Sgt
F None None
mission 89, Sqdn 68 composed of 11 planes. Lt. Bailey led the Group with Col. Knapp
as co-pilot. 500 lb bombs were dropped on Enna, Sicily. The target was very well
covered.
A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship” A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt
CP Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, HQ 321st BG Carr, Philip O., 2Lt
Commander
N McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, HQ 321st BG Springer, Luther B., Jr., 2Lt
B Brown, John Roland, 1Lt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt
E Knapp, Walter E., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Beach, Louis A., T/Sgt Roulier, Edward T., Cpl
G South, William R., S/Sgt Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 41-13197
P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt
CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Henson, Gerald J., 2Lt
N None None
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Coe, George A., 2Lt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt
F Weld, David (NMI), Capt, HQ 82nd FG None
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
Pee Wee” St. Joe”
P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
N None None
B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G McNeil, Gabriel J., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo”
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt McNair, Luddie L., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt
F None Haley, Woodrow H., T/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”

P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
N None None
B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Shields, James A., S/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania
Polka” (returned – stuck controls &
engine trouble)
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt
B Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt
R Haasch, George F., T/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt
G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt
500# demo. Enna, Sicily
Formation Leader - Capt. Bailey
Results - Target well covered
Remarks - Very little light flak - no fighters.
Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt, pilot Carr, Philip O., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 90/mission 89) Group Mission # 90: Ten of
our planes participated in a raid on Enna, Sicily. Bombing results excellent. All our
planes returned safely.
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James”
P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 1Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt
CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
N Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt Daume, Oscar R., 2Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt
E Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt
F Green, Paul, Stars & Stripes (observer) None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt
N None None
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt Werner, Robert G., Jr., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”
Ball”
P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt
N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Colby, John W., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
P Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
N None None
B Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt McCone, Walter G, 2Lt
E Henry, William R., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt
R Myers, William W., S/Sgt Anderson, Arthur F., T/Sgt
G Szczepanski, Leonard A., Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F None Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th Wing (observer)
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
II”
P Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind”
P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt
N None
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt
G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt
F None
TARGET: Town of Enna Sicily 3:30 500 lbs
Plane 000 (41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, Major
Blake, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“Town was well hit especially on E side. Railroad crossing on NE and fort on E side hit.
Train between Caltanissetta and target possibly on fire. Mission very successful.”
Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt, radio-gunner Blake, G., Maj, HQ 47th Wing
Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt, gunner Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot
Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
“Enna, Sicily – Railroad junctions, tunnels, military depots and barracks. Very light
heavy flak – no fighters – P-38s for escort.”
“On July 13th, 36 ships of the 321st B.G. dumped 500 lb. demolition bombs on and
around the Sicilian town of Enna, located just a few miles north of the battle line. Lines
of communication, the town itself, and military barracks were the specific targets for
each of the three flights of 12 ships. The 12 sent up by the 447th had the town as their
target. I led the second element of three.
The mission was routine, and, except for the fact that I had a “Stars and Stripes”
field correspondent with me, there is little to write about the raid. At briefing Major
Pemberton brought Paul Green around and introduced us, asking if I had room in my
ship for him. Lt. Bodine was scheduled to fly with me, making a total of six, and for some
unspecified reason, we don’t like to carry any more if we can help it…so I told the Major
I would be unable to take him. He said that it was O.K. and that he would get Lt. Kent
(the boy who sang the night of McGee’s party in Macon) and see if Green could ride with
him.
Bodine, Arnold F. "Benny the Bum", 2Lt, navigator
Green, Paul, Stars & Stripes Correspondent Kent, William S., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
th
McGee, William N., 2Lt, pilot, 445 BS Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, intelligence
During the short time before the briefing started I could see the Major running his
short legs around through the crowd looking for Kent. Apparently he was having no
success and so I called him over and told him that I would take the passenger as I
remembered that Burns’ ship had an extra parachute---which took care of the only
tangible objection. For the benefit of the record, I was flying Johnny’s ship, “Alley Cat
II” and secretly hoping I’d get it shot up at least a little bit to make up for the big hole he
got in mine on a raid over Cagliari.
Burns, John P., Capt, pilot Kent, William S., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
During briefing Green sat over to one side, listened intently, and made a few
notes, and after briefing he came over and went out with Bodine and me. As soon as we
got to the ship he started asking questions: name and home addresses of all the crew
members and things of interest in their combat careers. The only thing of interest that I
knew about that bunch was that Osowiecki had turned down his chance to go to rest
camp. That, I thought, was unusual to a marked degree. He made a note of it and went
on. The other two members of my crew (enlisted) were substitutes for my regular men
who were on rest camp leave, and so I did not know much about them. The other
commissioned members of the crew were replacements and practically brand new with
little or no combat careers to speak of.
Bodine, Arnold F. "Benny the Bum", 2Lt, navigator
Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt, gunner
Time was a little short and we had to hustle. On the way over, at the target, and
coming back Green had little to say. He did a lot of looking and talked to Bodine quite a
bit when Bodine wasn’t busy in the nose. I looked back at him once in a while and he
merely smiled and gave me the O.K. sign. We seemed to be enjoying it all.
When we got down he asked a few more questions and I told him about the ship
we had flown in. I told him that it was named “Alley Cat II” (42-53487) after the
original “Alley Cat” (41-13176) that had been shot up over the Mediterranean. He
didn’t recall the story that the “Stars and Stripes” had carried about the original and its
crew. But said he would look it up. He seemed interested in what part of California
Burns was from. Why, I don’t know.
After interrogation I shook hands with him and told him goodbye and he told me
to look him up in Algiers if I ever came around, and he asked if there was something he
could do for me. I told him I would like one of his pictures of the invasion of Sicily. He
very nicely obliged---and I certainly was glad to get it. I was on the raid from which the
picture was taken, and it shows the boats very plainly.
After supper that night, who should came wandering around to my tent but Green!
He had some more questions and seemed bent on getting the answers. I gave them to
him. Then he up and asked the $64 question:-“Did the fact that it was made on the
thirteenth make this raid mean anything special to me?” I told him that 13 months before
the day of this raid, I had been married—on the 13th!
Green, Paul, Stars & Stripes Correspondent
He asked if I were superstitious and seemed disappointed when I told him I was
not. But I told him I quite often wore my dog tags on raids, but that was more of a
regulation than a superstition. I do feel, however, that when I don’t carry them there is
absolutely no chance that I will be shot down as they would have no way to identify the
body!
A lot of boys began to wander in and joined the session. Green had a lot of
explaining to do concerning the failure of the Stars and Stripes to mention anything but
B-17s in raids over Pantelleria. We had a lot of kicking to do where publicity for the B-
25s and mediums in general was concerned. He said he thought things would be better
in the future for us and the work we do.
In his search for information I turned him loose on this stuff and he read through
some of the later raids and made a lot of notes. But I doubt that he will ever make much
use of it. He did express surprise that I would take the time to write all this.
I just wonder what kind, if any, write-up we will get. Probably just a mention as
they always get more information than they can ever use.”
Mission 58 (90): At 12:43 36 planes off to bomb Enna, dropped 216 x 500 bombs at
9000 feet at 1650, all planes returned at 18:00. Target well covered especially RR and
road crossing. Weather: CAVU.
A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” A/C No. 42-64655

P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt
N None None
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-29967 (spare)

P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt0 Culp, Merle H., Capt
CP Fleming, George B., F/O Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
B Moorman, Arthur L., Pvt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Poynter, Robert A., Pvt
R None listed – likely Vizzacco, Rocco Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt
(NMI), Cpl
G Taylor, Henry F., Pvt Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64514 (returned – pilot A/C No. 41-30001 (spare)
sick)
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt
N None Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt
E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Pitts, Lawrence P., Pvt
R Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., Pvt
F None None
In Sicily, B-24's and Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers hit
railroad, marshalling yard, harbor, and oil storage facilities at Messina; B-25's hit the
Enna and Palermo areas; and P-40's patrol Licata and attack the Lentini area.

Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Palermo and Messina, and C-47's drop paratroops
in advance of Allied troops to secure a bridge at Primosole. Northwest African Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) aircraft hit ammo dumps, trains, rail junctions, bridges, vehicle
convoys, and other targets of opportunity in the Sicilian countryside, and bomb several
town areas including Enna and Palermo during several raids throughout the night of
13/14 Jul and the following day. During the day, B-17's, B-26's, B-25's, and fighters hit
Naples, Italy and Messina, Enna, Marsala, and Randazzo, and numerous targets of
opportunity in Sicily. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) continues sea
patrols, reconnaissance, and convoy protection. On the ground in Sicily, British forces
attempting to establish a bridgehead at the Primosole bridge on the Simeto River near
Lentini continue to face strong opposition. The detachment of the 15th Photographic
Squadron (Heavy), 3rd Photographic Reconnaissance and Mapping Group, operating from
Le Kroub, Algeria with B-17's and F-5's returns to its base at La Marsa, Tunisia. The air
echelon of the 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group,
transfers from Korba, Tunisia to Ponte Olivo, Sicily with P-51's. The ground echelon will
remain at Tunis, Tunisia until Friday. The 307th and 308th Fighter Squadrons, 31st Fighter
Group, transfer with Spitfires from Gozo Island, Malta to Ponte Olivo, Sicily.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: On July 14, 1943, 36 planes took off to bomb Messina.
They dropped 211 five hundred pound bombs with .1 and 45 second fusing from 8,000 to
9,500 feet at 1140. Strings of bombs fell across buildings in the target area. An especial
concentration was dropped in the southern part and barracks on the west and the railroad
on the east were also hit. Three strings dropped into the water. Large fires and much
smoke was seen in the center of the town. Thirty aircraft were observed at Reggio
Calabria, of which 15 or 20 were of a twin-tail type. B-17s on a mission over the hook of
Messina Harbor had excellent coverage. There was considerable marine activity in
Messina Harbor, with 5 M/Vs, 1 submarine, a number of Seibel Ferries and 6 seaplanes.
Considerable marine activity was also observed at Milazzo, Spadafora, San Martino,
Divieto and Augusta. Thirty-three planes returned to base at 1345, with 3 planes landing
at Malta. Flight leaders were Capt. Burns, Capt. Morton, Capt. Tipton, Capt. Stultz,
Capt. Veum, Lieut. Bonus. Observers were Brig. Gen. Partridge, Col. Walsh, Lt. Col.
Olmsted, Maj. Pemberton, Maj. Pinger, Maj. Roth and Lieut. Malek.
Malek, Stanley J., 1Lt, intelligence, 445th BS
Partridge, Earl E., Brig Gen, HQ 12th AF
Roth, John A., Maj, HQ 82nd FG
Walsh, James H., Col, pilot, HQ 47th Wing
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0920 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Messina. __None_ returned early.
___36__ dropped 211x500 lb. G. P. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing from
No. A/C No & Type
8000/9500 feet at 1140. __33__ returned at 1345. 3 believed landed at Malta.
3. Strings of bombs fell across buildings in target area. Heavy concentration in southern
part. Barracks on west and RR on east also hit. Three strings over into water. Large
fire and much smoke seen in center of town.
4. Air---------30 A/C at Reggio Calabria. 15 or 20 were twin tail. B-17s had excellent
coverage on hook of Messina harbor.
Marine---- Messina--------5 large M/Vs, two at north dock; 1 submarine; a number of
Siebel ferries; one report of 6 seaplanes.
Milazzo-------- 3 300’ M/Vs. 1 large M/V headed 90° 4 miles east of
Milazzo. 12 seaplanes, some brown and two large white
ones.
Spadafora San Martino—One large M/V in docks.
Divieto---------10 seaplanes.
Augusta--------10 medium M/Vs, possibly 5 destroyers. 3 large landing
craft loaded with M/T with bows against shore and
propellers turning, fire on formation. Not identified as
friend or foe. 20 seaplanes, 1 submarine, many small
vessels.
30 landing barges along shore S. from Cape Peloro. One M/V in channel
going from Messina to Reggio.
Ground---- 15 truck convoy heading NW out of Augusta. Fires observed in Catania.
Flak--------Target—Heavy, moderate to intense, fairly accurate but generally trailing.
Elsewhere—Heavy, from Villa San Giovanni, Gallico Marina; boats in
Reggio harbor; Reggio A/D; two miles NW of Lazzaro; from road at
37°54’N, 15°42’E; Torre di Faro; Mili Marina; For a D’ Agro. All on
target chart 2-105B-NA. No flak experienced on bomb run from Divieto
to Messina.
5. Enroute----Scattered scud at sea, visibility unlimited.

Target------CAVU.
Return----- Scattered scud at sea; visibility unlimited. CAVU over land.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 feet at 0946. Headed 60° for 26 miles to rendezvous at
Beja 36°43’N, 9°12’E reached at 0953. Then to Cape Ben Sekka
37°20’N, 9°48’E, on heading 44° 55 miles reached at 1008. Hit deck and
headed 63° for 152 miles to 38°32’N, 13°50’E reached at 1115. Started
climb to 11,000 feet on heading 107° for 85 miles to 38°15’N, 15°25’E
reached at 1140. Headed 129° for 8 miles and reached target at 1142 at
9000 feet. Right turn and home.
Flight leaders------Capts. Morton, Burns, Tipton, Stultz, Veum and Lt. Bonus.
Observers---------- Brig. General Partridge, Colonel Walsh, Lt. Col Olmsted, Majors
Pemberton, Pinger & Roth, Lt Malek.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: The mess hall has been reconstructed. This evening our enlisted
men beat the enlisted men of the 331st Signal Corps in a softball game, 25 to 12.
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Messina. 67 x 500 lb. demolition bombs were
dropped by the 445th from 10,000 ft. 36 P-38’s of the 82nd Fighter Group were our
escort. Strings of bombs fell across buildings in the target area. There was a heavy
concentration of hits in the southern part of the area. Hits were seen among the barracks
and on the railroad. Three strings fell over the area and into the water. A large fire and
much smoke were seen in the center of town. Again the Allied fleet threw flak up at us.
The fleet don’t seem particular who they shoot their flak at. Brigadier General Partridge
and Col. Walsh flew with the formation as observers.

P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt Miller, Roy N., 1Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Butela, William F., 2Lt
N None None
B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt
F Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, Sgt Pinger, Robert R., Maj, HQ 321st BG
(observer)
A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” A/C No. 41-64527 “Sycamore 1½
Judy”
P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt
CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Asbury, William (NMI), 1Lt, HQ 321st
BG
B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt
E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt
R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Chereski, John J., T/Sgt
G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt
F Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st None
BG (observer)
A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”
P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Grau, Robert B., 1Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt
N Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt
B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
F Walsh, James H., Col, HQ 47th Wing None
(observer)
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-64529
P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt
CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Mamerow, George A., 2Lt
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt
E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt
R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt
G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie”

P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt
N None None
B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt
E Haney, T. J., Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., Sgt
G Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl Smith, James B., Sgt
F None Malek, Stanley J., 1Lt
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 41-13211
P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
N None None
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., Sgt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., Sgt
R Garthwaite, Howard L., S/Sgt Winston, E. G., Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt Carleo, John J., Sgt
F None None
mission 90, Sqdn 69 composed of 1 plane flown by Lt. Taylor to Messina, Sicily where
500 lb bombs were dropped with very good results.
A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo” A/C No. 41-13008 (spare)

P Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt
CP McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt
B Brown, Newton E., 2Lt Meehan, James M., 2Lt
E McNair, Luddie L., S/Sgt Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt
R Chappell, Jack F., T/Sgt Shields, James A., T/Sgt
G Rogers, Horace K., S/Sgt Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (spare)
(spare)
P Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Henson, Gerald J., S/Sgt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
B Coe, George A., 1Lt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt
E StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty”

Traveler II” (future “Enid II, “No (spare)
Peekin’”) (spare)
P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
CP Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None None
B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt
E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt
G McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt
F None None
of our planes participated in a raid on Messina, Sicily. Bombing results good. Capt.
Burns’ ship developed engine trouble and he made a one-engine landing at Malta. Lt.
Cohagan and Lt. Andrews landed with him. All other planes returned safely. The three
ships at Malta returned later in the afternoon.
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo”

P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
F Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Lady”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt
R Henderson, James B., M/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts”
P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt
CP Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, Gill, Paul W., 2Lt
Commander
N Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt
B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt
R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt
G DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt Alton, David D., S/Sgt
F Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st None
BG (observer)
A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp” A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle
II”
P Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt
CP Ackley, James H., 2Lt Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt
B Navigator filling both B & N positions Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt
E Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt
R Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt
G Smith, Argyle H., Sgt Werner, George P., Sgt
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
(landed at MALTA)
P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt
CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
N None Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt
B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt
E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt
R Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt
G Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon”
Ball” (returned early because turret was out)
P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt
N None None listed –likely Lalum, Luther I.,
S/Sgt
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt None
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Brown, Charles Orville “Brownie”, Jr.,
S/Sgt
G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
TARGET: Messina 4:25 Plane 210 (41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon Ball”)
“B-17’s over target 45 seconds before us which enabled us to approach target without
too much flak. Capt. Burns sing engine landing at Malta.”
“Today’s target was Messina, the most important city in Sicily. It is the closest point on
the Island to Italy. As we approached the target on our bombing run, I could see clouds
of smoke rising with a big fire blazing in the middle of it all. This was at the north-east
corner of the city, just out of the harbor. The flak started coming up even before we
reached the target. We broke away in a diving turn to the right, cork screwing down at
about 300 MPH. Going through the straights we were fired at from both sides, Italy on
the left, Sicily on the right. A big ship lay in the harbor on our left and it too blasted
away at us. We continued on down till we were behind our own lines and then we turned
in across Sicily toward Africa. Once again we were fired on by our own (or British)
ships, as we passed over them. Soon after this, Capt. Burns’ left engine went out. We
slowed down to keep with him till he got to Malta then we came on back. We couldn’t
contact the P-38s for some cover. Messina was hit by B-24s, B-17s, two groups of B-25s,
and later by B-26s. All in one morning.”
“The next morning I was scheduled to go on the raid over Messina, Sicily. That town is
the most important town in all the island of Sicily since it is a ferry terminus between the
island and the mainland, and so is more heavily defended by anti-aircraft than any place
since Tunis and Bizerte. Green wanted to go, but was scheduled to leave for some other
field. However, before briefing I took him out to my ship, the ever-struggling Ruff Stuff
and he took a few pictures of me—in the cockpit, under the engine, and under the
window. He got Drwila, of my ground crew, to take a shot of himself and me.
Drwila, Edward J., Sgt, engineering
I couldn’t tarry long and so took him back up to Group. Before he left, though, he
got me to tell him all I remembered about the raid on which we came stumbling back
alone over Bizerte, or my first raid. Then I had to hustle back to the tent area to get my
stuff, and come back over for briefing.
As it turned out, I didn’t get to go on the mission. And, frankly, I wasn’t a bit
sorry. I just could not work up any enthusiasm for going over all that flak. I was to lead
the last element in our flight of 12 in Cohagan’s ship, No. 450. Everything worked O.K.
until we checked our guns. It is a new ship and has not been modified with tail and waist
gun installations—so all it had in the way of armament was a bottom turret, top turret,
and the two nose guns. Our radio men haven’t had any practice with the bottom turret---
and so they were practically useless---bottom turrets were practically useless even in the
hands of an expert. The front guns worked O.K., but the top turret guns wouldn’t put out.
Osowiecki was my gunner, and when he can’t make them fire, they just aren’t
firing. I asked him if he could fix it. He said he thought he might be able to but he had to
make an adjustment on the solenoids that required tools that he didn’t have. That was no
target to go over without guns, so I turned back while the spares were still with us and
could fill in for me.
Osowiecki, Hendrick, S/Sgt, gunner
The raid turned out to be easier than expected It was originally intended to be a
coordinated job. B-17s were to go over just 10 minutes ahead of us and 10 later B-26s
were to hit it. Our men were one minute late and the B-17s were 8 minutes late---they
were over the target and most of the A/A was trained on them when the B-25s come over
the hill. By the time they got set to shoot at them, The B-25s had dropped their bombs
and were well on their way home! It is purely luck that they weren’t shot up. The B-26s
that followed lost three ships and had 17 of them damaged. B-24s hit the place too,
about an hour later, but as far as we know, suffered no losses.
Burns had a little more hard luck. A chunk of flak cut an oil line in one of his
engines and he had to feather it. He landed at Malta, had lunch while they fixed it, and
then came on home the same afternoon.
So now I have a round 30 missions. You can bet your bottom dollar that I’m a
hoping that none of the remaining 20 are or look as tough as that one over Messina. I
hope that the one over Trapani Milo Airfield is my last hard one. (It won’t be, though!)
Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt, pilot Drwila, Edward J., Sgt, engineering
Mission 59 (91): At 09:20 36 planes off to bomb Messina and dropped 211 x 500 bombs
from 8000 feet at 11:40, 33 planes returned at 13:45 3 landed at Malta. Strings across
buildings in target area, barracks on W and RR on E also hit. 30 E/A seen at Reggio and
10 seaplanes at Divieto. Moderate heavy, accurate flak Weather: CAVU

P Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt
CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., Pvt
N None None
B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Roberts, Harold L., Pvt
R None listed – likely Papile, Frank M., Tanner, James T., S/Sgt
Pvt
G LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30352

P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Haskell, John D., 2Lt
N Holt, William E., 2Lt Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt
B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
E None listed – likely Long, Jeptha D., Rohleder, Jack J., Pvt
S/Sgt
R Smith, Harry V., Pvt Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Yutzy, Eli N., Pvt Vance, Paul S., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 41-29442
P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt
E None listed – likely Rude, Norman J., Ripple, William E. “Rip”, Pvt
S/Sgt
R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, Pvt
G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., Pvt
F Partridge, Earl E., Brig Gen, HQ 12th None
AF (mission commander)
A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye” A/C No. 41-30327
P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt
CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt Boland, Chester H., 1Lt
B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ
321st BG
E Pitts, Lawrence P., Pvt None listed
R Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt
G Ryal, Clarence M., Pvt Spencer, John S., T/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” A/C No. 41-124995 “Charlie’s Aunt”
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt McEvoy, John C., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt
E Potosky, John S., Pvt Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Deal, Herman L., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 42-64655

P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt
N None None
B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Ridgeway, Robert L., Pvt
R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Egbom, Clarence W., Pvt
G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Dellwo, Lawrence H., Pvt
F None Roth, John A., Maj, HQ 82nd FG
(observer)
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's strike main

airfield and 2 satellite fields at Foggia, Italy. In Sicily, B-25's bomb Palermo, Cape Gallo,
Salina Island, and Cape Zifferano; and P-40's patrol over the Licata area.

the night of 14/15 Jul, Wellingtons of the Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) hit airfields and docks at Naples, Italy while Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers bomb Palermo, Sicily and fly armored
reconnaissance, attacking roads and convoys, over extensive areas of Sicily. During the
day, NASAF medium bombers bomb Vibo Valentia, Sicily, while heavy bombers hit
Villa San Giovanni, Italy. NASAF fighters fly numerous strafing and bombing missions
against trains, road junctions, radar installations, truck convoys, railway stations, and
targets of opportunity throughout Sicily. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF)
airplanes fly sea patrols, reconnaissance, convoy escort, and hit shipping off the W coast
of Corsica and E coast of Sardinia.
445th BS War Diary: No mission scheduled for today. Many of the men enjoyed a day
at the beach at Tabarka.
447th BS War Diary: Usual garrison duties.
448th BS War Diary: No Entry.

Friday, 16 July 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's attack Bari

Airfield, Italy; enemy fighters attack persistently and 3 B-24's are shot down; they claim
11 fighters destroyed in combat. B-25's bomb Randazzo and Valguarnera, Sicily. Royal
Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers hit Reggio di Calabria Airfield, Italy. HQ 79th Fighter
Group transfers from Tunisia to Sicily.

the night of 15/16 Jul, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons
bomb the dock, marshalling yards, and airfields at Vibo Valentia, Sicily and Crotone,
Reggio di Calabria, and Villa San Giovanni, Italy, while Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers carry out numerous missions against
Randazzo, Sicily and roads in Sicily. During the day NATAF fighters, light and medium
bombers bomb Valguarnera, Sicily and targets of opportunity in north central Sicily. On
the ground in Sicily, British troops establish a bridgehead across the Simeto River. The
ground echelon of the 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance
Group, transfers from Tunis, Tunisia to Ponte Olivo, Sicily joining the air echelon which
arrived on Tuesday. The air echelon of the 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 2nd Air Defense
Wing, which has been training in England with Beaufighters, joins the ground echelon at
Rerhaia, Algeria. The squadron will enter combat on 24 Jul.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 92nd mission on July 16, 1943 took off at 0815 with 36
planes to bomb Vibo Valentia Airdrome. Twenty-four planes dropped 114 five hundred
pound bombs with instantaneous and 45 second fusing from 9,500 to 10,000 feet.
Nineteen planes returned at 1330 and 16 planes stopped enroute for fuel and returned to
the base at 1740. One plane remained at Malta. The target was bombed with excellent
results by two flights. Almost all bombs were reported as having fallen in the target area.
The barracks, hangars and administration buildings were hit and strings of bombs fell
across the field and into the southwest dispersal area. At least two enemy aircraft on the
field exploded with several near misses. One engine of a flight leader’s plane cut out
before the bomb-run and he continued on a southeast course. The flight followed him
and 10 planes dropped 60 bombs on a target of opportunity, a twin-span and single-span
bridge believed to be 5 miles south of Soverato and along the road. Direct hits were
claimed on all. Nearly 60 enemy aircraft were observed on the airdrome and the majority
were single-engines. No flak was encountered over the target, although the formation
was fired upon east of Catania by a destroyer believed to be friendly, with a few bursts of
flak. Flight leaders were Capt. Isaacson, Capt. Stultz, Lieut. Bonus, Lieut. Chappell and
Lieut. Garmon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0815 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Vibo Valentia A/D. __None_ returned
early. ___24__ dropped 144x500 lb. bombs with instantaneous and 45 second fusing
No. A/C No & Type
from 9500/10,000 ft. at 1058. __19__ returned at 1330. __16__stopped for fuel and
Alt. Time No A/C Time No A/C
Returned up to 1740. One remained at Malta.
Time
3. A/D was bombed with excellent results by two flights. Almost all bombs are reported
as falling in target area. The barracks, hangars and administration buildings were hit
and strings fell across the field and into SW dispersal area. At least 3 E/A on field
exploded, with several near misses. One engine of leader of third flight cut out before
bomb run and he continued on SE course. The flight followed him and 10 planes
dropped 60 bombs on a target of opportunity, a twin span and single span bridge
believed 5 miles S. of Soverato, and along road. Direct hits claimed on all.
4. Air---------50/60 E/A on field, majority S/E. About 30 on SW side, 10 in front of

hangars on N. and 10 on E. side. One transport at 38°30’N, 12°13’E at
0952 heading 240°.
Marine----One large M/V and two escort vessels 5 miles N of Cape Suvero heading S
at 1046. 15/20 small boats in Marina di Vibo cove.
Flak--------None from target. Vessel E of Catania, believed friendly destroyer, fired
several bursts.
Ground---- L/G seen at 38°47’N, 10°13’E along coast with 5/6 E/A on it. Two trains
seen 3 miles SW of Locri. All tracks at junction at Lamezia filled with
freight cars.
5. CAVU for route.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 ft. at 0841 on heading 58° for 26 miles to Beja reached
at 0849. Left Beja for Cape Zebib 37°16’N, 10°04’E on heading 59° for 61 miles
reached at 0906. Hit deck on same heading for 208 miles to 39°00’N, 13°08’E
reached at 1005. Headed 95° for 160 miles to 38°07’N, 15°’58’E reached at 1029 at
11,000 ft. Climb begun at 1031 at 39°00’N, 15°00’E. Headed 125° for 7 miles and
220° for 20 miles to target, reached at 1058.
Flight leaders------Lts. Bonus, Walker, Chappell, Garmon, Capts. Isaacson & Stultz.
Photos taken.
Observers---------- None.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Our enlisted men beat the 909th Air Base Battalion in a softball
game on their diamond, 16-6. Sgt. Cox who has been missing since he got off the boat at
Bizerte was reported to be in the hospital at Bizerte.
Cox, Bernard L., Sgt, photographer
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Vibo Valentia airdrome in the toe of Italy. The
formation was led by Lt. Bonus. 24 P-38’s of the 82nd were the escort. 72 x 500 lb.
bombs were dropped by the 445th from 9,500 ft. 19 ships returned at 13:30. 16 had to
stop for fuel and returned at 17:40. One remained at Malta. The airdrome was bombed
with very good results by two of our flights. The barracks, hangars and administration
buildings were hit and strings of bombs fell across the field and through the southwest
dispersal area. At least two enemy aircraft exploded on the field. The only flak that was
encountered came from a vessel east of Catania which was believed to be friendly. Also
an Allied destroyer fired several bursts. Lately our ships have encountered more Allied
flak than that from the enemy.
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 42-64529

P Kent, William S., 2Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt
N None None
B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt
R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Nickens, Cletus P., Pvt Smith, James B., Sgt
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia”
P McGee, William N., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt
CP Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt
E Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt
R Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt
G Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None

P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
B Kazich, Ralph W., 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., 2Lt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Boyette, Roy E., Sgt Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53373 A/C No. 42-64575
P Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt
CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt
N None Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt
B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt
E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt
R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt None listed – likely Nicholson, John F.,
T/Sgt
G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt
F None Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st
BG (mission commander)
A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
Judy” (landed Cap Bon – returned to (landed Cap Bon – returned to base)
base)
P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt
CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt
E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt
R Peterson, Karl E., S/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt
G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt
F None Reddy, John E., Sgt (observer)
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” (landed A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” (landed Cap
Cap Bon – returned to base) Bon – returned to base)
P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt
F Christensen, Lars (NMI), Sr., Cpl, 448th None
BS (observer)
dropped on Vibo Valentia, Italy. Target was covered well, 2 enemy aircraft were
destroyed, barracks, hangars, and administrative buildings were hit. A string of bombs
fell on a target of opportunity blowing up a twin-span and a single span bridge five miles
South of Soverato. Lt. Chappel’s plane blew an exhaust stack and he had to feather his
prop and he turned away from the primary target. The rest of his flight followed and
came on this target of opportunity.
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 41-13197

P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O
N None None
B Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64526 “Patches” (landed A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” (landed
at MALTA – A/C remained for repairs) at MALTA with element leader)
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt
E Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (landed A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon”
at MALTA for gas – returned to Home (landed at MALTA for gas after
Base) formation was broken – returned to
Home Base)
P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt
1Lt
CP Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt
B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt
E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt
R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt
G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 41-30293 (landed at MALTA

Polka” (landed at MALTA to pick up to pick up 3 crewmen)
Lt. Robertson)
P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
2Lt
CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N None None
B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt
E Raffloer, Louis A., Jr., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
F Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt (passenger) Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
(passenger)
Roulier, Edward T., Cpl (passenger)
Skill, Donald H., Sgt (passenger)
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-13008 (landed at CAP
Traveler II” (future “Enid II, “No BON for gas – returned to Home Base)
Peekin’”) (landed at KORBA for gas
returned to Home Base)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt
N None Braucher, David C., 2Lt
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13208 (returned because of A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
defective nose wheel) St. Joe”
P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
F None None
500# demo. Vibo Valentia A/D, Italy
Formation Leader - Lt. Bonus
Results - Target well covered 2 E/A destroyed
Remarks - Ship no 42-64526 (Chappell) forced down at Malta - Kaney stayed there with
ship 4 days -
Ship number - 42-64526 “Patches” Formation 1:1
P- Chappell, CP - Rigling, N- Springer, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill”
Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 92/mission 91) Group Mission # 92: Three
of our planes participated in a raid on Vibo Valentia airdrome in Italy. Bombing results
good. On the way home Lt. Morganti landed at Malta with a plane of another squadron
which was flying on one engine. Lt. Morganti returned to the base later in the day.
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James”
II”
P Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Anderson, Carl F., 2Lt
N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Daume, Oscar R., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F Leon, Robert D., S/Sgt None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp” (spare)
P McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” (spare)
(spare)
P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt
CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt
B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt Tate, Roy W., 2Lt
E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt
R Carrin, Joseph S., Sgt Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt
G Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt Funk, Marvin J., Sgt
F None None
“The airport at Vibo Valentia was today’s target. We went as spares and joined before
the rendezvous with the P-38s. We went all the way out on the deck and climbed to
10,000 feet just before we reached the coast of Italy. Just as we reached 10,000 feet. The
leader of our flight lost his left engine so he salvoed his bombs on a railroad bridge. The
rest of our flight bombed a town just a few miles inland. The other two flights hit the
airport just one minute after the 310th hit it. Once again we limped into Malta at 145
MPH. This time we landed and had dinner there. Then on back to our base.”
60 (92): At 08:15 36 planes off to bomb Vivo Valentia A/D. 24 dropped 144 x 500
bombs from 9500 feet at 10:58. 19 returned at 15:30 and 16 at 17:40. 1 plane remained
at Malta. All bombs of two flights in target area, barracks, hangars and Administration
buildings hit, bombs across field and SW dispersal area. Engine of leader of last flight
went out and entire flight did not follow other flight. Bombed target of opportunity, twin
and single open RR bridge 5 miles S of Soverato. 50 or 60 E/A on field. No flak.
Weather: CAVU. F/L: Isaacson, Stultz.
A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 41-29967

P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP Bruton, John E., 1Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Spencer, John S., T/Sgt None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Harding, John E., Pvt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), Pvt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt” A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye”

P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt
CP King, James L., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt
N None None
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt
E Ridgeway, Robert L., Pvt Pitts, Lawrence P., T/Sgt
R Egbom, Clarence W., Pvt Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt
G Dellwo, Lawrence H., Pvt Ryal, Clarence M., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 42-64655
P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Ryan, Joseph C., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Colby, Arthur R., Pvt
E None listed – likely Potosky, John S., Pvt
Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30352 A/C No. 42-64514
P Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt
CP DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Robb, Earl K., Pvt Masteller, Harry M., Pvt
R Orman, Virgil N., Pvt None listed – likely Papile, Frank M.,
Pvt
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, Pvt LaRue, Augustin A., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64519 (returned because of A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd”
exhaust stack and hydraulic trouble) (returned because of broken turret
plexiglass)
P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt
N None None
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Reid, Robert L., Sgt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck”

P Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Haskell, John D., 2Lt
N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt
B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt
E Rohleder, Jack J., Pvt
R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Vance, Paul S., Pvt
F None
“Target practice. Prior gives tent area great buzz job. Knocks down electrical wires.
Major and Captain both hit the dust.”
Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt, pilot
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): About 80 B-24's bomb

the Naples, Italy marshalling yard in face of fierce fighter opposition; 1 B-24 is shot
down and several are damaged; they claim 23 fighters destroyed in combat. In Sicily, B-
25's hit Catania and the rail yards and roads at Paterno; and P-40's fly escort to Gela and
Comiso. Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers hit Reggio di Calabria, Italy. The 87 th
Fighter Squadron, 79th Fighter Group, transfers with P-40's from Malta to Sicily.
In Sicily, during the night of 16/17 Jul and the following day
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, light and medium bombers, hit
Catania, Paterno, the Riposto railroad station, and targets of opportunity (vehicles, tanks,
trains, guns). During the day, 200+ B-25's, B-26's, and B-17's bomb Naples, Italy,
concentrating on the marshalling yard. On the ground in Sicily, the US 45th and 1st
Infantry Divisions cross the Salso River S and E of Caltanissetta. The British 30 Corps
expands the Simeto River bridgehead and drives toward Catania in the coastal sector
while 51 Division crosses the Simeto River and reaches to within 10 miles (16 km) of
Paterno. HQ 350th Fighter Group and its 345th Fighter Squadron transfer with P-39's from
Maison Blance, Algeria to Rerhaia, Algeria.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The target for the 93rd mission which took off on July 17,
1943 at 1405 was the railroad yards at Naples. They dropped 215 five hundred pound
bombs at 1642. The target was well-covered, with fires springing up all through the area.
Explosions at the south and east sides of the yard, sent columns of smoke 4,000 feet high.
The roundhouse was hit and a hit on an arsenal resulted in a sheet of flame. Oil tanks
were also hit and set afire. Five ME-109s, 1 ME-110 with yellow band around the nose,
were seen over the target. Several passes were made at the formation and one engine was
shot out of the ME-110. Fifty or more enemy aircraft, most of which were transports,
were observed on the perimeter of Capadochina Airport. Twelve gray and 1 brown large
S/P were seen at the Lago Di Patria base. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense and fairly
accurate from the city area, some of which was of a barrage type. A few bursts were also
encountered from Gaeta and Torre Annunziata. Light flak was met at Capri and a
destroyer in the Naples harbor fired on the formation. Flight leaders were Capt. Veum,
Capt. Burns, Capt. Morton, Lieut. Bradley, Lieut. Bailey and Lieut. Sinclair.
Bradley, James L. "Jungle Jim", Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1405 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Naples RR Yards. __None_ returned
early. ___36__ dropped 215x500 lb. bombs with 1/10 & .025 fusing from
No. A/C No & Type
8500/9500 feet at 1642. __36__ returned at 1850.
3. Good coverage of target, causing fires all through area. Explosions at S and E. side
of yard, sending column of smoke 4,000 feet high. Round-house hit. Hit on arsenal
resulted in sheet of flame. Oil tanks hit and set afire.
4. Air---------4/5 ME-109’s, 1 MA-220, 1 ME-310 and 1 ME-110 with yellow band

around nose seen over target. Several passes made at formation, and
engine was shot out of ME-110. One S/E had desert color. 50 or more
E/A, mostly transports, and one ME-323 were on perimeter of
Capodichino A/D. 12 gray and 1 large brown S/P at Lago di Patria base.
No planes observed on Sessa Aurunca L/G.
Marine----5 medium M/V’s and one ship, possibly destroyer or light cruiser, and one
hospital ship or liner in Naples harbor. One medium M/V, white
superstructure, anchored off Porto Salvo. 12 medium M/V’s off Torre
Annunziata, one burning, and 2 S/F and other ship, possibly light cruiser.
Two medium and one small M/V off Praiano. 3 small vessels 1 mile NW
of Capri.
Ground---- Line of trucks parked on road running north from Naples.
Flak--------Heavy, moderate to intense, fairly accurate from city area, some of barrage
type. From hills near Bagnoli, along SW shore from Naples. Few bursts
from Gaeta and Torre Annunziata. Positions reported at Villaricca,
Calvizzano, and Giugliano, and tip of Sorrento peninsula. Light flak from
Capri. Destroyer in harbor fired on formation.
5. Enroute----Narrow low scud layers. Visibility up to 9 miles, hazy.

Target----- Hazy, visibility 10 miles.
Return----- Low scud off coast.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 ft. at 0430 on heading 61° for 28 miles to Beja, 36°43’N,
9°12’E reached at 1438. Headed 42° for 54 miles where crossed Tunisian
coast at 1456. Hit deck on same course for 259 miles and began climb at
1615 at 40°17’N, 12°50’E. Reached Italian coast on same heading for 80
miles at 41°12’N, 13°48’E at 1635, at 10,000 ft. Headed 136° for 36
miles to target at 1642 at 8500 ft. Right turn, hit deck off coast, and home.
Flight leaders------Capts. Veum, Burns, Morton, Lts. Bradley, Bailey and Sinclair.
Photos taken.
Observers---------- Capt. Manly, Capt. Gerber (47th W), Lt Griffing.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Our enlisted men defeated the 331st Signal Corps in a softball
game on our diamond this evening by a score of 25-12. A couple more cases of malaria
have shown up in the Squadron.
25’s (445th furnished 6 spares, 3 of which filled in) took off to bomb the marshalling
yards at Naples. The escort was 36 P-38’s of the 82nd Fighter Group. 12 x 500 lb.
demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th from 9500 ft. There was good coverage on
the target causing fires all through the marshalling yards area. Explosions were seen
south and east of the yards sending columns of smoke 4000 ft. high. The roundhouse was
hit. Hits were made on the arsenal which exploded in a sheet off flame. Oil tanks were
hit and set afire. Seven to eight enemy aircraft with yellow bands around their noses
were seen around the area. Several passes were made at the formation. An engine was
shot out of one of the ME 110’s. Flak was heavy, moderate to intense, and fairly accurate
from the area of the city. Some of it was of the barrage type. Flak was encountered all
the way back to the coast.
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt
CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
N None None
B Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt
R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Garthwaite, Howard L., Sgt
G Boyette, Roy E., Sgt Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” (spare) A/C No. 41-13211 (spare)
P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt
CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, 2Lt
E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt
G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Calvert, M. E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”
(spare) (spare)
P Grau, Robert B., 1Lt Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt
CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt
N None None
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt
E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt
R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt
G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt
F None None
mission 92, Sqdn 71 composed of 10 planes led by Lt. Bradley. 500 lb bombs were
dropped on the Naples, Italy RR yards. The results were very good, fires being started
throughout the area. There were hits on the roundhouse, arsenal, oil tanks, waiting
station, and a torpedo factory was partially hit. A shell factory and an aircraft motor
factory were both hit.

Peekin’”)
P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt Browning, Eugene L., 1Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt
N None Gere, William E., 2Lt, 447th BS
B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt
E Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO -
St. Joe” Pee Wee”
P Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr.,
1Lt
CP Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt
N Beyer, William J., 2Lt Lang, Robert B., 2Lt, 447th BS
B Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt
E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt
R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt
G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr.,
2Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt
N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt McCarter, Elmer H., Capt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot” A/C No. 41-13197

P Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt Bradley, James L. “Jungle Jim”, 1Lt
CP Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt Wright, Theodore O., 2Lt
N None Davis, Sterling (NMI), 2Lt
B Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
E Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt Rockafellow, Alfred A., S/Sgt
R Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt
G Orr, William J., Sgt Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13208 A/C No. 41-30293
P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N None Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt, 448th BS
B Meehan, James M., 2Lt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13200 (spare) A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty”
(returned – oil leak)
P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
CP Peplinski, James L., F/O, HQ 47th Wing Carr, Philip O., 2Lt
(later 448th BS G crew)
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Pyle, Joseph W., T/Sgt
E Ludwig, Elvin C., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R Shields, James A., T/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt
G Mitchell, Edgar V., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt
F None None
447th BS War Diary: Our first enlisted man over 38 was transferred out of the squadron
today. He will return to the states to be mustered out of the army. The man—Pvt. Harry
Deremer. Lt. M. Holloway and Lt. J. Allison left for Algiers today. Arrangements will
be completed there by Lt. Holloway for Lt. Allison’s appearance on the CBS radio
program July 18.
Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, 1Lt, bombardier
Deremer, Harry (NMI), Pvt, transportation
Holloway, McGlon T., 2Lt, intelligence
of our planes participated in a raid on the railroad yards at Naples, Italy. Bombing results
excellent. Several enemy fighters attacked the formation but didn’t do any damage. All
our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle
Ball” II:
P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt
CP Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Dorman, Edgar (NMI) “Bud”, 2Lt, HQ
47th Wing (later 446th BS G crew)
B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt
R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt
G Funk, Marvin J., S/Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
F Manley, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt None
(observer)
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt
CP Beeson, Ellwood H. “Buck”, 1Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt
B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt
G Werner, Robert G., Jr., Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-64695
Lady”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N None Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-30002 A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
P Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle”
P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt
CP Miller, Benjamin B., Jr., 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt
N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt
B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt
E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt
R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt
G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
Duck”
P McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt
N None None
B Tate, Roy W., 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt
F None None
447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt, pilot:
“Naples but I didn’t go – big raid too!!”
Mission 61 (93): At 14:00 36 planes off to bomb RR yards at Naples. 216 x 500 bombs
dropped at 16:45 from 9000 feet, target well covered. Intense, heavy barrage type flak. 2
ME-109’s sighted did not attack. 11 of the 12 ships of 448 hit by flak. No casualties.
Weather: CAVU.
A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 42-64661

P Veum, Ole E., Capt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
B Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ Cain, George S., S/Sgt
321st BG
E None listed Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt
R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
G Spencer, John S., T/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., Sgt
F Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st Griffing, George W., 2Lt (observer)
BG (observer)
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd”

P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O
B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E None listed – likely Pitts, Lawrence P., Polinsky, Marvin J., PFC
T/Sgt
R Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Ryal, Clarence M., PFC Silva, John P., S/Sgt
F None Hobert, Walter W. PFC
P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Sinclair, Erwin W., Jr., 1Lt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt
N None Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt
E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Robb, Earl K., PFC
R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Orman, Virgil N., PFC
G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, PFC
A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-30001
P Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
N Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
B Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt
E Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., PFC Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC
R Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, PFC Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC
G White, George E., PFC Wallace, John R., PFC
F None None
P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt
CP Joli, William H., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt
N None Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt, 447th BS
B Reid, Robert L., Sgt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt Ridgeway, Robert L., PFC
R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Egbom, Clarence W., PFC
G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt Dellwo, Lawrence H., PFC
F Gerber, Joseph H., Capt, 95th FS, 82nd None
FG (observer)

P Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt
CP Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N Kresge, James G., 2Lt, 447th BS Bailey, Gordon Anderson, 2Lt, 446th BS
B Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Masteller, Harry M., PFC Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
R Papile, Frank M., PFC Hardy, Alexander A., S/Sgt
G LaRue, Augustin A., PFC Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
F None None
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-25's bomb Randazzo

and Catania, Sicily. The 85th and 86th Fighter Squadrons, 79th Fighter Group, transfer
with P-40's from Malta to Sicily.

bomb airfields at Montecorvino, Sicily and Pomigliano, Italy, while Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light bombers bomb Catania, Sicily and carry out
reconnaissance of extensive areas of Sicily. During the day, NATAF A-36's hit Santa
Caterina, Adrano, Lercara, and Termini Imerese, Sicily. On the ground in Sicily, the US
Seventh Army makes rapid progress against light opposition. The British Eighth Army
continues their advance, but 13 Corps continues to meet strong resistance near Catania.
HQ 27th Bombardment Group (Light) and its 16th, 17th and 91st Bombardment Squadrons
(Light) transfer with A-36's from Korba, Tunisia to Sicily. The 27th will be redesignated
the 27th Fighter-Bomber Group on 23 Aug 43; the 16th, 17th and 91st will be redesignated
the 522nd, 523rd and 524th Fighter-Bomber Squadrons respectively. HQ 33rd Fighter
Group transfers from Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean to Licata, Sicily.
445th BS War Diary: No mission today. Two ships went to Algiers to pick up the crews
returning from the rest camp at Ain Taya. Lt. Hartmeister took Major Cook to the rest
camp at Fez. He will stay there till his eye heals. The new mess hall for the enlisted
men and Officers was completed today.
Cook, Bailey C., Maj, pilot, Commander Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt, pilot
447th BS War Diary: Lt. Allison went on the air at 2030. He was interviewed by John
Daly, CBS war correspondent. Lt. Allison told how the invasion of Sicily backed from
the air. His folks in Brevard, N.C. were notified by the Columbia Broadcasting Co. That
he would be on the air so they would be sure to hear him.
Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, 1Lt, bombardier

321st Bomb Group Headlines:
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): 100+ B-24's attack the

Littoria, Italy marshalling yards and nearby airfield. On the return flight railroads at
Orlando, Sicily and Anzio, Italy are bombed. B-25's hit Catania and Randazzo, Sicily. P-
40's escort C-47's. The 64th, 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons, 57th Fighter Group, transfer
with P-40's from Malta to Sicily.

the night of 18/19 Jul, Wellingtons drop over 800,000 leaflets on Rome, Italy. Northwest
African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light bombers attack Catania, Sicily. During the
following day, about 150 Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb
the Rome, Italy railroad yards; B-25's and B-26's hit nearby Ciampino Airfield, Italy; P-
40's bomb rail facilities in the Alcamo, Sicily area; and NATAF A-36's attack trains and
motor transport in W Sicily. On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army continues to
push N and NW while the British Eighth Army's 13 Corps still faces firm resistance near
Catania. The 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group,
transfers with P-51's from Ponte Olivo, Sicily to Gela, Sicily. The 308th Fighter
Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers with Spitfires from Ponte Olivo, Sicily to
Agrigento, Sicily.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 19th of July, 1943 was one of those red-letter days for
the 321st Bombardment Group. Col. Robert D. Knapp, group commander, greeted
officers and enlisted men with: “Get out your fiddles, boys. We’re going to bomb
Rome!” There always had been considerable conjecture about whether or not Rome
would be bombed; but wherever there are military objective and military installations to
be destroyed, and there are bombers to carry out these missions, the 321st will be there. It
was an all-out mission and 72 planes took off on its 94th mission together with several
hundred other planes in a raid that was to be a heavy blow to the Axis and, no doubt,
which was an important factor in convincing Italy that she had best get out of the War.
The particular target was the Ciampino Airdromes, North and South. Our Mitchells took
off at 1020 and dropped 428 five hundred pounders with .1 and 45 second fusing at 1303
from 8,500 to 10,000 feet altitude. Bursts began at the railroad tracks on the southwest
side and continued across building facilities and both fields. The coverage was excellent,
with hits being made on hangars, revetments, and among parked planes. Numerous fires
were observed on the field and in the housing-area. Two ME-109s and 1 RE-2001 were
damaged.
Between 10 and 12 ME-109s, RE-2001s and MA-202s, one with a green and
yellow band around the belly, made head-on attacks and tail attacks on the formations
leaving the target. Between 50 and 60 enemy aircraft were observed on Ciampino; 24
twin-engine and 8 single-engines on Practica di Mare; and about 20, most of which were
transports, on Centocelle. Ten enemy planes were also observed on Cisterna di Roma
airfield. One RE-2001 was shot down by the escort and 2 enemy planes were seen to
collide in mid-air. Flak was heavy, intense and very accurate, and tracking from the area
of Practica di Mare. The flak from the target was heavy, moderate to intense and
accurate. One of our planes was shot down by flak while over the target with the
following personnel of the 445th Bombardment Squadron: Second Lieut. Guy J.
McLaughlin, 2nd Lieut. John S. Neck, Technical Sgt. John N. Gregory, Staff Sgt. Howard
J. Connors. Technical Sgt. Norman P. Teinowitz was killed by flak on this raid. Sgt.
Teinowitz was a radio-gunner with the 448th Bombardment Squadron and was later
buried at the American Cemetery for soldier-dead in Beja, Tunisia. Second Lieut. Posey
T. Harris, bombardier of the 446th Bombardment Squadron, was seriously wounded by
flak and Corporal James M. Reilly, 447th Bombardment Squadron, was lightly wounded
by flak on the same raid. Flight leaders on this mission were Maj. Sampson, Maj.
Schwane, Capt. Veum, Capt. Morton, Capt. Stultz, Capt. Isaacson, Capt. Tipton, Capt.
Griffith, Lieut. Walker, Lieut. Bonus, Lieut. Chappell and Lieut. Richardson. Personnel
flying as observers were Maj. Hoover, Maj. Pemberton, Maj. Pendleton, Capt. Manly,
Sgt. Montgomery and Correspondent Treanor.
Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt, turret gunner
Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Gregory, John N., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS
Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", Capt, pilot, 446th BS
Harris, Posey T., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator, 446th BS
Hoover, Travis (NMI), Maj, pilot, 47th Wing
Manly, Robert W. "Horse", Capt, intelligence, 447th BS
McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Montgomery, M. H., S/Sgt, photographer, 9th Combat Camera
Neck, John S., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Pendleton, J. W., Maj, HQ 47th Wing
Reilly, James M., S/Sgt, turret gunner, 447th BS
Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS
Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, pilot, Commander, 447th BS
Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt, gunner, bombardier
Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 448th BS
Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Maj, pilot, 445th BS
Treanor, T., war correspondent
Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1020 72___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Ciampino A/D’s N & S. __None_
returned early. ___72__ dropped 428x500 lb. bombs with .1 and 45 sec. fusing at
No. A/C No & Type
1303 from 8500-10000 ft. __70__ returned at 1540. One was shot down by flak over
target, One landed at Bizerte.
3. Bursts began at R.R. tracks on SW side and continued across facilitating buildings
and both fields. Coverage was excellent. Hits made on hangars, revetments and
among parked planes. Numerous fires observed on field and in housing area. 2 ME-
109’s and one RE-2001 damaged.
4. Air---------1/12 E/A, ME-109’s, RE-2001’s, MA-202’s (one with green and yellow
band around belly) made head-on and tail attacks on leaving target. 50/60
E/A, mostly T/E on Ciampino N and S. 24 T/E and 8 S/E on Practica di
Mare. 18/20, mostly transports, on Centocelle. 8/10 E/A on Cisterna di
Roma, one S/E coming in to land. 1 RE-2001 shot down by escort. 2 E/A
seen to collide.
Ground---- Siding at R.R. crossing at 41°38’N, 12°39’E filled with freight cars. Huge
fire with flames 500 ft. high on E side of Rome.
Marine---- 2 empty dinghies lashed together observed at 1155 at 38°50’N, 10°40’E.

One dinghy observed at 1203 at 39°10’N, 10°50’E.
Flak-------- Heavy, intense, very accurate, tracking, from area of Practica di Mare.
From target, heavy, moderate to intense, accurate. At least 8 guns
observed at Pte. Chiosaceia. 2 batteries at 41°49’N, 12°38’E. One battery
at 41°47’N, 12°35’E. Positions observed at Magliano, Centocelle A/D
and Velletri. 6 gun battery at Anzio. Battery at N-17/18 on TC 3-24A-
NA.
5. Enroute and target – CAVU with slight haze.

Return CAVU
6. None.
Route------Over field at 1100 at 5,000 ft., then on heading of 81° for 47 miles to
Medjez el Bab at 1112. Then on heading 13° for 47 miles to Cape Ben
Sekka at 1124. Hit the deck and headed 29° for 250 miles reaching
40°50’N, 11°50’E at 1240. Started climb reaching 10,000 ft. at coast of
Italy at 41°42’N, 11°24’E at 1301. Made bomb run at 9,000 ft. on heading
37° to target. Diving right turn off target and home.
Flight leaders------Majors Schwane and Sampson, Capts. Morton, Veum, Stultz,

Isaacson, Tipton, Griffith, Lts. Bonus, Walker, Chappell &
Richardson.
Observers---------- Majors Hoover, Pemberton and Pendleton, Capt Manly, Sgt
Montgomery, Correspondent Treanor.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25’s (18 of the 445th) took off to bomb Ciampino Airdrome near Rome. This is the
largest formation ever sent out by the Group to date. 108 x 500 lb. demolitions were
dropped by the 445th from 9000 ft. Bursts began at the railroad tracks on the southwest
side and continued across buildings and both fields. Hits were made on the hangars,
revetments and among parked airplanes. Numerous fires were observed on the field and
in the housing area. The target coverage was excellent. Ten to twelve anti-aircraft made
head-on and tail attacks as the formation left the target. One enemy aircraft was
destroyed by the escort, two enemy aircraft collided. A huge fire was seen on the east
side of Rome. The flames reached a height of 500 ft. The flak at the target was
moderate, intense and accurate. That received from Practica di Mare was intense, heavy,
tracking and very accurate. Lt. McLaughlin and his crew were seen to go down about 5
miles southwest of the target as a result of a direct flak hit. Eye-witness accounts state
that the right engine exploded. The ship stopped momentarily, rolled over and spun in. It
crashed into a ravine. It was then seen to explode. From all accounts, no one bailed out.
The crew consisted of Lt. McLaughlin, pilot; Lt. Neck, co-pilot; S/Sgt. Springer,
bombardier; S/Sgt. Connors, engineer; S/Sgt. Binkowski, turret gunner; T/Sgt. Gregory,
radio-gunner. Sgt. Smith claimed an MA 202 when five of them attacked his ship in
formation from 3 o’clock.

P Clinton, Wayne C., 1Lt Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt
CP Armstrong, Stanley K., 2Lt Bell, Albert R., Capt, HQ 321st BG
B Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt
E Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt Finn, Robert F., T/Sgt
R Curtis, Raymond T., T/Sgt Chereski, John J., S/Sgt
G Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt
P O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt
CP Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt Ward, James M., 2Lt
N None None
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt
E Martine, William E., S/Sgt Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt
R Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt
G Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64590 A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie"
P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Miller, Gail G., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt
B Kazich, Ralph W., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
G Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-32321 “The Big Bear”
(Bear - no lettering)
P McGee, William N., 1Lt Grau, Robert B., 1Lt
CP Thornburn, Thomas H., 2Lt Jackson, John I., 2Lt
B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt
E Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt
R Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
G Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-64575

Gambler II”
P Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt
CP Mamerow, George A., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt
N Becker, Virgil C., 1Lt Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt
B Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt McEnroe, Harry A., 2Lt
E Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt
R Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt
G Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½ A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED”
Judy”
P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt
CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt
N None None
B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt
E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt
R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt
G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64529 A/C No. 41-13211 (MACR-248 - shot
down)
P Olson, Walter N., 1Lt McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt
CP Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt Neck, John S., 2Lt
N None None
B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt
E Halpin, John J., Sgt Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt
R Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt Gregory, John N., T/Sgt
G Smith, James B., Sgt Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30354 A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle”
P Kent, William S., 2Lt Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt
CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 448th BS
N None None
B Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt Nysson, John W., 2Lt
E Haney, T. J., Sgt McKee, P. L., S/Sgt
R Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt
G Nickens, Cletus P., Cpl Calvert, M. E., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64659 A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”

P Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt
CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt
N None None
B Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt
E Childress, W. H., S/Sgt Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt
R Winston, E. G., S/Sgt Garthwaite, Howard L., S/Sgt
G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 42-53373 (spare)
(spare)
P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
N None None
B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Criswell, John E., T/Sgt
R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Carson, Donald (NMI), T/Sgt
G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Lowery, Bruce (NMI) “Field Marshall”,
M/Sgt
F None None
445th BS: Extracts from Missing Air Crew Report # 248: The aircraft was seen to go
down about five miles southwest of Ciampino Airdrome, between the target and the sea.
A/C No. 41-13211 (MACR-258 - shot down)

P McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt - KIA
CP Neck, John S., 2Lt - KIA
N None
B Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt - KIA
E Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt - KIA
R Gregory, John N., T/Sgt - KIA
G Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt - KIA
F None
Eyewitness Account: Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS

20 July 1944
“The right engine exploded and the wing tore off” said S/Sgt. Willie W. Littleton,
engineer-gunner of the plane in no. 3 position of the second element, behind Lt.
McLaughlin’s plane (no. 3 position of the first element). “The ship faltered and then
rolled over, spiraling to the ground. I watched the ship from the time it was hit until it
crashed into a ravine and then exploded. Nearby, I saw a parachute lying half opened,
probably thrown from the plane after the crash”.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyewitness Account: Arvo, Nillo Richard, S/Sgt, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS
20 July 1944
Said S/Sgt. Nillo R. Arvo, turret-gunner of the plane flying no. 2 position in the
first element, just opposite Lt. McLaughlin’s ship, “His right engine exploded and the
plane rolled on its back with the nose down. The engine fell out and the wing tore off
barely missing my turret dome as it passed overhead. The life raft and cushion fell out
and the plane headed toward the ground spiraling. Because of two passes made by
Macchi 202’s, I was unable to watch the plane fall all the way to earth. Later, I saw black
smoke on the ground where I believe the aircraft hit”.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
mission 93, Sqdn 72 composed of 18 planes. Major Schwane led the Group with Col.
Knapp as co-pilot. 500 lb bombs were dropped on Ciampino A/D, Rome. This was the
first raid on Rome and the results were excellent. The landing ground, hangars, barracks,
administrative buildings, revetments and parked planes, RR, and 2 roads were hit. At
least ten planes were hit on the ground. After the bomb run the formation was attacked
by 10 or 12 enemy planes which made head-on and tail attacks. Lt. Posey T. Harris
suffered an eye injury by flak, the 448th Squadron lost a radio-gunner, and the 445th
Squadron lost a plane over the target.
A/C No. 41-30551 “Pink Lady” A/C No. 41-13197

P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt
CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O
B Harris, Posey T., 2Lt Brei, Harold G., S/Sgt
E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt
R None listed Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt
G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt
F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt Pendleton, J. W., Maj, HQ 47th Wing
(observer)
A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz” A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO -
Pee Wee”
P Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr.,
1Lt
CP Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt
E Wuotila, Benjamin R., Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt
R Roulier, Edward T., Cpl Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt
G Skill, Donald H., Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13192 A/C No. 42-32429 “Flamingo”
P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt
B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
E Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt Green, Harry M., Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt Friscia, Frank J., Jr., T/Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt Shea, John F., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon” A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas

Peekin’”)
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt
F None Montgomery, M. H., S/Sgt, 9th Combat
Camera
A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
B Navigator filling both B & N positions Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Carstens, Clarence H. “Rusty”, Sgt
R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30293 A/C No. 42-64551
P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Griffith, Frank J. “Grif”, Capt
CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Boulton, Richard E., 2Lt
N None Caldwell, Herman B., Jr., 1Lt
B Coe, George A., 1Lt Marek, Joseph J., 2Lt
E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt Mitchell, Lance M., S/Sgt
R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Haley, Woodrow W., T/Sgt
G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt None listed – likely Dykes, Billy (NMI),
S/Sgt
F None Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st
BG (observer)
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess”
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Russell, Burton E., 2Lt
N None None
B Lantz, Daniel W., S/Sgt Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., S/Sgt Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP” A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
St. Joe”
P Orrantia, Gilbert D., 2Lt Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt
CP Bettinger, Howard P., 2Lt Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt
B Chamberlain, Don C., S/Sgt Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt
E Kemp, Quentin B., S/Sgt Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt
R Ramirez, Zenon (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt
G McNeil, Gabriel J., Cpl Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt
F Hoover, Travis (NMI), Maj, HQ 47th None
Wing (observer)
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 42-53377 “Flag Ship”
Polka”
P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj,
2Lt Commander
CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, HQ 321st BG
Commander
N None McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, HQ 321st BG
B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt Brown, John Roland, 1Lt
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Cleveland, William C., Sgt
R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Leahy, Richard P. “Dick”, T/Sgt
G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Reeves, Charles F., M/Sgt
F None None
P Axson, Ralph Leonidas, Jr., 1Lt Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt
CP Elliott, Roger L., 2Lt Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt
N Tapper, George G., 2Lt None
B Pappas, William J., 2Lt Meehan, James M., 2Lt
E Helisek, Paul A., Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
R Haasch, George F., T/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt
G Bedwell, Joy L., Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt
F None None
446th BS Special Account: July 19, 1943. The first raid on Rome today. Major
Schwane led the Group with Col. Knapp as co-pilot. The results were excellent. The
446th sent 18 of the 72 planes in the formation. The 445th lost a plane and the 448th lost a
radio operator. Lt. Posey T. Harris was hit in the eye by flak over the target. The
following is an eye-witness account of the mission by one of the pilots:
Harris, Posey T., 2Lt, bombardier, 448th BS
Schwane, Henry H., Lt Maj, pilot, Commander
July 19, 1943 was an eventful day for our Squadron since we were going to
participate in the first raid on Rome.
Briefing time came with nearly all the crews over at Group much earlier than was
needed because, since it was going to be a “big show”, everyone wanted to know all the
details as early as possible. Many would crowd around the map and point out just where
most of the flak would come from or point out a better way to approach the target. Of
course, the route in and out would always remain the same.
Briefing finally started and ended with everyone just a little anxious to get it over
with although our particular target was outside the city limits of Rome on the airfield of
Ciampino. Just the same we all expected a lot of flak.
We were in the air at last and headed out on course with our P-38 escort trailing
out behind but staying within sight of those who cast backward glances at them. I looked
back myself just to make sure those ME chasing planes were back there. They were and I
was satisfied.
Major Schwane, as he told us he would at briefing, started his climb about 80
miles from the Italian coast. Everything was going fine and in good order. Our altitude
was reached just before we crossed the coast. Intelligence said we might get flak from
the coast and we were almost there now. The flak did come up finally, and we began
weaving back and forth on course, which caused the flak to be off on one side or the
other.
Schwane, Henry H., Lt Maj, pilot, Commander
Major Schwane was heading directly towards the field which could now be
clearly seen as we approached it. Off in front of, and to our left, we could see a mass of
buildings that was Rome. A large distinct column of black smoke was rising out of the
bombed city. The B-17’s must have just gone over since this was a large coordinated
attack.
There was our target now not many miles ahead so we must begin the bomb run.
I took another turn for evasive action and then pressed the button for the interphone to
give the “on course” to Lt. Robertson, the bombardier. I heard the answer “Roger” and
knew that he was beginning to sight. The flak was beginning to come up again. The first
puffs of black smoke were appearing magically behind Major Schwane’s flight, which,
by this time, was echeloned out in the briefed formation for bombing. We were on the
Major’s right and also echeloned out. The PDI was over to the left a little now so I made
that correction. The Major was also correcting to the left. Consequently the flak was
coming up over near us then and very shortly it was all around us. The bomb bay doors
came open and a few seconds later the 500 lb bombs fell in a neat string from the planes
ahead. The light then began to flicker on the instrument panel and then the long awaited
“bombs away” came over the interphone. I banked to the right and went into a shallow
dive. Then I steepened the bank to cut inside the Major. We did when suddenly the
plane shook from stem to stern. The guns were firing, although they stopped
immediately. An enemy pursuit had made a pass at us. The flak was inaccurate now and
I looked out to the left for the Major’s flight and found that it was to the left and behind
us
since I had turned too sharply and was ahead now. My error, but it probably wouldn’t
matter. The fighters came in again but the attacks were weak. Ahead of me I could see
several squadrons of B-26’s coming over the coastline to drop frags on the wreckage of
the same field. Flak came up around them but none were hurt. Again we caught the flak
crossing the coast line going out. Lt. Posey T. Harris, the bombardier on Lt.
VanArtsdalen’s plane was hit in the eye by a piece of flak. Another squadron in our
Group had just a few moments before lost a plane over the target from flak.
We were on the deck now and in formation on the Major’s right going home. It
was a great relief to be on the way home. A feeling of satisfaction comes over you while
you relax with another mission to your credit.
We landed safe and sound at the home base.
HOWARD L. CHAPPELL
Capt., Air Corps.
Chappell, Howard L., Capt, pilot Harris, Posey T., 2Lt, bombardier, 448th BS
Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier Schwane, Henry H., Maj, pilot, Commander
VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt, pilot
Eighteen of our planes participated in a raid on Rome Ciampino airdrome in Italy.
Bombing results good. The flak was very intense and one of the squadrons lost a plane,
another had a man killed. All our planes returned safely, however. This was the first day
Rome was ever raided and there were about five hundred planes altogether which raided
various parts of the city today.
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-30538 “Shad Rack You
Done Crapped Again”
P Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj,
Commander
CP Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st
BG
N None Bodine, Arnold F. “Benny the Bum”, 1Lt
B Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt Tate, Row W., 2Lt
E Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt None listed
R Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt Henderson, James B., M/Sgt
G Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt Wilson, Leo W., Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 42-64695

P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt
CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt
N None None
B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt
E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II”
Lady”
P DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt
CP Hoffman, Charles W., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
B Garrett, Andy Keet, 2Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt
E Joseph, Edward R., S/Sgt Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt
R Hofstedt, John H., T/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt
G Smith, Robert J., Pvt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64598 “Sylvester the A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
Snarp”
P Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator None listed – likely the navigator
E None listed – likely Early, Frank X., Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”
P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt
CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt
N Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt None
B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt
E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Newhouse, Ralph W., Sgt
R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt Hilton, Maurice J., T/Sgt
G DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James” A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda”
P Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt Seel, Peter B., Jr., Capt
CP Anderson, Carl F., 2Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
B Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt Sattenspiel, Stanley J., 2Lt
E O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt
R Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt Meyers, William W., Sgt
G Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None Canning, John A., Capt (observer)
A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl” A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon
Ball”
P McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Batteiger, Norman J., S/Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Funk, Marvin J., Sgt
A/C No. 42-32498 “Dumbo” A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle”
P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt
CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt
B Horne, Wendell C., M/Sgt Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt
R Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt
G Reilly, James M., Cpl Tornio, Raymond A., S/Sgt
F None Christenson, Lars (NMI), Sr., Sgt
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry
II” Duck”
P Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP Jahraus, Alfred B., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
N None None
B Harter, James E., S/Sgt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt
E Smith, Douglas P., M/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., S/Sgt
R Brown, Charles Orville “Brownie”, Jr., Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt
S/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F None Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt
(observer)
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind”
(spare) (spare)
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt
CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt
N None None
B Holliman, Marion P., S/Sgt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt
G Werner, George P., Sgt Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt
F None None
TARGET: Ciampino A/D Rome Italy 4:50 500 lbs
Capt. Manly, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“Coverage was excellent. Hits made on hangars, revetments, and among parked planes.
Two ME-109’s and one RE-2001 damaged. This was first raid ever made on Rome by
the Allies, and our Group was cited by the Commanding General for the success of the
raid.”
Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt, pilot McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
“Rome, the capital of Italy was today’s target. Our outfit put 72 ships into the air. The
310th also. 150 B-17s hit the city before we did and 150 B-24s before them. After us 120
B-26s did their job. The flak was heavy, moderate, and inaccurate. We were in flak from
the coast to the target and back. One ship was shot down and one radio man in the 445th
was taken out of the plane dead. Our specific target was the twin-airports just outside of
the city. As we crossed the coast and went in parallel to the Tiber River, I could see
where the 17s had hit. There were huge fires, with smoke and dust on the East side of the
city. There were some fighters up, some say 7 to 10 ME-109s and Macch 201s. One
came a blasting away at our flight. He was spitting so much flame it looked like he was
on fire. I believe the P-38s got him though. This was the first mission in our new ship.
“This is Monday---and the day we bombed Rome!
Last night we had an idea that something like that was cooking---our squadron
had 20 ships scheduled to fly, and when we put that many in the air on one mission it’s a
sure thing that something big is afoot. And, although we weren’t told, we had a pretty
good idea that we were going after Musso’s hideout—and were we eager!!
Briefing was scheduled for 8:50 this morning, and I don’t think that anyone in
this squadron knew for sure where we were going until we arrived at Group. Of course
we figured it was Rome---but we had had nothing official. And that in itself is unusual---
we always know where we are going the next day as soon as the schedule goes up.
Tonight, for instance, we are scheduled to fly tomorrow and already know that our target
will be Battipaglia, Italy. Last minute changes, though rare, are not unknown.
I’m not sure how many ships went over Rome today, but they told us at Briefing
that they knew of 300 B-17s, about as many B-24s, two flights of 72 B-25s and a bunch of
B-26s. Our bunch, I believe, was about the last bunch to go over.
Never in our combat history have we put so many ships in the air at one time.
Forty-eight, I think, is about tops for previous raids. We weren’t sure exactly how to
handle 72, so instead of going out in one, unwieldy formation, we went up in two flights
of 36 ships each---one just a few minutes behind the other. That way things went off very
nicely everywhere but after the target. I flew old “Ruff Stuff” today for a change, and
rode Richardson’s right wing. He led the second flight of 12 in the second formation of
36. We were to hit the target in two waves---each formation spreading out to cover the
entire target, which was two adjoining airfields about nine miles southeast of the city of
Rome. These two fields constituted some sort of training center and were considered
important from a psychological stand point. The entire assault on Rome was more for
the psychological effect than for military reasons---although the place was lousy with
good, legitimate military targets such as railroad yards, airfields and factories.
We rendezvoused with our fighters over Medjez-el-Bab and left on a direct course
for our target, dropping to the deck as we left the African coast.
On some raids I must admit that I hope against hope that my guns don’t check out
and that I’ll have to go back. That is a cowardly way of looking at it, I know, but it’s the
true case. Some targets, I figure, can be destroyed well enough without me flying over
them and, if I had my ‘druthers, I’d just as soon not go. But this one was one I crossed
my fingers and hoped my guns would check! Our outfit had gone over Italian mainland
targets three times and I had yet to see Italian soil. I wanted to have a look---especially
at Rome!
All stations reported their guns O.K. and I settled down for the long over-water
ride to Rome. We started climbing just a few minutes before the mainland came into
sight and stopped when our altimeter hit 11,000 ft. We were to bomb from 10,000 ft. but
we gain the last 1,000 so we can hit a faster clip over the target by diving slightly just
before we get to it.
We hit land just where we intended to and there ahead of us lay the beautiful city
of Rome---with lovely tall columns of black, gray and white smoke rising here and there
and in and around it. It was a lovely sight. In fact I know of no other I’ve seen lately that
I enjoyed more..
Last night when we got the idea that we might bomb Rome, we had a big session
and talked it over among ourselves. Some of the boys didn’t want to bomb it---some of
the more ardent Catholics. They said it was the religious center of the world (which was
quickly and, I believe correctly, disputed.) and it should not be destroyed. The
psychological effect of bombing it was also discussed. Personally, I’m all for bombing
anything Axis---this is a war of attrition---dog eat dog—where I’M concerned. I firmly
believe that were the Axis in a position to bomb our cities, our centers of culture and
religion, they would have no scruples in bombing the hell out of us! They wouldn’t
hesitate. And I doubt that their men would even dream of discussing the pros and cons
(as we were) before going out and dropping their little balls of hell. I’m more than
willing to give them all we’ve got where it will hurt them the most—they would give it to
us if they had the chance.
As we approached our target, we could see the city off to our left. I didn’t notice
(did not have time to) that there had been no bombing north of the Tiber River—the side
of the river where the Vatican is located, but several of the boys said that that part of the
city had apparently had not been touched. That’s O.K. But I did note that the city had
been hit---it seemed to have suffered more on the eastern and southern edges than any
other place. At any rate, it had been hit and several large fires were visible all through
the southeastern section.
Our target already had been pretty well bombed when we went over. We dropped
our bombs and turned sharply to the right, and as we did so we could see hits all over the
target---none hit long and only a few were short. Again—the target was well covered.
Coming in to the target I saw two fighters---enemy fighters, that is---coming from
above and to the right of the formation ahead of us, attacking and diving on down. My
co-pilot saw them, too, and although I’ve told him time and again to spot enemy fighters
for the gunners, he sat there and said not a word. I had to fly formation and call them at
the same time---and that’s a lot of work. Flak was bursting all around us, but it seemed
pretty well scattered and all of light caliber stuff. It certainly wasn’t what I would call a
rough day, but a few of our ships were hit.
We did lose one ship and crew---McLaughlin---although there seems to be some
question as to whether he was hit by flak or whether an ME109 rammed him and cut his
wing off. At any rate a fighter was seen to crash with him. They say---and this is by no
means authentic---that his wing broke off and in flying back cut the tail almost completely
off. The rest of the ship fell like a rock and no chutes were see, so it is assumed the entire
crew was lost.
McLaughlin, Guy J., Jr., 2Lt, pilot
As far as I know that was our only casualty in ships. Hardzog lost his radio
operator, killed by flak. Both of these losses can be considered lucky hits.
Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt, pilot
I can’t even make an attempt to tell you what happened after we bombed. It was a
mess. All I do know is that in coming off the target it seemed to be every man for himself.
No one knew where the lead ships were, and no one seemed to give a damn. We just
collected in one large bunch and hit the deck for home. When there are no fighters after
us, such behavior is all right. When we are scattered that way, no gun crew can draw a
bead---all they can do is shoot---keep shooting, and hope.
I just talked to Sgt. Horne who said he saw McLaughlin go down. He said it was
a direct hit by flak and he watched it all the way to the ground. No one got out.
Horne, Wendell C., MSgt, engineering
The trip home was uneventful….except, of course, that no one knew where they
were in the formation. We just hung together and came on home in one big bunch. As
we approached the field we spread out in elements, lined up, and came in to land. One
more mission---making my total exactly 31.”
62 (94): 72 planes off to bomb Ciampino A/D N and S (7 miles SE of Rome) 72 planes
dropped 428 x 500 bombs at 13:05 from 8000 feet. 70 planes returned at 15:40, 1 shot
down by flak over target and 1 landed at Bizerte. Bomb bursts began at RR tracks SW
side, continued across facilities and building and both fields well covered. Hits made on
hangars and revetments and among parked planes. Numerous fires observed, 2 ME-109’s
and 1 RE-2001 damaged. 10-12 E/A attacked on leaving targets. 1 RE-2001 shot down
by escort, 2 E/A seen to collide in air. Ground siding at RR crossing had many freight
cars, huge fires with flames 500 feet high seen on that side of Rome. Intense, heavy
inaccurate flak. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Veum, Stultz and Isaacson.
A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 42-64519

P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
N None None
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt
E Roberts, Harold L., PFC Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F None None
P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Bowman, William W., 2Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt
N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt None
B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt
E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt
R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt
G Wallace, John R., PFC Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30327 A/C No. 42-64655

P Veum, Ole E., Capt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Mayer, Brantz (NMI), Jr., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
B Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ Colby, Arthur R., Pvt
321st BG
E None listed Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Spencer, John S., T/Sgt Ally, George B., S/Sgt
F None Treanor, T., war correspondent
(observer)
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 41-30352
P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt
CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt
N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt
B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt
E None listed – likely Rude, Norman J., None listed – likely Pitts, Lawrence P.,
S/Sgt T/Sgt
R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt
G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Ryal, Clarence M., PFC
F None None
A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 42-30343
P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt
CP King, James L., 2Lt DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt
N None Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt
E Ridgeway, Robert L., PFC Pudlo, Alexander A., Sgt
R Egbom, Clarence W., PFC Orman, Virgil N., PFC
G Dellwo, Lawrence H., PFC Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, PFC
P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
N None None
B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Cain, George S., S/Sgt
E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt
R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
G Deal, Herman L., Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
F None None

P Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt
CP Joli, William H., 2Lt Gouge, David J., 2Lt
N None None
B Reid, Robert L., Sgt Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt
E Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt Terho, Harold V., S/Sgt
R House, Harry H., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt
G Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt Griffin, Pink C., S/Sgt
F None None
P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Driver, William J., F/O
B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Polinsky, Marvin J., PFC
R Smith, Harry V., PFC Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Yutzy, Eli N., PFC Silva, John P., S/Sgt
F None None
P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Fleming, George B., F/O Haskell, John D., 2Lt
B Moorman, Arthur L., PFC Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt None listed – likely Rohleder, Jack J.,
Pvt
R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt
G Taylor, Henry F., PFC Vance, Paul S., PFC
F None Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Capt,
Commander (observer)
In Sicily, B-25's attack Randazzo and Taormina; and Royal Air Force
(RAF) heavy bombers hit Vibo Valentia Airfield.

bomb Aquino, Sicily and Capodichino, Italy Airfields while Northwest African Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) medium and light bombers attack vehicles, roads, and town areas
around and in Randazzo, Santo Stefano di Camastra, Orlando, and Nicosia, Sicily.
During the day, NASAF fighter-bombers attack targets of opportunity in W Sicily while
NASAF medium bombers strike Montecorvino Airfield. On the ground in Sicily, the US
Seventh Army and British Eighth Army continue to push NW and N. The US 82nd
Airborne Division takes Sciacca and Menfi; the US 9th Infantry Division clears Santo
Stefano Quisquina and the heights N of Mussomeli; the US 2nd Armored Division, with
British units, takes Enna and drives on to Villapriolo. The Canadian 1 Division pushes to
the Leon forte area; the British 51 Division attacks the German airfield near Sferro; 13
Corps is halted by strong opposition on the Catania Plain. HQ 86th Fighter Group
transfers from Korba, Tunisia to Gela, Sicily. The 12th Photographic Squadron (Light),
3rd Photographic Reconnaissance and Mapping Group, based at Ariana, Tunisia begins
operating from Gela and Ponte Olivo, Sicily with F-4's. The 309th Bombardment
Squadron (Dive), 86th Bombardment Group (Dive) transfers with A-36's from Tafaraoui,
Algeria to Gela, Sicily. The 310th and 312th Bombardment Squadrons (Dive) of the same
group transfer from Korba, Tunisia to Gela with A-36's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The Monte Corvino Airdrome was the target for the 95th
mission which took off at 1130 on July 20, 1943 with 36 planes. Over 2,500 twenty-
pound frags were dropped from 8,500 to 9,500 feet altitude. The coverage of the field
was excellent with almost all of the bombs falling in the target area. Hangars,
administration buildings and W/T stations were hit and set afire as well as planes on the
field, one of which was seen to explode. Eight fires were observed, many of which had
been set by the bombings of a sister group. No flak, whatsoever, was encountered on this
attack. Flight leaders were Capt. Isaacson, Lieut. Cratin, Lieut. Bonus, Lieut. Davies,
Lieut. Fineman, Lieut. Nixon. Observers were Col. Walsh, Capt Colvin, Capt., Gerber,
Capt. Lindley and Capt. Weld.
Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS Colvin, J. W., Capt, HQ 47th Wing
th
Cratin, William S., 1Lt, pilot, 445 BS Davies, Robert D., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Lindley, Francis H., Capt, pilot, HQ 82nd FG Nixon, Donald O., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Walsh, James H., Col, pilot, HQ 47th Wing Weld, David (NMI), Capt, HQ 82nd FG
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1130 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Monte Corvino A/D. __None_
returned early. ___36__ dropped 2502x20 lb. frag bombs from 8500/9500 ft at 1411.
No. A/C No & Type Altitude Time
__35__ returned at 1620. __1___ returned at 1740
No A/C Time No A/C Time
3. Coverage of field was excellent, almost all bombs falling in target area. Hangars,
administration buildings and W/T station hit and set afire, as well as planes on field.
8 fires seen. One plane exploded. Other group was early and bombed target first.
4. Air---------One E/A after leaving coast, hit deck. 5 S/E near preceding group. 30 or
more E/A on field including one 4 motor plane afire, JU-52’s and SM-
79’s. Greatest concentration on S. side.
Marine---- 3 ships either M/V or DD 5 miles N. of Cape Palinuro headed 270° at

1413. Stationary submarine at 39°57’N, 14°52’E crash dived at 1345.
One M/V 400/500 ft. off Pisciotta. B-25 made controlled landing at
40°25’N, 14°25’E. One report of a DD at 39°20’N, 13°20’E at 1330.
Flak-------- None.
Ground---- 6 trains of 20/30 cars each at Battipaglia R.R. yards.
5. Enroute----Hazy, visibility 10 miles.

Target----- CAVU, hazy.
Return----- 3/10 clouds at 10,000. Hazy, visibility 10 miles.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 1155 on heading 81° for 47 miles to Medjez el Bab, reached
at 1206. Headed 13° for 47 miles to Cape Ben Sekka reached at 1218 and
hit deck. Headed 60° for 260 miles to 39°30’N, 13°40’E, reached at 1336.
Started climb on same heading and reached Italian coast at 10,000 ft. at
40°13’N, 15°10’E° at 1359. Headed 54° for 25 miles to 40°27’N,
15°20’E, reached at 1405. Headed 300° for 25 miles to target reached at
1410 and made bomb run at 1411. Left turn to deck at coast, and home.
Flight leaders-Lts. Cratin, Bonus, Davies, Fineman, Nixon, Capt. Isaacson.
Observers-Col Walsh, Capts Colvin, Gerber, Lindley and Weld.
Number of sorties-36
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Monte Corvino airdrome in Italy. 864 x 20 lb.
frags were dropped by the 445th from 9500 ft. 24 P-38’s of the 82nd Fighter Group were
the escorts. There was excellent coverage of the target area. Hangars, administration
buildings and a WT station were hit, the station being set afire, as well as several aircraft
on the field. One enemy aircraft was seen to explode on the field and 8 fires were seen.
No flak or enemy fighters were encountered.
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”

P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt
CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt
E Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt
R Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt
G Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt
F None Asbury, William (NMI), 1Lt (observer)
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Walker, James O., Jr., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt
B Kazich, Rudolph William, 2Lt Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt
G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 42-53373

Gambler II”
P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt
CP Bitner, William H., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Criswell, John E., T/Sgt
R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Carson, Donald (NMI), T/Sgt
G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED”
P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt
CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt
N None None
B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt
E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt
R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt
G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt
CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
B McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt Morgan, Robert E., S/Sgt
E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt
R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Winston, E. G., S/Sgt
G VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt Pierce, William V., S/Sgt
F None Asmus, George D., Sgt
A/C No. 42-64575 A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia”
P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt
B McEnroe, Harry A., 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, S/Sgt
F Walsh, James H., Col, HQ 47th Wing Colvin, J. W., Capt, HQ 47th Wing
(observer) (observer)

P Garmon, James M. “Max”, 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Brooks, LeRoy O., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N Beyer, William J., 2Lt None
B Manning, Rodney Allen, 2Lt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Mercuri, Ralph W., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Foley, Gerald M., T/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Wray, Charles E., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-13008 (spare)
Peekin’”) (spare)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt
N None None
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Braucher, David C., 2Lt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64599 “Old 99 - PLUTO - A/C No. 41-13208 (spare)
Pee Wee” (spare)
P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt
1Lt
CP Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt
N None None
B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Meehan, James M., 2Lt
E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt
R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt Friscia, Frank J., Jr., T/Sgt
G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt
F None None
447th BS War Diary: The second group of men returned from rest camp at Fez and third
group left for the camp.
of our planes participated in a raid on the Monte Corvino airdrome in Italy. Bombing
results excellent. All our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated

Lady”
P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt
CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Blanton, Ralph A., 2Lt
N None None
B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt Jones, Vaughn W. “Jonesy”, S/Sgt
E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Ferrier, Jack G., S/Sgt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Skorupa, Benjamin (NMI), S/Sgt
G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Vaccaro, Joseph M., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-32450 “Lumber Wagon” A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind”
P Fineman, Ernest (NMI), 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt
CP Thomas, David W. “Dave”, 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt
B Allison, John M. “Alley Cat”, Jr., 2Lt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt
E Newhouse, Ralph W., 2Lt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt
R Gregory, Ralph J. H., S/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt
G Ludtke, Foster R., Pvt Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 42-64695
P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
N None None
B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt Sattenspiel, Stanley J., 2Lt
E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt
R Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G Tornio, Raymond A., S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James”
P Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Richardson, Robert W. “Big Rich”, 1Lt
CP Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Anderson, Carl F., 2Lt
N None Daume, Oscar R., 1Lt
B Mayben, Ernest P., Jr., 2Lt Lieberman, Stanley (NMI), 2Lt
E Batteiger, James M., S/Sgt O’Connell, Daniel E., S/Sgt
R Bartkus, Ernest F., S/Sgt Cantrell, Walter A., T/Sgt
G Funk, Marvin J., Sgt Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff”

Duck”
P Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Sholund, John D., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Brown, Charles Orville “Brownie”, Jr.,
S/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
CP Fallone, Henry J. “Hank”, 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
E Sheets, Ralph M., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr. S/Sgt
R Kordzi, Joseph J., Jr., S/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Werner, George P., S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F None None
TARGET: Monte Corvino 4:55 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Coverage of field excellent. 8 fires seen. All bombs falling in target area.”
“Monte Corvino Airdrome near Battipaglia, Italy. No fighters – no flak – 310th lost a
ship just off the coast. He made a beautiful water landing. The field was excellently
covered. Bombs landing in the dispersal areas, hangars and barracks. P-38s covered.”
“On July 20th 36 ships of this group bombed the Monte Corvino airfield a few miles south
of Naples, Italy. It was a gravy train but some very peculiar things happened that
weren’t explained until recently. It was a coordinated raid---36 ships of the 310th Bomb
Group were scheduled to hit the same target 5 minutes after us. But it didn’t turn out
that way.
I flew my own ship and was scheduled to lead the last element of the last 12,
which was composed of ships from our squadron. Take-off and the trip to the target were
uneventful and just as planned.
We hit the coast line south of our target and at just about the right time. It was
our intention to circle slightly inland and approach the target going west toward the
coast which wasn’t more than 4 or 5 miles from the target. For some reason, though, we
circled a shad too long---it was more of a young cross-country than a jockeying for
position. During our ride overland, the 310th arrived on the scene, bombed, and got out.
We carried frag bombs and they carried300 and 500 lb. demolition bombs, and by
the time we got within dropping range the field was nearly obscured by dust and smoke
from the several fires they started.
However, we could see no flak ahead of us and no fighters were around, so we
barged serenely on in. The bomb run threatened to get all messed up when our fighter
escort circled the target ahead of us. Their prop wash gave our ships a slight jarring that
might easily have tumbled the gyros in our bomb sights. It didn’t, though, and we
managed a fairly good run, and dropped our bombs all over the field. It was a good job.
With Andrews on my left wing and Lungren on my right, I had echeloned to the
left going over the target, and when our bombs were away I found myself on the inside of
the left turn off the target. I made a fairly steep turn to the left, noticing that Richardson
(who led the element ahead of us) was doing the same and diving at the same time. That
put him on his way under me and since my ship was up in a steep turn, I couldn’t see him,
so I didn’t dive with him. Instead I made my turn level and after turning for what I
considered long enough, I straightened out and looked for Rich. He and the rest of the
formation were far below me---almost on the deck and there I sat at bombing altitude
(about 9500 ft.) alone with my flight! I heeled it up in a fairly steep diving turn to the
right—the climb indicator showing 3,000 ft. per minute—down! The formation was still
far below and I didn’t seem to be gaining. Andrews, on the outside of my turn, appeared
to be falling back slightly, so I turned slightly to the left and he caught up O.K. We hit
4,000 ft/min on the way down, but we caught them---and the three of us were still right
together.
Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt, pilot Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt, pilot
We had no sooner got down to the deck than I saw a green ship flying just off the
wave tops and very, very slowly. It was apparent he was in trouble, but both his engines
seemed to be putting out and no reason for his difficulty was evident. He settled and
dropped his tail, and I watched intently as I thought he was about to hit the water. But he
rose slightly and kept going. He was so low that his prop wash stirred long lines of
turbulence in the water. Then he passed out of my range of vision behind us. It was just
a few minutes later that Osowiecki called and said the ship had hit. They watched it
closely and a few minutes later reported that the raft was in the water.
I thought that it might have been one of our ships, but I had seen no flak---and
when you are tail-end-charlie if there is any flak about, you see it. There had been no
fighters around, and I could think of no reason for losing the ship.
It was about this time that I noticed Lungren lagging way back. I thought surely
the gremlins or something had our formation then. There simply was no reason to be in
trouble unless an engine had burned out---but then there would be a smoke trail. There
was none. I slowed down until he caught up. He made no sign to me that he was having
trouble. I figured that he was having a brain-storm of some kind as he often does, so I
pulled away and got back in formation. He lagged again.
Lungren, Charles D., 1Lt, pilot
A little later the formation reduced speed and he caught up again. I couldn’t
think of a reason in the world for him to lag. I began to get mad. To hell with him…
It seems he was running slightly low on gas in his left tanks, and so in order to
conserve fuel, he had reduced his speed. There within 50 miles of Italy, he decides to
slow down and fly by himself….to save gas! All the gas he saved you could put in a tea
cup – with room for cream and sugar. He even came on home with us---he had plenty of
gas and didn’t have to stop at Bizerte where ships low on gas stop to re-fuel since it is
about 30 minutes short of our base. I read him the riot act when we got back and I found
out the reason for his actions.
It was quite a bit later before we found out why that ship hit the water. It wasn’t
one of our ships—it was one of the 310th’s. It seems that some of their ships carried frag
bombs and one flight got in under another just as the upper one dropped. They scored a
direct hit on one of the ships—the one that crashed near the target. Apparently another
was hit, too, and it was the one that hit the water just off the coast. We have never had a
report as to whether the crew of that ship was rescued or not—but I doubt it. They were
too close to the Italian mainland.”
“Go to Tabarka for swim.”
Mission 63 (95): At 11:30 36 ships off to bomb Monte Corvino A/D, dropped 2502
frags from 8500 feet at 14:11. 35 planes returned at 16:20, 1 returned at 17:40. Coverage
of field excellent almost all bombs in target area, hangars, Administration buildings, M/Y
station hit and set afire. 8 fires seen and 1 plane seen to explode from a direct hit. 30
E/A on field, many were set afire. 3 M/V seen 5 miles off Cape Palinuro. Stationary
submarine crash dived at 39° 57’ N and 14° 52’ E. B-25 of 310th Bomb Group made
controlled landing at 40° 25’ N, 14° 25’ E. No flak. Weather: CAVU: F/L: Isaacson,
Davies.

P Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Jacobson, Norman S., 2Lt
CP Gouge, David J., 2Lt Joli, William H., 2Lt
N None None
B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Reid, Robert L., Sgt
E Pudlo, Alexander A., Sgt Carnathan, J. D. (i.o.), S/Sgt
R Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt House, Harry H., S/Sgt
G Briscoe, Albert S., M/Sgt Barry, Robert A., Jr., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 42-64519

P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Smith, Harry V., PFC Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Yutzy, Eli N., PFC Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F None Gerber, Joseph H., Capt, 95th FS, 82nd
FG (observer)
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Potosky, John S., PFC Ridgeway, Robert L., PFC
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Egbom, Clarence W., PFC
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Dellwo, Lawrence H., PFC
F None Lindley, Francis H., Capt, HQ 82nd FG
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 41-30326
P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt
N Abbe, Richard A., 1Lt None
B Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., PFC Roberts, Harold L., PFC
R Joubert, Ira W., SSgt Tanner, James T., S/Sgt
G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64655 A/C No. 41-29998 “Little Joe”
P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt
CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Fleming, George B., F/O
N None None
B Colby, Arthur R., PFC Moorman, Arthur L., Pvt
E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt Lambert, Robert P., PFC
R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), PFC
G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Taylor, Henry F., Pvt
F Weld, David (NMI), Capt, HQ 82nd FG Hobert, Walter W., PFC
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye”

P Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt Moore, Leland A., 1Lt
CP Haskell, John D., 2Lt Biener, Martin B., 2Lt
N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt
B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt
E Rohleder, Jack J., PFC Pitts, Lawrence P., PFC
R Hilborne, Thomas G., S/Sgt Lyons, Paul E., S/Sgt
G Vance, Paul S., PFC Ryal, Clarence M., PFC
F None None
In Sicily, about 20 B-25's bomb Randazzo and P-40's escort C-47's to

Licata and return.

the night of 20/21 Jul, Wellingtons of the Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) hit Crotone Airfield and the Naples marshalling yard in Italy; Northwest
African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light bombers hit motor transport convoys in the
Randazzo, Sicily area. During the day, NASAF B-17's bomb Grosseto Airfield, Italy. On
the ground in Sicily, US Rangers seize Castelvetrano and the airport; the US 82nd
Airborne Division takes San Margherita and the US 3rd Infantry Division takes Corleone;
the US 45th Infantry Division, pushing NW, takes Valledolmo; and the US 1st Infantry
Division clears Alimena. In the British 30 Corps area, the Canadian l Division takes Leon
Forte. HQ 31st Fighter Group transfers from Ponte Olivo, Sicily to Agrigento, Sicily. HQ
47th Bombardment Group (Light) and its 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light) transfer
with A-20's from Soliman, Tunisia to Malta. The 307th and 309th Fighter Squadrons, 31st
Fighter Group, transfer with Spitfires from Ponte Olivo, Sicily to Agrigento, Sicily.
445th BS War Diary: The 445th did not participate in any missions today. Two officers
and three enlisted men were assigned to the Squadron today as replacements. A few of
the men went to Ain Draham this evening for dinner. Both the Officers and the enlisted
men find the girls at Air Draham very interesting if not entertaining.
07/21/43: “Today was hot and disagreeable. The Siroccos blew up so much dust
one could hardly see. July 19th our planes participated in the first raid on Rome. Our
squadron sent out all available planes and from the Group there were 80 in all. One
plane was lost, #11 (41-13211) from our squadron. It was seen to come apart in mid-air
and spin earthward in two pieces. It is extremely doubtful if anyone got out. Of the crew,
gunner Binkowski was nearest to me and in every way a specimen of superior American
manhood. All have been with us since the squadron was organized. A mass is to be said
for them tomorrow.
I am greatly amused by the petty politics of war which are present in every
organization. I much prefer not to climb in rank than to have become a part of such
despicable scheming. “Oh the frailties of man.” Saw a piece in Time magazine
(05/24/43) stating on authority of one of America’s outstanding psychologists from
Columbia University that Utah has produced more superior people in proportion to the
population than any state in the Union.”
447th BS War Diary: Six ground crew men left for 48 hours at the rest camp at Tabarka.

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): P-40's escort C-47's to

Ponte Olivo, Sicily.

bomb Capodichino Airfield and Salerno marshalling yard in Italy. In Sicily, Northwest
African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light bombers hit Randazzo, the railroad at Falcone,
and the road W of Marina. In Italy during the day, 100+ B-17's bomb the Battipaglia
marshalling yard and Foggia; B-26's hit a Salerno bridge and marshalling yard; and
fighters fly a sweep over Maddalena Island, strafing factories, trucks, and small vessels.
In Sicily, NATAF light bombers bomb Adrano, Paterno, Troina, and Misterbianco. On
the ground in Sicily, US Seventh Army troops take Palermo; and the 1st Infantry Division
continues N, taking Bompietro. The 85th and 86th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th
Bombardment Group (Light), transfer from Soliman, Tunisia to Malta with A-20's.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Bombers which took off at 0725 on July 22, 1943 bombed
the Battipaglia railroad yards. Twenty-four planes took off this, the 96th mission, and
dropped 138 five-hundred pound bombs with .1 and 45 second fusing from 8,500 to
9,500 feet. Strings of bombs fell across the tracks, transformer station, warehouses and
rolling stock. Large fires were started and much smoke covered the target areas.
Twenty-three planes returned at 1200 with the other plane landing at Bizerte for fuel.
Capt. Bates, Capt. Stultz, Capt. Burns, and Lieut. Bailey were flight leaders and Capt.
Gerber and Capt. Landron flew as observers.
Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Maj, pilot, Commander, 448th BS
Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt, pilot, 447th BS
Landron, George J., Capt, photographer, 82nd FG
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0725 24___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Battipaglia R.R. yards. __None_
No. A/C No & Type
from 8500/9500 ft. at 1000. __23__ returned at 1200. One landed at Bizerte for gas.
Altitude Time No A/C Time
3. Strings of bombs fell across R.R. tracks, transformer station, warehouses and rolling
stock.
4. Air--------- 2 transports at 1000 ft. near target heading 170°, 2 S/E at target did not
attack. 4 transports on Monte Corvino.
Flak-------- None.
Marine---- Large vessel, possibly destroyer or cruiser, 15 miles SW of Capri headed
30° at 1005. 4/5 E boats heading into Salerno.
Ground---- Convoy of about 100 trucks headed S, stationary on road off Salento.
24/30 R.R. cars on siding S. of Agropoli. Buildings resembling barracks
noted on SW side Eboli.
5. Enroute----Scattered low scud layers at sea. Hazy, visibility 8 miles.

Target----- 6/10 cumulus at 5000 ft.
Return----- CAVU.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000ft. at 0744 heading 81° for 47 miles to Medjez, reached at
0755. Headed 13° for 47 miles to Cape Ben Sekka, 37°21’N, 10°04’E,
reached at 0806 and hit deck. Headed 60° for 260 miles to 39°40’N,
13°40’E, reached at 0924. Started climb on same heading and reached
Italian coast at 10,000 ft. at 40°13’N, 15°00’E at 0947. Headed 54° for 25
miles to 40°20’N, 15°27’E, reached at 0953. Headed 300° for 21 miles to
target reached at 1000. Made bomb run at 9000 ft, left turn, hit deck at
coast, and home.
Flight leaders-Capts Bates, Stultz, Burns, Lt. Bailey.

Observers-Capts. Gerber and Landron.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Two young steers which were bought out of the Squadron mess
fund were killed this afternoon and everyone enjoyed a steak dinner. The steak was
pretty tough but the flavor was still there.
25’s (6 spares from the 445th, one of which filled in) took off to bomb Battipaglia railroad
yards. 6 x 500 lb. demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th. The altitude of release
of the bombs was 10,000 ft. 24 P-38’s were the escort. Railroad tracks, transformer
station, warehouse and rolling stock were hit. Large fires were started and much smoke
was seen. No flak or enemy fighters.
A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” (spare A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7” (spare)
– filled in)
P Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt
CP Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt
N None None
B Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt
E Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt
R Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt
G Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64575 (spare – returned A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” (spare)
early)
P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt
B Czekai, Adolph B., 2Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt
G None listed – likely Bryant, James C., Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt
S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12924 “Patricia” (spare) A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi
Gambler II” (spare)
P Bitner, William H., 2Lt Cratin, William S., 1Lt
CP Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt
N None Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt
B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt
E Criswell, John E., T/Sgt Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt
R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt
G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt
F None None
mission 95, Sqdn 72 composed of 6 planes led by Lt. Bailey. 500 lb bombs were dropped
on a RR junction and power plant at Battipaglia, Italy. Bombs fell on the tracks,
transformer station, warehouses and rolling stock. Many large fires were started.

Pee Wee”
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr.,
1Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt
N Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt Bailey, Gordon Anderson, 2Lt
B Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt
R Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt
G Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13008 A/C No. 41-13200
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt
B Braucher, David C., 2Lt Meehan, James M., 2Lt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt
R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Friscia, Frank J., Jr., T/Sgt
G Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC Haresign, James M., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 41-30293
Polka”
P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
2Lt
CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N Kresge, James G., 2Lt, HQ 47th Wing None
(later 447th BS)
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
F None None
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 96/mission 95) Group Mission # 96: Six of
our planes took part in a raid on the railroad yards at Battipaglia. Bombing results
excellent. All our planes returned safely.
Duck”
P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt
CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
N Halloran, Robert F., 2Lt Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt
E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt
R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt
G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James”
P Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 1Lt
N Holloway, Arthur M., 2Lt Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind”
II”
P Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt
CP DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt
N None Gere, William E., 2Lt
B Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt
E Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt
R O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt
G Murphy, John F., S/Sgt Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt
F None None
TARGET: Battipaglia RR yards 4:40 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“Transformer station, warehouse and rolling stock and RR yards all hit. Mission very
successful.”
“Battipaglia itself took it today. Again we hit the railroad yards, repair sheds and
transformer. Clouds prevented our seeing the bomb hits. Twenty-four ships P-38s, 310th
followed us.”

448th BS: War Diary of: Colby, Edward R., S/Sgt, radio-gunner (G crew): “Go to
Tabarka with Gordie, Gus, Nat & Mac.”
Schwindle, Adam C. "Gus", 2Lt, pilot Prior, Gordon M. “Gordie”, 2Lt, pilot
64 (96): At 07:25 24 planes off to bomb Battipaglia, dropped 144 x 500 bombs at 10:20
and returned 12:25. RR tracks and M/Y and transformer station hit. No flak. 2 E/A at
target but did not attack. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Bates.
A/C No. 42-64519 A/C No. 41-30355

P Bates, James P. “Jimmy”, Maj, Veum, Ole E., Capt
Commander
CP Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, 1Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt
N Boland, Chester H., 1Lt Holt, William E., 2Lt
B Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ
321st BG
E Rohleder, Jack J., PFC Mintus, Frank J., Sgt
R Smith, Harry V., PFC Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt
G Vance, Paul S., PFC Spencer, John S., T/Sgt
F Olmsted, Charles T., Lt Col, HQ 321st None
BG (observer)
A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 42-64655
P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
N Hurst, Joseph B., 1Lt Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt
E Roberts, Harold L., PFC Potosky, John S., PFC
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Zeller, Michael C., PFC
F Gerber, Joseph H., Capt, 95th FS, 82nd Hobert, Walter W., PFC
FG (observer)
A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 42-64661
P Bowman, William W., 2Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Ennis, John H., Jr., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
N Joyce, Bryan A., 2Lt Lang, Robert H., 2Lt
B Tomerlin, Louis H., S/Sgt Cain, George S., S/Sgt
E Coleman, Smith B., S/Sgt Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt
R Hardy, Alexander A., Sgt Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
G Hopkins, Edgar G., S/Sgt Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
F None None

P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt
N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
B Reich, William John, 2Lt Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt
E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC None listed – likely Robb, Earl K., Pvt
R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC Orman, Virgil N., PFC
G Wallace, John R., PFC Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, PFC
F None None
A/C No. 42-64552 A/C No. 41-29967
P Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP King, James L., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
B Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Ridgeway, Robert L., PFC None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Egbom, Clarence W., PFC Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Dellwo, Lawrence H., PFC Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30005 “The Duck” A/C No. 41-12995 “Charlie’s Aunt”
(returned – turret out)
P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Fleming, George B., F/O Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
N None None
B Moorman, Arthur L., Pvt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt
E Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), Cpl Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Taylor, Henry F., PFC Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG Dobbins, Daniel G., HQ 321st BG
(observer)
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): P-40's escort C-47's to

Licata, Sicily. Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers hit Reggio di Calabria, Italy
Airfield.

west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, B-25's, and B-26's bomb Leverano
and Crotone, Italy, and Aquino Airfield, Sicily.
In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) medium

bombers and fighters bomb and strafe Misterbianco, transport in the Nicosia-Troina-
Randazzo areas, and bridges and landing craft in the coastal area around Santo Stefano di
Camastra and Orlando. On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army mops up in W
Sicily. The British Eighth Army's 30 Corps meets firm opposition as it moves E from
Leon Forte. HQ XII Bomber Command transfers from Constantine, Algeria to Tunis,
Tunisia. The 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light)
transfers with A-20's from Soliman, Tunisia to Malta. A detachment of the 414th Night
Fighter Squadron, 2nd Air Defense Wing, based at Rerhaia, Algeria begins operating from
Protville, Tunisia with Beaufighters. The squadron will fly its first combat mission
tomorrow. A detachment of the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 1st Air Defense Wing,
based at Monastir, Tunisia begins operating from Protville, Tunisia with Beaufighters.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Thirty-six planes took off to bomb the Crotone airdrome at
0910 on July 23, 1943, for the 97th mission. They dropped 206 five-hundred pound
bombs with .1 and 45 second fusing from 10,000 feet at 1206. The field was well-
covered with hits down the center of the field and on the runway and along the road on
the west side. Hangars, barracks, service buildings and revetments were hit. Four four-
engine airplanes were hit or strafed and 7 sing-engines were hit. Smoke rose to a height
of 600 feet. The preceding group was 5 minutes later in its schedule, which necessitated
a bomb-run at a higher altitude and speed slower than had been planned. Flak was heavy,
slight and inaccurate from the target and from Crotone. Flight leaders were Maj.
Schwane, Capt. Morton, Capt. Burns, Capt. Tipton, Lieut. Bailey, and Lieut. Bonus with
Capt. Phillips as observer.
Phillips, J. S., Capt
Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Maj, pilot, 445th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0910 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Crotone A/D. __None_ returned
early. ___24__ dropped 206x500 lb. bombs with 1/10 and 45 second fusing from
No. A/C No & Type
10,000 ft. at 1206. __29__ returned at 1500. 7 stopped for gas. 2 returned at 1515
Alt. Time No A/C Time Time
3. Field was well covered with hits down center of field and on runway and along road
on W. side. Hangars, barracks, service buildings and revetments hit. Four 4-engine
planes hit or straddled, and 7 S/E hit. Smoke seen 600 ft. high. Preceding group was
5 minutes late, necessitating a bomb run at higher altitude and slower speed than
planned.
4. Air--------- 2 S/E and one transport coming toward field at 2000 ft. Did not make
pass. 10/12 S/E, 7 T/E, 4 4-engine, and a graveyard on field. 30 T/E on
Bottricello L/G.
Marine---- 9 medium to small M/V’s inside breakwater at Pizzo; 2 M/V’s in harbor; 1
large M/V 10 miles off harbor. 3 vessels resembling TLC. 1 beached and
2 just offshore NE of Pizzo. 4 medium and 6 small M/V’s in Crotone
harbor. 2 medium M/V’s at Briatico. 8/10 small M/V’s at Soverato. One
report of 5 DD heading 90° off Crotone at 1208.
Ground---- 3 trains in yards at Pizzo. Numerous gun emplacements and trenches
observed along coast between Pizzo and river to NE. No activity noted.
Flak-------- Heavy, slight, inaccurate from target and from Crotone.
5. Enroute----Scattered scud along coast. Visibility unlimited.

Target----- 4/10alto cumulus at 18,000, Hazy, visibility 10 miles.
Return----- Slight haze.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 4000 ft. at 0934 on heading 49° for 80 miles to Cape Ben
Sekka, 37°21’N, 9°45’E reached at 0957, where hit deck. Headed 65° for
210 miles to 38°50’N, 13°10’E reached at 1102. Headed 96° for 107
miles to 38°48’N, 15°00’E reached at 1135, where started climb. Headed
96° for 90 miles to 38°45’N, 16°52’E reached at 1200 at 10,000 ft.
Headed 35° for 21 miles to target where made bomb run at 9000 ft. Right
turn off target at 121° for 17 miles, reached at 1206, where hit deck at
coast , and home.
Flight leaders- Maj. Schwane, Capts. Morton, Burns, Tipton, Lts. Bailey & Bonus.
Observers- Capt. Phillips.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: This evening the softball team made up of the Officers and the
enlisted men lost to the enlisted men of the 448th by a score of 12-0.
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Crotone airdrome in the toe of Italy. 69 x 500 lb.
demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th. The escort was 24 P-38’s of the 82nd
Fighter Group. Hits were scored on the runway, along the road on the west side, hangars,
barracks, service buildings and revetments. Four multi-engine ships were hit and seven
single-engine ships were also hit. Flak was heavy, slight and inaccurate from the target
and Crotone.
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 42-64529

P Hoekman, Robert D., 2Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Kaschenbach, Carl E. “Kasch”, Jr., 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
N None None
B Nysson, John W., 2Lt Czekai, Adolf B., 2Lt
E McKee, P. L., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R Russell, Clayton B., S/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Calvert, M. E., Sgt Smith, James B., Sgt
F None None
P Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt
CP Shaw, William H., 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt
N None None
B McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt Greenblatt, Milton H., S/Sgt
E Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt Childress, W. H., S/Sgt
R Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt
G Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt
F Asmus, George D., Sgt None
A/C No. 41-30387 “Kay Girl” A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”

P Tipton, Richard Pike “Tip”, Capt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt
CP Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt
B Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E Finn, Jessie N., T/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt
R Chereski, John J., T/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt
G Klocke, Francis J., S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-53428 A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Walker, James O. Jr., 1Lt McGee, William N., 1Lt
B Kazich, Rudolph William, S/Sgt McKeever, Francis D., 2Lt
E Melhorn, Raymond W., S/Sgt Littleton, Willis W., S/Sgt
R Garner, Argyle R., T/Sgt Nebesnak, Edward (NMI), T/Sgt
G Boyette, Roy E., S/Sgt Zuckerbrod, Saul (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle”
Gambler II”
P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, 1Lt
CP Young, William G., 2Lt Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt
N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt
B Murzyn, Edward (NMI), 2Lt Eiland, Claude L., 2Lt
E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Curtis, Alton D., S/Sgt
R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Cirals, Ted (NMI) “Teddie”, T/Sgt
G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt Ewald, Paul E., S/Sgt
F None Phillips, J. S., Capt (observer)
P Miller, Roy N., 1Lt Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt
CP Butela, William F., 2Lt Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”
N None Garrison, Fred H., 2Lt
B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt
E Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt
R Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt Choka, Andrew J., T/Sgt
G O’Neill, Phillip W., S/Sgt Bryant, James C., S/Sgt
F None None
mission 96, Sqdn 74 composed of 12 planes. Major Schwane led the Group and 500 lb
bombs were dropped on the Crotone A/D, Italy. The field was well covered with hits in
the center, on the runway, along the road, hangars, barracks, service buildings,
revetments and the west side of the field. One four-engine and one six-engine plane were
hit.
A/C No. 42-57377 “Flag Ship” A/C No. 42-32446 “Mascot”

P Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, Bleech, John (NMI), 2Lt
Commander
CP Tapper, George G., 1Lt Knapp, Theodore A., 2Lt
N McCarter, Elmer H., Capt, HQ 321st BG None
B Brown, John Roland, 1Lt Shepard, Eugene D., 2Lt
R Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt Haughom, Milferd O., S/Sgt
G Reeves, Charles F., M/Sgt Osterman, Raymond (NMI), Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13192 A/C No. 42-64511 “The Madam 2 of
St. Joe”
P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt
B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt
E Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt Grant, Roland A., S/Sgt
F None None
Peekin’”)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt
N None None
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Coe, George A., 1Lt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt
G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
Pee Wee”
P Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt
1Lt
CP Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt
N None None
B Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt Meehan, James M., 2Lt
E McKibben, Walter D., Jr., S/Sgt Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt
R Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt
G Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt Mitchell, John C., Sgt
F None Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania A/C No. 42-32416 “SUGAR LUMP”
Polka”
P Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr., Brown, Aud W., 2Lt
2Lt
CP Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt Carr, Philip O., 2Lt
N None None
B DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt Cooper, Lester L., 2Lt
E Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt Smith, James A., S/Sgt
R Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt
G Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64551 A/C No. 41-13200
P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt
CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Brown, Newton E., 2Lt
E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Friscia, Frank J., Jr., T/Sgt Roulier, Edward T., Cpl
G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Skill, Donald H., Sgt
F None None
500# demo. Crotone A/D, Italy
Formation Leader - Major Schwane
Results - Field well covered. 11 E/A hit.
Remarks - Flak, heavy, slight inaccurate - no fighters.
Ship number - 41-13200 Formation 4:1
P- Taylor, CP - McClelland, N- Phillips, B- Brown N, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Skill”
Brown, Newton E., 2Lt, bombardier Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
McClelland, Alva L., 2Lt, pilot Phillips, Lowell G., 2Lt, navigator
Schwane, Henry H. “Hank”, Maj, pilot, Commander
Skill, Donald H., Sgt, gunner Taylor, Peter D., 1Lt, pilot
of our planes participated in a raid on Crotone airdrome in Italy. Bombing results
excellent. All our planes returned safely. With this raid the squadron passed the million
pound mark in total weight of bombs dropped on the enemy.
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 42-12997 “Southern Belle”
P Batchelder, Stephens H., 2Lt Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt
CP Hasty, Curtis B., 2Lt Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt
N None None
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt
E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt
R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU”
P Spikes, Robert F. “Bob”, 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt
CP Spingler, Richard H. “Dick”, 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt
N None None
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt
E Penson, Ralph D., S/Sgt Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, S/Sgt
R Jondro, William G., Jr., T/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt
G Zacharya, Andrew (NMI), Pvt Ludtke, Foster R., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-53487 “Alley Cat II” A/C No. 41-12925 “Huckelberry
Duck”
P Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt
CP Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt
N Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt None
B Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt McCone, Walter G., 2Lt
E Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt Kramer, Gilbert W., 2Lt
R Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt Anderson, Chester E., T/Sgt
G McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt Draper, Ralph M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck” A/C No. 42-64695
P Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt Nixon, Donald O., 2Lt
CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt McFadden, Kenneth L. “Mac”, 2Lt
B Orr, Douglas Cameron “Doug”, 1Lt Sattenspiel, Stanly J., 2Lt
E Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt Henry, William R., S/Sgt
R Fryer, John R., T/Sgt Myers, William W., Sgt
G DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt Szczepanski, Leonard A., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
Lady”
P Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Navigator filling both B & N positions
F None None
A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon A/C No. 41-13175 “The Saint Myrtle
Ball” II”
P McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt Murphy, John F., S/Sgt
F Christenson, Lars (NMI), Sr., Cpl None
TARGET: Crotone 5:50 Plane 371 (42-53371 “Death Wind”)
“AA heavy inaccurate. 7 of our ships stopped for gas before returning to our base.
Barracks revetments and hangars all hit.”
TARGET: Crotone A/D 5:50 500 lbs
Capt. Manly, S/Sgt Kramer, T/Sgt, Anderson, S/Sgt Draper
“Field well covered with hits down center and down runway. Hangars, barracks,
revetments and service buildings hit. 4 engine planes hit or straddled and 7 single engine
planes hit. Flak heavy, slight and inaccurate.”
Manly, Robert W. “Horse”, Capt, pilot McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
“Landing ground near Isola, Italy. Light, inaccurate heavy flak. Hangars, landing strip,
dispersal area, administration buildings and ammunition sheds. P-38s – 310th followed.
Crotone Airdrome.”

P McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt Davies, Robert D., 1Lt
CP Driver, William J., F/O Barton, Thomas M., F/O
N None None
B Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt Holt, William E., 2Lt
E Polinsky, Marvin J., PFC Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt
R Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt
G Silva, John P., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., PFC
F None Yutzy, Eli N., PFC
P Stewart, John C., 1Lt Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt
CP Clark, Paul I., 2Lt Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt
N None Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt
B Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC
R Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC
G Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt Wallace, John R., PFC
F None None
P Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt Stultz, Raymond B., Capt
CP Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt
B Colby, Arthur R., PFC Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt
E Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt None listed – likely Rude, Norman J.,
S/Sgt
R Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt
G Ally, George B., S/Sgt Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt
F None None
In Sicily, P-40's fly armored reconnaissance and fighter-bomber

missions over the Adrano and Milazzo areas. The attacks are concentrated against motor
transport targets.
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's and

B-25's bomb the railroad yards at Bologna and B-26's hit the railroad yards at Paola. In
Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighter-bombers hit barges,
warships, and docks in the Messina-Milazzo area and transport NE of Mount Etna. On
the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army continues to mop up the W part of Sicily.
Further E, the US 45th Infantry Division takes Cefalu and Castelnuovo while the US 1st
Infantry Division seizes Gangi and heads toward Nicosia.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: On July 24, 1943 the 98th mission took off at 1020 on a
bomb-run over the Catanzaro Marina railroad yards. They dropped 214 five-hundred
pound bombs from 7,500 to 8,700 feet at 1300. Hits were scored on the tracks north and
south of bridges, marshalling yards, junction, large shed and some rolling stock. A
number of bombs were short and over. Heavy, black smoke was seen coming from the
east of the yard as the formation left the target. Two fighters were observed above the
formation, but they did not make a pass. Flight leaders were Maj. Sampson, Capt. Burns,
Capt. Stultz, Lieut. Bonus, Lieut. Grau and Lieut. Sinclair. Personnel flying as observers
were Brig. Gen. Ridenour, Maj. Hoover, Capt. Bell, Capt. Colvin, Lieut. Carroll, Lieut.
Dobbins, Lieut. Warner and Lieut. Rushing, USN.
Bell, Albert R., Capt, pilot, HQ 321st BG
Carroll, J. T., 1Lt, HQ 47th Wing
Colvin, J. W., Capt, HQ 47th Wing
Dobbins, Daniel G., 1Lt, intelligence, HQ 321st BG
Grau, Robert B., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Hoover, Travis (NMI), Maj, pilot, HQ 47th Wing
Ridenour, Carlyle H., Brig Gen, 47th Wing, Commander
Rushing, E. M., LTJG, USN
Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj, pilot, Commander, 447th BS
Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Warner, F. C., 1Lt, 403rd
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 1020 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Catanzaro Marina R.R. yards. _None_
No. A/C No & Type
from 7500/8700 ft. at 1300. __36__ returned at 1525.
3. Tracks hit N. and S. of bridges. Marshalling yard, junction, large shed and some
rolling stock hit. Number of bombs were short and over. Heavy black smoke seen
coming from E. of yard as left target.
4. Air--------- 2 fighters N of Lamezia, above. Did not make pass. 5 E/A on Vibo
Valentia A/D.
Marine---- 4/5 boats, probably TLC, in Pizzo, and 10 small boats. 1 Large M/V 3
miles off Pizzo, heading 360° at 1253. 2 medium M/V and 20 fishing
boats at Marina di Valentia. 5 S/F and 3 TLC at Tropea. 1 S/F taking
violent evasive action at 38°43’N, 16°11’E. 1 medium M/V anchored off
NW side of Lipari Island. Vessels seen shelling Trapani, and smoke from
large oil fire there.
Flak-------- None.
Ground---- 300 R.R. cars, of which 60/70 appeared to be tank cars, at Curinga were
strafed by bombers. 100 cars at Pizzo. 100 cars at Lamezia. Sidings at
Briatico were filled with cars. One train in yards at target. 8 M/T SE of
Lamezia heading S/E.
5. Enroute----8/10 becoming less than 3/10 at sea. Low scattered scud layer. Visibility
unlimited.
Target----- CAVU.
Return----- 4/10 at 8,000 ft. Visibility unlimited.
6. None.
Route------Left field at 1040 at 4000 ft. on heading 49° for 80 miles to Cape Ben
Sekka, 37°21’N, 9°45’E, reached at 1102, where hit deck. Headed 71° for
200 miles to 38°20’N, 13°10’E, reached at 1205. Headed 90° for 98 miles
to 39°10’N, 15°10’E, reached at 1236, where started climb to 9000 ft.
Headed 90° for 60 miles to 38°45’N, 16°08’E, reached at 1253. Headed
99° for 18 miles to 38 40’N, 16°28’E, reached at 1257. Headed 40° for 15
miles to target, reached at 1300 at 7500 ft. Left turn on heading 293° for
25 miles, where hit deck on coast, and home.
Flight leaders- Maj Sampson, Capts. Burns, Stultz, Lts. Bonus, Grau, Sinclair.
Observers- Gen. Ridenour, Maj Hoover, Capts Bell and Colvin, Lts. Carroll, Dobbins,
Warner and Rushing U.S.N.
Photos taken.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: There are three more cases of malaria in the Squadron. They are
Sgts. Kunis and VanHall and Pvt. Kantrowitz. Due to the great success of the waist guns
in our ships, our sheet metal department are putting waist guns in the replacements
(ships). Although Wright Field would probably condemn the ship, and would say it can’t
be done that way, we seem to be getting good service out of them without having to go
through a lot of foolish red tape.
Kantrowitz, Jack, Pvt, duty soldier Kunis, Theodore C., Sgt, gunner
VanHall, Ernest G., Jr., S/Sgt, gunner
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb the marshalling yards at Catanzaro Marina in
Italy. 70 x 500 lb. demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th from 8000 ft. Photos
show through tracks were cut and the line was temporarily blocked. Direct hits on three
rolling stock in the middle of the marshalling yards. Hits on repair yards and the siding
on the loop line. A factory was damaged and a locomotive was knocked out. No flak
was encountered. Three fighters were seen in the vicinity of the target but did not attack.

P Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt
CP Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt
N None None
B Smith, Warren W., S/Sgt Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt
E Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt Rose, J. W., S/Sgt
R Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt Matthews, Earl L., S/Sgt
G Carleo, John J., S/Sgt Woronuk, John (NMI), Pvt
F None Turner, Clyde R. “Bulldog”, S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie"
P Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Young, William G., 2Lt
N None None
B Morgan, Robert E., Sgt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E Childress, W. H., Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
R Winston, E. G., Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
G Pierce, William V., Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt
F None None
P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Bitner, William H., 2Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Triplett, Walter A., 2Lt
B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Rokotz, Peter (NMI) “Pete”, S/Sgt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Brainard, Walter R., S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Fehr, Robert A. “Bob”, T/Sgt
G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Quintin, Stanley J., Sgt
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 42-64527 “Sycamore 1½
Judy”
P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt Miller, Roy N., 1Lt
CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Butela, William F., 2Lt
N Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 2Lt Wilson, Samuel P., Jr., 2Lt
B Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt
E Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt Sterling, Joseph M., S/Sgt
R Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt Peterson, Karl E., T/Sgt
G Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt O’Neil, Phillip W., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32486 “CENSORED” A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger”
P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Haegele, Frederick G., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Shaw, William H., 2Lt
N None None
B Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt McLeod, Jack P., 2Lt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Perry, Gilbert R., S/Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Anthony, Loren R., S/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Moynihan, Walter F., S/Sgt
F None Dobbins, Daniel G., 1Lt, HQ 321st BG
(observer)

P Grau, Robert B., 1Lt Kent, William S., 2Lt
CP Jackson, John I., 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt
B Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt
G Boris, Michael (NMI), S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Sgt
F None None
mission 97, Sqdn 75 composed of 1 plane flown by Lt. Cosner. 500 lb bombs were
dropped on Catanzaro RR, Italy. Results were fair, the marshalling yards, repair yards,
sidings, factory, and locomotive sheds were damaged.
A/C No. 41-30293 A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania

Polka” (spare)
P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr.,
2Lt
CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt
N None None
B Coe, George A., 1Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt
E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt
R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt
G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” (spare) A/C No. 41-13008 (spare)
P Kirk, Robert H., 2Lt Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt
CP Russell, Burton E., 2Lt Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt
N None Braucher, David C., 2Lt
B Fieldon, Gordon S. “Jack”, S/Sgt None listed – likely the navigator
E Langan, Charles H., S/Sgt Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt
R Kent, Carl Hugh, S/Sgt Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt
G Orr, William J., Sgt Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC
F None None

P VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt
CP Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt
N Dickerson, Claude M., 2Lt Schad, Harlan C., 2Lt
B Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt
E Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt
R Haasch, George F., T/Sgt Barber, Otis C., S/Sgt
G Haresign, James M., S/Sgt Grant, Ronald A., S/Sgt
F None None
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 98/mission 97) Group Mission # 98:Eleven
of our planes participated in a raid on railroad yards at Marina, Italy. Bombing results
fair. All our planes returned safely.
A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 42-64694 “Yankee Girl”

P Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt
CP Stephenson, Henry W. “Steve”, 2Lt Gill, Paul W., 2Lt
B McCone, Walter G., 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Newhouse, Ralph W., S/Sgt Mercer, William R., S/Sgt
R Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt
G Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt Alton, Donald D., S/Sgt
F Bell, Albert R., Capt, HQ 321st BG None
(observer)
A/C No. 41-12997 “Southern Belle” A/C No. 42-64546 “Jessie James”
P Andrews, Austin D. “Andy”, 1Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt
CP Olson, Robert C. “Ollie”, 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
B Joseph, Merwin J., 1Lt Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt
E Galich, Michael M., S/Sgt Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt
R Carrin, Joseph S., S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt
G Tornio, Raymond A., Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64512 “Scotch & Soda” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
Lady”
P Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt
CP Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt
N None None
B Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt
E McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt Hannemann, Carl D., Sgt
R Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt
G Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt None listed – likely Dunlap, Woodrow
W., Sgt
F Lowery, Bruce (NMI) “Field Marshall”, None
M/Sgt, HQ 321st BG
A/C No. 41-12961 “Spare Parts” A/C No. 41-13210 “Buckeye Cannon
Ball”
P Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt Fabling, Charles R., 1Lt
CP Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt DeMay, Kenneth C., 2Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Ghetia, George (NMI), 2Lt
E Early, Frank X., S/Sgt Sparby, Arnold R., S/Sgt
R Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt O’Mara, Robert M., T/Sgt
G Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt Murphy, Brendon J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-12930 “SNAFU” A/C No. 42-64600 “Lady Luck”
P Brinkley, Hamilton M., 1Lt Sampson, Raymond D. “Sammy”, Maj,
Commander
CP Brinkley, Wilton R., 2Lt Morton, William H. “Mort”, Capt
B Quilty, Bernard F. “Bernie”, S/Sgt None listed – likely the navigator
E Lankford, Raymond D., S/Sgt Johnson, Frank L., S/Sgt
R Stanton, James E. “Jim”, T/Sgt Fryer, John R., T/Sgt
G Gouvin, Henry J., S/Sgt DesJardins, Patrick H., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”
P Bugbee, James Metcalf “Jim”, 2Lt Hengel, Edward D., 2Lt
CP Fraser, Harry A. “Fearless”, Jr., 2Lt Ackley, James H., 2Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Navigator filling both B & N positions
E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt Roever, George W., Jr., S/Sgt
R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Kastelic, Frank M., S/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Smith, Argyle H., Sgt
F None Leon, Robert D., Sgt
TARGET: Cantanzaro Marina RR Yards 5:05 500 lbs
Plane 695 (42-64695): Lt. Grantham, Lt. Stephenson, Lt. McCone, Capt. Bell, Sgt
Newhouse, S/Sgt, Ennis, S/Sgt Armstrong
“Tracks M/Y, Junction, Large sheds, and some rolling stocks hit. None of bombs were
over. 300 RR cars of which 60 to 70 appeared to be tank cars were strafed by our
bombers.”
Armstrong, Robert E., M/Sgt, gunner Bell, Albert R., Capt, pilot, HQ 321st BG
Ennis, Edward Charles “Salvo”, S/Sgt, radio-gunner
Grantham, Charles H. “Granny”, 1Lt, pilot McCone, Walter G., 2Lt, bombardier
Newhouse, Ralph W., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner
“City of Marina di Cantanzaro – Two railroad bridges, repair sheds, marshalling yds.
Turntables – no flak – no fighters – P-38s – Few days later Mussolini quit.”
65 (98): At 10:20 36 planes off to bomb Catanzaro Marina RR yards, dropped 214 x 500
bombs from 7500 feet at 13:00. All returned at 13:25. RR tracks hits N and S of bridges,
M/Y, junction, large shed and some rolling stock hit. Some bombs went short or over.
Heavy black smoke from E end of yard. 2 E/A seen N of Lamezia but did not attack.
Allied vessels seen shelling Cantania and smoke from large oil fires seen. 300 RR cars at
Curinga strafed by bombers. Weather: CAVU: F/L: Stultz and Sinclair.
P Garrett, Thaddeus D., 2Lt Brosnan, Cornelius G., 2Lt
CP Fleming, George B., F/O Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
N None None
B Moorman, Arthur L., Pvt Colby, Arthur R., PFC
E Taylor, Henry F., PFC Larsen, Fred M., S/Sgt
R Lambert, Robert P., Sgt Oates, Theodore R., S/Sgt
G Vizzacco, Rocco (NMI), PFC Ally, George B., S/Sgt
th
F Carroll, J. T., 1Lt, HQ 47 Wing Hoover, Travis (NMI), Maj, HQ 47th
(observer) Wing (observer)
A/C No. 42-64521 A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd”
P Davies, Robert D., 1Lt Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt
CP Barton, Thomas M., F/O Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt
N Holt, William, E., 2Lt Ligarde, Honore (NMI), 1Lt
B Piasecki, Walter Charles, 2Lt Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt
E Long, Jeptha D., S/Sgt Potosky, John S., PFC
R Smith, Harry V., Pvt Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt
G Yutzy, Eli N., Pvt Zeller, Michael C., M/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-29967 A/C No. 41-30343

P Stultz, Raymond B., Capt McCurry, Milton L., 1Lt
CP Wilt, Richard H., 2Lt Driver, William J., F/O
N Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt Perry, Lawrence A., 2Lt
B Ellington, John H., Jr., 1Lt Hammerschmidt, Harry E., S/Sgt
E None listed – likely Rude, Norman J., Polinsky, Marvin J., PFC
S/Sgt
R Lard, Claude F., S/Sgt Joubert, Ira W., S/Sgt
G Woodin, Roy A., S/Sgt Silva, John P., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64514 A/C No. 42-64661
P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt
N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1lt None
B Reich, William John, 2Lt Cain, George S., S/Sgt
E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt
R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt
G Wallace, John R., PFC Rushing, E. M., LTJG, U.S.N.
F None None
P Sinclair, Ervin W., Jr., 1Lt Cassels, Richard E., 2Lt
CP DeMuth, Robert D., 2Lt King, James L., 2Lt
N None None
B Skeahan, Thomas Joseph, Jr., 2Lt Elkins, Stanley A., 2Lt
E Irby, Marvin J., S/Sgt Ridgeway, Robert L., PFC
R Orman, Virgil N., PFC Egbom, Clarence W., PFC
G Gurnee, Clarence E. “Shine”, PFC Dellwo, Lawrence H., PFC
F Ridenour, Carlyle H., Brig Gen, HQ 47th Warner, F. C., 1Lt, HQ 403rd (observer)
Wing Commander (observer)
A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30355
P Moore, Leland A., 1Lt Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt
CP Biener, Martin B., 2Lt Gouge, David J., 2Lt
N Scopp, Richard W., 2Lt None
B Petrich, Raymond George, 2Lt Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt
E Pitts, Lawrence P., PFC Brisco, Albert S., M/Sgt
R Lyons, Paul E., Sgt Hobert, Walter W., PFC
G Ryal, Clarence M., PFC Paschel, John W., S/Sgt
F None None
ITALY: King Victor Emmanuel III announces the fall of the Benito Mussolini
government. Marshall Pietro Badoglio becomes premier and takes command of the
Italian army.
In Sicily, B-25's bomb docks and shipping at Milazzo; almost 100 P-

40's strafe and bomb Milazzo, Taormina, and Catania harbor. Other P-40's escort C-47's.
In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF), medium

and light bombers, and fighters during night and day raids, attack shipping and docks at
Milazzo and in the Santo Stefano di Camastra-Orlando area, and hit roads and motor
transport, bridges and armor concentration in the Orlando-Adrano-Troina-Nicosia areas.
On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army makes slow progress along the N coastal
road, while the British Eighth Army's 30 Corps takes part in hard fighting in the Agira
area. HQ 1st Air Defense Wing transfers from Sousse, Tunisia to Palermo, Sicily. This
unit will be redesignated the 62nd Fighter Wing on 7 Aug 43. HQ 14th Fighter Group
transfers from El Bathan, Tunisia to Ste-Marie-du-Zit, Tunisia.
445th BS War Diary: No mission today. There were a few local training flights.
Everyone rejoiced at the news of the resignation of Mussolini from the position of
premier and dictator of Italy.
447th BS War Diary: Our second enlisted man over 38 was transferred today. He has
gone to Algiers and from there will be returned to the states to be mustered out of the
army.

In Sicily, B-25's bomb Milazzo, Paterno, and Adrano; and P-40's

strafe and bomb Catania and shipping at Riposto harbor.
In Sicily, during the night of 25/26 Jul, Northwest African Tactical

Air Force (NATAF) medium bombers attack Milazzo, Adrano, and Paterno; throughout
the day light bombers hit Regalbuto at intervals, and fighter-bombers harass shipping,
rail, and road movements. Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's bomb
the Marina di Paola, Italy marshalling yard. HQ 64th Troop Carrier Group and its 16th,
17th, 18th and 35th Troop Carrier Squadrons transfer from Kairouan, Tunisia to El Djem,
Tunisia with C-47's. The 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group, transfers
from El Djem, Tunisia to Gourbrine, Tunisia with C-47's. The 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th
Fighter Group, transfers from El Bathan, Tunisia to Ste-Marie-du-Zit, Tunisia with P-
38's.
445th BS War Diary: No mission today. A few local test hops and several ships went to
Algiers. Some of the men have gone to Bone and Tunis on passes while others are
enjoying the beach at Tabarka.
“Dysentery”
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): P-40's attack tactical

targets in battle area in NE Sicily, and others hit shipping at Catania, Sicily.

west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's hit the airfield at Capua and the
railroad at Lioni, Italy. B-25's and B-26's bomb the landing ground at Scalea, Sicily.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and light bombers continue
bombing and strafing of ports, shipping, bridges, landing grounds and motor transport in
Sicily as the US Seventh Army reaches Tusa and San Mauro and pushes toward Nicosia.
The 307th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers from Agrigento, Sicily to
Palermo, Sicily with Spitfires. The 309th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 86th
Bombardment Group (Light), transfers from Gela, Sicily to Barcelona, Sicily. This
squadron will be redesignated the 525th Fighter-Bomber Squadron on 23 Aug 43.
445th BS War Diary: There was no mission today. The luxury rations are being made
up for distribution tomorrow. Everyone went through the gas chamber which is set up at
the edge of the area in a tent.
“Dysentery”
In Sicily, almost 100 P-40's hit shipping at Catania and Santa Teresa
di Riva, fly patrol over the Straits of Messina, and bomb encampments.

west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) fighters sweep over S Sardinia. In Sicily,
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light bombers hit Regalbuto, Milazzo,
and Centuripe; A-36's and P-40's hit heavy traffic on the Troina-Randazzo road, bridges
and roads N and W of Cesaro, the landing ground at Falcone, and buildings near
Randazzo. On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army takes Nicosia and pushes
toward Santo Stefano di Camastra. The British Eighth Army takes Agira. Allied cargo
vessels begin arriving at Palermo, and Lieutenant General Harold R Alexander, 15 Army
Group Commanding General, moves his HQ to Sicily. HQ 320th Bombardment Group
and its 443rd Bombardment Squadron (Medium) transfer from Massicault, Tunisia to El
Bathan, Tunisia with B-26's. The 8th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62nd Troop Carrier Group,
transfers from El Djem, Tunisia to Gourbrine, Tunisia with C-47's. The 99th Fighter
Squadron, XII Air Support Command, transfers from Fardjouna, Tunisia to Licata, Sicily
with P-40's.
445th BS War Diary: Five officers and 15 enlisted men went to the rest camp at Algiers
today for a rest period of seven days. The luxury rations were distributed this morning.
Everyone seems to be a little optimistic about how soon Italy will be occupied by the
Allies. It was pretty hot today.
07/28/43: “Not much doing lately. My opinion is that we are “sweatin’ out” the
turn of events in Italy following “Moose’s” resignation on the 25th before the opening up
of an offensive on the Italian mainland. The past two weeks were punctuated by two trips
to Ain Draham and one to Le Kef. Also I visited some very intact ruins of Roman culture
near Souk El Arba. They were most interesting. Of greatest wonder were the perfectly
preserved mosaics of Roman deities, which beautifully decorated the floor of one
particularly fine room. It is almost inconceivable, the finesse of this artwork. Excellent
expression is attained by carefully selecting and placing shaded rocks of green, blue, red
and white. At Le Kef I met a German speaking French soldier from Corsica. We spent
the day together and Whitey and I had our pictures made with him at a cost of 450 francs
($9.00). Many of the party spent their time drinking and our trip home was miserable
with fights and vomiting. Each day at four o’clock the wind blows much dust but the
weather is remarkably moderate.
Whiteford, Floyd R. “Whitey”, Capt, pilot
Man is a very evolutionary creature, myself not excluded. My aversion to having
an active part in war’s destruction has been replaced by an apathetic admission that it is
all necessary in war. I now have an avid desire to take part in the raids as a gunner.
Le Kef is an ancient native village built on the face of a rocky escarpment
overlooking a long valley. A stream of cold, clear water gushes from the mountain near
the center of town, and there under the huge cottonwood trees one can see at any hour of
the day, droves of grotesquely attired natives filling endless varieties of water vessels and
loading them on their little placid donkeys. A strange, interesting scene indeed, and one
that has been rehearsed every day for the last two thousand years. The red caps of the
natives add color. At the market we purchased a watermelon for $3.00.”
“Dysentery”
In Sicily, 200+ P-40's, to date the largest number of fighters operating

in 1 day during the Sicilian campaign, attack Messina Riposto, shipping at Catania, Santa
Teresa di Riva, Taormina, Milazzo, and in the Straits of Messina.

west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's hit Aquino Airfield, Sicily. B-17's
bomb Viterbo Airfield, Italy. In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighters and light bombers hit Regalbuto, Milazzo, shipping off Messina, and gun
positions and motor transport in NE Sicily. On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh
Army almost completes the mop up of W Sicily, approaches Santo Stefano Quisquina,
advances on Mistretta, and takes 3 islands off Trapani. The British Eighth Army opens an
assault during the night of 29/30 Jul along an axis of Catenanuova-Adrano. The
detachment of the 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 2nd Air Defense Wing, operating from
Protville, Tunisia with Beaufighters returns to its base at Rerhaia, Algeria. The 415th
Night Fighter Squadron, 1st Air Defense Wing, transfers from Monastir, Tunisia to La
Sebala, Tunisia with Beaufighters. The detachment at Protville, Tunisia also transfers.
The 441st, 442nd and 444th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment
Group (Medium), transfer from Massicault, Tunisia to El Bathan, Tunisia with B-26's.
445th BS War Diary: There was no mission today. It was a little cooler than usual this
morning. The day was ideal. During the past three days due to the fact that there were
no missions, practically all the work around the Squadron has been caught up and the
men are getting a little restless because they are used to being busy.
447th BS War Diary: Word was received today concerning Lt. Jung’s crew which went
down at sea on July 10. Lt. Jung and Lt. Roessler were taken prisoner and were
transported to Italy as soon as possible. Lt. Hartis and Sgt. Wanner, prisoners too, were
injured and were sent to the hospital at Trapani which was captured a few days later by
the Allied invasion force. They are in American hands now. S/Sgt. R.V. Nelson was
killed by flak and S/Sgt. Million drowned when the plane went down.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier Jung, Roland W., 2Lt, pilot
Million, Fred B., S/Sgt, gunner Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt, gunner
Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt, pilot Wanner, Harry, Sgt, armament-gunner
“Prior goes to hospital.”
Prior, Gordon M. "Gordie", 2Lt, pilot
In Sicily, 100+ P-40's attack shipping at Milazzo, Messina, and

Riposto, and hit targets in the battle area.
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's

bomb Grottaglie Airfield and B-25's hit the airfield at Pratica di Mare. In Sicily,
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's bomb Milazzo and hit gun
positions N and E of Centuripe and fighters hit shipping off Milazzo. On the ground in
Sicily, the enemy evacuates Santo Stefano Quisquina, with a rear guard action. The
British take Catenanuova and push on to the NE.
HQ 321st BG War Diary: The 99th mission had as its target the Practica di Mare
Airdrome on July 30, 1943, with 36 planes taking off at 0815. They dropped 210 five-
hundred pounders with .1 and 45 second fusing at 1045, with all bombs landing in the
target area. The bombs started on the northwest side and fell across the field, giving
excellent coverage. Hits were observed on the north and south dispersal areas and 1 four-
engine transport was set afire. Three columns of black smoke were seen upon leaving the
target. One enemy aircraft was claimed damaged. Between 7 and 8 ME-109s attacked
the formation upon leaving the target vicinity and 1 ME-109 was shot down by the escort
and seen to explode on hitting the water. Four planes were seen to be burning from a
previous attack and an explosion was seen in the northwest side of the field 2 minutes
before the bomb-run. Flight leaders were Capt. Veum, Capt. Isaacson, Lieut. Grau,
Lieut. Bonus, Lieut. Bradley and Lieut. Chappell. Observers were Col. Walsh, Col.
Smith, Col. Stern, Lt. Col Cogland, Maj. Pemberton, Maj. Roth, Capt. Colvin and Capt.
Nichols.
Bradley, James L. "Jungle Jim", Jr., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Chappell, Howard L., Capt, pilot, 447th BS
Cogland, J. L., Lt Col, HQ 47th Wing
Colvin, J. W., Capt, HQ 47th Wing
Grau, Robert B., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt, pilot
Nichols, T. B., Capt
Roth, John A., Maj, HQ 82nd FG
Smith, A. Y., Col, HQ 47th Wing
Walsh, James H., Col, pilot, HQ 47th Wing
The 446th Bombardment Squadron lost one of its ships and five of their personnel
in a plane crash at Ain M’Lila airbase in Algeria, the base from which the group carried
out its operations in the Tunisian campaign and against Pantelleria. The cause of the
crash was attributed to structural failure of the wing, which broke at landing-light and
that section of the wing from the landing-light to wing-tip disconnected from the
remainder of the plane. The following were killed in the crash: First Lieut. Harold M.
“Buzz” Bailey, Second Lieut. Noel F. Coffey, Technical Sgt. James V. Miller, Staff Sgt.
George K. Kniffin and Corporal Donald Null.
Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 446th BS
Miller, James V., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 446th BS
Null, Donald (NMI), Cpl, engineering, gunner, 446th BS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. At 0815 36___ _B-25s__ took off to bomb Practica di Mare A/D. _None_
returned early. ___36__ dropped 210x500 lb. bombs with .1 & 45 sec. fusing at 1045
No. A/C No & Type Time
From 8500/9500 ft. __36__ returned at 1250.
Alt. No A/C Time
3. All bombs fell in target area. Bombs started on NW side and fell across field giving
excellent coverage. Hits also seen in N & S dispersal areas. One four engine
transport set afire. 3 large columns of black smoke seen on leaving target. One E/A
damaged.
4. Air--------- 7/8 ME-109’s & MA-202’s attacked formation on leaving target. I ME-
109 shot down by escort and seen to explode on hitting water. One
transport headed N seen on deck, going in. 30 or more E/A seen on field.
At least 4 were 4-engine and 2 6-engine. Principally dispersed in NW &
SW sides of field. 4 planes seen burning from previous attack. 12 planes
on Practica di Mare/San del Piano. Explosion seen in NW side two
minutes before bomb run.
Ground---- 2 fires seen 10 & 12 miles south of Rome.
Flak-------- Heavy, slight, inaccurate at leading elements to heavy, accurate
moderately intense at tail. A 12 gun battery reported at 41°41’N, 12°23’E.
Marine---- 2 TLC or barges observed at 1040 headed SE off mouth of Tiber. 8 Siebel
Ferries & 2 E boats heading NW off Lido di Roma. 1 M/V of medium
size seen at anchor off Anzio.
5. Enroute----4/10 cumulus at 6000 ft. Hazy at coast.
Target----- CAVU.
Return----- 3/10 cumulus at 6000 ft. Visibility Unlimited.
6. None.
Route------Over field at 0834 at 4000’. Headed 49° for 80 miles to rendezvous Cape
Bon Sekka at 0859. Hit deck and headed 27° 230 miles to 40°22’N,
11°17’E arriving 1012 and started climb. On course 27° for 100 miles
reaching I.P. at 41°46’N, 12°02’E at 10,000’ at 1039. Turned to 118° for
25 miles reaching target at 1045. Diving right turn and home.
Flight leaders- Capts. Isaacson, Veum; Lts. Grau, Bonus, Bradley, Chappell.
Observers- Cols. Walsh, Smith, Stern; Lt. Col. Cogland; Majs. Pemberton, Roth;
Capts. Colvin & Nichols.
Major, Air Corps,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
445th BS War Diary: Cool weather still prevails making the days ideal and it is quite a
relief from the hot days and nights we have spent in the past two months.
25’s (12 of the 445th) took off to bomb Practica di Mare airdrome in Italy. The formation
was led by Lt. Grau. Lt. Bonus was the flight leader in the second flight. 60 x 500 lb.
demolition bombs were dropped by the 445th from 8500 ft. 36 P-38’s of the 82nd Fighter
Group were our escort. All bombs fell in the target area, starting on the northwest side
and fell across the field giving excellent coverage. Hits were also seen in the north and
south dispersal. One four-engine transport was set afire and three columns of smoke
were seen as the formation left the target. One enemy aircraft was damaged by the
bombers. Seven to eight ME 109’s and MA 202’s attacked the formation as it left the
target. One ME 109 was shot down by the escort. The flak was heavy, slight and
inaccurate.
A/C No. 41-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-64529

P Kelley, Edward T., 1Lt Olson, Walter N., 1Lt
CP Farrell, Robert A. “Baldy”, 2Lt Kailer, William Frederick “Bill”, 2Lt
N None None
B Czapski, Bernard S., 2Lt Czekai, Adolf B., 2Lt
E Merrill, Joseph H., S/Sgt Halpin, John J., Sgt
R McIntosh, Kermit S., S/Sgt Townsend, Charles A., S/Sgt
G Branch, Robert J., S/Sgt Smith, James B., Sgt
F None Stern, B., Col, HQ 12th AF (observer)

P Bonus, Robert M., 1Lt Kent, William S., 1Lt
CP Lorton, Harold E. “Turk”, 2Lt Armbruster, Charles C., 2Lt
B McEnroe, Henry A., 2Lt Whittaker, Robert N., 2Lt
E Laird, Ellsworth A., Jr., S/Sgt Haney, T. J., Sgt
R Nicholson, John F., T/Sgt Schuster, S. E., S/Sgt
G Bryant, James C., S/Sgt Nickens, Cletus P., Sgt
F Walsh, James H., Col, HQ 47th Wing None
(observer)
P Hughes, Clark E., 2Lt Hartmeister, Joel T., 2Lt
CP Latremore, Fred S., 2Lt Frey, Ernest A., 2Lt
N None None
B Morgan, Robert E., Sgt Evans, James H. “Two-Guns”, 1Lt
E Childress, W. H., Sgt Toy, Joseph R., T/Sgt
R Winston, E. G., Sgt Eagan, Joseph E., T/Sgt
G O’Neil, Phillip W., Sgt Carleo, John J., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II” A/C No. 41-13207 “Oh 7”
P Heflin, Norman H. B., 2Lt O’Harra, Roderick E., 1Lt
CP Carmine, John Walter, 2Lt Goodwin, Norton (NMI), 2Lt
N Colvin, J. W., Capt, HQ 47th Wing None
B Greenblatt, Milton H., 2Lt Flynn, Thomas H., S/Sgt
E Kunis, Theodore C., S/Sgt Martine, William E., S/Sgt
R Garthwaite, Howard L., S/Sgt Hendricks, Harold L., T/Sgt
G Woronuk, John (NMI), S/Sgt Herbert, Richard J., S/Sgt
A/C No. 41-13201 “Poopsie” A/C No. 42-64675 (No art - "Poochie"
P Kayser, Robert B., Jr., 1Lt Fisher, James Buckner, Jr., 1Lt
CP Ward, James M., 2Lt Behrhorst, Donald C., 2Lt
N Bsharah, Norman (NMI), 2Lt None
B Liebl, Ralph Kenneth, 2Lt Cossel, Peter G., S/Sgt
E Lambert, Richard L., S/Sgt Webster, Raymond L., S/Sgt
R Boyd, Ewell V., T/Sgt Stapfer, Arthur (NMI), S/Sgt
G Whitmore, Ernest L., S/Sgt Kilejian, Herbert Peter “Peter”, Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”

Gambler II”
P Cratin, William S., 1Lt Grau, Robert B., 1Lt
CP Young, William G., 2Lt Cook, Bailey C., Maj, Commander
N Anderson, Charles C., 1Lt Osburn, Hobart G. “Bart”, 2Lt
B Buckingham, Richard P., 1Lt Walsh, Frank J., 2Lt
E Kilmer, Reid Francis, S/Sgt Kerbow, Joseph E., S/Sgt
R Loveless, Lloyd E., T/Sgt Wright, Warren D., T/Sgt
G Bruyneel, Dennis A., S/Sgt None listed – likely Boris, Michael
(NMI), S/Sgt
F None None
446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities. Lt. Bailey, Lt. Coffey, T/Sgt.
Miller, S/Sgt Kniffin, and Cpl. Null were killed in a crash on a test hop near Ain M’Lila.
A/C No. 41-12928 “Buzz Wagon”

(crashed during test hop)
P Bailey, Harold Merle “Buzz”, 1Lt
CP Coffey, Noel Francis, 2Lt
N None
B None
E Miller, James V., T/Sgt
E Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt
E Null, Donald (NMI), Cpl
F None
dropped on Practica di Mare A/D, Italy. The target was well covered. One four-engine
transport was set afire and one other aircraft was damaged. 7 or 8 enemy planes attacked
the formation after the bomb run but couldn’t get in.
A/C No. 42-64520 “Duchess” A/C No. 42-32317 “Pennsylvania

Polka”
P Hileman, Donald L. “Buck”, 1Lt Morris, Richard Pervis “Big Moe”, Jr.,
2Lt
CP Braswell, Thomas J., 2Lt Hinderer, Robert H., 2Lt
N None None
B Meehan, James M., 2Lt DeWitt, Joe B., S/Sgt
E Warner, Harold W., S/Sgt Pilcher, Byron E., S/Sgt
R McMahon, Francis D., S/Sgt Underwood, Ferrell E., S/Sgt
G Mitchell, John C., Sgt Plaine, Robert J., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-30293 A/C No. 41-13197

P Cosner, Oliver J. “Ollie”, 1Lt Martin, John K. “Kirk”, 1Lt
CP Boyd, Kenneth E., 2Lt Cornell, Earl K., F/O
B Coe, George A., 1Lt Anzalone, Benjamin W., 2Lt
E Misik, John (NMI), S/Sgt StAntoine, James J., S/Sgt
R Kreig, Thomas E., T/Sgt Sidlik, Theophil S., T/Sgt
G Elk, Charles (NMI), S/Sgt Gehrts, Walter F., S/Sgt
F None None
Pee Wee”
P Schmidt, Frederick C. “Fred”, 1Lt Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr.,
1Lt
CP Dains, Thomas E., 2Lt Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt
N None None
B Braucher, David C., 2Lt Porter, Walter E., S/Sgt
E Kovis, Joseph C., S/Sgt McKibben, Walter D., S/Sgt
R Walsh, Thaddeus J., S/Sgt Sheehan, William F., T/Sgt
G Hershberger, Ralph G., Jr., PFC Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt
F Nichols, T. B., Capt, (observer) Benson, Henry E., S/Sgt
A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”
Peekin’”)
P Browning, Eugene S. “Squif”, 1Lt Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt
CP Porter, Lloyd A., 2Lt Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt
N None Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt
B Hermanson, Ingwal J., S/Sgt Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt
E Sawyer, George D., S/Sgt Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt
R Swenson, Stanley C., T/Sgt Roulier, Edward T., Cpl
G Miles, Thomas P., S/Sgt Orr, William J., Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-64557 “Lady Betty” A/C No. 42-64551
P Brown, Aud W., 2Lt VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt
CP Carr, Philip O., 2Lt Conner, Clarence H., 2Lt
B Pyle, Joseph W., S/Sgt Vink, Virgil Francis, 2Lt
E Smith, James A., S/Sgt Mencher, Fred S., S/Sgt
R Higgins, Thomas T., Sgt Friscia, Frank J., Jr., T/Sgt
G Didiwick, Claudius T., S/Sgt Haresign, James M., S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 41-13192

P Porter, Jack Grafton, 1Lt
CP Riordan, Roland C., 2Lt
N None
B Pillman, Frank W., S/Sgt
E Lytle, Logan Lee, S/Sgt
R Nicholson, John E., T/Sgt
G Blick, Oliver L., Sgt
F Wisnesky, Benjamin H., S/Sgt
500# demo. Practica di Mare A/D, Italy
Formation Leader - Lt Grau
Results - Target well covered - 1(4 engine) Transport & 1 E/A damaged.
Remarks - 7 or 8 ME-109’s & MA-202’s attacked formation, but did not get in. Flak
heavy, inaccurate on lead element & heavy, accurate on rear element.
P- Chappell, CP - Rigling, N- Springer, B- Robertson, E - Kaney, RG- Roulier, G -Orr”
Chappell, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot Grau, Robert B., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Kaney, Oscar J., Jr., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner Orr, William J., Sgt, gunner
Rigling, Samuel (NMI), Jr., 2Lt, pilot Robertson, Charles W., 2Lt, bombardier
Roulier, Edward T., Cpl, radio-gunner Springer, Luther B., Jr., 1Lt, navigator
447th BS Mission Summary: (Ops Order 99/mission 98) Group Mission # 99: One of
our planes participated in a raid on the airdrome at Pratica Di Mare, Italy. Bombing
results good. The plane returned safely.
A/C No. 441-30000 “Ruff Stuff” A/C No. 41-64512 “Scotch & Soda”
(spare)
P McDuff, Daniel R. “Ruff Stuff”, 2Lt Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt
CP Sholund, John D., 2Lt Althouse, Donald I., 2Lt
B Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 2Lt Lanza, Joseph Peter, 2Lt
E Lalum, Luther I., S/Sgt McGrail, Robert J., S/Sgt
R Jackson, Edward B., T/Sgt Czaja, Marion L., S/Sgt
G Osowiecki, Hendrick (NMI), S/Sgt Wagner, Harvey H., Sgt
F None None
Duck” (spare) (spare)
P McGowan, Francis E., 2Lt Burns, John P. “Buster”, Capt
CP Gill, Paul W., 2Lt Miller, Benjamin Bartow, Jr., 2Lt
N Paiton, Harold K., 2Lt Weaver, Charles M. “Jug”, 1Lt
B None listed – likely the navigator Lingrel, Paul Warren “Big Moose”, 1Lt
E Mercer, William R., S/Sgt Perpich, Joseph G., S/Sgt
R Mellado, Ricardo (NMI), S/Sgt Byerly, Lee E., T/Sgt
G Alton, David D., S/Sgt McCown, J. Logan, S/Sgt
F None None
A/C No. 42-53371 “Death Wind” A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated
(spare) Lady” (spare)
P Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 2Lt Morganti, Clyde J., 2Lt
CP Broyles, Porter A., 2Lt Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt
B Becker, Edward B. “Jalone”, 2Lt None listed – likely the navigator
E Fiorello, Thomas R. “Tom”, Sgt Early, Frank X., S/Sgt
R Lotito, Rocco A., S/Sgt Tracy, Boyd F., S/Sgt
G Dunlap, Woodrow W., Sgt Hoskins, Raymond C., S/Sgt
F None None
“On July 30th I got my 33rd mission—99th mission for the Group. It was sort of a fluke
that I got to go, and this is how it was…
Our squadron was scheduled to supply six ships as spares, as is the case every
fourth mission. Burns was to lead the first element of spares and I was to lead the
second. We had flipped a nickel the night before to see who would fill the first vacancy
for a lead ship. We had Norden sights in our ships and were to take lead positions only.
Morganti and Cohagan flew on Burns, and Ashley and McGowan on me.
Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt, pilot Burns, John P., 1Lt, pilot
Cohagan, McKinley B. “Kin”, 1Lt, pilot McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt, pilot
Morganti, Clyde J., 1Lt, pilot
As soon as we had taken off and joined the main formation we could tell that
something was wrong with the third flight of 12 ships. They were all strung out and it
was impossible to tell just what the trouble was, but we all hoped it was a vacancy.
McGowan—the bum—thought he had spotted the hole and left me. He only
served to confuse the rest of us!
McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt, pilot
As we flew along well to the right and slightly above the main formation, Burns
called me on the radio, “Stuff, can you make anything out of that mess?” I had to admit I
couldn’t.
Burns, John P., 1Lt, pilot
Finally the flight got together well enough for us to determine that one ship was
missing out of the lead element. Whether it was a lead ship or a wing ship was still a
question. I gave Ashley a landing signal and pulled down and off to the left toward the
formation. Just as I got under way I could see McGowan, who had finally decided to
move up closer to investigate, going great guns for the front of the formation. He just
barely beat me, but pulled away when they gave him a red light on the “Aldis”, a lead
ship!
Ashley, Wilson S., 2Lt, pilot McGowan, Francis E., 1Lt, pilot
I pulled up along side and waggled my wings and the boys dropped into place on
my wings. We had reached the coast by then and the rest of the formation was dropping
fast to the deck. I began to drop, too. And as I did so, a flight of three from behind me
came up under and ahead of me. The lead ship rocked his wings, and I took it that he
wanted to lead the flight. I decided to let him---after all it was his squadron and not
mine, and I knew that if I did something wrong they would be onto me unmercifully.
Besides I did not want to rat-race him all the way to Italy just to take the lead away from
him. So I led the second element. There were times later when I wished I had led the
whole thing.
Everything went well until we approached our target which was a landing ground
right on the coast about 20 miles southwest of Rome. It was intended that we hit the
coast north of the target, turn south and fly down the coast for a bombing run. But then
things began to go wrong—very wrong. In the first place we were to bomb from 9500 ft.
and we climbed to 11,500. In the second place, we hit the coast too close to our target---
considerably shortening our run. We then made a diving turn onto our run and found
ourselves practically over the field. Our run was no longer than 20 seconds---at the
most! And our ships had become scattered somewhat in the turn.
I climbing so long we had dropped considerably behind the other flights and
found ourselves over the target well above our bombing altitude and pretty much alone.
The other flights had already bombed and were heading home.
To make matters a little worse, flak started pecking at us---but close! And
fighters kept flying around throwing tracers here and there and adding to our general
confusion. It wasn’t what I would call bombing under the best of conditions.
I was in left echelon to the lead on the bombing run and after I dropped my bombs
and saw that the lead element had too, I held my position for what I considered long
enough for the rest of the formation to drop theirs, then I made a slight diving turn to get
under the lead. As I did so, I had hoped that he would turn right too as he was supposed
to do. Instead he held his course---much longer than I thought necessary.
And when I dove and turned to get under him I picked up too much speed to slow
down and stay under him---all I could do was keep going. I did. I led the whole
formation off the target!
I had Blackie with me in the astro-dome calling the flak shots and fighter
positions, and he kept me pretty much in a stew directing evasive action. We found
ourselves well out over the water and ahead of the rest, so I made a few S turns to let
them catch up. When they did, I found that the second flight of six was leading the
element that was supposed to have led the 12!! That guy must have hung around an
awful long time.
Black, Donald (NMI) “Blackie”, 1Lt, navigator
But as they passed me, I swung under him and got into position. He was gaining
on them and passed them, and then got into position. He pulled across in front of them a
little too soon, though, and drug me almost right into them. I had to turn off and come
back later when there was more room.
That guy---Martin, it turned out---certainly made a mess of things. Fortunately,
however, no one suffered since the flak and the fighters didn’t get effective. I did get a
hole in the wheel well in the right, but it didn’t damage the tire and, although I pulled out
and landed last just in case, there was nothing wrong and we landed normally.
A few days later, Boyle informed me that I had been given three stars for the job I
did of leading that formation! I got that straightened out in a hurry!
Boyle, Joseph G., Jr., 1Lt, bombardier Martin, John K. "Kirk", 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Tomorrow we hit an airfield in southern Italy---so, til then…”
447th BS: War Diary of: Williams, William Thomas, 2Lt, pilot:
“Airport near Rome. We went as spares and didn’t complete the mission, although we
nearly got in once, but they needed a ship with Norden. Flak at the target was heavy,
moderate, accurate. Most of the ships had a few holes but all got away. Encountered a
few fighters on return trip. For us it was merely a takeoff assembly and hop out to the
Med & back.”
“Dysentery”
66 (99): At 08:15 36 planes off to bomb Practica di Mare A/D, dropped 210 x 500
bombs from 8500 feet at 10:45 all returned at 12:50. All bombs fell in target area, started
on NW side fell across field giving excellent coverage, hits also seen in N and S dispersal
area. 1 four engine transport set afire, 3 large columns of smoke seen, 7 ME-109’s and
MA-202 attacked on leaving the target, 1 ME-109 shot down by escort. Light, heavy
accurate flak, trailing formation. Weather: CAVU. F/L: Isaacson, Veum.
A/C No. 41-30343 A/C No. 42-64655

P Tolton, Justin C., 1Lt Clough, Bernard L., 2Lt
CP McEvoy, John C., 2Lt Kille, Wesley G., 2Lt
N None None
B Parrott, Charles G., S/Sgt Kruse, Norman L., 2Lt
E Kessler, Clarence J., S/Sgt Masteller, Harry M., PFC
R Moore, Gordon E., S/Sgt Papile, Frank M., PFC
G Deal, Herman L., Sgt LaRue, Augustin A. PFC
F Hobert, Walter W., PFC Landron, George J., Capt, 82nd FG
A/C No. 41-30326 A/C No. 41-30327
P Coffey, Kenneth H. F., 2Lt Veum, Ole E., Capt
CP Anderson, Andrew H. L., 2Lt Ryan, Phillip A., 2Lt
N None Holt, William E., 2Lt
B StAubin, Francis (NMI), S/Sgt Brown, Robert H. “Brownie”, Capt, HQ
321st BG
E Roberts, Harold L., PFC None listed
R Tanner, James T., S/Sgt Hilton, Daniel H., S/Sgt
G Sipos, Paul A., S/Sgt Spencer, John S., T/Sgt
F Roth, John A., Maj, HQ 82nd FG None
(observer)
A/C No. 41-13172 “Boyd Toyd” A/C No. 41-12926 “Hawkeye”
P Urquhart, Donald A., 1Lt Stewart, John C., 1Lt
CP Shutt, Ervin F., 2Lt Clark, Paul I., 2Lt
B Mundell, Roy E., 1Lt Blake, Thomas L., 2Lt
E Potosky, John S., PFC Morris, Raymond A., S/Sgt
R Jakse, Joseph (NMI), T/Sgt Altus, Irving (NMI), S/Sgt
G Zeller, Michael C., S/Sgt Schomaker, John W., S/Sgt
F None Cogland, J. L., Lt Col, HQ 47th Wing
(observer)
A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 42-64521
P Bruton, John E., 1Lt Culp, Merle H., Capt
CP Conway, John G., Sr., 1Lt Boatwright, John S., 1Lt
B Johnson, Robert E., 2Lt Reich, William John, 2Lt
E Porch, Dean O., PFC Poynter, Robert A., Pvt
R Harding, John E., PFC Watrous, Roger T., T/Sgt
G Uzailko, George (NMI), PFC Ruggere, Mauro (NMI), PFC
F Pemberton, Francis R., Maj, HQ 321st None
BG (observer)

P Hardzog, Walter A., Jr., 1Lt Ford, Charles L. “Junior”, Jr., 1Lt
CP Wik, John R., Jr., 2Lt Fleming, George B., F/O
N None Abbe, Richard A., 2Lt
B Abrams, Carl V., 2Lt Mims, Joe Argailus, 1Lt
E Ripple, William E. “Rip”, PFC Rodgers, Charles H., Jr., PFC
R Featherstone, Charles A. “Pappy”, PFC Robinson, Jefferson D. “Jeff”, PFC
G Wallace, John R., PFC White, George E., PFC
F Smith, A. Y., Col, HQ 47th Wing None
(observer)
A/C No. 42-64661 A/C No. 41-29967
P Brandt, Joseph R., 2Lt Isaacson, Clayton M. “Ike”, Capt
CP Edmondson, Howard D., 2Lt Haskell, John D., 2Lt
N Cheetham, McClain (NMI), 1Lt Thomas, Leo A., 2Lt
B Cain, George S., S/Sgt Gibbons, James (NMI), Jr., 1Lt
E Schmidt, Walter I., S/Sgt Rohleder, Jack J., PFC
R Marlow, Sterling H., S/Sgt Smith, Harry V., PFC
G Davey, Joseph (NMI), Jr., S/Sgt Vance, Paul S., PFC
F None None
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): P-40's fly escort

missions and hit shipping in the Milazzo, Sicily area.
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's

bomb Adrano; Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, light and
medium bombers hit Paterno, Santa Maria di Licondia and Centuripe, the general area
around Paterno, and vessels in the Milazzo-Orlando area. On the ground in Sicily, US
ground forces prepare to attack E along the coast, and further inland press toward Troina.
The British, to the S, are fiercely opposed W of Regalbuto. HQ 42nd Bombardment Wing
(Medium) is transferred without personnel and equipment from the US to North Africa.
Groups will be assigned in Aug 43. HQ 2nd Bombardment Group (Heavy) and its 20th
Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) transfer with B-17's from Ain M’Lila, Algeria to
Massicault, Tunisia.
445th BS War Diary: We did not participate in a mission today. There were a few local
flights. Weather today was fairly hot. We had a pretty good supper this evening,
consisting of hamburgers and vegetable salad with butterscotch pudding for desert.
“Dysentery”
July 1943
HQ 321st BG War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1943: The first of July found
the 321st Bombardment Group well established at Souk El Arba in carrying out damaging
blows against enemy military objectives and installations. There were few provisions for
recreations or diversions of any sort, with the exception of an occasional movie. As a
result personnel of the group turned their attention to such places as Tunis, Bizerte and
Bone. With transportation facilities that were more or less limited, most men visited
Tabarka and Ain Draham. The beach at Tabarka was an excellent one and trucks were
sent daily there for those that wished to do a little swimming. Ain Draham was a pleasant
little village in the mountains where any number of personnel of the group became
regular and frequent patrons of the Restaurant-Hotel Beau SeJour” and the Bellvue Hotel.
The drive through the mountain country to these places was a pleasant one and most
picturesque.
The first mission of the month was carried out on July 3rd, 1943 against the
Alghero Airdrome and aircraft at that base. This was the 79th mission. 4 large buildings
were hit on the west and east perimeters and one large fire was started just north of the
landing ground and one fire and a column of smoke was observed southeast of the
landing ground. Strings of bombs crossed the landing ground and two twin engine ships
in front of the hangers were destroyed by direct hits. The following are short narrative
statements. One enemy plane shot down by personnel during this mission. One ME-109
attacked from above at 5 o’clock. He came within two hundred yards when the tail
gunner fired 50 rounds into the enemy aircraft which dove down and crashed into flames.
One ME-109 was noticed at five hundred yards at six o’clock, straight into the enemy
aircraft which burst into flames at 250 yards, went into a dive and exploded upon hitting
the ground. One ME-109 got through the top cover and fired bullets hitting right rudder
of the ship. The enemy aircraft peeled off to fight of the plane and turret gunner fired
125-150 rounds before the enemy aircraft’s turn was completed. Most of the bullets went
into the cockpit. Flames came from the rear of the cockpit before it crashed. One RE-
2001 came in from behind and above and dove on one of our planes. The turret gunner
fired 100 rounds and the canopy of the enemy aircraft was seen to fly off as it passed
Enemy aircraft was seen to hit the ground.
During the 81st mission on the 5th of July, 1943, flak over the target was heavy,
intense and accurate and 11 of our planes were hit. Sgts. Victor W. Sheldon and Curtiss
L. Lovell of the 446 Squadron were both seriously wounded in the crash landing of one
of our planes in the Mediterranean and Lts. Leonard L. Shapiro, Nathan H. Greenwood,
and Sgts. Robert L. Waldrip, Lawrence E. Rider, and George F. Schulze of the 447th
Squadron were reported as missing in action over Sicily. Lt. Macon A. Gunter Jr. was
killed in action during the raid of the 4th of July.
Greenwood, Nathan H., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Lovell, Curtis L., S/Sgt, turret gunner , 446th BS
Rider, Lawrence E. “Bus”, S/Sgt, gunner, 447th BS
Shapiro, Leonard L. “Shap”, 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS – his little dog PFC Scrappy also MIA
Sheldon, Victor W., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 446th BS
Schulze, George F., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 447th BS
Waldrip, Robert Laseter, T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 447th BS
July 1943 (continued)
The first Distinguished Flying Cross to be awarded any member of the group in
World War II was presented to Second Lieut. Walter N. Olson of the 445th Bombardment
Squadron, on General Order #106, published by Headquarters Northwest African Air
Forces, dated Jun 8, 1943, with citation as follows: Walter N. Olson, 0726670, Second
Lieutenant, Los Angeles, Calif. For extraordinary achievement while participating in
aerial flight as a co-pilot over North Africa. On April 25, 1943, while returning from a
sea search mission through haze and restricted visibility, intense flak was encountered.
The fact that both rudder and aileron trim tabs were shot away seriously imperiled
the aircraft, necessitating exceptional skill on the part of the pilot. Lieutenant Olson,
although wounded in the leg, took complete command of the aircraft in this crippled
condition for a period of 35 minutes, relieving the first pilot who had climbed back in the
bomb-bay to extinguish a fierce fire. Lieutenant Olson’s heroism under fire, his total
disregard for his own wound, his cool-headedness and outstanding skill contributed
immeasurable assistance to the first pilot in effecting a crash-landing at his own base
without further injury to the crew, all of whom had been hit by flak. Such achievement
and heroism in action reflect great credit upon himself and the military service of the
United States.
Olson, Walter N., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
It was on the 10th of July that the invasion of Sicily took place and as their part in
the invasion the Group had a busy day, running two missions. The first bombed
Palazzolo Town covering it well and hitting the barracks on the east and south west of the
town. The 2nd mission of the day, number 87, took off to bomb the Trapani Milo A/D.
The field was well covered, including many hits on the runway and a hangar was seen to
blow up. One transport on the field received a direct hit. Flak was heavy, very intense
and accurate and 19 of our planes were hit. Two of the planes hit by flak made controlled
landings on the water west of Sicily. The personnel of these planes were reported as
missing in action but later were returned to duty or reported captured. Lts. Jung and
Roessler were reported as captured and Sgts. Fred B. Million and Ralph V. Nelson were
reported as having been killed in action. Lt. John G. Hartis and Sgt. Harry Wanner were
slightly wounded and Sgts. Arthur E. Morse and Kenneth K. Krause were reported
seriously wounded. Lt. Hartis was captured and placed in a prison hospital in Trapani.
He had the unusual experience of watching our bombers as they bombed Trapani and
latter the ground troops as they captured the town and returned him to the allied forces.
Hartis, John G., 2Lt, bombardier, 447th BS
Jung, Roland W., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Krause, Kenneth K., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Million, Fred B., S/Sgt, gunner, 447th BS
Morse, Arthur E., Sgt, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS
Nelson, Ralph V., S/Sgt, gunner, 447th BS
Roessler, Gustav T., 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Wanner, Harry, Sgt, armament-gunner, 447th BS
The target of the 93rd mission which took off on the 17th of July was the railroad
yards at Naples. There was a good coverage of the target, causing fires throughout the
area and explosions were observed at the south and east sides of the yard sending
columns of smoke 4000 feet high. The roundhouse was hit as was the royal arsenal,
resulting in a sheet of flame. Several oil tanks were also hit and set afire.
The nineteenth of July was one of those red letter days for the 321st Bombardment
Group. Colonel Robert D. Knapp, Group Commander, greeted officers and enlisted men
with the news that we were going to bomb Rome. There always had been considerable
conjecture about whether or not Rome would be bombed. But wherever there are
military objectives and military installations to be destroyed, and there are bombers to
carry out these missions, the 321st will be there. It was an all-out mission and seventy
two planes took off on the ninety-fourth mission together with several hundred other
planes in a raid that was to be a heavy blow to the Axis and no doubt was an important
factor in convincing Italy that she had best get out of the war. The particular target of
this mission was the Ciampino A/D, North and South. The coverage was excellent with
hits being made on hangars, revetments and among parked planes. Bursts began at the
railroad tracks on the southwest side and continued across facilitating buildings and both
fields and numerous fires were observed on the fields and in the housing areas. Flak was
heavy, intense and very accurate. One of our planes was shot down by the flak over the
target with the following personnel of the 445th Squadron: 2Lts. Guy J. McLaughlin,
John S. Neck and T/Sgt. John M. Gregory, and S/Sgts. Richard L. Springer, Stephen J.
Binkowski and Howard J. Conners. T/Sgt. Norman P. Teinowitz was killed by flak on
the raid and 2nd Lt. Posey T. Harris, bombardier of the 446th Squadron was seriously
wounded by flak.
Binkowski, Stephen J., S/Sgt, turret gunner, 445th BS
Conners, Howard J., S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 445th BS
Gregory, John N., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 445th BS
Harris, Posey T., 2Lt, bombardier, navigator, 446th BS
Knapp, Robert Duane, Col, pilot, HQ 321st BG Commander
Neck, John S., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Springer, Richard L., S/Sgt, gunner, bombardier, 445th BS
Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt, radio-gunner, 448th BS
The 446th Bombardment Squadron lost one of its ships and five of their personnel
in a plane-crash at Ain M’Lila air base in Algeria, the base from which the group carried
out its operations in the Tunisian campaign and our attacks on Pantelleria. The cause of
the crash was attributed to structural failure of the wing, which broke at landing light, and
that section of the wing from landing light to wing tip disconnected from the remainder
of the airplane. The following were killed in the crash: 1st Lt. Harold Merle “Buzz”
Bailey, 2nd Lt. Noel F. Coffey, T/Sgt. James V. Miller, S/Sgt. George K. Kniffin, and
Corporal Donald Null.
Kniffin, George Kenneth, S/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 446th BS
Miller, James V., T/Sgt, engineer-gunner, 446th BS
Null, Donald (NMI), Cpl, engineering, gunner, 446th BS
445th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1943: During the period of time
following the fall of Lampedusa and July 9th, the day before Sicily was invaded, the 445th
Squadron participated in raids on the Sciacca air base, Sicily, the marshalling yards at
Battipaglia, Italy, the Olbia airdrome in northern Sardinia, the Alghero airdrome in
Sardinia, the Sciacca airdrome in Sicily for the second time, the “Gerbini Satellite No.1
airdrome in Sicily, on two occasions, the Biscari air base in Sicily, the Gerbini Satellite
No. 5 airdrome in Sicily, and the town of Caltanissetta, Sicily.
It was on July 4 that Lt. Macon A. Gunter, Jr., first pilot, was killed by an
attacking ME-109 in the raid on the Gerbini Satellite No. 1. His co-pilot, Lt. Shaw took
the ship into Malta where Lt. Gunter was given a funeral with full military honors and
buried. Lt. Gunter held the universal respect and affection of the men in the Squadron.
Gunter, Macon A., Jr., 2Lt, pilot Shaw, William H., 2Lt, pilot
The 445th Squadron will long remember the eventful day of July 10th. In the
morning, Captain Tipton and Lt. Whiteford each led a flight of a formation which was
sent to bomb the town of Palazzolo in southeastern Sicily. The returning crews brought
the news that hundreds upon hundreds of Allied ships from battleships to barges were
lying along the southeastern parts of Sicily and that the long-awaited invasion was under
way.
In the afternoon of the same day, Captain Tipton and Lt. Whiteford again led their
flights in a formation which was sent to bomb the important air base of Trapani Milo in
western Sicily. The formation had just about commenced its bomb run when a flak
barrage was encountered which was so intense that it ran in almost solid lines. It did not,
however, affect the deadliness of the attack. The field was well covered, installations and
planes being destroyed. However, it took its toll on 445th planes and crews.
A fragment of bursting flak ripped through the cockpit and slashed Captain
Tipton’s wrist. One of his crew members shouted, “Are you hurt badly, Tip?” “Those so
and so’s”, called back Captain Tipton, “they cut my wrist watch strap!”
Tipton, Richard Pike "Tip", Capt, pilot JAMES E. NICKERSON,
Whiteford, Floyd R., 1Lt, pilot Captain, Air Corps,
Squadron Historian.
446th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1943: None
446th BS War Diary of: Williams, Wallace (NMI) “Spike”, Jr., 2Lt, pilot: “About this
time I had 25 missions. There is a lot of speculation as to the possibilities of going home.
I didn’t let myself think too much about it. Out of our original Group we had lost our
share of planes. Duke (who I enlisted with in Baltimore and who went to the Southeast to
train) was sent home with injuries. Manley, the same, Charlie McKinney lost, Jim
Welton his co-pilot, Rudy Hess, Roy Adcock, Gunter, Jung, and McLaughlin, who was at
Primary with me. Whitey and I are going along okay together and will continue.
Haegele, our instructor in Advanced, came as a replacement in Whitey’s squadron.
Good to see him. Lot of Co-pilots being checked out as first pilots now and Moe got a
new ship of his own. I got Howie Carlisle as co-pilot. Now have 24 ships to a squadron
instead of the original 15. Replacements pouring into Africa from the states. Half
thought Phil Currier might turn up, but then you wrote he went to the Pacific.
Adcock, Roy Dale, 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Carlisle, Howard L., 1Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Duke, Albert, 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Haegele, Frederick G., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Hess, Robert G. “Rudy”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Jung, Roland W. "Wongy", 2Lt, pilot, 447th BS
Manley, Raymond R., 2Lt, pilot, 445th BS
McKinney, Charles A. “Charlie”, 1Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Morris, Richard Pervis, Jr. "Big Moe", 2Lt, pilot, 446th BS
Welton, Mert J. “Jim”, 2Lt, pilot, 448th BS
Whiteford, Floyd R., 1Lt, pilot, 445th BS
Fred and I went up to Bone overnight and got to stay on a Merchant Marine ship.
It was loaded with demolition bombs. Very interesting. The Captains name was
Koppang and skippered Barbara Hutton’s four master before the war. Ship was the
‘Pierre DuPont.’ Almost made me homesick. Was leaving for New York the next day.
Had some wonderful meals for a change.
Schmidt, Frederick C. "Fred", 2Lt, pilot
Came back and flew another mission to Gerbini in Sicily on July 4th (actually July
5th). Plenty of flak, but we didn’t get hit. The 447th Sqdn. lost a plane and Jim Bradley
went down in the sea but was rescued by Air-Sea rescue.
Bradley, James L., Jr. "Jungle Jim", 1Lt, pilot
The next day Grif’s crew and VanArtsdalen’s and mine left for a Rest Camp at
Fes. It was for five days and what a time. It was a beautiful resort hotel up in the
mountains near Fes. There was a swimming pool and tennis courts, etc. Was run by the
Red Cross. There was a bar in the hotel. Only about thirty or so fellow there. Grif and I
were sober once in awhile. Mainly when we got up about noon every day. It was while
we were there that Sicily was invaded. So we had more reason to celebrate. It sounded
good. The last night we spent there, we went into Fes and stayed at a hotel call the
‘Palais Jamoir” (Jamai). It was probably the most beautiful hotel I ever saw. It used to
be the Sultan’s palace and the designs and architecture must have taken years and years
to finish. I can better describe it when I come home.
Griffith, Frank J. "Grif", 1Lt, pilot VanArtsdalen, Charles M., 1Lt, pilot
Well, we came back to work and work it was. We (the sqdn.) had been working
on Sicily while we were away and I was again behind on missions. Now had 26. For ten
days I went out and got 26 combat hours and five missions. All to Italy. The 321st was
the first med. Group to hit Italy, but now the whole Northwest African Air Force was
going at it and the bombing was beautiful. I went on a couple to airfields south of
Naples, then came a big day and all kinds of planes hit the marshalling yards at Naples.
Liberators, Forts, 26’s and 25’s by the hundreds. I had always wanted to see Italy. I saw
plenty of it. We rode out on the deck (sea level) and made a long climb past the Isle of
Capri and to the north of Naples. Turned south on our bombing run. Could look right
down at Mt. Vesuvius and the volcano. The surrounding country was really lovely. But
what we watched was the target. And “ole Moose” must have been sick that day. Smoke
was so thick it looked like a huge thunderhead. Fires all over the area. (We were the
last Group that day.) It was a masterpiece.
Guess the Axis fighters had had all they could take. There weren’t any. Flak was
still pretty good though. None of our planes were lost. This was almost a 1,000 mile trip
over five hours long.
The next target was Rome marshalling yards and two adjoining airfields. Same
type as Randolph. Bet a lot of little Italian cadets gave up and washed out after the
exhibition that day. It was an even greater show than the Naples one. Rome is quite a
place too. You could see the Vatican on the other side of town. I think the number of
planes was even more than that over Naples. 150 Forts, 150 Liberators, 150 26’s and
150 25’s plus all the escort for each group. These raids are something I’ll always
remember. You can hardly believe your eyes. Again it was a beautiful piece of work and
again the 321st was last over there. There were fighters and flak was rugged. I got
several holes in the right wing and Zook was lined up on a ME-109 when flak knocked
his turret clear off. He was lucky and got only a few cuts on his face. The third purple
heart on our crew. Let’s hope it is the last. Rome and the Fascists must have been pretty
well shaken up the evening of July 19th.
Zook, Urie H., S/Sgt, gunner
The next mission was to the toe of Italy and it was a ‘Milk Run’ Like the
Pantelleria ones. These are long and tiresome rides to Italy. All about five hours and I
go on every one cause I’m behind still. It’s okay with me though cause I have lots of
hours every time and each one is another step towards the shores of the Sates and home.
The latest one was on the East coast of Italy and a six hour mission. The longest yet. It
was another ‘milk run’ though, thank goodness.
Have written all this in the past week. That brings things up to the present, the
present is July 24th and I have 31 missions and 108 combat hours.
447th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1943: Bombing attacks during
the latter part of June and the first part of July were diverted at Sicilian targets. The
squadron participated in raids on airdromes, communication centers and barracks
buildings. On July 5 during one of these raids the squadron lost its first complete crew
with a ship. It was shot down by anti-aircraft fire. When Sicily was invaded, July 10, the
squadron took part in two raids to help reduce the enemy’s ability to resist. On one of
these missions the squadron lost one plane. Two members of the crew were killed, four
fell into enemy hands.
448th BS War Diary: Additional Narrative for July 1943: On July 6th while on a
truck ride to Tabarka several men were injured, one seriously when a squadron truck
collided with an English truck.
The month of July passed, hot, dusty, and with promise of more heat to come.
Temperatures ranged well over 100° everyday. Everyone was looking forward to moving
and with the invasion of Sicily on July 10th rumors gained strength that the Group was
going to move somewhere in the Tunis area.
The squadron began bombing southern Italy as well as Sicily to hamper German
communication. On July 19th it took part in the very successful raid on Rome airdromes.
Preparations of the preliminary type were made for a move late in the month.
Word was received that the squadron would be stationed at an airdrome about 20 miles
from Tunis near the town of Soliman.
Everyone in the squadron sweltered in the heat of the Sirocco winds and dreamed
of the cool breezes coming off the Mediterranean. Fortunately the nights turned cool
enough to sleep but the flies remained insufferable pests.
July 1 – 7 – 43: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period.
Usual squadron duties performed while in camp. Selected Combat Crews to Rest Camp
for one week. Missions concentrated on Sicily. Weather: Extremely hot.
July 8 – 14 – 43: No Officers or Enlisted Men assigned or joined during this period.
Usual squadron duties performed while in camp. Continued concentrated missions on
Sicily. Squadron participated in invasion of Sicily, July 10, 1943. Enlisted Men’s Rest
Camp at Tabarka provided for our squadron. Regular transportation provided.
July 15 – 21 – 43: No Officers assigned or joined during this period. The following
Enlisted Men assigned and joined: Sgts: Fish, Carrier, Krueger, Parmelee, Archambeau,
Barringer, Mayo, Rowley, Beal, Ferrell, Maddox. T/Sgt. Teinowitz was killed in action
against the enemy over Sicily on July 19, 1943. Burial at Beja. Usual squadron duties
performed while in camp. Missions concentrated on Italy.
Archambeau, Willard Joseph, Sgt, engineer-gunner
Barringer, Sgt Beal, H. L., S/Sgt, gunner
Carrier, Kenneth E., Sgt, photographer Ferrell, Bruce M., Sgt, gunner
Fish, Sgt Krueger, Charles Oliver, Sgt, gunner
Maddox, Lemuel (NMI) “Lem”, gunner Mayo, Sgt
Parmelee, Walter J., Sgt, gunner Rowley, Lester T., Sgt, gunner
Teinowitz, Norman P., T/Sgt, gunner
July 22 – 31- 43: 1st Lieutenant Page assigned and joined. The following Enlisted Men
were assigned and joined: Privates: McEntee and Mahan. Usual squadron duties
performed while in camp. Weather extremely hot. Sgt. Iseldyke promoted to 1st
Sergeant. Weather: hot. Morale: Excellent.
Iseldyke, LeRoy J., Sgt, personnel, 1st Sgt Mahan, John J., Pvt, gunner
McEntee, Peter M., Pvt, gunner Page, Joseph A., 1Lt, intelligence

321 - BG - 1943-07 Flak

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

321 - BG - 1943-07 Flak

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

12th Air Force, 57th Bombardment Wing

321st Bombardment Group

Special Thanks to Very Special Folks

A/C: Aircraft M/G: Machine Gun

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): P-40's, along with

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force): During

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-24's bomb airfields at

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):

In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)

HQ 321st BG War Diary: No Entry

HQ 321st BG Communications Log:

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

448th BS War Diary: No Entry

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): B-25's hit airfield at

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force): During

5. Enroute----6/10 coverage, alto-cumulus at 6500 feet.

Possible L/G’s---Italy 1:100,000 Sheet 179

E/A Tactics, Mission No. 79

A/C No. 42-64575 (flight leader) A/C No. 42-32434 “Mississippi

A/C No. 42-13179 “Booger” A/C No. 42-53373

446th BS War Diary: Regular combat zone activities.

A/C No. 42-32432 “Hell’s Angel” A/C No. 41-13008

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

A/C No. 41-13181 “The Sophisticated A/C No. 42-64695

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

A/C No. 41-30355 A/C No. 42-12926 “Hawkeye”

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): Royal Air Force (RAF)

4. Air---------10 S/E attacked formation leaving target.

5. Enroute----5/10 alto cumulus at 15,000. Scattered low scud layers.

A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-64575 (flight leader)

446th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

A/C No. 42-64509 “Arkansas A/C No. 41-12963 “Missouri Waltz”

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

448th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

A/C No. 41-30001 (flight leader) A/C No. 42-64521

USAAF Chronology: MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO):

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):

In Sicily, B-24's attack the harbor, harbor installations, railway yards,

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force): North-

4. Air---------12 planes on main A/D. 6 on #1 A/D.

5. Enroute----Scattered scud layers, visibility 7 miles.

A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-53428 “The Wolf II”

A/C No. 41-13198 “Maybelle” A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie”

446th BS War Diary: No Entry

447th BS War Diary: (No non-mission information)

A/C No. 42-64695 A/C No. 41-13007 “The Harp”

A/C No. 41-64657 (MACR-71 - shot down – direct hit)

Eyewitness Account: DeMoss, Jack M., 1Lt, pilot, 447th BS

447th BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (M) AAF

A/C No. 41-30001 A/C No. 42-64521

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):

In Sicily, B-24's strike satellite airfields at Gerbini; B-25's hit the

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):

In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)

3. Almost all bombs dropped on field. Results excellent. Buildings on NE and NW

4. Air---------5 T/E on SW corner of field near revetments. Two T/E on E. side.

5. Enroute----Hazy, visibility 9 miles.

A/C No. 41-13211 A/C No. 42-53373

A/C No. 41-13202 “Idaho Lassie” A/C No. 42-64516