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351st Bomb Group

Polebrook, England

Group Mission #148

Credited Mission #142
 
DATE: 14 Jun. 1944
Target: Le Bourget Airfield, Paris, France
 
Briefing Outline:
  1. Airplane and Crew Assignment Check.
  2. Time Schedule:
     C BoxLead & Deputy D BoxLead & Deputy
    Stations   –0345Stations   –0405
    Start Engines –0355Start Engines –0415
    Taxi     –04050400Taxi     –04250420
    Take Off   –04200415Take Off   –04400435
    Last Take Off –___Last Take Off –___

  3. Targets:
    Primary: Le Bourget [Airdrome, Paris, France]
    Secondary: Any bridge - road center - R/Y [Rail Yard] - Troop concentrations
    Last Resort: or other military objective.

  4. Loading:
    351 “C”: Lead–500 Low–250 High–250
    351 “D”: Lead–250 Low–500
    Composite: ____
    Nickels [Propaganda Leaflets] in Ship # - None
    Chaff: 144 [units] at discretion of CBW leader.
  5. Gasoline Loading: 2200 gallons
    Remarks: Long delay fuses in Y-216, O-595, P-875, V-748, D-077.

  6. Wing Formation94th (C) CBW94th (D) CBWComp. GroupComp. CBW
    Lead351st351st
    Low351st351st
    High351st457th

  7. Division Formation:
    PositionCBW [Combat Wing]TargetDeparture Time at Coast
    Lead94th A
    2nd41st A
    3rd94th B
    4th41st B
    5th94th C
    6th41st C
    7th94th D
    8th41st D
    2nd DivisionNE of 1st BDSelsey Bill – Zero [Hour] – 14,000
    3rd DivisionSW of 1st BDClacton & Orfordness - Zero [Hour]
    Marauders
    RAF [Royal Air Force]

    Remarks: 2 min. interval between pairs of CBW.
      600’ between boxes after assembly.

  8. Fighter Cover:
    • [Force][Call Sign]
      Complete area support by P-51’s & P-47’s Balance  
      2 Gps. P-38’s - type 16 control from Amiens   

  9. Group Assembly:
    BoxAltitudePlace
    C High 13,600'  Deenethorpe 
    C Lead13,000'Deenethorpe
    C Low12,400'Deenethorpe
    D Lead10,000'Deenethorpe
    D Low9,400'Deenethorpe

  10. Navigator - _____
  11. S-2 - _____
  12. Weather - _____
  13. Special Instructions to Navigators, Bombardiers and Radio Operators:

  14. Squadron Leaders and Group Deputy report to Target Room. All but Pilots Dismissed.
  15. (A) Code Words –
    PFF Bombing –____
    Visual Bombing -____
    Authenticator –Green River
    Recall -“C” George Harry Item   “D” Jig King Love
    Weather Code -VABIT
    Release "CHAFF" -Tin Hat + call sign

    (B) Call Signs:
    WingCall SignFlaresRemarks
    C351st LeadWoodcraft RedRY [Red Yellow]
    C351st LowWoodcraft TanR [Red]
    C351st HighWoodcraft GreyG [Green
    D351st LeadWoodcraft BrownGY
    D351st LowWoodcraft PurpleRG
    D457th HighWoodcraft OrangeYY
    Composite
    1st C.B.W.
    40th C.B.W.
    41st C.B.W.
    Composite C.B.W.

    (C)
    U.S. FightersBalance Two - 1, - 2, - 3
    R.A.F. Fighters
     Bombers"C" Vinegrove 2 - 5; "D" Vinegrove 2 - 7
    U.S. Grnd. ControlColgate
    R.A.F. Grnd. Control

    Control Points:Fighter Reference Points:
    [Splasher #10 - "Z" - Zero -20]W - Chartres
    [Selsey Bill - "1" - Zero Hour]I - Orleans
    [4919 0000 - "2" - Zero + 16]N - Paris
    _____T - Amiens
    _____E – St. Quentin
    _____R - Charleroi
    _____F - Brussels
    _____O - Eindhoven
    _____G - Arnhem
    Remarks: Ref. Alt. – 18,000’

    (D)
    Colors of the Day
    TimeColorLetterChallenge
    0200 – 0800GGMW
    0800 – 1400R - RRHS

    (E) Ships To Monitor [Radio Channels A, B, C & D]
    1. -
    2. - O-478, Y-216, G-780, O-595, L-676
    3. - K-252, R-144, Q-028, G-949, M-151
    4. - Available to all

  16. Let-Down on Deenethorpe, if overcast.
    351st C Lead  360°, Low - 20°, High - 340° Mag. [Magnetic Compass Heading]
    351st D Lead  360°, Low - 345° Mag. [Magnetic Compass Heading]
    401st   ° Mag.
    457th   ° Mag.
  17. Flying Control. –
    1. Taxi Plan.
    2. Emergency Fields. TANGMERE
    3. Landing Aids.

  18. Special Instructions:
    Ships to return early with cameras -
    Walker – M-196
    Willard – F-153
    Dixey – O-066
    Berardi – W-077
    Roehlk – U-216
    Keep off V.H.F. – unless absolutely necessary.
    Air Com. & Deputies – take off early at
    C-Wing Ball – Holsapple D-Wing
    Leads & Deputies taxi & T.O. [Take-off] 5 mins. early.


Operational Narrative – 94th “C” Combat Wing:
  1. General Narrative. Thirty-six aircraft of the 94th “C” Combat Wing took off at 0415 – 0505 hours. The take-off and assembly were uneventful, the weather being excellent for the assembly. Departure from the Deenethorpe buncher was made exactly on time, but the next point was reached on or two minutes early. At the Division Assembly Line there was a good deal of congestion and the usual interference by B-24’s which were at the First Division altitude. This condition was accepted until just off the coast of France, where the B-24’s and the First Division split their routes. A cross-over to the left was necessary then to gain the proper division column.
     At the turn prior to the IP [Initial Point of Bomb Run] a cloud bank at 23,500 feet necessitated a climb to 24,000 feet to clear it, but at that point it was found that it would be possible to skirt this bank and still remain very nearly on course. Interval at the IP was taken satisfactorily. The IP was eight-tenths cloud covered, but was crossed exactly as briefed. The bomb run, being up-wind, was very slow. Flak became severe and accurate on the run, knocking down three ships from the lead box. All went down under control. One reached the English coast and two ditched. No further data is available on these two planes. Bombing was done on C-1 [Autopilot] with good results.
     The combat wing reassembled very shortly and proceeded to withdraw on course. No other flak or enemy action was reported. Enemy fighters were sighted but did not attack this combat wing. Return to base was made without further incident. Landings were carried out at 1007 – 1104 hours.
  2. Aircraft Not Attacking. Aircraft 42-37780, pilot Lt. Bland, returned early from a point ten miles within the French coast (Caen) with the report that the #1, #2, and #4 superchargers were erratic. The aircraft ground and flight checked satisfactorily when Engineering made inspection. The remaining aircraft continued on the Mission as indicated in the General Narrative and attacked the Primary.
  3. Aircraft Lost. Three aircraft of the 94th “C” Combat Wing were knocked out of formation by heavy and accurate flak encountered after bombs were away. Few details are known on two of the ships from observer’s reports. Fixes were received from both later indicating that one was off the coast of France near Dieppe and one was approaching mid-channel. The third aircraft managed to reach the English coast and landed at Tangmere.
  4. Combat Wing Air Commander. Lt. Col. Clinton F. Ball, flying in aircraft 42-102955, led the 94th “C” Combat Wing Formation.


[Signed] Clinton F. Ball, Lt. Colonel, Air Corps, Operations Officer


Operational Narrative – 94th “D” Combat Wing:
  1. General Narrative. Twenty-three aircraft took off at 0435 – 0459 hours. Assembly of the 94th “D” CBW was made very satisfactorily at the Deenethorpe Buncher. Control points over England were made good without difficulty. The briefed route was followed with little variance over England. The departure point on the English coast was reached 30 seconds early. The CBW was in the proper position in the First Division Formation.
     It was necessary to fly right of course from departure from the English coast to a point well within France, due to the position of a CBW of B-24’s on the left. As the B-24’s cut across in front of the 94th “D” CBW, it was necessary to veer to the right in order to avoid a collision. It was then possible to take a heading to the left and the briefed course was being followed before the IP [Initial Point of Bomb Run] was reached.
     The “D” CBW was in the correct slot once more, and took interval for bombing. The formation was south of the briefed IP and cloud cover in the area caused some doubt in the CBW Leader’s mind as to whether or not the target could be attacked by visual means. Thus far the IP could not be seen and a DR [Dead Reckoning] IP had been selected.
     The CBW Air Commander contacted the High and Low Boxes and informed them that they could go ahead and bomb if they thought it feasible. They decided to make a 360° south of the briefed IP. The maneuver was completed, and the formation could not locate its IP. After having reached a point about 14 miles north of the briefed IP, the CBW Commander had made the decision to attempt to find a target of opportunity. Just then the Paris flak barrage was seen and it was possible to orient the formation and make a southerly heading to the briefed IP. A right turn was made at the IP and a visual run was made on the target. C-1 [Autopilot] was used on the bomb run by the Lead Group. A long run was made on the target by both groups. PDI [Pilots Deviation Indicator] was used by the Low Group on the bombing run. Good bombing results have been reported.
     The flak encountered in the target area was heavy and accurate. The Deputy A/C [Aircraft] was lost to flak shortly after bombs away.
     The route out was as briefed. Meager inaccurate flak was encountered from an airdrome, and near Dieppe. It was possible to skirt such areas easily. The rest of the mission was flown without incident.
     Landings were made at 1106 – 1131 hours.

  2. Aircraft Not Attacking. Aircraft 42-97169, Pilot Lt. Johnson, brought bombs back to Base, when the Bomb Bay doors were not fully opened. Details are contained in the Armament Report. The remaining 22 aircraft attacked the target as indicated in the General Narrative.
  3. Aircraft Lost. Aircraft 42-97066, Pilot Lt. Dixey was lost just after Bombs Away when accurate flak was encountered. The aircraft blew up as a result of a direct hit by flak.
  4. Combat Wing Air Commander. Major Leonard B. Roper, flying in aircraft 42-31879, led the 94th “D” CBW.

    5. [Signed] Clinton F. Ball, Lt. Colonel, Air Corps, Operations Officer


Ops Summary Report:
94th “C” Combat Wing
Lead GroupHigh GroupLow Group
No. of A/C Scheduled121212
No. of A/C Taking Off121212
No. of A/C Failing to Take Off000
No. of A/C Taking Off – Less Unused Spares121212
No. of A/C Sorties121212
No. of A/C Attacking121112
Name of Primary TargetLe BourgetLe BourgetLe Bourget
No., Size and Type of Bombs132 x 500 GP12 x 500 GP35 x 500 GP
18 x 250 GP168 x 250 GP161 x 250 GP
No. of A/C Attacking Primary Target121112
No. of A/C Not Attacking010
Bombs Brought Back030 x 250 GP0
Bombs Jettisoned in Channel001 x 500 GP
No. of A/C Lost – To Flak200
Total Bombs Loaded132 x 500 GP12 x 500 GP36 x 500 GP
18 x 250 GP198 x 250 GP161 x 250 GP
 
94th “D” Combat Wing
Lead GroupLow GroupTotal Both CBW's [Combat Wings]
No. of A/C Scheduled121159
No. of A/C Taking Off121159
No. of A/C Failing to Take Off000
No. of A/C Taking Off – Less Unused Spares121159
No. of A/C Sorties121159
No. of A/C Attacking121057
Name of Primary TargetLe BourgetLe BourgetLe Bourget
No., Size and Type of Bombs119 x 500 GP298 x 500 GP
215 x 250 GP562 x 250 GP
No. of A/C Attacking Primary Target121057
No. of A/C Not Attacking012
Bombs Brought Back1 x 250 GP*12 x 500 GP31 x 250 GP
12 x 500 GP
Bombs Jettisoned in Channel001 x 500 GP
No. of A/C Lost – To Flak103
Total Bombs Loaded131 x 500 GP311 x 500 GP
216 x 250 GP 593 x 250 GP
*Delayed Action Bomb – 24 Hours.



Bombardier’s Narrative – 94th “C” Wing Lead Box:
  1. Flak was very accurate and caused some difficulties on the bomb run. No fighters were encountered on the bombing run.
  2. C-1 [Autopilot] was used and was not overpowered by the pilot.
  3. Aiming point could not be picked up due to smoke.
  4. Alternate aiming point was used. Two large hangars to the east of briefed M.P.I. [Mean Point of Impact] was used as the A.P. [Aiming Point]
  5. The turn at the I.P. [Initial Point of Bomb Run] was normal and smooth.
[Signed:] Manuel J. Giswein, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier


Bombardier’s Narrative – 94th “C” Wing High Box:
  1. No difficulties were encountered on the bombing run.
  2. C-1 [Autopilot] was used.
  3. Aiming point was covered by smoke and clouds so a point a little to the right of the briefed M.P.I. [Mean Point of Impact] was used.
  4. The turn at the I.P. [Initial Point of Bomb Run] was normal.
[Signed:] Samuel Strosky, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier


Bombardier’s Narrative – 94th “C” Wing Low Box:
  1. Flak was heavy but no fighters.
  2. C-1 was used and was not overpowered or disengaged by the pilot.
  3. Smoke and clouds obscured the aiming point and it was not picked up ‘til the end of the run.
  4. The turn at the I.P. [Initial Point of Bomb Run] was normal.
[Signed:] Harry Fireman, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier


Bombardier’s Narrative – 94th “D” Wing Lead Box:
  1. Flak was very accurate and caused some difficulties on the bomb run. No fighters were encountered on the bomb run.
  2. C-1 was used on the bombing run and was not overpowered by the pilot.
  3. Briefed A.P. [Aiming Point] was used and was picked up quite a while before “Bombs Away”.
  4. Turn at I.P. [Initial Point of Bomb Run] was normal.
[Signed:] Robert E. Lee, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier


Bombardier’s Narrative – 94th “D” Wing Low Box:
  1. No difficulties were encountered on the bombing run.
  2. P.D.I. [Pilots Deviation Indicator] was used on the bombing run.
  3. Made a 360° turn as I.P. was not found the first time. Aiming point was hard to pick up and wrong one was finally used.
  4. Turn at I.P. [Initial Point of Bomb Run] was normal.
[Signed:] George M. Decker, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier


Combat Bombing Flight Record – 94th “C” Wing Lead Box:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. Giswein, Manuel J. JR.  Pilot - Lt. Col. Ball, Clinton F. Navigator - 1st Lt. Gwyn, Billy V.
Aircraft B-17G   955-P  Take-off - 0415½  Landed - 1038
Objective - Airfield at Le Bourget, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - Alternate A.P. [Aiming Point] (2 hangar east of briefed M.P.I.)
Initial Point - As ordered
Method of Attack - Group
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 12   Composite Group - ____
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation: One
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: ____   Composite Group - ____
Range Sighting only, Group - ____    Composite Group - ____
Bombs, Types and Sizes - 500 LB. G.P.[General Purpose]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - 12
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:

Altitude of Target - 145'Magnetic Heading Ordered 270° Actual 247°
True Altitude Above Target - ___True Heading 243°
Indicated Altitude - 24,050'Drift, Estimated 0° - Actual 4° Right
Pressure Altitude of Target 17True Track 243°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 9,478'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - Mercury
True Air Speed - 220 M.P.H.Time of Release 0824
Ground Speed Est. 130 Actual 115Length of Bombing Run - 5 min.
Wind Direction Metro - 260° Actual - 260°Intervalometer Setting - Minimum
Wind Velocity Metro 85K Actual 85K C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] X [Used]
D.S. - 129.9  Trail - 55 +5   ATF - 40.24A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .24 Actual .32 Manual Pilot - ____

Type of Release - Train
Point of Impact If Seen - Good
Mean Temp. Metro -3 Actual -3
Winds - Altitude - 23,600 Ft.  Direction - Metro 260°  Actual 260°  Velocity - Metro 85K  Actual 85K
Temp C. - Metro -23° C. Actual -23° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record – 94th “C” Wing High Box:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. Strosky, Samuel   Pilot - 1st Lt. Brooks, Richard H. Navigator - 1st Lt. Korf, Leonard L.
Aircraft # 509-V  Take-off - 0415  Landed - 1024
Objective - Airfield at Le Bourget, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - Alternate A.P. [Aiming Point] (Upper corner of work shops.)
Initial Point - Meaux, France
Method of Attack - Group
Number of Attacking A/C in Group - 12    Composite Group - ____
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own sighting operation - One
Deflection and Range sighting, Group - ____   Composite Group - ____
Range Sighting only, Group - ____    Composite Group - ____
Bombs, Types and Sizes - 250 LB. G.P. [General Purpose]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 18    Released - Same
Fusing, Nose - 1/10    Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - Slow
Information at Release Point:   M.P.I. [Mean Point of Impact] covered by clouds and smoke

Altitude of Target - 145'Magnetic Heading Ordered 270° Actual 270°
True Altitude Above Target - 24,600'True Heading 268°
Indicated Altitude - 24,100'Drift, Estimated 0° - Actual 2° Right
Pressure Altitude of Target +17True Track 268°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 9,369'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9
True Air Speed - 240 M.P.H.Time of Release 0824
Ground Speed Est. 176 Actual 176Length of Bombing Run - 5 min.
Wind Direction Metro - 260° Actual - 260°Intervalometer Setting - Min.
Wind Velocity Metro 85K Actual 85K C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] Not Working
D.S. - 126.7  Trail - 99   ATF - ___A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. ___ Actual _____ Manual Pilot Yes

Type of Release - Train
Point of Impact If Seen - Yes on the alternate A.P. [Aiming Point]
Mean Temp. Metro -3 Actual -3
Winds - Altitude - 24,100 Ft.  Direction - Metro 260° Actual 260° Velocity - Metro 85K Actual 85K
Temp C. - Metro -23° C. Actual -26° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record – 94th “C” Wing Low Box:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. Fireman, Harry  Pilot - Capt. Gaylord, Donald A. Navigator - 1st Lt. Simmons, Max G.
Aircraft B-17G   005-Q  Take-off - 0416 Landed - 1045
Objective - Airfield at Le Bourget, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - As ordered
Initial Point - As ordered
Method of Attack - Group
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 12   Composite Group - ____
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation: One
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: ____   Composite Group - ____
Range Sighting only, Group - ____    Composite Group - ____
Bombs, Types and Sizes - 500 LB. G.P. [General Purpose]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - 12
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/100
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:

Altitude of Target - 145'Magnetic Heading Ordered 270° Actual 270°
True Altitude Above Target - 23,400'True Heading ___°
Indicated Altitude - 23,000'Drift, Estimated 0° - Actual 5° Left
Pressure Altitude of Target +17True Track ___°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 5,825'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9
True Air Speed - 224 M.P.H.Time of Release 0824
Ground Speed Est. 130 Actual 130Length of Bombing Run - 25 miles
Wind Direction Metro - 260° Actual - 260°Intervalometer Setting - Minimum
Wind Velocity Metro 35K Actual 35K C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] X [Used]
D.S. - 129  Trail - 57   ATF - 40.38A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .25 Actual .29 Manual Pilot - ____

Type of Release - Train
Point of Impact If Seen - On briefed A.P. [Aiming Point]
Mean Temp. Metro -3 Actual -5
Winds - Altitude - 23,000 Ft.  Direction - Metro 260°  Actual 260°  Velocity - Metro 35K  Actual 35K
Temp C. - Metro -23° C. Actual -28° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record – 94th “D” Wing Lead Box:

Bombardier -1st Lt. Lee, Robert E.   Pilot - Major Roper, Leonard B. Navigator - 1st Lt. Badger, William D.
Aircraft # 879-Q  Take-off - 04335  Landed - 1111
Objective - Airfield at Le Bourget, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - As ordered
Initial Point - As ordered
Method of Attack - Group
Number of Attacking A/C in Group - 12    Composite Group - ____
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own sighting operation - ONE
Deflection and Range sighting, Group - ____   Composite Group - ____
Range Sighting only, Group - ____    Composite Group - ____
Bombs, Types and Sizes - 250 LB. G.P. [General Purpose]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 18    Released - Same
Fusing, Nose - 1/10    Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:    Cloudy

Altitude of Target - 145'Magnetic Heading Ordered 270° Actual 270°
True Altitude Above Target - 23,425’True Heading 267°
Indicated Altitude - 23,000'Drift, Estimated 0° - Actual 2° Left
Pressure Altitude of Target +17True Track 269°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 8,764'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9
True Air Speed - 220 M.P.H.Time of Release 0911
Ground Speed Est. 130 Actual ___Length of Bombing Run - 9 Min.
Wind Direction Metro - 260° Actual - 253°Intervalometer Setting - Min.
Wind Velocity Metro 85K Actual 52K C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] X [Used]
D.S. - 129.1  Trail - 92   ATF - 41.03A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .25 Actual .30 Manual Pilot _____

Type of Release - Train
Point of Impact If Seen - Good
Mean Temp. Metro -3 Actual -3
Winds - Altitude - 23,000 Ft.  Direction - Metro 260° Actual 253° Velocity - Metro 85K Actual 52K
Temp C. - Metro -23° C. Actual -23° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record – 94th “D” Wing Low Box:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. Decker, George M.  Pilot - Capt. Brooksby, Marvin A. Navigator - 1st Lt. Cleveland, Carlton A.
Aircraft B-17G   078-G  Take-off - 0440 Landed - 1121
Objective - Airfield at Le Bourget, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - Runway
Initial Point - As ordered
Method of Attack -Group
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 12   Composite Group - ____
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation: ONE
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: ____   Composite Group - ____
Range Sighting only, Group - ____   Composite Group - ____
Bombs, Types and Sizes - 500 LB. G.P. [General Purpose]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - Same
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:    Used wrong A.P. [Aiming Point]

Altitude of Target - 145'Magnetic Heading Ordered 270° Actual 270°
True Altitude Above Target - 22,780’True Heading 279°
Indicated Altitude - 22.400'Drift, Estimated 0° Left - Actual 4° Left
Pressure Altitude of Target +17True Track ___°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 9,369'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9
True Air Speed - 236 M.P.H.Time of Release 0908
Ground Speed Est. 130 Actual 104Length of Bombing Run - 18 Naut. mi.
Wind Direction Metro - 260° Actual - 270°Intervalometer Setting - Minimum
Wind Velocity Metro 85K Actual 75K C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] _____
D.S. - 133.9  Trail - 54 +5   ATF - 39.62A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .25 Actual .31 Manual Pilot - X [Used]

Type of Release - Train
Point of Impact If Seen - Used wrong A.P. [Aiming Point]
Mean Temp. Metro -3 Actual -3
Winds - Altitude - 22,400 Ft.  Direction - Metro 260°  Actual 270°  Velocity - Metro 85K  Actual 75K
Temp C. - Metro -23° C. Actual -23° C.



Preliminary Damage Assessment:
  1. The target for the five boxes of this Group was the facilities of the A/D [Airdrome] at Le Bourget (Paris), France. Photo coverage was complete for all groups, but there were heavy clouds and smoke in the target area. Both the Lead box of the “C” force and the High box of the “C” force had to shift aiming points due to smoke and cloud.
  2. The bombs of the Lead box (C) fell in a compact pattern on the two hangars at the SE end of the field. One hangar is destroyed, there is a hit on the second hangar, and a small hangar is completely destroyed. The pattern measures 1,800’ by 1,280’. The alternate AP [Aiming Point] is 1,800 feet short of the briefed MPI [Mean Point of Impact].
  3. The bombs of the Low box (C) fell in a heavy concentration on the MPI. Intense smoke makes damage assessment impossible, but damage should be heavy. The pattern is 1,845’ by 1,312’. This Group carried a mixed load; three A/C [Aircraft] 500-pound GP’s and the rest 250-pound GP’s.
  4. The High box (C) had the heaviest concentration in the upper workshops area. There is a possible hit on the double hangar and possible damage to the main workshops. The pattern is 2,200’ by 1,320’, with the alternate AP 1,500’ to the right of the briefed MPI.
  5. The main concentration of the Lead box (D) fell into the target area. There are hits on both hangars and a possible hit on the upper workshops. The pattern is 1,710’ by 1,170’, and the actual MPI is slightly over the briefed MPI.
  6. The pattern of the Low box (D) fell into open fields approximately four miles ENE of the target in the vicinity of Aulnay-Sous-Bois [France].
[Signed:] Thomas L. Cooper, Captain, Air Corps, Group P.I. [Photo Intelligence] Officer


Track Chart:
Click on Chart to Enlarge



Combat Crew Comments:

    508th Squadron:
A/C 146-D: Too many runs over target. – Lt. Hales.
A/C 949-G: Too much stooging around; didn’t fly briefed course. – Lt. Pattison.
A/C 595-O: B-24’s kept flying around in front of our formation at Argentan, [France] giving this Group prop wash and flying difficulties. – Lt. Taylor.
A/C 727-N: Bomb run too long. – Lt. Porter.

    509th Squadron:
A/C 926-X: Leading from IP to home base was very, very good. – Lt. Sutton.
A/C 216-U: Friendly fighter flew in front of formation and flew off to left; should be cautioned, liable to get hurt. – Lt. Engfer.

    510th Squadron:
A/C 971-J: Did not have taxi plan this morning. – Lt. McIntyre.
    Plates in EM mess hall are dirty. – EM. [Enlisted Men]
A/C 952-H: Had to go up without flak suits. – Sgt. Cox.
    Driver should know where to find planes; wasted 30 minutes looking. – Lt. Hitt.

    511th Squadron:
A/C 216-Y: Did not have taxi plan this morning. – Lt Nelson.

[Signed] Robert P. Ramsey, Captain, Air Corps, Asst. Group S-2 [Intelligence]



Mission Summary Report – Lead Box “C” Wing:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-102971, 508th Squadron. Flak hole in propeller blade of #2 Engine. Flak hole in right bomb-bay door causing skin damage. Flak hole in underside right wing fairing causing skin damage. Flak hole through underside of right inner wing panel causing damage to flap and upper wing surface. Flak hole in underside of right outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Flak hole on underside of left horizontal stabilizer causing skin and internal damage. Flak hole through left side of #1 nacelle causing skin damage, oil line cut, inspection door in firewall damaged and generator damaged. Flak hole through left side of tail compartment causing skin damage and oxygen mask hose cut. Flak hole in right side of vertical stabilizer causing skin damage.
    2. Airplane No. 43-37665, 510th Squadron. Flak hole through top of right elevator causing skin damage. Flak hole through top of right wing tip causing skin damage. Flak hole through top of right inner wing panel causing damage to bulkhead. Flak hole through top of #4 nacelle causing damage to cowl flap. Flak hole through top of #3 nacelle causing damage to ring cowl, cylinder cooling fin and baffle support. Flak hole in leading edge of right wing causing damage to de-icer boot. Flak hole on underside of right inner wing panel causing damage to skin and stringer. Flak hole in bottom of left bomb-bay door causing skin and frame damage. Flak hole in bottom of #1 nacelle causing damage to #1 supercharger base, air intake and circumferentials. Flak hole through left side of tail compartment causing damage to bulkhead. Flak hole in left side of vertical stabilizer causing damage to bulkhead and leading edge of rudder. Flak hole through plexiglass, left side of ball turret, cutting strut. Three flak holes through vertical stabilizer causing skin damage. Flak hole through fuselage at main entrance door window causing skin damage.
    3. Airplane No. 42-107077, 510th Squadron. Flak hole in top of left outer wing panel causing damage to skin and corrugation. Flak hole in top of trailing edge of left outer wing panel causing damage to fabric. Flak hole in leading edge of right wing causing damage to #4 oil cooler fairing. Flak hole through right elevator causing damage to fabric. Two flak holes damaged leading edge of left horizontal stabilizer. Flak hole through bottom of bombardier’s escape hatch. Flak hole in bottom of #3 nacelle causing damage to exhaust stack. Flak hole on underside of left outer wing panel causing damage to skin and corrugation. Flak hole through tip of vertical stabilizer causing skin damage. Flak hole in left side of nose compartment causing damage to “GEE” box and bombing wires. Flak hole in left side of vertical stabilizer causing damage to bulkhead #8 and inner fairing between bulkheads #8 and #9. Flak hole in left side of vertical stabilizer causing damage to bulkhead and leading edge of rudder.
    4. Airplane no. 42-102576, 510th Squadron. Flak hole through top of right outer wing panel causing skin damage. Flak hole in top of #3 nacelle causing skin damage. Flak hole in left side of #4 nacelle causing damage to ring cowl. Flak hole in top left side of fuselage causing damage to interphone and VHF wiring. Flak hole in top of left inner wing panel causing damage to #2 main tank wires to fuel gauge. Flak hole through left wing tip causing skin and corrugation damage. Flak hole through left elevator causing skin damage. Flak hole through right horizontal stabilizer causing damage to bulkhead. Flak hole in underside of right outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Flak hole through bottom of left outer wing panel causing damage to stringer. Flak hole through vertical stabilizer causing skin damage.
    5. Airplane No. 42-102955, 510th Squadron. Flak hole through top of right outer wing panel causing skin damage. Flak hole through right horizontal stabilizer causing skin damage. Two flak holes through right elevator causing damage to fabric. Three flak holes on underside of left outer wing panel causing damage to skin and corrugation. Flak hole on left side of fuselage under stabilizer causing damage to Bulkhead #9 and elevator lock. Flak hole in left side of vertical stabilizer causing skin damage. Flak hole on underside of left inner wing panel causing skin damage. Flak hole in right outer wing panel causing skin damage.
    6. Airplane No. 43-37515, 510th Squadron. Flak hole in top of right inner wing panel causing damage to skin and corrugation. Flak hole through top of right outer wing panel causing damage to corrugation and skin. Flak hole through trailing edge of right inner wing panel causing damage to bulkhead. Flak hole on underside of right outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Flak hole on underside of left outer wing panel causing damage to skin, corrugation and bulkhead. Flak hole through left bomb-bay door causing skin damage. Flak hole on left side of vertical stabilizer causing skin damage.
    7. Airplane No. 42-102952, 511th Squadron. Flak hole on underside of left outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Two flak holes on underside of left outer wing panel causing skin damage. One flak hole on underside of right outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Two flak holes on top of right elevator causing skin damage. Flak hole on top of left elevator causing skin damage. Four flak holes in leading edge of right wing causing skin damage. Chin turret damaged by falling debris from another airplane.
    8. Airplane No. 42-97318, 511th Squadron. Two flak holes on underside of left outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Two flak holes in leading edge of left wing causing skin damage. Six flak holes on underside of left inner wing panel causing damage to skin and brace. Two flak holes on underside of right outer wing panel causing damage to Tokyo tank. Flak hole on underside of right horizontal stabilizer causing skin damage. Flak hole on right side of fuselage under left waist window causing damage to skin. Flak hole on right side of fuselage under stabilizer causing skin damage. Flak hole on top of left outer wing panel causing skin damage.

    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDMINOR DAMAGEBY FLAKBY FLAK & FRIEND
    8871
[Signed:] Carl A. Ekblad, Captain, Air Corps, Group Engineering Officer


Mission Summary Report – High Box “C” Wing:
  1. Abortives:
    1. Airplane No. 42-37780, 511th Squadron returned early. The Pilot stated that #1, #2 and #4 Superchargers were erratic. Aircraft ground checked satisfactorily. However a broken bucket was found on the turbine wheel of #4 Supercharger, necessitating the change of the supercharger before a flight test. Aircraft will be test flown on completion of work. #1, #2 and #3 Superchargers were untouched.
  2. Battle Damage: None received.
[Signed:] Carl A. Ekblad, Captain, Air Corps, Group Engineering Officer


Mission Summary Report – Low Composite “C” Wing:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage: None received.
[Signed:] Carl A. Ekblad, Captain, Air Corps, Group Engineering Officer


Mission Summary Report – Lead Box “D” Wing:
  1. Abortives: None
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-97843, 508th Squadron. Flak hole on underside of right inner wing panel causing spar damage. Flak hole on bottom of #3 nacelle causing damage to circumferentials.
    2. Airplane No. 42-97349, 508th Squadron. Flak hole in leading edge of left wing causing damage to air duct. Flak hole on top of left horizontal stabilizer causing damage to skin.
    3. Airplane No. 42-38146, 508th Squadron. Flak hole on underside of left outer wing panel causing skin damage.
    4. Airplane No. 42-97193, 509th Squadron. Flak hole through left elevator causing skin and corrugation damage. Two flak holes through left horizontal stabilizer causing skin and corrugation damage.

    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDDAMAGE BY FLAKMINOR DAMAGE
    444
[Signed:] Carl A. Ekblad, Captain, Air Corps, Group Engineering Officer


Mission Summary Report – Low “D” Wing:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-6078, 509th Squadron. Flak hole in leading edge of right stabilizer, skin and channel damaged. Flak hole through center of dorsal fin, skin and channel damaged. Flak hole in skin of fuselage under left waist window, skin damage only. Flak hole in underside of left wing outer panel, skin, corrugation, and Tokyo tank damaged. Small flak tear in right side of fuselage forward of life raft compartment, skin damage only.
    2. Airplane No. 44-6108, 509th Squadron. Flak hole through tip of left stabilizer, skin and former damaged. Flak damaged push rod housing of #4 Engine. Small flak hole in leading edge of left wing near #1 Engine, skin damage only. Two inch flak tear in skin of wing underside between #3 and #4 Engines, corrugation not damaged.
    3. Airplane No. 43-37676, 509th Squadron. Flak hole in root of left wing underside, damage to skin and bulkhead #5. Push rod housing of #2 Engine damaged by flak.

    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDDAMAGE BY FLAKMINOR DAMAGE
    333
[Signed:] Carl A. Ekblad, Captain, Air Corps, Group Engineering Officer


Armament Report:
  1. The following malfunctions were reported on the Mission of 14 June, 1944:
    1. A/C 42-97196 – Chin turret Sight bulb burned out. Replaced.
    2. A/C 42-39848 – Top inboard bomb did not release. Rack was slightly unsynchronized.
    3. A/C 42-97492 – Eleven bombs returned to base. Seven dropped with Intervalometer. No attempt was made to salvo. Ship checks out satisfactorily.
    4. A/C 42-30857 – Right rack salvoed on target. Rack selector relay burned out.
    5. A/C 42-97144 – Six bombs on right inboard rack were salvoed on the target. Two A-2 releases defective. Replaced.
    6. A/C 42-107124 – Doors would not close electrically. Bomb bay door motor clutch burned out.
    7. A/C 44-6077 – (All Electrical A/C) Three bombs on right inboard rack were salvoed on the target with indicator lighter switch. Faulty Intervalometer replaced.
    8. A/C 42-31702 – Left button inboard bomb broke safety latch and one end of shackle came out of rack when evasive action was taken. Bomb endangered aircraft and was jettisoned by hand in English Channel. Bomb did not hit shipping.
    9. A/C 42-37595 – One bomb returned to base. Shackle was put on backwards. 560 – Intervalometer burned out. Salvoed on the target. Replaced.
    10. A/C 42-30994 – Eleven bombs dropped with Intervalometer. Seven were salvoed on target. Faulty A-2 release replaced. Bomb bay doors would not close electrically. Fuse burned out.
    11. A/C 42-37534 – (All Electrical A/C) Three top inboard bombs failed to release and were returned to base. Faulty A-4 release replaced.
    12. A/C 42-97169 – All bombs were returned to base. Doors were not fully opened; therefore, no type of release could be made. Bombardier was unfamiliar with cable control ship.
[Signed:] Robert B. Stratton, Captain, Air Corps, Statistical Officer


Deficiencies and Disabilities:

1. Following interrogation the following deficiencies and disabilities were noted.

    509th Bombardment Squadron
Hot spots at elbows of F-1 E. H. Suit. – Lt. Stevens. [He Was Bombardier on A/C 42-97169]

[Signed:] Ernest J. Cater, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Group Equipment Officer


Aircraft Returning Early:

Aircraft No. 7780 Squadron - 511th   Pilot - Lt. Bland
Time of Abortive - 0711   Location when Aborted - Caen
Reason - Supercharger #4 out and two others running away - #1, 2, & 4. Could not keep up with formation on climb to 23,000’.
Disposition of Bombs: Brought back
Altitude At Time of Aborting: 23,000’
Enemy Opposition Encountered - None
Remarks: Did not want to take ship any farther under with above conditions.
[Signed] Anderson Bland



“J” Form:
  1. Call Letter and Last Four numbers of A/C in each Squadron:
    a. 94th "C" Combat Wing   Lead Group
    Sqdn 508th A/C: 2971–J, 7798–H
    Sqdn 509th A/C: None
    Sqdn 510th A/C: 2955–P, 7665–N, 2478–O, 7705–T, 7077–D*, 2576–C, 7515–L, 7252–K
    Sqdn 511th A/C: 2952–H, 7318–S

    b. 94th "C" Combat Wing   Low Group
    Sqdn 508th A/C: 1702–A
    Sqdn 509th A/C: 7202–Z, 7144–R, 7926–X
    Sqdn 510th A/C: 7512–S, 7124–F, 1560–A, 7196–M
    Sqdn 511th A/C: 7005–Q, 1714–R, 7216–Y*, 7492–B

    c. 94th "C" Combat Wing   High Group
    Sqdn 508th A/C: 1192–R
    Sqdn 509th A/C: 3542–V
    Sqdn 510th A/C: 0857–J, 1509–V, 8028–Q
    Sqdn 511th A/C: 7381–U, 7780–G, 1748–V, 7524–D, 7492–B, 9848–C, 8153–F

  2. Target: Z-249
  3. W/T and R/T Operational Call Sign of each Squadron:
    Squadron508 [Call Sign]W/T PYU R/T CARLTONSquadron510 [Call Sign]W/T LTC R/T TIPSTAFF
    Squadron509 [Call Sign]W/T MZH R/T HOTMINTSquadron511 [Call Sign]W/T USU R/T PARTNERSHIP
  4. a. Lead Box: Taxi – 0405; Take-Off – 0420; E.T.D. Field – ____
    b. ____ Box: Taxi – ____; Take-Off – ____; E.T.D. Field – ____
  5. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing English Coast: (OUT)
    063818,000 Ft Selsey Bill
  6. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing Enemy Coast: (IN)
    070923,000 Ft 49°19'N-00°00'E [Villers-sur-Mer, France]
  7. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing Enemy Coast: (Out)
    090523,000 Ft 49°53'N-00°50'E [Sctteville-sur-Mer, France]
  8. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing English Coast: (IN)
    093811,000 Ft Beachy Head
  9. E.T.R.(Estimated Time of Return) Base: 1020 Hours
  10. MF/DF [Medium Frequency/Direction Finder] Section: "N"
  11. Bomb load of Each A/C: Lead Box
    508 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/100 [Fuses]
    509 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/100 [Fuses]
    510 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/100 [Fuses]
    511 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/100 [Fuses]

    Bomb load of Each A/C: Low Box
    508 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
    509 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
    510 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
    511 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]

    Bomb load of Each A/C: High Box
    508 Squadron: 18 x 250 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
    509 Squadron: 18 x 250 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
    510 Squadron: 18 x 250 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
    511 Squadron: 18 x 250 G.P. 1/10 x 1/40 [Fuses]
  12. Fuel Load of each A/C: 2200 Gallons
  13. Group Leader:
    a. Lead Box: Name: C.F. Ball Rank: Lt. Col. A/C: 2955-P  Sqdn. 510th
    b. Low Box: Name: D.A. Gaylord Rank: Capt. A/C: 7005-Q Sqdn. 511th
    c. High Box: Name: J.F. Nesmith Rank: Capt. A/C: 1509-V Sqdn. 510th
  14. Passengers, if any: (Full Name, Rank, A/C and Squadron Passenger flying with)
    H. Johnson Brig. Gen. 2955-P 510th
    J. Machmeyer Col. 7005-Q 511th
  15. Actual Times Off and Return by Squadrons and A/C Letters:
  16. Lead Box
    SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.
    5082971–J________5092955–P________
    7798–H________7665–N________
    2478–D________
    7705–T________
    7077–D________
    2576–C________
    7515–L________
    7252–K________
    5105112952–H________
    7318–S________
  17. Low Box
    SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.
    5081702–A________5097202–Z________
    7144–R________
    7926–X________
    5107512–S________5117005–Q________
    7124–F________1714–R________
    1560–A________7216–Y________
    7196–M________7492–B________
  18. High Box
    SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.
    5081192–R________5093542–V________
    5100857–J________5117381–U________
    1509–V________7780–G________
    8028–Q________1748–V________
    7524–D________
    7492–B________
    9848–C________
    8153–F________

    Report Compiled By J.C. Muesing, S/Sgt.



“J” Form:
  1. Call Letter and Last Four numbers of A/C in each Squadron:
    a. 94th "D" Combat Wing   Lead Group
    Sqdn 508th A/C: 1879–Q, 7066–O, 7727–N, 7843–C, 2949–G, 7557–K, 0994–T, 7349–B, 7534–L, 8146–D
    Sqdn 509th A/C: 7595–O*, 7193–P
    Sqdn 510th A/C: None
    Sqdn 511th A/C: None

    b. 94th "D" Combat Wing   Low Group
    Sqdn 508th A/C: 6151–M
    Sqdn 509th A/C: 6078–G, 6077–W, 7676–L, 9760–M, 6108–Y, 7169–N, 7126–U
    Sqdn 510th A/C: None
    Sqdn 511th A/C: 7571–X, 1875–P*, 6139–K
    * - Delay Fuses
  2. Target: Z-249
  3. W/T and R/T Operational Call Sign of each Squadron:
    Squadron508 [Call Sign]W/T PYU R/T CARLTONSquadron510 [Call Sign]W/T LTC R/T TIPSTAFF
    Squadron509 [Call Sign]W/T MZH R/T HOTMINTSquadron511 [Call Sign]W/T USU R/T PARTNERSHIP
  4. a. Lead Box: Taxi – 0425; Take-Off – 0440; E.T.D. Field – [0440]
    b. Low Box: Taxi – ____; Take-Off – ____; E.T.D. Field – ____
  5. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing English Coast: (OUT)
    064218,000 Ft Selsey Bill
  6. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing Enemy Coast: (IN)
    071323,000 Ft 49°19'N-00°00'E [Villers-sur-Mer, France]
  7. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing Enemy Coast: (Out)
    090923,000 Ft 49°53'N-00°50'E [Sctteville-sur-Mer, France]
  8. Time:Height:  Place of Crossing English Coast: (IN)
    094211,000 Ft Beachy Head
  9. E.T.R.(Estimated Time of Return) Base: 1024 Hours
  10. MF/DF [Medium Frequency/Direction Finder] Section: "N"
  11. Bomb load of Each A/C: "D" Lead Box
    508 Squadron: 18 x 250 G.P., 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuses]
    509 Squadron: 18 x 250 G.P., 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuses] (7595-O Delay)
    510 Squadron: None
    511 Squadron: None

    Bomb load of Each A/C: "D" Low Box
    508 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P., 1/10 Nose x 1/100 Tail [Fuses]
    509 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P., 1/10 Nose x 1/100 Tail [Fuses]
    510 Squadron: None
    511 Squadron: 12 x 500 G.P., 1/10 Nose x 1/100 Tail [Fuses] (1875-P Delay)
  12. Fuel Load of each A/C: 2200 Gallons
  13. Group Leader:
    a. Lead Box: Name: L.B. Roper Rank: Major A/C: 1879-Q  Sqdn. 508th
    b. Low Box: Name: M.A. Brooksby Rank: Capt. A/C: 6078-G Sqdn. 509th
  14. Passengers, if any: (Full Name, Rank, A/C and Squadron Passenger flying with)
    None
  15. Actual Times Off and Return by Squadrons and A/C Letters:
  16. Lead Box
    SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.
    5081879–Q________5097595–O________
    7066–O________7193–P________
    7727–N________
    7843–C________
    2949–G________
    7557–K________
    0994–T________
    7349–B________
    7534–L________
    8146–D________
  17. Low Box
    SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.
    5086151–M________5096078–G________
    6077–W________
    7676–L________
    9760–M________
    6108–Y________
    7169–N________
    7126–U________
    5105117571–X________
    1875–P________
    6139–K________

    Report Compiled By J.C. Muesing, S/Sgt.



Formation Chart:
94th "C" Combat Wing Lead Box Formation at Take–Off and Over Target
510th Squadron
Ball–Dennis
A/C 42-102955 P
Cesarini
A/C 42-102478 O
Holsapple
A/C 43-37665 N
Raser
A/C 43-37705 T
Olson
A/C 42-102576 C
McIntyre
A/C 42-102971 J
Fultz
A/C 43-37515 L
Gibbons
A/C 42-102952 H
Williamson
A/C 42-97798 H
Keller
A/C 42-97318 S
Auten
A/C 42-97252 K
Crockett
A/C 42-107077 D


94th "C" Combat Wing Low Box Formation at Take–Off and Over Target
511th Squadron
Gaylord–Nay
A/C 42-107005 Q
Lemley
A/C 42-107216 Y
Heller
A/C 42-31714 R
Power
A/C 42-30499 Q
Caughlan
A/C 43-37512 S
Viste
A/C 42-97202 Z
Konecheck
A/C 42-31560 A
Neal
A/C 42-107124 F
Sutton
A/C 42-97926 X
Fowler
A/C 42-97144 R
Walker
A/C 42-97196 M
Miller
A/C 42-31702 A


94th "C" Combat Wing High Box Formation at Take–Off
509th Squadron
Nesmith–Brooks
A/C 42-31509 V
Bland–Myl
A/C 42-37780 G
Zotollo
A/C 42-97381 U
Turbyne
A/C 42-31748 V
Belote
A/C 42-97492 B
Crews
A/C 43-37524 D
Seagraves
A/C 42-38028 Q
Karagiannis
A/C 42-39848 C
Woodrum
A/C 42-31192 R
Long
A/C 42-30857 J
Willard
A/C 42-38153 F
Dingle
A/C 42-3542 V


94th "C" Combat Wing High Box Formation Over Target
509th Squadron
Nesmith–Brooks
A/C 42-31509 V
Turbyne
A/C 42-31748 V
Zotollo
A/C 42-97381 U
Belote
A/C 42-97492 B
Crews
A/C 43-37524 D
Seagraves
A/C 42-38028 Q
Karagiannis
A/C 42-39848 C
Woodrum
A/C 42-31192 R
Long
A/C 42-30857 J
Willard
A/C 42-38153 F
Dingle
A/C 42-3542 V


94th "D" Combat Wing Lead Box Formation at Take–Off and Over Target
Maj. L.B. Roper–Floden
A/C 42-31879 Q
Taylor
A/C 43-37595 O
Dixey
A/C 42-97066 O
McLott
A/C 43-37727 N
Overholt
A/C 42-97349 B
Condon
A/C 42-97843 C
Leland
A/C 43-37534 L
Edwards
A/C 42-97193 R
Muhleman
A/C 43-37557 K
Pattison
A/C 42-102949 G
Hales
A/C 42-38146 D
Lord
A/C 42-30994 T


94th "D" Combat Wing High Box Formation at Take–Off and Over Target
509th Squadron
Brooksby
A/C 44-6078 G
McCall
A/C 42-37676 L
Berardi
A/C 44-6077 W
Redmond
A/C 42-39760 M
Garcia
A/C 42-31875 P
Trombley
A/C 44-6108 Y
Underhill–Peterson
A/C 44-6139 K
Keese–Johnson
A/C 42-97169 N
McAfee
A/C 43-37571 X
Overmeyer
A/C 42-6151 M
Roehlk
A/C 42-97216 U


Time Schedule:
Zero Hour: 0630 DBST [Double British Standard Time]  Briefing: 0100  Stations: 0345  Start Engines: 0355  Taxi: 0405  Take-off: 0420  Leave Base: 0420 [Breakfast: 1200 Midnight]


Missing Air Crew Report (MACR):

  • A/C# 42-97066   YB-O  Pilot: Dixey     A/C's 22nd Mission   MACR # 5796

    Aircraft Loss Circumstances:

    [Eyewitness Account in the MACR]
    I, William A. Smith, O-570314, was flying as an observer on Aircraft #42-31879 which was flying in lead position of the "D" Wing of the 94th Combat Wing. Lt. Dixey was flying on our right wing in #2 position. Just after bombs away he received what appeared to be a direct hit between the bombay [sic] and #3 engine from flak. There were no visible signs of damage other than that of the plane jumping suddenly upwards and then downwards. It fell under us and the pilot fought to get the plane under control. The last I saw of him he was losing altitude. The ball turret gunner kept watching him and said he later exploded in mid-air. I did not see any parachutes but I heard over the interphone that one parachute was seen. This occurred on June 14, 1944 on a mission to LeBourget, France.
    [Signed] William A. Smith, Captain, Air Corps, Public Relations Officer.

    Individual Accounts of Crewmen Fates:
    • Pilot - 1st Lt. Dixey, Joseph R. Jr., Evaded and Returned to England.
    • Co-pilot - Capt. Lowery, James F. Jr., Evaded and Returned to England.
    • Navigator - 2nd Lt. Shafer, Robert C., Wounded in lungs and legs, taken to hospital in Paris. After Paris was liberated taken to hospital in England and died of pneumonia.
    • Bombardier - 1st Lt. Trolinger, Thomas E., From Texas, POW at Stalag 7A Moosburg Bavaria 48-12 (Work Camps 3324-46 Krumbachstrasse 48011, Work Camp 3368 Munich 48-11), Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Top Turret Gunner - T/Sgt McCullough, Robert E., From New Jersey, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Radio Operator - S/Sgt Kemohah, Donald L., From Oklahoma, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Left Waist Gunner - S/Sgt Barnes, Joe, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Right Waist Gunner - T/Sgt Henderson, Donald V., From New Jersey, Died as Prisoner of War, Held at Luftwaffe Lazaret Paris France 49-02.
    • Ball Turret Gunner - S/Sgt Gross, Arthur B., From New Jersey, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Tail Gunner - S/Sgt Offutt, John W., From California, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    Burial Records:

    The burial records below courtesy of the American Battle Monuments Commission. http://www.abmc.gov and findagrave.com

    • Robert C. Shafer, Entered Service From Indiana, Date of Death - September 10, 1944, Buried Plot E Row 3 Grave 89, Cambridge American Cemetery, Awards: Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters.
    • Donald V. Henderson, Entered Service From New Jersey, Date of Death - June 14, 1944, Buried Plot B Row 13 Grave 15, Epinal American Cemetery, Awards: Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster.


    Click on Photo to Enlarge



  • A/C# 42-102478   TU-O      Pilot: Cesarini     A/C's 3rd Mission   MACR #5798

     Aircraft Loss Circumstances:

    The Bombardier/Nose Gunner, S/Sgt. Frederick J. Hale, Jr. evaded and escaped capture and gave this account on his return to England.
    Ship hit by heavy flak. Baled out at 18,000 feet. The navigator was killed in the plane. I baled out without orders, as when we were hit by flak my headset was out. I do not know of the balance of the crew. I was told the plane exploded in the air. After I reached the ground, several Frenchmen told me the aircraft exploded just as I had baled out.
    [The remains of the plane crashed at Eslettes, seven miles NW of Rouen, France.]

    Individual Accounts of Crewmen Fates:
    • Pilot - 1st Lt Cesarini, Augustus J., Killed in Action.
    • Co-pilot - 2nd Lt Ludwig, Frank G., From California, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Navigator - 2nd Lt Reineke, George B., Killed in Action.
    • Bombardier/Nose Gunner - S/Sgt Hale, Frederick J., Evaded and escaped.
    • Top Turret Gunner - Sgt Pardue, Tuttle E. Jr., From North Carolina, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Radio Operator - S/Sgt Walter, George, From New Jersey, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Left Waist Gunner - S/Sgt Lageman, Robert C., From Ohio, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Right Waist Gunner - Sgt Nicklas, Fred W., From Iowa, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Ball Turret Gunner - Sgt Gholston, Joe C., From Alabama, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
    • Tail Gunner - Sgt Kulak, John J., POW [No POW records could be located in the National Archives Online Database.]
    Burial Records:

    The burial records below courtesy of the American Battle Monuments Commission. http://www.abmc.gov

  • Augustus J. Cesarini, From New York, Buried Plot C Row 24 Grave 25, Normandy American Cemetery, Awards: Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Heart.
  • George B Reineke, Burial: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas, USA, Plot: Section H Site 274.


Click on Photo to Enlarge



A/C# 42-97798   YB-H      Pilot: Williamson     A/C's 10th Mission   MACR #5797

 Aircraft Loss Circumstances:

There is no definite information about why the aircraft was lost. Only that all members of the crew bailed out before the plane crashed at Saint-Blimont approximately 11 miles west of Abbeyville, France.

Individual Accounts of Crewmen Fates:
  • Pilot - 2nd Lt Williamson, George L. Jr., From Alabama, POW at Stalag 7A Moosburg Bavaria 48-12 (Work Camps 3324-46 Krumbachstrasse 48011, Work Camp 3368 Munich 48-11), Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Co-pilot - 2nd Lt Cadoret, Roland A., From Massachusetts, POW at Stalag 7A Moosburg Bavaria 48-12 (Work Camps 3324-46 Krumbachstrasse 48011, Work Camp 3368 Munich 48-11), Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Navigator - 2nd Lt Thornburg, Ashley A., From South Dakota, POW at Stalag 7A Moosburg Bavaria 48-12 (Work Camps 3324-46 Krumbachstrasse 48011, Work Camp 3368 Munich 48-11), Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Bombardier - 2nd Lt Clanton, William L., From Illinois, POW at Stalag 7A Moosburg Bavaria 48-12 (Work Camps 3324-46 Krumbachstrasse 48011, Work Camp 3368 Munich 48-11), Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Top Turret Gunner - S/Sgt Leavitt, Eugene L., From California, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Radio Operator - S/Sgt Whitman, Robert G., From Massachusetts, POW at Stalag Luft 4 Gross-Tychow (formerly Heydekrug) Pomerania, Prussia (moved to Wobbelin Bei Ludwigslust) (To Usedom Bei Savenmunde) 54-16, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Left Waist Gunner - S/Sgt Subora, Walter R., From Michigan, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Right Waist Gunner - Sgt La Rocco, Joseph H., From New York, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Ball Turret Gunner - Sgt Mautz, Robert G., From Ohio, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.
  • Tail Gunner - Sgt Hock, Charles K., From Maryland, POW in Germany, Returned to Military Control, Liberated or Repatriated.

 [Killed in Action - 2]
 [Died of Wounds - 1]
 [Died of Wounds as a POW - 1]
 [Prisoner of War - 23]
 [Evaded and Returned - 3]

The above records were obtained at the National Archives Records Administration and have been declassified by authority NND 745005
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